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Native River Mint (Mentha australis)

Native River Mint (Mentha australis): Australia’s Refreshing Native Herb

Introduction: A Native Treasure

Native River Mint (Mentha australis), also known as native peppermint or Australian mint, is a fast-growing perennial herb endemic to Australia. Thriving along riverbanks, creeks, and in damp forested areas, River Mint has long been used by Indigenous Australians for its aromatic, medicinal, and culinary properties. Today, it’s enjoying a resurgence among chefs, home gardeners, and bushfood enthusiasts.

Botanical Profile

Scientific name: Mentha australis R.Br.
Common names: Native River Mint, Native Peppermint
Family: Lamiaceae
Habitat: Moist, shaded environments across NSW, VIC, QLD, SA, and TAS
Growth habit: Upright to sprawling perennial herb, 30–80 cm tall
Flowers: Small mauve to white blooms from summer to autumn
Aroma & flavour: Distinctive mild minty aroma with earthy, peppery undertones

Traditional Knowledge: Uses by Indigenous Australians

Indigenous communities have long understood the power of Mentha australis. It was used to:

Relieve cold symptoms, coughs, and congestion
Treat digestive issues and stomach cramps
Serve as a natural insect repellent
Add flavour to meats, teas, and infusions
Cleanse wounds due to its antiseptic properties

Culinary Applications

River Mint’s flavour is milder and sweeter than common peppermint. It’s incredibly versatile in both savoury and sweet dishes:

Teas & Cocktails: Refreshing in native herb teas or bushfood mojitos
Lamb & Game: A brilliant native twist in mint sauces or rubs for meat
Desserts: Complements chocolate, citrus, berries, and native fruits
Salads & Dressings: Finely chopped for vinaigrettes, salsas, or chutneys

Health Benefits & Antioxidant Properties

A 2023 study published in Plants (MDPI) revealed that Mentha australis is packed with antioxidants. Researchers identified 123 phenolic compounds, including:

Rosmarinic acid
Chlorogenic acid
Caffeic acid
Apigenin & Luteolin derivatives

These compounds support antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory effects, antimicrobial potential, and improved wellbeing.

How River Mint Compares to Common Mint

Feature	Mentha australis (River Mint)	Mentha × piperita (Common Peppermint)
Origin	Native to Australia	European hybrid
Flavour	Milder, earthy, menthol-peppery	Intense, sharp, mentholic
Invasiveness	Less aggressive	Highly invasive
Cultural role	Traditional Indigenous uses	European medicinal history

How to Grow River Mint

Position: Semi-shade to part sun
Soil: Moist, fertile, well-drained soil
Watering: Keep consistently moist
Maintenance: Cut back regularly to prevent legginess
Harvest: Snip young leaves regularly for best flavour

Where to Buy Native River Mint

Grown using organic and sustainable methods on our regenerative farm, our River Mint is rich in flavour and perfect for teas, cooking, or planting in your home garden.

Final Thoughts

Native River Mint (Mentha australis) is a fragrant, versatile herb that reflects the wisdom of Australia’s First Nations peoples and the richness of our natural environment. Whether you're brewing a native tea, adding depth to lamb dishes, or exploring bush medicine, River Mint deserves a place in every garden and kitchen.