Wild Mint

Description

Wild Mint (Mentha canadensis) belongs to the Lamiaceae family and is native to Asia. It thrives in Stream banks, Wet meadows, Ditch edges environments across regions including China, Japan, Korea, Eastern Asia.

Botanically, Wild Mint is aromatic mint tea cooking. Asian cuisine. Digestive herb.. It is also known locally as Hakka.

The edible parts include Leaves, Flowers. With an edibility rating of 7/10, it ranks as a good wild food source. Harvesting is best done during April, August, July, June and May.

Nutritionally, Wild Mint stands out for its Calcium (200.0mg, 15% DV), Vitamin C (10.0mg, 11% DV) and Iron (1.2mg, 7% DV). It also provides 0.0g protein and 0.0g dietary fiber per 100g serving.

In the kitchen, Wild Mint offers a Cool mint fresh flavor profile. Tea cooking raw garnish. Common culinary applications include tea, cooking herb, raw. Popular preparations include Wild mint tea, Sauteed greens with garlic, Wild green pesto, Leafy green soup.

For storage, dried 12mo Fresh 3d.

Safety note: No toxicity. Antinutrient content is menthol essential oils. Safe lookalike species include Cultivated mint. Always verify identification with at least three independent botanical sources before consumption.

Foragers should collect wild mint during Apr, May, Jun, Jul and Aug. Choose young, vibrant parts for optimal flavor and nutrition. Avoid specimens near polluted areas, roadsides, or treated agricultural land.

Field identification relies on recognizing the plant in its natural habitat — typically stream banks, wet meadows, ditch edges. Flowers, leaf arrangement, and growth habit provide the most reliable identification markers. Always consult at least two independent botanical sources.

Traditional Asia communities have long valued wild mint as a seasonal wild food. Its reliable growth and nutritional density made it a valuable resource during lean periods and food scarcity.

In contemporary cuisine, wild mint pairs excellently with olive oil, garlic, and citrus. It complements wild herbs, foraged mushrooms, and hearty grains. Experiment with both raw preparations and slow-cooked dishes to appreciate its full range.

Edibility

Harvest Calendar

Nutrition (per 100g)

Culinary Uses

tea, cooking herb, raw

Storage

Dried 12mo Fresh 3d

Recipes

• Wild mint tea
• Sauteed greens with garlic
• Wild green pesto
• Leafy green soup
• Stir-fried Wild Mint
• Wild Mint tempura
• Wild Mint and tofu soup

Where It Grows