Candy canes, peppermint bark and minty mochas are signs the holidays are here – but how did it come to be?Peppermint has been the reigning flavor of winter since before pumpkin spice conquered the autumn season. Candy canes, peppermint bark, and Starbucks peppermint mochas – now, they’re all clear signs that you’re overdue to start your holiday shopping.But the association between peppermint and the winter holidays is still somewhat of a mystery. After all, peppermint is an herb commonly harvested in the spring and summer months. Pumpkins and apples are both autumn harvests, so their historical connection is clear. So, how did a minty herb become the icon of the coldest months of the year? Continue reading...