Surprising Health Benefits of Peppermint Tea/Peppermint (Mentha piperita) is an aromatic, rhizomatous perennial plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family. It’s a natural hybrid of watermint (Mentha aquatica) and Spearmint Tea (Mentha spicata), often growing to heights between 30 and 90 centimetres.
Easily recognised by its light-purple flowers and green leaves with serrated edges, the herb famously exudes a sweet, alluring scent.
The aroma comes from the essential oils found in Peppermint, most notably menthol, menthone and menthyl acetate. These three active ingredients likewise contribute to its characteristic flavour when brewed as Herbal Tea.
Expect crisp, refreshingly minty notes with every sip, followed by a bold, delectable aftertaste. If that wasn’t enough, there are always Peppermint Tea benefits!
Benefits of Peppermint Tea
What is Peppermint Tea good for? When it comes to your health and wellbeing, the answer is “plenty”. Since the days of Ancient Egypt, in fact, people have used this herb to treat a vast multitude of ailments.
Now, however, we have the science to back such claims. It’s worth noting, to start, that it contains a wealth of vitamins, minerals and other antioxidants. This includes the following:
Peppermint Tea Properties |
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|---|---|---|---|
| Vitamin A | Vitamin B | Vitamin C | |
| Vitamin E | Alpha-Carotene | Beta-Carotene | |
| Calcium | Copper | Inositol | |
| Iodine | Iron | Magnesium | |
| Manganese | Niacin | Phosphorus | |
| Potassium | Sulphur | Zinc | |
The above chemical compounds (and many more!) can do much to help you. Indeed, they can, among other qualities, boost the immune system, alleviate toothache and even reduce the risks of developing type-2 diabetes.
We will now explore the 16 reasons why you should drink Peppermint Tea, all of which are related to Peppermint Tea benefits.
1. Peppermint Tea for Colds
Peppermint Herbal Tea contains a sizable amount of Vitamin C. This extraordinary mineral, also known as ascorbic acid, plays a significant role in supporting your immunity.
By potentially boosting the immune system, the Vitamin C in this infusion can ultimately prevent colds. There is even the chance that it might fight against the flu, too, although more research is likely needed.
What’s more, Peppermint Tea is anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antispasmodic and mildly antiseptic. These properties, in their own special ways, can fight several symptoms of the common cold.
If you’re unlucky enough to already be unwell, in other words, you should choose Peppermint Tea benefits. This beverage might indeed help you to feel better in more ways than you’ve imagined.
2. Peppermint Tea for Bloating
There appear to be numerous ways in which Peppermint Tea can reduce bloating. Naturally, its antispasmodic properties contribute a great deal, particularly when it comes to bloating caused by IBS or menstruation.
With the latter, in particular, it’s worth recognising that this Herbal Tea also relieves menstrual cramps. This is, of course, great news for many women.
Several animal and test-tube studies indicate that flavonoids found in Peppermint Tea may inhibit the activity of mast cells. These are immune system cells that exist in vast quantities in the gut, and sometimes influence bloating.
By combating mast cells, this infusion reduces bloating and, perhaps, in turn, increases your confidence.
3. Peppermint Tea and Weight Loss
There is no “fix-all” solution to losing weight. It takes hard work, determination and perseverance – not to mention morning jogs and salads!
Nevertheless, evidence suggests that Peppermint Tea benefits can, at the very least, offer a helping hand. This is because it can boost the metabolism of fat cells, which in turn enables the body to burn fat quicker and more efficiently.
But that’s not all. The menthol found in Peppermint Tea can, according to preliminary research, suppress appetite. It also contains no more than 2.4 calories per 8-oz serving, thus making it an excellent alternative to sugary soft drinks.
So, although you’ll no doubt need to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle, this beverage might play a part in promoting weight loss.
4. Peppermint Tea Before Bed
There is an ongoing debate concerning the pros and cons of drinking Tea before bed. Some recognise that Black or Green Tea, for example, contains high levels of caffeine.
This naturally occurring stimulant functions by blocking adenosine, which is a neurotransmitter that relaxes the mind while making you feel tired. In doing this, then, Tea has the opposite effect, making you feel more energised and awake.
But there is an important difference between Peppermint Tea and Black Tea. Indeed, this particular beverage does NOT, in fact, come from the Camellia sinensis (Tea) plant.
As such, it also contains no caffeine, and is thus a great choice of brew before going to sleep. (Other popular options include Camomile, Lavender, Rose Petals and Lullaby Herbal Tea).
5. Peppermint Tea for Headaches
The benefits of drinking Peppermint Tea extend to headaches, too, according to research. Specifically, some scientists believe that it can alleviate headaches caused by poor diets or stress.
These types of headaches typically restrict blood vessels in the brain. This, in turn, can cause pain ranging from mild to severe, with some developing into full-blown migraines.
Here, Peppermint Tea benefits work in much of the same way as pharmaceutical painkillers – albeit less so. It is able to open up blood vessels, thus offering relief to many sufferers.
However, consuming this beverage shouldn’t necessarily be seen as an alternative to medical treatment. Always listen to the advice of your doctor, especially if your headaches stem from underlying health conditions.
6. Peppermint Tea for Cramps
We’ve mentioned it briefly already, but we’ll say it again. Peppermint Tea benefits can alleviate cramping, particularly in those experiencing menstruation.
This is because of the relaxant effect of the infusion, with its antispasmodic properties having a big part to play. One study goes further still by noting its capacity to reduce the severity of menstrual pain while treating other symptoms.
The research in question concluded that Peppermint Tea could combat dysmenorrhea (period pain) and lower side effects compared to medicinal drugs.
Nevertheless, until we know more, The Kent and Sussex Tea and Coffee Company does NOT endorse Peppermint Tea for this purpose. Instead, we support ongoing research, which, so far, appears very promising.
7. Peppermint Tea for Toothache
Many of the same Peppermint Tea properties that help with colds can also treat toothache. Not quite in the same way, of course, but it still has great potential.
Indeed, depending on what has caused your toothache (decay, infection, broken fillings, etc.), brewing up a cuppa might do wonders. Its anti-inflammatory properties, as the name suggests, combat inflammation, while its antibacterial properties fight germs.
These properties can improve oral health in other ways, too. Namely, Peppermint Tea’s antibacterial effect prevents halitosis (bad breath), which can be caused by factors including smoking, drinking, and eating smelly foods.
There is a reason, after all, why most tubes of toothpaste and mouthwashes use this herb. Whether this will help on your next date, though, is down to you!
8. Peppermint Tea for Anxiety
In Britain, around 1 in 10 people live with anxiety, a condition characterised as an often incessant feeling of worry, fear or nervousness. A variety of triggers can cause it, including stressful events, life changes, and being in danger.
Some who experience anxiety, however, will find it surfacing during ordinary, routine moments. When left unchecked, it can have a significant impact on health and wellbeing.
Few scientific studies directly establish that Peppermint Tea benefits anxiety, in particular, although they might provide support in more obscure ways.
The infusion’s menthol content, for instance, could work as a natural muscle relaxant. This, in theory, then works to release tension in the body and, in turn, the mind. Nevertheless, more research is required for us to support such a claim.
9. Peppermint Tea and Digestion
When people think of the health benefits of Peppermint Tea, digestion tends to be high on the list. But is Peppermint Tea good for you when it comes to gut health?
The answer is a resounding “yes”. Numerous animal-based studies have indeed shown promising results. Most of these have recognised correlations between drinking Peppermint Tea and a reduction in gastrointestinal discomfort.
For centuries, in fact, experts of the time have recommended this beverage for indigestion, bloating, flatulence and other digestive issues. It’s true that we’re still uncovering the evidence.
However, so far, it’s almost all good news. Consider making a cup of Peppermint Tea before, during or after a meal to ensure you have a comfortable, enjoyable experience.
10. Peppermint Tea for Acne
There is no single cure for acne, a skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. This often leads to a break-out in whiteheads, blackheads or pimples, which usually appear on the face, forehead, chest, upper back and shoulders.
Despite most commonly affecting teenagers going through puberty, acne exists in people of all ages.
There is some evidence indicating that Peppermint Tea can help with acne and other skin conditions. This is in part due to its abundance in vitamins, minerals and other antioxidants.
These compounds, combined with its anti-inflammatory properties, can reduce redness caused by acne. Additionally, its antiseptic qualities prevent the build-up of bacteria that clogs pores.
11. Peppermint Tea for Diarrhoea
We shan’t go into too much detail, especially as most people know all too well. But diarrhoea is the medical name used for watery stools occurring more than three times a day.
It is an unmistakably unpleasant experience, one often caused by stomach bugs. Other symptoms arising from it might include abdominal pain/cramps, nausea and vomiting.
One review of 14 studies in 1,927 people found that Peppermint oil reduced the duration, frequency and severity of stomach pain. It’s essential to note, though, that the research looked into oil, not Tea, and that the test subjects were children and adolescents.
Furthermore, it remains unknown whether this herb has a direct impact on diarrhoea or just affects some symptoms associated with it.
12. Peppermint Tea Benefits Skin
We’ve previously noted that Peppermint Tea benefits acne. Yet that’s not all it can do when it comes to keeping your skin looking healthy and youthful.
The vitamins, minerals and other antioxidants have more still to offer by combating free radicals in the body. Free radicals are the product of natural, though often harmful, human oxidation, which, when left unchecked, can cause untold damage.
Oxidative stress increases the risk of developing several chronic conditions, including cardiovascular disease and type-2 diabetes. It also negatively influences skin health by causing inflammation, which in turn leads to collagen fragmentation and other issues.
Peppermint Tea, on the other hand, has the opposite effect. By neutralising free radicals, thus slowing oxidation, it greatly improves your skin in many ways.
13. Peppermint Tea for Sore Throats
Most know of sore throats as a pain, scratchiness or irritation that sometimes gets worse when you swallow. There are quite a few reasons why you might experience it.
However, the most common cause is a viral infection such as a cold or the flu. It stands to reason, then, that Peppermint Tea can prevent sore throats by already supporting the immune system. Yet that doesn’t help those who have already got one.
The good news here is that this beverage contains menthol, which is a particularly effective decongestant with cooling, soothing properties.
Additionally, it is rich in polyphenols, a group of powerful antioxidants that reduce inflammation of the throat. If symptoms persist, however, it remains paramount that you seek medical consultation. First and foremost, we care about the welfare of our customers.
14. Peppermint Tea for Nausea
A 2014 study published in the Journal of PeriAnesthesia Nursing suggests that Peppermint Tea might alleviate nausea. Researchers split symptomatic participants into two groups; the first group went through Peppermint aromatherapy while the second group used controlled breathing alone.
The results found that the Peppermint Tea group had a 62.5% success rate compared to 57.7% of the breathing group.
Another study involving 123 test subjects had similar findings. It established that those inhaling Peppermint oil experienced significantly reduced nausea after surgery.
Once again, however, it’s essential to note that both studies used oil, not Herbal Tea. Whether brewing up a cuppa has a similar impact remains scientifically unproven, although many believe that it does.
15. Peppermint Tea for IBS
IBS stands for “Irritable Bowel Syndrome”. It’s a condition that affects the digestive system, with common symptoms including stomach cramps, bloating, diarrhoea and constipation.
Typically, IBS is a lifelong problem, but some remedies that can offer temporary relief at the very least. Enter Peppermint Tea benefits, which can provide one such remedy.
One study out of McMaster University, Canada, appears to be particularly promising – especially as it has the support of the NHS. On the NHS Website, in fact, it states that the research is: “a high-quality, systematic review that provides good evidence that peppermint can be an effective treatment for irritable bowel syndrome.” Yet again, though, we’re talking oil, not Tea.
16. Peppermint Tea for Constipation
On the surface, it would seem almost contradictory for Peppermint Tea to alleviate diarrhoea AND constipation. Nevertheless, according to the latest evidence, it’s true.
This is a condition whereby a person has fewer than three bowel movements a week. What’s more, when they DO manage to use the bathroom, they might find that their stool is hard, dry and difficult to pass.
Drinking extra fluid alone can help with the above, which straight-up makes Peppermint Tea an excellent choice. In fact, being low on fluids is one of the most common causes of constipation.
Additionally, menthol in this herb has a soothing effect and may relax an upset stomach while moving stool through the intestines. And that’s probably all you need to know!
Peppermint Tea Side Effects
Few side effects to drinking Peppermint Tea exist. However, that doesn’t mean it’s without at least some health concerns. Anyone taking medication for digestive, blood-sugar or skin-related issues, for example, should consult a doctor before consuming this Tea.
This is because it might interfere with the prescriptions. Overconsumption can also lead to heart palpitations and a slowed heart rate.
Furthermore, despite there being a possibility of it alleviating diarrhoea, constipation and skin blemishes, Peppermint Tea might also cause them. If these side effects occur, however unlikely, The Kent and Sussex Tea and Coffee Company urge you to seek medical consultation.
We are NOT scientists or doctors, after all, and only provide the newest evidence without endorsing it.
Peppermint Tea While Pregnant
When it comes to drinking Herbal Tea while pregnant, the rule of thumb is to err on the side of caution. And so, the question begs: is Peppermint Tea safe during pregnancy?
Several studies show that it doesn’t harm the mother or baby. However, you should still avoid drinking large quantities of it, perhaps even limiting consumption to 1-2 cups daily.
While there is, admittedly, an element of risk, there is also research indicating that Peppermint Tea can support expecting mothers. Namely, the fact that it can alleviate nausea and vomiting means that it can also combat morning sickness.
If you have any concerns, though, please speak to a doctor, nurse or midwife before having Peppermint Tea during pregnancy.
Does Peppermint Tea Have Caffeine
Peppermint Tea as a standalone herbal infusion is entirely caffeine-free. Yet it is a different matter altogether when you’re talking about Flavoured Tea. Here at The Kent and Sussex Tea and Coffee Company, for instance, we stock Peppermint Green Tea, Peppermint Black Tea and Peppermint Matcha Tea. These particular beverages ALL contain caffeine due to the “real” Tea leaves blended into them.
If, then, you’re looking for an extra boost first thing in the morning, you’d be better off choosing one of the above. However, if you’re looking to cut down on your caffeine intake while enjoying Peppermint Tea benefits at their purest, pick Herbal Tea. Whichever way you go, you can count on us to deliver the finest quality products time and time again.
How to Make Peppermint Tea
The good news is that when it comes to “how to make Peppermint Tea” (Herbal Tea), the instructions are relatively straightforward. Apart from the leaves themselves, all you’ll need is a Filter or Infuser – both of which are available here.
Otherwise, just follow these easy steps below, and before you know it, you’ll be enjoying a nice, warming, health-beneficial cuppa!
Time needed: 10 minutes.
1. Use a Tea Infuser / Filter.
Put Peppermint Tea into one of our Tea Filters / Infusers.
2. Boil the Kettle.
Brew fresh water using either filtered or bottled water.
3. Add Infuser or Filter to your Cup.
Place the Tea-filled accessory into a cup or mug.
4. Pour Freshly Boiled Water.
Fill the cup or mug with hot water straight off the boil.
5. Allow it to Steep / Infuse.
Let it infuse for 5-10 minutes (the longer you leave it, the stronger it tastes.)
6. Time to Indulge
Your Peppermint Tea is ready to enjoy at your leisure.
Peppermint Tea: “Frequently Asked Questions”
A, Yes. People who consume this beverage alongside an already healthy and active lifestyle can expect Peppermint Tea benefits.
Although it can’t do all of the work for you, its medicinal qualities include improved digestion and weight loss promotion.
Furthermore, Peppermint Tea can relieve stress, aid skin health and support the immune system.
What more could you want from your morning cuppa?
Peppermint Tea contains an abundance of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
Combined, these can combat free radicals in the body, the product of natural, though harmful, human oxidation.
By neutralising free radicals, Peppermint Tea often supports health and wellbeing on a molecular level.
Absolutely not! Although it’s true that some people choose to drink Peppermint Tea with milk, it’s not recommended.
In fact, avid Tea drinkers may, indeed, shun you for doing so! When brewed without any accompaniments, this beverage boasts extraordinarily minty, menthol flavours. By adding milk, you’re diminishing its taste significantly.
Furthermore, it’s worth noting that those trying to lose weight would do well to avoid milk. This is because of its added calories. If you’d like to find out more information, why not read our article, “Calories in Tea”.
Due to its lack of caffeine, most agree that it doesn’t matter when you drink Peppermint Tea. In fact, many might rightly tell you that it is an excellent beverage to have before bed.
Whether you like to ‘brew up’ first thing in the morning or last thing at night, peppermint suits your needs.
More of a concern, however, is how much of it you drink. Overconsumption of this beverage can cause some side effects (we’ll talk more about this later). In other words, moderation is key.
If you have any worries, be sure to contact a doctor, nurse or another health professional. First and foremost, The Kent and Sussex Tea and Coffee Company cares about the welfare of our customers.
There is a chance that Peppermint Tea may, on occasions, stain teeth. However, consumables such as Coffee and red wine are far more likely to detract from your white, shiny smile. In fact, Peppermint Tea can support oral health in a plethora of ways.
Most notably, its antibacterial properties can kill germs in the mouth, thus preventing halitosis. In other words, this infusion can, like any minty toothpaste, get rid of bad breath!
There is little evidence to suggest that Peppermint Tea can help with heartburn. That said, it might improve cardiovascular health in other ways. It’s true that you’re best off sticking to prescribed drugs and over-the-counter medicines when it comes to heartburn.
What’s also true, however, is that the antioxidants in Peppermint Tea reduce the risk of developing heart disease. Just be sure to consult a doctor or another health professional before using Peppermint Tea for this reason.
There have been a handful of reported cases involving Peppermint Tea causing palpitations.
This, however, is very unlikely. It’s worth noting that there is no scientific evidence supporting these claims. The Kent and Sussex Tea and Coffee Company nevertheless recommend you exercise caution.
Again, be sure to consult a doctor should you have any concerns.
Peppermint Tea is, of course, predominantly water. Drinking a lot of it will inevitably lead to increased urination.
Furthermore, according to a study conducted by the University of Maryland, it might indeed have diuretic properties, too. The term “diuretic” refers to promoting the formation of urine.
This, in essence, enables someone to excrete excess water in several ways.
It could mean inhibiting the kidney’s ability to reabsorb sodium, which in turn enhances the loss of sodium and consequently water in the urine.
It could also mean enhancing the excretion of both chloride and sodium in the urine, which in turn sees more water excreted alongside these constituents.
These are merely the primary ways that the body can have some kind of diuretic response. You can find out more information in our blog, “Is Tea A Diuretic?”
In the UK alone, Herbal Tea sales have risen by 31% since 2012. Much of this is the product of increased interest in Peppermint Tea benefits – as well as, of course, great taste!
Indeed, more and more people are branching away from conventional infusions and instead opting for this delectable, wholesome beverage. And you can, too, right here with The Kent and Sussex Tea and Coffee Company.
We now know that it can manage colds, bloating, anxiety and weight fluctuations – to name but a few of its qualities. It is also easy to make and comes with very few side effects.
Where From Buy
- PEPPERMINT LEAF TEA BAGS - 100 Tea Bags filled with premium peppermint leaf from USA.
- ORGANIC PEPPERMINT LEAF 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 - All our products are certified USDA Organic by California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF), a leader in organic certification. Look for the USDA Organic seal 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 our Organic Peppermint Leaf Tea, 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.
