Ever wondered what are the benefits of mint tea? We know you like to stay on top of your health goals, so let us help you with this simple guide. No more searching through hundreds of pages of dense nutrition information. 

Mint tea can help you with digestive problems, headaches, sinus problems, sore throats, toothaches, and indigestion. Find out more about the health benefits of mint tea and other ways to enjoy it.

What Is Peppermint?

Peppermint is a hybrid cross between water mint and spearmint, producing the scented plant we know. You can make peppermint tea with dried or fresh peppermint (Mentha piperita) leaves.

In addition to its use as a flavoring or fragrance additive in food, toothpaste, mouthwash, and other items, peppermint may also be used medicinally. 

Originally sourced from Europe, peppermint is currently widely grown worldwide.

Nutrition Information

Two tablespoons of fresh peppermint contain:

Peppermint is a good source of: 

• Potassium
• Calcium
• Vitamin A
• Vitamin C
• Folate

Health Benefits Of Peppermint Tea

May Ease Bloating And Indigestion

For centuries, people have used peppermint to treat digestive problems such as gas, bloating, and upset stomach.

According to a 2017 comprehensive review, ingesting peppermint oil capsules may help children with functional abdominal pain disorders feel less discomfort.

The effects of drinking peppermint tea can be comparable.

Caffeine-Free

Pure peppermint tea is free from any form of caffeine. Caffeine will be present if you purchase peppermint tea blended with either black or green tea.

It May Support Fresher Breath

Peppermint tea may provide additional advantages for battling lousy breath. 

According to a 2015 review source, peppermint oil may help reduce the bacteria that produce plaque and gum disease because of its antibacterial qualities.

Relief From Tension And Headaches

A 2016 study found that applying topical peppermint oil to the skin may reduce discomfort and relax muscles.

When someone applies peppermint oil to the forehead or temples, the cooling effect of the menthol may help reduce tension or migraine headache pain.

The scent of peppermint tea could have a comparable impact.

Reduced Nasal Congestion

Even though drinking peppermint tea won’t cure a cold by itself, if you have a clogged nose, the menthol scent of the mint combined with the steam from the tea may help you breathe more easily.

Sleep-Friendly

Although there is no evidence to back up claims that peppermint tea can promote sleep, it is safe to consume it before bed because it contains no caffeine and may even help you unwind.

Less Painful Menstrual Cramps

Menstrual cramps, commonly known as dysmenorrhea, may be lessened with peppermint oil.

One 2016 study looked at 127 young women with dysmenorrhea to see how well peppermint oil worked for them. The study showed that peppermint oil capsules were just as successful at reducing menstrual pain as the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication mefenamic acid.

Certain people may also consider peppermint tea a home treatment for menstrual cramps.

Antibacterial Properties

According to research, peppermint essential oils may aid in the destruction of dangerous microorganisms.

For instance, a 2018 study discovered that peppermint oils assisted in reducing the growth of pathogens like Salmonella, Listeria, and Escherichia coli in pineapple juice.

When the researchers added peppermint oils to mango juice, however, they had less success in lowering bacteria.

Homemade Peppermint Tea

It’s easy to find peppermint tea bags in many grocery and health stores. However, people may rapidly create fresh peppermint tea at home with simply peppermint leaves and boiling water.

To make peppermint tea at home:

1. Add 2 cups of water to a pot.
2. Bring the water to a boil, then turn off the heat.
3. Add around four or five torn peppermint leaves to the water.
4. Cover the pot and let the leaves steep for 5 minutes or according to taste.
5. Strain the tea into a mug.

The Takeaway

You can make peppermint tea with fresh leaves, dried loose leaves, or tea bags. Peppermint may be combined with flavors like apple or licorice in teabags. You can consume it as frequently as possible because it is naturally caffeine-free.

According to several studies, peppermint oils may also improve digestion, headache pain, breath freshening, and other bodily functions. Additionally, peppermint tea has antimicrobial qualities. 

However, the clear health advantages of consuming peppermint tea have not been the subject of much conclusive research.