What is mint… really?

From candy canes and peppermint bark to herbal teas and toothpaste, mint is everywhere—but most people don’t actually know what they’re tasting.

In this holiday-themed episode of The OG Spice Guy Podcast, HQO’s VP Jonathan Raju breaks down the real story of mint, uncovering why “mint” isn’t a single plant at all, how peppermint and spearmint differ, and why menthol plays such a powerful role in flavor, aroma, and even non-food industries.

Later, Jonathan is joined by HQO’s Director of Sales, Patrick McComas, a true tea expert, to explore how mint is blended, sourced, and enjoyed around the world—from classic peppermint teas to yerba mate and holiday cocoa blends.

You’ll discover:

- Why there’s no such thing as “just mint”

- The real difference between peppermint and spearmint (and why it matters)

- How menthol tricks your brain into feeling “cool”

- Where the world’s best mint is grown—and why climate and soil matter

- How mint is used in teas, yerba mate, desserts, and savory dishes

- How mint is dried, extracted, and preserved to protect its essential oils

From the Pacific Northwest to India, Morocco, and beyond, this episode dives deep into the science, sourcing, and cultural history behind one of the world’s most recognizable flavors—just in time for the holidays.

Watch now on YouTube, or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and everywhere you stream.

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