Peppermint tea is a delicious herbal drink that is both refreshing and flavorful. See what it’s good for and how to brew hot peppermint tea properly!
What is Peppermint Tea?
Peppermint tea is a herbal tea (also known as tisane or infusion) prepared by steeping peppermint leaves in water. It’s a fragrant tea that may miraculously warm you up on a cold day or cool you down on a hot day.
The scientific name of peppermint is Mentha piperita, and it is a cross between watermint and spearmint.
The minty flavor and benefits are derived from essential oils such as menthol, limonene, and menthone. These are responsible for its well-known and beloved cooling and refreshing properties.
The menthol flavor of this tea appeals to tea drinkers the most, making it one of the most popular types of herbal tea in the world.
What is peppermint Tea good for?
Peppermint tea has numerous health benefits, ranging from improved digestion to improved concentration. The tea has rarely been properly researched, although peppermint extracts have.
Peppermint tea has the following scientifically proven health benefits:
- Soothes upset stomach
- May boost immunity
- Increases alertness and enhances mood
- Freshens breath
- May improve your sleep
- Soothes cramps
Soothes upset stomach
Probably one of the best benefits of this herbal tea is its ability to relieve stomach discomfort.
Menthol, which is found in peppermint tea, relaxes stomach muscles which could ease stomach spasms and gastrointestinal pain, as well as gas, bloating, and indigestion.
Along with relieving an upset stomach, peppermint tea can help regulate digestion and keep things going smoothly. The menthol in peppermint tea increases bile in the stomach, which aids in digestion. This lowers the symptoms of diarrhea and constipation and can help to keep your system running smoothly.
A cup of peppermint tea is a good way to unwind and relax after a meal, especially when you’re suffering from indigestion or an upset stomach.
May boost immunity
Peppermint tea, like other true teas and herbal teas, has compounds that aid in the prevention of colds and the strengthening of your immune system.
Menthol, one of the active compounds in peppermint tea, increases the sense of airflow in the nasal cavity. Breathing in the vapor of fresh peppermint tea can also help ease infection symptoms in the respiratory system and may make you feel like you’re breathing easier.
Peppermint tea is also high in vitamins and nutrients, which might help your immune system. Antioxidants, B vitamins, calcium, and potassium can help your body absorb nutrients and fight against invaders, allowing you to stay healthy.
Increases alertness and enhances mood
If you are feeling sluggish, a cup of peppermint tea will assist to increase alertness and energy.
Research of 180 volunteers revealed that drinking peppermint tea may improve mood and increase alertness. At the same time, peppermint does not have any of the bad side effects of caffeine and can assist to balance your mood and improve relaxation.
Inhaling the smell of your tea may also reduce your stress levels.
Freshens breath
Peppermint is a popular flavoring in toothpaste, mouthwashes, and chewing gum for a reason.
The fragrant scent of peppermint tea masks bad breath, while its antibacterial capabilities fight germs that create dental plaque – which may improve your breath. To maximize the benefits of peppermint tea for fresh breath, drink one cup first thing in the morning or whenever an unpleasant breath emerges.
May improve your sleep
Because peppermint tea is naturally caffeine-free, having a cup before bed will help you sleep better, especially if you have an upset stomach. Furthermore, peppermint’s ability to relax muscles may help you calm down before going to bed.
Soothes cramps
If you’re suffering from painful cramps, a warm cup of peppermint tea will help you feel better. While peppermint tea has not been investigated in this regard, peppermint components have been demonstrated to ease symptoms. Peppermint tea could have similar effects.
Peppermint Tea nutrition facts
All of the above indicates that peppermint tea is good for you, but let’s look at what you get from each cup of peppermint tea.
One cup (8 fl oz) peppermint tea contains:
- Calories: 2.4
- There is no sugar, cholesterol, or fat.
- Contains 1% of your daily iron and potassium requirements.
- It contains 2.4 milligrams of sodium.
- Is naturally caffeine-free.
Note* – The nutrition data will change if you add honey, sugar, or any other sweetener. You can enjoy peppermint tea without adding any sweetness; simply you can add a slice of lemon.
Steps to make hot Peppermint Tea
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 2 teaspoons peppermint tea ( or 1 tea sachet or 1 tea bag)
Instructions
- Step 1: Boil Water
Peppermint tea, like most herbal teas, is best consumed using hot water instead of boiling water. Allow the water to cool for a minute or two after it comes to a boil. If you’re using an electric kettle, set it to 208°F. If you can use filtered water.
- Step 2: Steep
Put peppermint tea into the teapot and add hot water. Cover the teapot and allow it to steep. Steeping time should be between 5 and 10 minutes. You can steep it for longer than 5 minutes and it will still taste fine and not become bitter.
Note* – If you’re using fresh peppermint leaves, be sure you ground them up a little to unleash the flavor (use a handful of fresh leaves for 1 cup of tea). Fresh peppermint leaves should be steeped for a few minutes longer; the longer the leaves are steeped, the more flavor develops.
- Step 3: Strain and pour hot tea into a teacup
Use a tea strainer to remove dried or fresh leaves and pour the tea into a teacup. If desired, add a slice of lemon or your chosen sweetener.
That’s how you make a perfect cup of hot peppermint tea. Enjoy!
How many cups of peppermint tea can you drink in a day?
While there are no clear guidelines for how many cups of peppermint tea you should drink per day, most studies suggest 2-3 cups, with a few studies showing that drinking up to 4-5 cups may be OK as well.
The tea is suitable for consumption at any time of day. It’s great as a post-meal beverage to promote digestion, in the afternoon to enhance energy, or before bed to help you relax.
Does Peppermint Tea have side effects?
The consumption of peppermint tea is generally considered safe. Although peppermint tea has a range of health benefits, the effects of peppermint tea may be counterproductive for some people who have certain medical conditions.
If you have stomach problems such as GERD or acid reflux, you should avoid drinking peppermint tea. After drinking this tea, people with GERD commonly experience heartburn and indigestion.
Individuals who are allergic to peppermint in any form should avoid consuming this herbal beverage.
Is it safe to drink peppermint tea while pregnant? -Despite the fact that there are no known side effects from drinking one cup of peppermint tea per day, you should consult your doctor before drinking it at this time.
Questions you may have
Does peppermint tea stain teeth?
Peppermint tea does not stain teeth because it is a herbal tea (tisane, not a true tea) and is caffeine-free with minimal tannin levels.
Is there caffeine in peppermint tea?
Peppermint tea is naturally caffeine-free.
When to drink peppermint tea?
It can be consumed at any time of day. Enjoy it after a meal to promote digestion, in the afternoon to enhance energy, or before bed to help you relax.
Can I put honey in peppermint tea?
Honey adds a touch of sweetness and smoothes out the flavor of any peppermint tea mix. Only a drop of honey is required, and it should be added after the tea has cooled.
Disclaimer: The information on this website is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be medical advice, medical diagnosis, or medical treatment. Before making any dietary changes, you should contact your doctor or another health care expert.
