Gastropod The Curiously Strong Story of Mint
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Dec 3, 2024 Dan Alasso, historian and author of "Peppermint Kings," dives deep into the fascinating history of peppermint's rise in America. He reveals how peppermint was once deemed so valuable that it made three entrepreneurs extremely wealthy, earning them the title of "Peppermint Kings." Alasso also discusses the medicinal properties of menthol and its unique cooling sensation, while unraveling the captivating origins of beloved treats like candy canes and classic mint candies. The episode is a festive journey through mint's sweet legacy and its cultural significance.
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The First Peppermint King
- Samuel Ranney, an entrepreneur, became the first "Peppermint King."
- He centralized peppermint oil production and built a vast distribution network using essence peddlers.
The Mint Family
- Mint encompasses a wide variety of plants, including basil, sage, rosemary, and thyme.
- True mints, like spearmint and water mint, contain menthol, which gives them their characteristic coolness.
Mint as Medicine
- Historically, mint was used as a cure-all for various ailments, from stomach problems to stress relief.
- Peppermint, with its high menthol content, became particularly prized.