Peppermint 薄荷 Bò Hé

Appearance & Aroma

Square stems bearing bright green serrated leaves, with small purple-white flower whorls in summer. Dried leaves retain their vivid color and shape remarkably well.

Penetratingly cool and fresh—the unmistakable menthol presence that opens the sinuses and sharpens the mind. One of the strongest aromatic herbs in the pharmacopoeia.

TCM Properties

• Nature (性 xìng): Cool
• Taste (味 wèi): Pungent (辛 xīn)
• Meridian Tropism (归经 guī jīng): Lung (肺 fèi) and Liver (肝 gān)

Classical References

In the 《神农本草经》 (Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing, c. 200 BCE), mint-class herbs were recorded among the middle-grade substances—those that “nourish the nature” but must be used with discretion.

Li Shizhen, in the 《本草纲目》 (Ben Cao Gang Mu, 1596), wrote that peppermint “disperses wind-heat, clears the head and eyes, and promotes the eruption of rashes” (趟散风热，清利头目，利咽喉，透疹). He noted its special ability to release constrained Liver qi—the quality that makes it so suited to the Wood element.

Usage in Chinese Herbal Sachets

Peppermint's crisp, penetrating nature makes it a cornerstone of Wood-element sachets. It disperses stagnant qi like spring wind through a closed room. Use whole dried leaves for best longevity; crushed leaves release more aroma initially but fade faster.

Elemental Affinity

Wood’s archetypal herb. Its upward-outward movement mirrors spring growth. Pairs especially well with citruses (Tangerine Peel) and spices (Clove), which warm its cooling nature and extend its aromatic life.

Custom Blending Ideas

Every constitution is unique. Below are three blend directions—start with these, then adjust to your personal preference. Herbal sachets, like herbal formulas, are best when they are personal.

Safety & Sourcing

Generally safe in sachet form. Avoid direct skin contact with concentrated essential oil. Pregnant individuals should consult a practitioner before using strongly aromatic herbs on the body.