A mint is a food item characterized by the presence of mint flavoring or real mint oil, whether it be peppermint oil, spearmint oil, another natural source such as wintergreen, or an artificial flavoring. Sweets made with natural mints are sometimes referred to as peppermints or spearmints. Although historically consumed as any other type of candy, mints are especially popular worldwide as an after-meal refreshment, since the taste and smell of mint oil and its active components are quite strong and feel clean and cool to the mouth, freshening the breath, as well as soothing the stomach.