Ribeira Mint:
Description, Uses and Properties
River mint (Mentha cervina) is an aromatic plant of the Lamiaceae family, native to the Iberian Peninsula, North Africa and Southern France. In Portugal, it is known by several names, such as river rosemary, fish herb, field mint and fish mint.
Botanical Characteristics
Size: Up to 20-30 cm tall, with narrow, small, dark green leaves, similar to those of rosemary.
Flowers: White, appear close to the stem in spring and summer.
Habitat: It grows spontaneously in humid areas, such as temporary ponds, stream banks and riverbeds that dry up in summer.
Cultivation: Prefers soil rich in organic matter, moist and well-irrigated, with sun exposure, but also adapts to shade. Propagate by sowing in spring, cuttings or root division at any time of the year.
Traditional Uses
Cuisine: Widely used in the south of Portugal, especially in the Algarve, to season fish stews and other regional dishes. It is also used in stews, rice, salads, sauces, cheeses, juices and aromatic infusions.
Medicinal: It has digestive, stomach tonic, carminative and antioxidant properties. It is used in infusions to facilitate digestion and relieve gastric discomfort.
Other uses: Traditionally used as a natural repellent in chicken coops and grain stores.
Cultivation and Maintenance
Resistance: Withstands frost and minimum temperatures of up to -1ºC.
Watering: Requires abundant irrigation, especially in summer.
Harvesting: The leaves can be harvested when the plant is well developed, preferably during flowering, when the aroma is most intense.
It is an easy-to-propagate plant and ideal for home gardens, valued for its versatility and unique aroma.
Summary
River mint (Mentha cervina) is an aromatic plant with thin leaves and an intense aroma, traditionally used in fish dishes and infusions, with digestive and tonic properties. It prefers moist soils and sun exposure, being resistant and easy to grow in home gardens.
