River Mint (Mentha australis)

River Mint is one of four species of mint that is native to Victoria. It is found right across south-eastern Australia, most often close to waterways and in forests. Diverse groups of Aboriginal peoples crush and inhale the plant as a remedy for coughs, colds and headaches. River Mint also adds flavour to cooked foods, with its leaves used in earth ovens. A small herb with aromatic leaves, River Mint is high in antioxidants and is antimicrobial, and is used by Indigenous peoples to benefit the stomach. It is delicious infused as a tea, added to cold drinks and dressings. Aboriginal peoples also rub it on the skin as an insect repellent.

Soure: Indigenous plant use; A booklet on the medicinal, nutritional and technological use of indigenous plants; By Zena Cumpston; Clean Air and Urban Landscapes (CAUL) Hub in Melbourne 2020