It is native to the Mediterranean region and is a perennial herb with stiff stems to a height of about 1 m. The leaves are bright green, lance shaped with y serrated margins. The flowers are pink or lavender in color. Unlike peppermint, spearmint does not contain high concentrations of menthol. The ancient Greeks used it to scent bath water. It has a reputation for treating venereal diseases. In medieval times, it was used to treat sore gums and to whiten teeth. The United States produces more than 80% of the world's production.