Can a warm cup of tea really calm your nerves, soothe your stomach, and refresh your mind—all at the same time? Peppermint tea says yes.
Sipping this herbal tea has a soothing effect on your body and mind. Made from leaves of the peppermint plant, it has a refreshing taste and therapeutic aroma. People all over the world drink it because of its many health benefits.
In this blog, we’re diving into the peppermint tea benefits and why it deserves a spot in your daily wellness ritual. Whether you’re looking to ease digestion, reduce stress, or just enjoy a caffeine-free pick-me-up, this cool cup of calm has something for everyone.
What is Peppermint Tea
Peppermint tea is made by boiling peppermint leaves, from the plant (Mentha piperita), in water. It has a strong smell, a minty taste, and gives a cooling effect. It has zero caffeine, which means it can be taken in the morning, after lunch, or even in the evening without affecting your sleep. You can add lemon, honey, or ginger to it to enhance its flavour and benefits.
The Benefits of Peppermint Tea
There are numerous advantages of peppermint tea for digestive health, headache, general stress, and more. Read the detailed benefits below:
1. Boosts Digestion
One of the greatest benefits of peppermint tea is that it aids in digestion. If you experience gas, bloating, or stomach pain after eating a meal then taking peppermint tea for gas is going to be your wonder.
It soothes the stomach linings and promotes easy digestion and passage of food. A lot of people take peppermint tea for bloating after heavy meals as it helps them feel light and comfortable.
2. Reduces Headaches
Another one of the peppermint tea benefits is that it can alleviate headaches caused due to migraine. Peppermint has a natural oil called menthol. The analgesic effects of this oil reduce pain and calm the muscles, particularly in the head and neck region.
As per a 2017 study, test subjects who took peppermint extract reported a significant reduction in headache severity, duration, and frequency. So, this tea clearly has a soothing effect for headache and can be a great home remedy for the same.
3. Keeps Your Breath Fresh
If you desire a fresh and clean mouth, then peppermint tea is the best choice. Its antibacterial properties kill germs that cause bad breath and leave your mouth smelling fresh with a mild minty scent.
4. Eases Stress
Peppermint green tea (peppermint leaves taken with green tea) can combat the mental stress and fatigue after a long and tiring day. The refreshing minty aroma of this hot beverage has a therapeutic effect on your senses.
Taking it before bed allows you to sleep peacefully. You can also use it to reduce anxiety or nervousness during the day.
5. Relieves Cold
Peppermint tea also relieves cold. The menthol in the tea helps open up your nose and make it easier to breathe, beneficial when you have a clogged/stuffy nose.
Organic peppermint tea benefits include soothing a sore throat and warming you up from the inside out. It is a winter-favorite among many who take it to get better if they have a cough or seasonal cold.
6. Supports Weight Loss
If weight loss is what you are looking for, peppermint tea is a good choice. It has zero calories and can curb appetite.
Consuming peppermint tea rather than sweet beverages can be a huge adjustment in the long run. It also increases fat metabolism, accelerating your weight loss journey.
It has been reported that individuals who incorporated herbal teas such as peppermint into their weight loss diet lost weight after about 12 weeks.
7. Improves Skin Health
Peppermint tea is packed with antioxidants that are great for skin. Its anti-inflammatory properties reduce skin redness and acne flare-ups. It reduces the damage caused by the free radicals and soothes the sensitive skin. It also makes you supple and hydrated, which is great for those with dry skin type.
Read More: Tea for Anxiety: Is This a Good Idea
Instructions for Preparing Peppermint Tea
Wondering how to make peppermint tea? Don’t worry. You don’t need much to prepare this tea:
- 1 teaspoon fresh peppermint leaves or dried peppermint leaves or 1 peppermint tea bag
- 1 cup boiling water
- Optional: honey, lemon
Here is the peppermint tea recipe:
- Boil water.
- Add the tea leaves or tea bag to a cup.
- Pour water over the cup.
- Steep for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Remove the tea leaves or tea bag and serve.
You may drink it alone or some add honey or lemon adjusting the sweet or sour taste to your liking.
When to Drink Peppermint Tea
Peppermint tea is something that may be taken any time of day. It’s good after eating, at night before bed, or whenever stress gets to you. Remember to have it in moderation. This means that you can enjoy up to 2 to 3 cups daily to get the desired peppermint tea benefits.
Are There Any Side Effects of Drinking Peppermint Tea?
Despite a range of health benefits, there are some possible peppermint tea side effects that you need to know about. Check out below:
- Avoid taking it without a doctor’s consultation if you are on medication, pregnant, or lactating.
- Excessive intake can lead to heart burn, digestive issues, or bloating. So, consume in limit.
- If you’re allergic to peppermint, you may experience rashes, redness, breathing issues, itching, swelling, etc.
Final Thoughts
Peppermint tea is a simple health drink loaded with immense health benefits. It supports digestion, alleviates colds, aids in weight loss, treats headaches, fights stress, and even enhances your skin’s appearance. This healthy elixir tastes good and also fits under the budget, so, you can substitute it for your regular tea if you like. Next time you are in need of a healthy drink, ditch the bubbly drinks and try the peppermint tea.
Frequently Asked Questions Related to Peppermint Tea
Can I consume peppermint tea every day?
Yes, you can consume up to 1 to 2 cups of peppermint tea every day. It is safe for the majority of people. But if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or taking medication then consult your doctor first.
Does peppermint tea support weight loss?
There are zero calories in peppermint tea and it helps curb appetite. It can support weight loss when it is utilised as a part of a diet regimen and lifestyle.
Can children drink peppermint tea?
Peppermint tea can be given to children in small quantities. Make sure the tea is not too hot. Always take a doctor's advice if the child is unwell.
Is peppermint tea for colds and coughs?
Yes! Peppermint tea has menthol, which opens up the nose and throat. It also gives relief from coughing and makes breathing simple.
Can peppermint tea be consumed at night?
Yes, you can drink peppermint tea at night. It has no caffeine and calms you down and enhances your sleep.
Do you put milk in peppermint tea?
No, you don't typically add milk to peppermint tea. It's a herbal tea and is best served with just hot water. You can add honey or lemon if desired, but not milk.
Does peppermint tea dry up breast milk?
Yes, peppermint tea can decrease breast milk supply if you consume it frequently. Some lactating mothers drink it to decrease milk. If you are nursing, it is advisable to consult your doctor before regularly drinking peppermint tea.
Is peppermint tea good for acid reflux?
Peppermint tea can exacerbate acid reflux in some individuals. It loosens stomach muscles, which can allow acid to move upward. If you experience heartburn, consult your physician before consuming peppermint tea.
