Medicinal Plant Images

Mentha longifolia (L.) Huds. is a species of mint that is native to mainland Europe and western and central Asia, as well as non-tropical regions of Africa. It has numerous uses in traditional healing systems, including use in the treatment coughs and colds, asthma, respiratory complaints, headache, fever, gastric complaints, urinary tract infections etc.1-3 It is also useful for treating wounds and skin sores.2,3 Whilst all parts of the plant may be used therapeutically, the leaves are most frequently used. These are generally used to prepare infusions or decoctions, which are consumed orally. Crushed leaves may also be inserted in the nostrils and inhaled to relieve headaches. Phytochemically, the leaves are rich in monoterpenoids (Including carvone, 1,8-cineole, limonene, menthone and menthol).1 All of these compounds have decongestant and antibiotic effects, accounting for the therapeutic effects of this plant.4