[1] Mints are commonly believed to soothe the stomach given their association with natural byproducts of the plant genus Mentha.

However, many of the most popular mints citing these natural sources contain none in their ingredient list or contain only trace amounts.

[3][4][5] The production of mints as a discrete food item can be traced back to the 18th century with the invention of Altoids.

[citation needed] In addition to breath freshening, mints that actually contain peppermint oil or extract have been popular in helping with digestion after a meal.

[2] According to the German Commission E Monograph, real peppermint oil or extract has been used for cramp-like complaints in the gastrointestinal tract.