Peppermint tea is an herbal infusion made from peppermint leaves and it has been used in many medicinal applications. It is enjoyed around the world, not just for its refreshing taste but also for its therapeutic uses. It is popular for its possible ability to relieve headaches, treat sinuses, and ease digestive problems. Moreover, it is also known to be beneficial for your mental health as its calmative properties make you relax, release stress, and mental pressure.
What is Peppermint Tea?
The scientific name of peppermint is Mentha piperita, and it is a cross between water mint and spearmint. It is native to Europe and is used in breath mints, candies, chocolates, syrups, medicines, and as an essential oil for aromatherapy. The menthol flavor in this tea appeals most to tea lovers, making it one of the most popular varieties in the world. Few medicinal teas have an unpleasant flavor that you may want to dilute with lemon or honey. If you need a strong-flavored tea and a caffeine kick of black teas, adding a good caffeine-free herb tea such as peppermint tea is a good idea. [rx] [rx]
Amazing Health Benefits Of Peppermint Tea
May Relieve Stress and Headaches
According to a review published in the Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences & Research can prove to be a stressbuster. Caffeine-free peppermint tea can also help maintain stomach health, allowing you to unwind and relax and letting your stress melt away. Furthermore, according to the Handbook of Herbs and Spices (Second edition), peppermint tea may help to relieve headaches, migraines, and other stress-related symptoms. [rx]
May Aid in Weight Loss
Peppermint tea aids in weight loss. According to a study by Mary Koithan, (Ph.D., RN-C, CNS-BC), et al. peppermint is one of the digestive herbs that are used to prepare weight loss formulations. [rx] [rx]
May Promote Sleep
Research studies suggest that peppermint tea is used to improve sleep. It is caffeine-free, so people who suffer from sensitive sleep patterns may like to drink this relaxing tea before bed. A cup of peppermint tea before bed can also help with insomnia. It may promote sound sleep and also acts as a muscle relaxant. [rx]
May Help Manage Upset Stomach
Handbook of Herbs and Spices (Second Edition) [rx], Volume 1, 2012 suggests that peppermint tea has been commonly used to handle a variety of digestive and stomach ailments including IBS or irritable bowel syndrome, indigestion, and constipation. An article published in the European Journal of Gastroenterology & Hepatology said that peppermint oil is a popular form of medicinal treatment, particularly for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). [rx]
Further, a study on herbal remedies for non-ulcer dyspepsia carried out by Dr. J. Thompson Coon, School of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Exeter, UK, mentions peppermint as a very important food that can reduce inflammation in the stomach. Also, according to research, the benefits of drinking peppermint tea also include relief from menstrual cramps and muscle cramps. [rx]
How to Use: You can use organic peppermint tea bags as they are considered a carminative because they help move gas through the body as it accumulates.
May Aid in Anti-Helicobacter Pylori Activity
Research led by Israel Castillo-Juárez et al. to study the effects of medicinal herbs on Helicobacter pylori suggests that peppermint exhibits inhibitory effects and may help in giving relief from gastrointestinal disorders. [rx]
Peppermint tea is an herbal infusion made from peppermint leaves.
May Boost Immunity
In 2010, research published in Toxicology & Industrial Health on the antioxidant properties of Mentha species suggested that peppermint can be used as a natural antioxidant. A study by Gokalp Is canon et al. found that menthol present in peppermint has antimicrobial properties and may help inhibit pathogens. Peppermint oil is rich in antibacterial properties and may inhibit the growth of bacteria. [rx] [rx] [rx]
Peppermint tea is made using peppermint which according to USDA contains B vitamins, calcium, sodium, phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium. These nutrients may help fight off illnesses and perform necessary functions to keep the body working healthily. [rx] [rx]
May Fight Bad Breath
According to a 2014 study, the strong, menthol flavor and antibacterial quality of organic peppermint tea leaves can help to improve your breath. The antibacterial element may kill the germs that can lead to halitosis, while menthol in the tea may overwhelm the foul smell and leaves your breath fresh and clean! [rx]
Further, according to “Review on Herbal Teas”, [rx]the strong, menthol flavor and antibacterial quality of organic peppermint leaves may help to improve your breath. Also, due to its unique flavor, it is used in preparing breath freshening products. [rx]
May Prevent Nausea & Vomiting
When it comes to being sick, few things are as unpleasant as being nauseous. A study on “Antibacterial and antioxidant activities of Mentha piperita L. “ by Dr. Rajinder Singh et al. states that peppermint and its oil have been used in traditional medicine to treat nausea. [rx] It may reduce the chances of vomiting and nausea, even in the case of motion sickness on a boat or a plane.
May Lower Cholesterol Levels
Based on an animal study, peppermint may help prevent dyslipidemia or abnormally high cholesterol levels and high levels of glucose. Further, a recent animal study on the effects of peppermint extract stated that peppermint extract can lower bad LDL cholesterol levels. Higher cholesterol levels are associated with cardiovascular diseases like heart attack and stroke. However, more research needs to be conducted on this. [rx] [rx]
Soothes Upset Stomach
The cooling effects of menthol in peppermint tea help to soothe an upset stomach in several ways. First, menthol relaxes the stomach muscles that can contract and cause cramping. The cooling effect of menthol can improve circulation and relieve inflammation that causes stomach pains.
The second way peppermint tea helps to alleviate an upset stomach is to get rid of the offending cause faster. The menthol in peppermint stimulates the secretion of gastric juices that can break down food and speed up digestion. Peppermint tea reduces the feeling of being full and can reduce inflammation that causes bloating.
Improves Digestion
Along with soothing an upset stomach, peppermint tea can help regulate digestion to keep everything running smoothly. A study done at the University of Exeter showed that peppermint tea moves gas throughout the body thus relieving the feeling of bloating and cramps (rx).
The menthol in peppermint tea also increases bile in the stomach, which helps to digest foods more efficiently. This reduces the symptoms of diarrhea and constipation and can help to keep your system working optimally. Menthol relaxes the muscles in the digestive tract, making peppermint tea a great choice for people who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome (rx).
Treats Bad Breath
It’s no accident that most toothpaste contains some form of peppermint. With a clean, fresh feeling and menthol that fights halitosis that causes bad breath, peppermint is a true hero when it comes to fresh breath. The aromatic scent of peppermint tea helps to camouflage bad breath while antibacterial properties work from within to kill the germs and bacteria that cause bad breath in the first place (rx).
To reap the fresh breath benefits of peppermint tea, drink one cup first thing in the morning or when bad breath arises. You can also drink peppermint tea after consuming smelly foods such as garlic or onions to neutralize the odors. Make sure your peppermint tea is made from real peppermint, not flavorings, to get the best results.
Combats the Common Cold and Flu
Like most true teas and herbal teas, peppermint tea contains compounds that help to fight off colds while building up your immunity. Drinking a hot cup of tea is one of the most popular ways to soothe a sore throat. Peppermint tea takes it one step further by relaxing throat muscles that cause an irritating cough. Since menthol is a muscle relaxant, mint tea helps open up airways, relieving congestion and alleviating severe colds such as bronchitis.
The antioxidants in peppermint tea increase circulation and allow white blood cells to travel faster throughout the body, increasing the speed with which your body can fight off viruses and bacteria. Peppermint tea has antibacterial properties that help to ward off bacteria that are harmful to your immune system.
Peppermint tea also contains essential vitamins and nutrients that can boost your immune system so you get sick less frequently. With compounds such as antioxidants, vitamin B, potassium and calcium, your body can more easily absorb nutrients and fight invaders to stay healthy (rx).
Reduces Fever
One of the main ingredients in mint tea is menthol, which has been shown to help break a fever. Drinking a hot cup of mint tea induces sweating, which is the body’s natural way of cooling down. The extra fluids also encourage detoxification so your body can eliminate the cause of your cold, flu and fever.
At the same time, the menthol works internally to decrease temperature thus bringing down your fever. Menthol is also a natural muscle relaxant so it helps to alleviate the aches and pains that come along with high fevers.
Improves Mental Awareness and Focus
In a study published in the International Journal of Neuroscience, researchers found that peppermint enhanced memory and increased alertness. Scientists are undecided on whether the scent of peppermint or an internal compound is the reason for this increased focus (rx).
Studies have shown the scent of menthol stimulates the hippocampus area that controls mental clarity and focus. The result when drinking peppermint tea is increased feelings of rejuvenation and a refreshed focus that can help you tackle the day (rx).
To get the best results, brew a hot cup of peppermint tea and sip slowly. Make sure to inhale the aromas and savor the taste as your mental acuity sharpens.
Prevents Nausea
Peppermint tea has antispasmodic properties that can treat the feelings of nausea and prevent vomiting. The scent of peppermint can inhibit feelings of nausea while organic compounds in the mint help to soothe stomach muscles that contract and lead to vomiting. Drinking peppermint tea before boarding a plane, boat or while onboard a boat can help to cure the feelings of motion sickness or seasickness (7).
Reduces Stress
Peppermint tea is common in aromatherapy and Ayurveda as a way to reduce stress and increase overall wellbeing and peace. That’s because peppermint tea contains natural sedative qualities that help you unwind after a long day.
Consuming hot peppermint tea can help to lower your overall body temperature, allowing your body to relax and alleviating any inflammation. Anti-inflammatory properties also reduce blood pressure, inducing a calm state.
Peppermint tea is naturally caffeine-free so you can drink it at any time of the day without worrying about insomnia. The lack of caffeine also means you won’t feel jittery and is the main reason it’s used for relaxation and stress relief.
Promotes Healthy Skin and Hair
Like oral products, peppermint is used in a variety of skincare treatments at salons to promote a healthy scalp. Peppermint can help treat dandruff by reducing itchiness and soothing dry scalps. For best results, wash hair using peppermint tea and let sit for 5 to 10 minutes before rinsing.
The anti-inflammatory properties in peppermint can help reduce redness caused by acne and antiseptic properties help prevent the build-up of bacteria that can clog pores. The soothing effects of peppermint are useful for treating skin rashes and itchy bug bites.
Side Effects of Mint Tea and Who Should Avoid It
As with most teas, peppermint tea can have a few minor side effects. This tea should be avoided by people with allergies to its ingredients such as menthe and sufferers of acid reflux. Pregnant women should monitor and limit intake.
People with Acid Reflux
If you suffer from acid reflux disease or a similar ailment such as GERD, you should not consume peppermint tea. This is because peppermint tea can relax the muscles in the esophagus that prevent stomach acid and bile flow into the esophagus. By drinking peppermint tea, you can actually increase your symptoms of heartburn and indigestion.
Pregnancy
As with many teas, pregnant women can drink mint tea, but should limit consumption since teas have been linked to higher rates of miscarriage. If you have a history of miscarriages, it is recommended to avoid drinking peppermint tea. Women should also avoid drinking peppermint tea when breastfeeding since peppermint oils can cause breathing problems in infants and children.
Drug Interactions
As with most teas, it’s important to talk with your doctor before using tea to treat ailments or in combination with any medications. Peppermint tea can interact with medications designed to treat heartburn and acid reflux along with those for blood pressure and diabetes.
How to Brew
Peppermint tea can be brewed using tea bags, dried loose leaf teas or fresh peppermint leaves from your garden.
Step 1: Prepare Leaves
If using fresh peppermint, make sure to grind the fresh leaves a bit to release the flavors. For loose leaf teas, use an infuser to keep the leaves contained. For tea bags, prepare according to the instructions on the bag.
Step 2: Boil Water
Peppermint tea, like most herbal teas, is best consumed using hot water instead of boiling water. After bring your water to a boil, let it cool for a minute or two before pouring into your cup.
Step 3: Steep
Peppermint tea should steep for 5 to 10 minutes depending on your tea leaves. Fresh peppermint leaves should steep for a few extra minutes and it’s best to keep your container or mug covered. The longer you steep your leaves, the more the flavor will develop.
Drinking peppermint tea can improve your overall health and prevent stomach diseases that can cause discomfort. With a refreshing aroma and cool taste, this tea is a delight to consume and the health benefits are an added bonus.
How to Make Peppermint Tea?
It’s easy to make peppermint tea at home, all you need is a few peppermint leaves (fresh or dried) and water. Let’s take a look at the recipe in detail.
Peppermint Tea Recipe
Ingredients
- 10 peppermint leaves
- 250 ml water
- 1 lemon optional
- milk [28] optional
- honey as per taste
Instructions
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If you are making peppermint tea, take 10 fresh mint leaves and rinse them properly under the faucet.
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Once properly rinsed, rub the leaves in between your fingers. By doing so, you will be releasing the flavor of the herb. You can also use a mortar or a pestle to crush the leaves. Additionally, you can use the back of a spoon to lightly crush them if you do not have the aforementioned tools. Ensure that you don’t over-crush the leaves.
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Take a mug, and place the lightly crushed leaves in it. Meanwhile, bring 250 ml of water to a boil. Once boiled, allow the water to cool slightly before you pour it in the mug. Remember that, peppermint tea brews well in hot water and not boiling water.
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Carefully pour the water on the peppermint leaves, after you have let the water cool. Once all the leaves are submerged in the water, cover the mug and let it steep for at least 7 minutes. If you want the tea to be stronger, let it steep for longer -probably around 15 minutes.
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After that, strain the leaves out using a filter or a spoon. You can also add sugar or honey to your tea as per taste. Furthermore, you can enhance the taste by adding lemon to it.
If you don’t have fresh mint leaves, you can also prepare the tea using peppermint tea bags that are easily available in the market.
Where to buy Peppermint Tea?
Preparing peppermint tea at home is even easier using one of the following ingredients:
- Organic peppermint tea, leaf bags
- Organic peppermint leaf tea, loose bags
- You also get flavored teas like peppermint cinnamon tea
You can easily find this tea at herbal tea stores, supermarkets and you can also buy them online. So steep your tea, sip, and relax!!
Word of caution: Though peppermint tea is powerful and offers a wide range of health benefits, there are still some possible side effects of having this tea.
A study states that the menthol found in peppermint can cause contact dermatitis and allergic reactions such as allergic asthma. The reactions are typically mild but consulting a doctor about possible allergies is always a good idea. Besides that, grab some peppermint leaves and get brewing! [rx]
Where From Buy
- CHAI TEA BAGS - 100 Tea Bags filled with a premium blend of black tea and spices - cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, ginger root and pepper.
- ORGANIC CHAI TEA - The tea is filled into tea bags and packed into foil-lined kraft bags in California
- 100 ECO-CONSCIOUS TEA BAGS - Our premium tea bags are constructed of Abacá Hemp Fiber Paper. They are free of dyes, adhesive, glue and chlorine bleach. No staples, strings, bags or extra waste - just delicious tea!
- CERTIFIED USDA ORGANIC & NON-GMO - All our products are certified USDA Organic and certified Non-GMO. Look for the USDA Organic and Non-GMO Project seals on our products!
- LOVE IT OR WE BUY IT - We don’t think you should pay for products that you don’t love. If you aren’t enjoying any of our products, simply let us know and we will refund your order - it’s as easy as that!
References
Dr. Md. Harun Ar Rashid, MPH, MD, PhD, is a highly respected medical specialist celebrated for his exceptional clinical expertise and unwavering commitment to patient care. With advanced qualifications including MPH, MD, and PhD, he integrates cutting-edge research with a compassionate approach to medicine, ensuring that every patient receives personalized and effective treatment. His extensive training and hands-on experience enable him to diagnose complex conditions accurately and develop innovative treatment strategies tailored to individual needs. In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Harun Ar Rashid is dedicated to medical education and research, writing and inventory creative thinking, innovative idea, critical care managementing make in his community to outreach, often participating in initiatives that promote health awareness and advance medical knowledge. His career is a testament to the high standards represented by his credentials, and he continues to contribute significantly to his field, driving improvements in both patient outcomes and healthcare practices.
