Spearmint Leaves
Part of our Ingredient Glossary — educational information about raw materials we may use in our products. We don't sell raw ingredients.
This is part of our Ingredient Glossary, where we explain what goes into our products and why. We do not sell raw ingredients.
Not all mints are created equal. Peppermint hits you over the head. Spearmint taps you on the shoulder.
That's why we reach for spearmint leaves when we want a cool, clean note that plays well with others. It has less than 1% menthol compared to peppermint's 30-50%, which means you get the freshness without the face-tingling intensity. In a blend with lavender and chamomile, spearmint adds lift without taking over.
You'll find dried spearmint leaves in our Herbal Lavender Tub Tea, where they contribute a bright, clean counterpoint to the heavier floral notes. Without the spearmint, the blend would feel too sleepy. With it, there's just enough alertness to keep the soak from becoming sedating.
The compound that makes spearmint smell like spearmint is called carvone. It's sweeter and softer than menthol, which is why spearmint gum doesn't make your eyes water the way peppermint gum can. Same family, different personality. We use the one that knows how to share the room.
