For centuries, Native American communities turned to the plants, trees, and natural resources around them to relieve mosquito bites and other biting bugs. These remedies not only reduced the itch and swelling but also provided preventative protection long before modern repellents were invented. Many of these methods are still useful today, especially if you’re looking for natural, chemical-free relief.

Herbal Allies for Relief

Plantain 

Found almost everywhere in the U.S., plantain leaves were crushed into a poultice and applied directly to mosquito bites. Its cooling properties help soothe irritation quickly.

Here’s how Native American tribes traditionally prepared and used plantain for mosquito bites:

1. Chewed Poultice (Spit Poultice)

• The quickest and most common method.
• Fresh leaves were picked, lightly chewed (to release the juices), and then placed directly on the bite.
• Saliva helped activate the plant’s healing compounds which reduced pain and inflammation.

2. Crushed Leaf Poultice

• For those who didn’t want to chew it, the leaves were simply crushed or bruised between the fingers or with a stone until the juices came out.
• The mashed leaf was then applied directly to the bite and sometimes wrapped with a strip of cloth or bark to keep it in place.

3. Plantain Juice

• Some tribes ground the leaves into a paste or squeezed out the juice using a mortar and pestle.
• The juice was dabbed directly onto mosquito bites or other stings (like bees and wasps).

4. Infused Oil or Salve

• Leaves were steeped in animal fat or later in oils to make a healing salve.
• This was rubbed on mosquito-bitten skin to reduce irritation and prevent infection.

5. Plantain Tea (for Washes)

• A strong tea from the leaves was brewed and used as a wash for larger irritated areas.
• While less immediate than the poultice, it worked well if someone was covered in bites.

👉 Why it works: Plantain contains natural anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and astringent compounds. It draws out toxins, calms itching, and speeds skin healing, making it a go-to “first aid weed” for Native peoples across the continent.

Yarrow 

This wild herb grows across much of North America. Native peoples applied fresh yarrow leaves to bites, not only to relieve itching but also to reduce inflammation.

Here’s how they prepared and used it for bites:

1. Fresh Leaf Poultice

• Fresh yarrow leaves were chewed or crushed until juicy.
• The paste was applied directly onto mosquito bites to relieve itching, swelling, and irritation.
• Sometimes the poultice was secured with a strip of plant fiber or cloth.

2. Yarrow Juice or Sap

• Tribes would grind or pound the plant to squeeze out the juice.
• The juice was applied topically to insect bites or rashes.

3. Infused Wash or Tea

• A tea made from the leaves or flowers could be cooled and used as a skin wash.
• This was especially useful if someone had many mosquito bites at once.
• The wash not only calmed itching but also disinfected the skin and helped prevent infection from scratching.

4. Smoke or Fumigation

• In some traditions, dried yarrow was burned and the smoke waved over the skin.
• This was believed to help repel insects and soothe existing bites.

👉 Why it works: Yarrow contains azulene, chamazulene, and flavonoids, which give it anti-inflammatory and antihistamine-like effects. Its astringency also helps tighten skin tissue, reducing irritation and swelling from bites.

Sage

Beyond ceremonial uses, sage leaves were rubbed on bites to calm irritation. Its strong aroma also discouraged insects from coming close.

For mosquito bites, tribes traditionally prepared sage in a few ways:

1. Crushed Leaf Poultice

• Fresh sage leaves were picked, crushed, and applied directly to mosquito bites.
• The oils in sage helped reduce itching, swelling, and irritation, while also disinfecting the bite.

2. Chewed Poultice

• Similar to plantain, sage leaves were sometimes chewed first to release the medicinal oils.
• The moistened pulp was then placed on bites or stings to draw out toxins and speed healing.

3. Herbal Wash or Tea

• A strong tea was brewed from sage leaves.
• Once cooled, it was dabbed or washed over areas with multiple mosquito bites.
• This provided relief over larger patches of skin and acted as a mild antiseptic wash.

4. Sage Smoke (Repellent Use)

• Burning dried sage leaves created aromatic smoke that repelled mosquitoes and other biting insects.
• This was often done around camps or sleeping areas to prevent bites in the first place.

👉 Why it works: Sage contains volatile oils like thujone, cineole, and camphor, which have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and insect-repelling properties. The plant both soothed existing mosquito bites and helped keep more mosquitoes away.

Witch Hazel 

A favorite among Eastern tribes, witch hazel bark and leaves were boiled into a wash that eased itching, reduced redness, and promoted skin healing.

Here’s how Native Americans prepared and used it for bites:

1. Bark or Twig Decoction (Wash)

• The bark and twigs were boiled into a strong decoction (tea).
• Once cooled, the liquid was applied directly to mosquito bites.
• It reduced swelling, itching, and irritation because of its natural astringent properties.

2. Poultice from Bark or Leaves

• Crushed fresh leaves or softened inner bark were made into a poultice.
• This was applied directly to bites or skin irritations.
• It drew out heat and helped prevent infection.

3. Soothing Compress

• A cloth or fiber was soaked in witch hazel decoction and placed on the affected skin.
• This was especially useful for multiple mosquito bites or large irritated patches.

👉 Why it works: Witch hazel contains tannins and flavonoids, which are natural astringents. They tighten the skin, reduce inflammation, calm itching, and help prevent infection — making it one of the most effective Native remedies for bites.

Sweetgrass 

Best known for its braided fragrance, sweetgrass also soothed skin discomfort when used topically.

Here’s how Sweetgrass was traditionally used in this context:

1. Mosquito Repellent (Smoke & Braid Use)

• Sweetgrass was dried, braided, and then slowly burned to produce a sweet, vanilla-like smoke.
• The smoke was believed to repel mosquitoes and other insects, keeping them away from camps and sleeping areas.
• Braids were also sometimes hung inside lodges to deter insects.

2. Infusion for Washes

• A tea was made from fresh or dried sweetgrass leaves.
• Once cooled, it could be used as a skin wash after mosquito bites to help calm irritation and reduce swelling.
• Some tribes would also bathe in a diluted infusion to soothe skin after many bites.

3. Poultice (Less Common)

• Crushed sweetgrass leaves were occasionally applied directly to insect bites.
• While not as strong as plantain or yarrow, the poultice had a soothing and aromatic effect.

👉 Why it works: Sweetgrass contains coumarin, which gives it that sweet scent. This compound has mild insect-repelling and anti-inflammatory properties, helping both to prevent bites and to soothe them if they happened.

Goldenrod 

Often overlooked, goldenrod was made into washes that reduced swelling and calmed inflamed skin.

Here’s how it was prepared and used:

1. Poultice of Fresh Leaves or Flowers

• Fresh goldenrod leaves or flowers were crushed and applied directly to mosquito bites.
• The poultice helped reduce itching, swelling, and redness.

2. Infused Wash or Tea

• The plant (leaves and flowers) was steeped in hot water to make a strong tea.
• Once cooled, this infusion was dabbed on bites or used as a wash for larger areas of irritation.

3. Powdered Herb

• Dried goldenrod leaves or flowers were ground into a powder.
• Mixed with a little water, the paste was applied to bites for soothing relief.

4. Smoke for Repellent Use

• In some traditions, dried goldenrod was burned, and the smoke helped repel insects.
• This wasn’t as common as sweetgrass or sage, but it added to its versatility.

👉 Why it works: Goldenrod contains saponins, flavonoids, and tannins, giving it anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and astringent properties. It not only eased itching but also helped disinfect and dry out bites, preventing infection from scratching.

Trees and Natural Resources

 Cedar

Cedar leaves and berries were crushed and used both as a topical application and as a natural mosquito repellent when burned.

Here’s how Cedar was used:

1. Smoke as a Mosquito Repellent

• Cedar branches or bark were placed on a fire to produce thick, aromatic smoke.
• The smoke was believed to drive away mosquitoes and other biting insects, protecting camps and lodges.
• Cedar boughs were sometimes laid around sleeping areas as a natural barrier.

2. Poultice from Fresh Needles or Bark

• Crushed cedar needles or inner bark were applied directly to insect bites.
• This helped reduce itching and swelling, and also prevented infection.
• Sometimes combined with fat or oil to make the poultice stick better.

3. Infusion or Wash

• A tea made from cedar leaves or bark was cooled and used as a wash for irritated skin.
• This worked well when someone had multiple bites or rashes.

4. Essential Oils (Traditional Resin Use)

• Cedar resin was occasionally applied in very small amounts to bites and stings.
• It acted as a protective layer and had mild antiseptic properties.

👉 Why it works: Cedar contains volatile oils with antimicrobial, insect-repelling, and anti-inflammatory properties. This made it both a preventative and treatment for mosquito bites in Native traditions.

Willow 

With natural salicin compounds, willow bark poultices were applied to bites for swelling and pain relief.

Here’s how willow was used for bites:

1. Poultice from Fresh Bark or Leaves

• The inner bark or fresh willow leaves were chewed or crushed until moist.
• This poultice was applied directly to mosquito bites to reduce pain, itching, and swelling.

2. Infusion or Wash

• Willow bark or leaves were steeped into a tea, cooled, and used as a skin wash.
• It worked well when someone had multiple bites or general skin irritation.

3. Soothing Compress

• A cloth soaked in willow bark tea was applied as a compress over mosquito-bitten skin.
• This helped both with inflammation and preventing infection.

👉 Why it works: Willow contains salicin, which converts into salicylic acid (a natural pain reliever and anti-inflammatory). This made it effective for calming the pain and irritation of bites, while its tannins added an astringent effect that reduced swelling.

Clay and Mud

When herbs weren’t available, damp clay or clean mud provided quick cooling relief and helped draw irritation from the skin.

Here’s how clay and mud were used:

1. Mud Poultice

• Cool, clean mud was gathered (often from a riverbank or clay-rich soil).
• It was applied directly onto mosquito bites or stings as a thick coating.
• As it dried, it drew out toxins, reduced swelling, and cooled the skin.

2. Clay Packs (Special Sites)

• Some tribes collected specific clays (such as bentonite-like clay deposits) known for healing.
• The clay was moistened and spread over the bite, sometimes covered with leaves or bark to hold it in place.
• These were more potent than ordinary mud and were also used on snake bites or serious stings.

3. Clay Mixed with Herbs

• In some traditions, clay was combined with crushed healing plants (like plantain, sage, or yarrow).
• This strengthened the poultice, providing both the drawing power of the clay and the medicinal effects of the herbs.

👉 Why it works: Clay and mud naturally have a drawing action — they pull out toxins, venom, and irritants as they dry. They also cool inflamed skin, which relieves pain and itching from mosquito bites. Certain clays are also antimicrobial, helping prevent infection from scratching.

Preventative Wisdom

Many tribes worked to prevent mosquito bites altogether. Burning cedar, sage, or sweetgrass produced smoke that naturally repelled mosquitoes. Rubbing aromatic plants like mint, cedar, or sage directly on the skin added another layer of protection.

Modern research supports what Native healers already knew—plants like plantain, witch hazel, and yarrow contain compounds that soothe irritation, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. These remedies remain a natural and sustainable way to care for your skin during mosquito season.

🌿 Why Plantain is Popular

Plantain is still one of the easiest and most effective remedies you can use. It grows wild in nearly every backyard, hiking trail, and open space in the U.S. A simple crushed leaf works almost instantly on mosquito bites, bee stings, and even minor cuts.

⭐ Top Pick

If you’re stocking your emergency kit or camping gear, dried plantain leaves or witch hazel extract are must-haves. Both are affordable, lightweight, and long-lasting—perfect for natural first aid when you’re outdoors.

💲 Most natural plantain salves or witch hazel extracts cost between $5–$12, making them budget-friendly staples.

Presented by Coach Trina at Dragoyle.com 

Moss Agate Healing Properties, Meanings and Uses

Step into the enchanting world of Moss Agate,
a stone that resonates with the very essence of nature.

 This captivating gemstone, with its rich green hues and intricate patterns, is not just a visual delight but a powerful ally in your journey towards healing and personal growth. Imagine holding a piece of the earth in your hand, connecting you to the grounding energy of the natural world.

Moss Agate is renowned for its healing properties, particularly in promoting emotional balance and stability. It encourages a sense of tranquility, helping to dispel fears and anxieties that may cloud your mind.

Picture yourself surrounded by lush forests and serene landscapes, as this stone invites you to embrace the calmness within. It’s a gentle reminder that, just like nature, you too can thrive and flourish.

But the magic of Moss Agate doesn’t stop there! This remarkable stone is also associated with abundance and prosperity. It is believed to attract wealth and success, making it a perfect companion for those embarking on new ventures or seeking to manifest their dreams.

Visualize the opportunities flowing into your life, as Moss Agate opens the door to new beginnings and possibilities.

 In addition to its emotional and financial benefits, Moss Agate is a powerful tool for physical healing. It is said to support the immune system, improve circulation, and aid in detoxification. Imagine the revitalizing energy coursing through your body, as this stone works harmoniously to restore balance and vitality.

Whether you’re recovering from an illness or simply seeking to enhance your overall well-being, Moss Agate can be a vital part of your healing journey.

To harness the full potential of Moss Agate, consider incorporating it into your daily routine. Wear it as jewelry, carry it in your pocket, or place it in your living space to create a harmonious environment.

As you connect with this stone, take a moment to meditate and reflect on your intentions. Allow its energy to guide you towards clarity and purpose, as you embark on a path of self-discovery and transformation.

Moss Agate is more than just a beautiful gemstone; it is a powerful ally in your quest for healing, abundance, and personal growth. Embrace its energy, and let it inspire you to live your life to the fullest. The journey of self-improvement and spiritual awakening awaits you, and with Moss Agate by your side, you are destined to thrive!

Presented by Coach Trina at Dragoyle.com 

Accidents and medical emergencies can happen anytime — whether you’re at home, camping, or just out running errands. Being prepared with basic first aid skills can make a huge difference in how quickly and effectively you can respond. From knowing how to stop bleeding to performing CPR, having a plan (and the right supplies) helps you stay calm and take action when it matters most.

 

Learn Basic First Aid Procedures

One of the best ways to prepare for emergencies is to learn the fundamentals of first aid. A few skills can go a long way in protecting your family, friends, and even strangers:

• Get CPR Certified: Take a CPR course through the Red Cross, American Heart Association, or a local community center. CPR saves lives, and many classes now include AED training (automated external defibrillator).
• Treat Common Injuries: Learn how to clean and dress cuts to prevent infection, cool and cover burns, and recognize when stitches or medical care are needed.
• Handle Choking Incidents: Learn the Heimlich maneuver for adults and children, as well as infant choking procedures. Knowing what to do in those first critical seconds could save a life.

 

Be Ready for Bigger Emergencies

Emergencies aren’t always small — sometimes you may face storms, power outages, or accidents that delay medical help.

• Know When to Seek Help: Recognize when an injury or illness is serious enough to call 911 or go to the ER.
• Create an Emergency Kit: Stock it with water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, and blankets in case you’re stuck at home during a disaster.
• Build Food Storage Supplies: Gradually add extra canned goods, dry staples, and comfort foods to your pantry so you’re prepared for longer disruptions.

 

Build and Learn to Use Your First Aid Kit

Having a first aid kit is great — knowing how to use it is even better.

• Start with the Basics: Bandages, gauze pads, adhesive tape, antiseptic wipes, antibiotic ointment, tweezers, scissors, gloves, and a thermometer.
• Add Emergency Gear: A small flashlight, instant cold packs, a CPR mask, pain relievers, antihistamines, and any personal medications.
• Keep It Accessible: Store your kit in a labeled container where everyone in the household can find it quickly. Check it regularly to replace expired items.

🏆 Top Pick: Our Favorite First Aid Kit

Best All-In-One First Aid Kit
Our top recommendation is the 85 Pc Waterproof First Aid Kit – a compact, organized kit with over 200 essential items including bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, trauma shears, and an emergency blanket. The durable case makes it perfect for home, car, or camping trips.

💲 Price: $39.96 USD

⭐ Why It’s Popular: Customers love this kit because it’s comprehensive, well-organized, and easy to restock. It takes the guesswork out of building your own kit and ensures you’re ready for almost any common emergency.

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✅ Why This Matters:
First aid knowledge empowers you to act quickly and confidently, often before professional help can arrive. Whether you’re treating a scraped knee, responding to a choking incident, or preparing for a natural disaster, being ready can turn a scary situation into a manageable one.

 

Presented by Coach Trina at Dragoyle.com

 

When it comes to building an emergency food supply, one of the most effective and time-tested methods is food dehydration. For centuries, people have relied on drying fruits, vegetables, meats, and herbs to extend their shelf life without the need for refrigeration.

Today, dehydration remains just as valuable, especially for anyone wanting to be prepared for unexpected events, natural disasters, or simply to have healthier, homemade alternatives to store-bought packaged foods.

Dehydrating not only makes food lighter and easier to store,  but it also preserves most of its nutrients while intensifying flavor. From the natural sweetness of apples and strawberries to the hearty sustenance of beans, lentils, and jerky, dehydrated foods can serve as both everyday staples and vital survival rations. With the right tools and proper storage, you can create a diverse pantry that offers comfort, nutrition, and variety when fresh foods aren’t available.

Whether you’re new to preparedness or already building your emergency reserves, dehydrating foods gives you control over ingredients, flavors, and quality. It’s a practical skill that saves money, reduces waste, and provides peace of mind. In this guide, we’ll explore the health benefits of dehydrating different fruits, vegetables, herbs, and proteins and how they can transform your food storage into a reliable and nourishing safety net.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the food: Wash, peel, slice, or chop food into uniform pieces. Thinner slices dry faster and more evenly.
2. Blanch vegetables (optional): Some veggies like carrots and green beans benefit from blanching to preserve color, flavor, and nutrients.
3. Arrange food on trays: Place pieces in a single layer without overlapping.
4. Set your dehydrator: Follow the recommended temperature settings:
5. Fruits & vegetables: 125°F - 135°F (52°C - 57°C)
6. Meat: 155°F (68°C) or higher for safety
7. Dehydrate: Dry times vary depending on the food and thickness; generally 4-12 hours.
8. Test for dryness: Food should be leathery or brittle with no moisture pockets.
9. Cool and store: Let completely cool, then store in airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags in a cool, dark place.

Best Dehydrators for Home Use

Here are some top dehydrators loved by home users:

1. Nesco Snackmaster Pro FD-75PR

• 5 trays, expandable to 12
• Adjustable thermostat up to 160°F
• Top-mounted fan for even drying
• Affordable and user-friendly

2. Excalibur 3926TB

• 9 trays with ample drying space
• Adjustable timer and temperature control (105°F to 165°F)
• Horizontal airflow prevents flavor mixing
• Ideal for serious food preppers

3. COSORI Premium Food Dehydrator

• 6 stainless steel trays
• Precise digital controls with timer and temperature settings
• Quiet operation
• Sleek modern design

4. Presto 06300 Dehydro Electric Food Dehydrator

• 4 stackable drying trays
• No temperature control (runs at about 165°F)
• Compact and budget-friendly
• Good for beginners or small batches
• best dehydrated vegetable chips at dragoyle.com

Fun Recipe For Spicy Dehydrated Veggie Chips

Ingredients:

2 medium zucchinis, sliced thin

1 bell pepper, thinly sliced

1 cup kale leaves, torn

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp smoked paprika

1/2 tsp garlic powder

Salt to taste

Instructions:

Toss all veggies in olive oil and spices until evenly coated.

Arrange on dehydrator trays in a single layer.

Dehydrate at 135°F for 6-8 hours or until crispy.

Let cool and enjoy your tasty, healthy chips!

Great as a snack or topping for soups and salads.

Final Tips for Emergency Food Storage

• Label containers with food type and dehydration date.
• Store dried foods with oxygen absorbers for maximum shelf life.
• Rotate your stock every 6-12 months to maintain freshness.
• Rehydrate food by soaking in water or adding directly to soups and stews.

 

Dehydrating your own food is a smart and economical way to build a resilient pantry for emergencies. With the right tools, techniques, and recipes, you can enjoy nutritious and delicious meals anytime you need them.

Happy Dehydrating!

Presented by Coach Trina at Dragoyle.com

 

Spearmint is more than just a refreshing herb, it’s a natural powerhouse with health benefits, culinary uses, and soothing properties. Whether you grow it in your garden or pick up fresh bundles at the market, spearmint is an easy-to-use plant that can bring both flavor and wellness into your daily life.

I have been growing and harvesting Spearmint in my garden. Each year the plant gets bigger and more fragrant.  We now have enough to start making products, add in cooking and start new seedlings.

 Health Benefits of Spearmint

Spearmint has been cherished for centuries for its gentle yet effective healing properties. Some of its top benefits include:

Aids Digestion – Spearmint tea can soothe indigestion, bloating, and nausea.

Supports Hormonal Balance – Research suggests it may help reduce excess androgens, especially in women with PCOS.

Freshens Breath – Its antibacterial qualities make it a natural breath freshener.

Reduces Stress – A cup of spearmint tea or a whiff of its aroma can help calm the nervous system.

Supports Respiratory Health – It may help clear congestion and soothe sore throats.

 

Healthy and Creative Uses for Spearmint

Once you have fresh or dried spearmint on hand, there are countless ways to enjoy it:

Spearmint Tea: Steep fresh or dried leaves in hot water for a soothing, caffeine-free tea.

Infused Water: Add spearmint leaves with cucumber or lemon slices for a refreshing detox drink.

Cooking: Chop fresh spearmint into salads, sauces, yogurt dips, or grain bowls.

Smoothies: Blend with fruits like watermelon, pineapple, or berries for a cooling twist.

Skincare: Create a DIY spearmint steam facial to open pores and refresh skin.

Aromatherapy: Crush leaves and inhale the scent to relieve stress or stuffiness.

Homemade Remedies: Use dried spearmint in herbal sachets for relaxation or to freshen drawers.

Enjoy this Recipe For A Calming Spearmint Tea To Help With Digestion & Stress Relief

Spearmint tea is one of the easiest and healthiest ways to enjoy the benefits of this fragrant herb. Known for its ability to soothe digestion, reduce bloating, calm stress, and support hormonal balance, this recipe can be enjoyed daily for gentle wellness support.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon dried spearmint leaves (or 2 tablespoons fresh)

1 cup boiling water

Optional: 1 teaspoon raw honey or a squeeze of lemon

Directions

Place the dried spearmint leaves in a tea infuser or directly into a mug.

Pour boiling water over the leaves.

Cover and let steep for 5–7 minutes to extract the oils and benefits.

Strain, sweeten with honey or lemon if desired, and sip slowly.

Health Benefits

Soothes Digestion: Helps relieve gas, bloating, and mild stomach discomfort.

Reduces Stress: The aroma and natural compounds calm the nervous system.

Supports Hormonal Balance: Drinking regularly may help reduce excess androgens in women.

Caffeine-Free: A perfect evening tea that won’t interfere with sleep.

 

How to Start Growing Your Own Spearmint

If you’ve ever wanted a low-maintenance herb that’s both useful and delicious, spearmint is the perfect choice. This hardy plant is one of the easiest herbs to grow, even for beginners. With just a little sun, water, and space, spearmint will reward you with fresh, fragrant leaves all season long.

You can grow it in a backyard garden, a raised bed, or even a simple container on your windowsill. Once it takes root, you’ll have an endless supply of minty freshness to use in teas, cooking, and natural remedies.

Step 1: Choose the Right Spot

Spearmint loves full sun to partial shade. If you’re planting outdoors, find a spot that gets at least 4–6 hours of sunlight a day. Indoors, a sunny windowsill will work just fine.

Step 2: Pick Your Container or Garden Bed

Spearmint grows fast and can quickly take over a garden if left unchecked. To keep it contained, many gardeners plant it in pots, raised beds, or containers. A medium-sized pot with good drainage is all you need.

Step 3: Use the Right Soil

This herb thrives in rich, moist, well-draining soil. A standard potting mix works well, but you can boost growth by mixing in a little compost.

Step 4: Planting Your Spearmint

From seed: Sprinkle seeds on top of moist soil, lightly cover, and keep damp until seedlings sprout.

From cuttings or starter plants: Plant directly into soil about 1–2 inches deep and water well.

Step 5: Water Regularly

Spearmint prefers soil that stays consistently moist but not soggy. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, and make sure your pot or bed drains well.

Step 6: Harvest Often

Once your spearmint reaches 6–8 inches tall, you can start harvesting. Pick the top leaves regularly to encourage new, bushy growth. Avoid stripping the plant bare—always leave a few sets of leaves so it can keep thriving.

Step 7: Keep It Healthy

Trim back overgrowth to prevent the plant from becoming leggy.

Pinch off flower buds when they appear to keep the leaves flavorful.

In cooler climates, spearmint will die back in winter but return in spring.

 

How to Harvest Spearmint

Harvesting spearmint is simple and rewarding—and the more you harvest, the more your plant will grow!

When to Harvest

You can start picking leaves once the plant is about 6–8 inches tall.

For the strongest flavor, harvest in the morning after the dew has dried but before the sun gets too hot.

How to Harvest

Use clean scissors or garden shears to snip stems just above a leaf node (where the leaves grow out of the stem).

Take no more than one-third of the plant at a time so it can keep producing.

Pinch off any flower buds as soon as you see them—this keeps the leaves tender and flavorful.

How Often to Harvest

Spearmint grows quickly, so you can harvest every few days during the growing season.

Regular trimming encourages the plant to become bushier and prevents it from spreading too aggressively.

Storing Fresh Spearmint

Place cut stems in a glass of water on your counter for short-term use.

For longer storage, wrap leaves in a damp paper towel, place them in a plastic bag, and refrigerate for up to a week.

 

How to Dry Spearmint

Drying spearmint allows you to preserve its flavor and benefits for year-round use.

Air Drying Method

Gather small bundles of spearmint stems.

Tie them together with twine and hang upside down in a dry, dark, well-ventilated area.

Once the leaves are crisp (1–2 weeks), crumble them and store in airtight jars.

Oven or Dehydrator Method

Place washed spearmint leaves in a single layer on a tray.

Dry in an oven at the lowest temperature or in a dehydrator until crisp.

Store in a cool, dark place in airtight containers.

Spearmint is a versatile, health-boosting herb that you can grow, harvest, and enjoy in many ways. Whether you sip it in tea, sprinkle it over food, or enjoy its soothing aroma, this little green plant has a lot to offer. By learning how to cultivate and preserve spearmint, you’ll always have a fresh supply of wellness right at your fingertips.

Presented by Coach Trina at Dragoyle.com