Britannica Sources used in this answer

Which mint family herbs are commonly used to flavor foods and beverages?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

Water mint (Mentha aquatica) — Lamiales The lilac-pink flowers of the water mint attract butterflies and beetles.

The mint family (Lamiaceae) is renowned for its many aromatic herbs that are widely used to flavor foods and beverages. These plants are characterized by their square stems and fragrant leaves, which contain essential oils.12

Commonly used culinary herbs from this family include:

Basil: Used fresh or dried to season meats, fish, salads, and sauces.3
Mint: Including peppermint and spearmint, these are used in candies, gums, and liqueurs.2
Thyme: A pungent herb used in poultry, meats, vegetables, sauces, and soups, as well as in certain liqueurs.4
Lemon balm: Used to flavor soups, sauces, salads, candies, and various beverages, including teas and wines.5
Oregano and Marjoram: Popular culinary seasonings.16
Rosemary and Sage: Frequently used for their distinct aromatic profiles in cooking.16
Savory: Both summer and winter varieties are used as culinary herbs.16
Hyssop: Another aromatic member of the family used in culinary applications.16

These herbs are valued not only for their flavor but also for their essential oils, which are often utilized in perfumery and medicinal preparations.254