Mentha longifolia

Mentha longifolia, commonly known as horse mint, is a species of mint native to Europe, western and central Asia, and parts of Africa. It is a perennial, herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Lamiaceae.

Description

Mentha longifolia grows up to 1.2 meters in height. The leaves are 5–9 cm long and 1.5–3 cm broad, green to grayish-green, with a serrated margin. The flowers are pale purple or pink, borne in clusters on a spike.

Distribution and habitat

Mentha longifolia is native to a wide region of Europe, western and central Asia, and northern and southern Africa. It is commonly found in wet habitats, such as riverbanks and marshes.

Cultivation and uses

Mentha longifolia is cultivated for its aromatic oil, which is used in traditional medicine and as a flavoring in food and drink. It is also used as an ornamental plant in gardens for its attractive spikes of flowers.

Medicinal uses

In traditional medicine, Mentha longifolia is used for a variety of ailments. The leaves are used in herbal teas for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. The essential oil is used for its analgesic and antispasmodic effects.

Taxonomy

The scientific name Mentha longifolia was first published by Carl Linnaeus in 1753. It is a member of the genus Mentha, which includes about 25 species of aromatic herbs.

See also

• List of Lamiaceae genera
• Mentha

References

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  Mentha longifolia