Mint, an herb often relegated to the realm of toothpaste and cocktail garnishes, is actually a versatile and deeply fascinating crop that plays a vital role in a wide array of industries. Steve Salisbury, a member of the Mint Industry Research Council (MRC), unveiled the fascinating world of mint production and its far-reaching impact on a recent episode of the FieldLink® Podcast.
Salisbury is from the heart of the nation's mint-growing region Willamette Valley, Oregon. Born and raised in the area, he understands the long history of mint production in the Pacific Northwest. This led him to become a member of the MRC, a role he greatly values.
We go to Capitol Hill and talk to legislators, senators and congressmen about ag needs, federal programs that we rely on. I also get to work with buyers and growers, which is great because I enjoy the versatility in the position.
Steve Salisbury
According to Salisbury, the United States accounts for 70% of the world’s mint production. This long-standing, traditional crop has a rich history, having evolved and migrated across the country in search of disease-free soil and optimal growing conditions.
The process of cultivating and harvesting mint is a delicate process, with growers carefully managing factors like Verticillium wilt, a persistent disease that can destroy entire fields. But the true magic happens in the distillation process. The fragrant oil extracted from the mint plants is the lifeblood of the industry, fueling a diverse array of products, from chewing gum and toothpaste to essential oils and even insect repellents.
The MRC plays a crucial role in bringing together growers, buyers, and end-users to address the industry's challenges and explore new opportunities. This council also focuses on researching new ways to use mint. There are recent findings of potential health benefits of mint, with impact on better sleep quality, cognitive function, and even driving performance. There are endless opportunities for mint with more research being conducted each day to grow the mint industry. MRC plays a vital role in being an advocate for the industry and finding new ways to use mint through research.
We're looking for these different avenues to try to find some niche areas for more mint use in this industry.
Steve Salisbury
It is clear that mint is far more than just a simple garnish or flavor enhancer. It is a complex and dynamic crop that is part of our daily lives, from the toothpaste we use to the essential oils we diffuse. And with the dedicated efforts of the MRC and its members, the future of the mint industry is bright.
To learn more about mint production and industry check out Episode 74 of the FieldLink Podcast on YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts.