Kitchen Gardening

How to Grow Mint at Home

Last Update :October 05, 2024

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Pudina is the most popular kitchen herb in India along with Coriander. The scientific name of Pudina is Mentha spicata subsp. spicata, and it belongs to family Lamiaceae (The mint family). Pudina is commonly known as Garden mint in English. While other mint varieties are high maintenance, Pudina can be grown effortlessly in India.

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• About the Pudina Plant

Pudina is a beautiful tender looking aromatic herb. This perennial plant can grow up to 30 cm in height and mostly spreads horizontally.

The plant is so prevalent in Indian gardens that sometimes it's also found growing wild in places with moist soil. It is an integral part of kitchen gardens in India, where it is grown for its many culinary and medicinal properties.

• Uses and Benefits of Pudina

Pudina makes the most delicious ‘Chutney’ or a source when the leaves are ground fine in combination with raw mango or pomegranate seeds or lemon juice. This chutney has an amazing cooling effect on our body in summers. Menthol and peppermint oil is also extracted from Pudina leaves. Pudina flavor is very popular in food items like Pulao, Biryani & Parathas. Pudina leaves are used in garnishing dishes, lemonade and other refreshing beverages.

1. Consuming Pudina leaves in summers will take care of the following:

It prevents or cures the spasms caused due to dehydration.
It relieves pains from the stomach and bowels that are caused due to gases.
Pudina strengthens and gives tone to the stomach, reducing acidity & indigestion.
It is used as an energy stimulant and tonic.
Pudina significantly lowers the internal body heat.

Pudina is also used in the treatment of jaundice, inflammation of the prostate, gallstones, vomiting, painful menstrual periods, a disease of uterus, and infections of the throat.

The essence of Pudina plant is used to cure a toothache & as a mouth freshener.
Children who suffer from intestinal parasites (worms) are given Pudina tea as an aid.
The crushed leaves of Pudina cool the external body heat when applied to the skin.
The decoction of leaves is added to bath water for itching skin conditions that occur in summers.

Apart from this, Pudina on the whole, forms an integral part of many Ayurvedic & herbal medicines related to ailments mentioned above. Pudina reduces the effect of ‘Kafa’ & ‘Vata’ on the body.

• How to Grow Pudina

Here’s a simple guide on how to grow Pudina (Mint):

1. Choose the Right Location

Pudina thrives in well-drained soil and prefers a sunny spot, though it can tolerate partial shade. It grows well in garden beds or containers, making it easy to maintain at home.

2. Prepare the Soil

Use rich, well-draining soil with a pH level between 6.0 to 7.0. Adding compost to the soil enhances its nutrient content, promoting healthy mint growth.

3. Planting

You can grow Pudina from seeds. Plant them about 12-18 inches apart to give them room to spread. If using cuttings, ensure the stem is about 4-6 inches long.

4. Watering

Mint requires consistent moisture. Water regularly but avoid waterlogging the soil. Ensure the soil remains damp but not soggy for optimal growth.

5. Pruning and Harvesting

Regularly prune the Pudina plant to prevent it from becoming leggy. Harvest leaves as needed, and cut the stems back periodically to encourage bushier growth.

Growing Pudina at home is a rewarding and simple process that provides a fresh, aromatic herb right at your fingertips. Whether you’re adding it to your favorite dishes or using it for its medicinal benefits, having your own mint supply can enhance your cooking and wellness routine.

With just a little care—like proper watering, pruning, and sunlight—your Pudina plant will thrive, offering a continuous harvest of vibrant, flavorful leaves. Start your own mint garden today and enjoy the refreshing taste of homegrown Pudina all year round!