Refers specifically to the peppermint plant (Mentha × piperita). Often used in contexts of herbs, teas, and essential oils.
See also: ペパーミント
Peppermint essential oil has a refreshing scent.
This herbal tea contains peppermint.
Katakana spelling is standard for this plant name.
Kanji spelling is rare; the word is usually written in kana.
Compound of 西洋 (seiyō, 'Western') and 薄荷 (hakka, 'mint'). The reading はっか is a sound change from はくか.