Peppermint (Menthea piperita). Spike of peppermint with leaves and flowerhead. Peppermint is used widely as a flavouring. It is also used as a herbal remedy for digestive problems. There is some evidence that it is an effective treatment for irritable bowel sydrome, nausea and bloating. The distinctive smell and taste of peppermint comes from menthal, a white crystalline organic compound, chemically related to camphor.