Minted Melon Potion: The Arabs have always believed that mint increases virility, and modern herbalists prescribe it for cases of impotence and decreased libido. Whether added to a glass of ice water or a tub of bath water, peppermint supplies pick-me-up vigor!

TWO 2-1/2 pound ripe cantaloupes
5 cups of cold water
1/4 cup plus 3 tablespoons superfine sugar

1/4 cup peppermint, finely minced
Peppermint sprigs and a few edible flowers to garnish
Ice cubes
Cut each melon in half. Scoop out and discard seeds, Remove the rind and cut melon into 1 inch cubes. In a blender, blend half the melon with 1/2 cup water and half of the peppermint until smooth. Repeat with the remaining melon, 1/2 cup water and rest of the peppermint. Transfer the puree into a large pitcher and add the 4 cups of water and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved. Pour into glasses filled with ice. Garnish with peppermint sprig and edible flower blossom. Makes 12 cups. Other fruits such as watermelon, honeydew or strawberries can be substituted for cantaloupe.

As for the garden mint, the very smell of it alone recovers and refreshes our spirits, as the taste stirs up our appetite for meat. — Pliny the Elder 23-79

Cooling Peppermint Drink for HOT Weather

Make a weak peppermint tea using 1/2 oz. fresh peppermint and 1 pt. water. Add the juice of one lemon. Cool in the refrigerator, add ice and a sprig of fresh peppermint.

Drink freely to avoid the effects of the heat.

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