What is the yerba buena herb?

Yerba buena (Clinopodium douglasii), also known as hierba buena, is a perennial member of the mint family. The name yerba buena is also used to refer to other mint varieties, such as spearmint (Mentha spicata) and bergamot (Mentha citrata).

Yerba buena thrives in partially shaded areas with moist, well-draining soil. It forms a low, compact mat with white flowers that bloom from April to September. Yerba buena is widely used in Spanish, Native American and European folk medicine to treat a number of ailments, including digestive disorders, muscle pain, arthritis and skin conditions. Yerba buena is also used to flavor beverages and candies and to add fragrance to potpourris, perfumes and candles.