12 Health Benefits Of Peppermint Tea & How To Make It

Benefits Of Peppermint Tea: A fresh cup of peppermint tea is not only refreshing but also has multiple health benefits. Read on to know how drinking peppermint tea can be good for your overall health & how to make it.  

You’ll definitely want to grab a cup or two of peppermint tea after learning about its numerous benefits. Peppermint has been used as a medicinal herb for many years and is well-known for its refreshing minty flavor. Additionally, when brewed into tea, peppermint offers a cooling sensation and contains no calories. This herbal concoction boasts several advantages. This includes analgesic, antibacterial, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects. Also, it may help with headache relief, digestive health, weight loss prevention, and freshening breath. Furthermore, doctors have long recommended peppermint tea due to its all-natural composition and lack of caffeine. Let’s explore the various benefits of peppermint tea in more detail.

Health Benefits Of Peppermint Tea

Here is a list of the health benefits of drinking peppermint tea. 

1. Enhances Digestion

One of the many health benefits of peppermint tea is healthy digestion. Peppermint has been traditionally used to treat various digestive problems like gas, heartburn, bloating, and indigestion. Furthermore, it possesses carminative properties that help soothe the abdominal muscles. It also relaxes the muscles of the colon, potentially aiding digestion. Thus, peppermint tea has a calming effect and helps relax the digestive system. 

2. Provides Relief For Migraines And Tension Headaches

Tea infused with peppermint leaves may offer relief from migraines and tension headaches. Menthol is a sedative and analgesic compound in peppermint. It could have anesthetic effects on the nervous system and reduce stress on the brain’s blood vessels.

(Also Read: 30 Amazing Health Benefits Of Black Tea & Why It Is So Good For You)

3. Freshens Breath

One of the most popular health benefits of peppermint tea is fresh breath. Peppermint possesses antimicrobial properties that can eliminate bacteria causing bad breath. Also, the flavor and aroma of peppermint are frequently used in mouthwash and toothpaste to freshen your breath. This is attributed to the menthol content found in peppermint leaves.

4. Eases Nasal Congestion

Drinking peppermint tea may help treat acute respiratory tract infections, according to research. Also, peppermint tea can help prevent the development of pathogens like Chlamydia pneumonia. Scientific evidence regarding peppermint tea’s effectiveness in clearing sinuses is limited. But anecdotal evidence suggests that the warm menthol-infused beverage can aid in calming breathing. Moreover, scientific research specifically studying the effects of peppermint tea on nasal congestion is also limited. But there is some evidence to suggest that it may offer relief.

(Also Read: 10 Amazing Health Benefits Of Hibiscus Tea You Must Know)

More Benefits Of Peppermint Tea

5. Potential Energy Booster

Peppermint contains antioxidants and phenols that protect the body from free radical damage. However, specific studies on peppermint tea’s impact on energy are lacking. But natural components in peppermint have shown positive effects on energy levels in research settings.

6. Reduces Menstrual Cramps

Peppermint’s antispasmodic properties are believed to ease menstrual cramps. The analgesic qualities of peppermint tea may reduce the intensity and duration of menstrual cramps by relaxing uterine muscles.

7. Reduces The Possibility Of Bacterial Infection

Peppermint’s antibacterial capabilities make it effective against various types of germs. Menthol, found in peppermint, has shown antimicrobial properties in combating certain microorganisms, including oral bacteria.

(Also Read: 10 Amazing Benefits Of Yerba Mate Tea On Health)

Health Benefits Of Peppermint Tea

8. Aids Sleep

Peppermint tea, free from caffeine, can help relax and unwind. This makes it a suitable choice before bed for those struggling with sleep difficulties. While limited research exists on this topic, some individuals claim that peppermint tea has a calming effect and eases tension.

9. Helpful In Weight Loss

As a calorie-free beverage, peppermint tea can be a satisfying substitute for calorie-dense drinks. And thus potentially aiding in weight loss. Peppermint is commonly used in various weight loss formulas, although further research is needed to fully understand its benefits. Other than Peppermint Tea, there are many other weight-loss drinks that you can try. Here is the list. 

10. Possible Treatments For Seasonal Allergies

Peppermint contains rosmarinic acid, a phenolic molecule that may have biological effects. Rosmarinic acid is believed to alleviate symptoms of seasonal allergies, such as itchy eyes, runny nose, and asthma.

11. Improves Skincare

If you have oily or acne-prone skin, peppermint tea can be a game-changer. The cooling effect of menthol, the main component in peppermint leaves, helps reduce the production of oil by the sebaceous glands. This can lead to clearer skin with fewer breakouts.

12. Enhances Concentration

Peppermint tea has been praised for its potential to boost focus, memory, and alertness. Making a cup of peppermint tea might help improve your ability to concentrate and pay attention. However, it’s important to note that there is limited scientific research available on this topic.

These are just a few of the possible benefits of drinking peppermint tea. In the next section, we will discuss how to make this delightful tea.

How To Make Peppermint Tea

Making peppermint tea is a simple and enjoyable process. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make your own refreshing cup of peppermint tea.

1. Gather the ingredients: You will need fresh peppermint leaves or dried peppermint tea leaves, water, and a tea infuser or teapot.
2. Boil the water: Heat water in a kettle or saucepan until it reaches a rolling boil.
3. Prepare the peppermint leaves: If you’re using fresh peppermint leaves, wash them thoroughly and gently crush them to release their oils. If you’re using dried peppermint tea leaves, no preparation is needed.
4. Infuse the peppermint leaves: Place the peppermint leaves in a tea infuser or directly into a teapot. If using a tea infuser, put it in a cup. Pour the boiling water over the leaves, ensuring they are fully submerged.
5. Steep the tea: Let the peppermint leaves steep in hot water for about 5-10 minutes. If you want a stronger flavor, we would suggest you steep the tea longer.
6. Strain and serve: If using a tea infuser, remove it from the cup or teapot. If you directly added the leaves to the teapot, use a strainer. Or sieve to strain the tea into your cup. Discard the used leaves.
7. Optional additions: You can enhance the flavor of your peppermint tea by adding a slice of lemon, a drizzle of honey, or a sprig of fresh mint for garnish. Adjust according to your taste preferences.
8. Enjoy: Sip and savor the soothing and refreshing taste of homemade peppermint tea. It can be served hot or chilled over ice, depending on your preference.

Remember, you can adjust the strength of the tea by increasing or decreasing the amount of peppermint leaves and steeping time. Feel free to experiment until you find the perfect balance for your taste buds.

Summary

Peppermint tea, a popular herbal beverage, offers a wide range of benefits. It aids digestion, relieves headaches, freshens breath, and potentially enhances concentration. The natural compounds present in peppermint leaves provide numerous advantages. Furthermore, peppermint tea also has the potential in reducing menstrual cramps, fight bacterial infections, and promote skin care.

But researchers need to conduct more studies to fully understand and validate these benefits. Peppermint tea’s refreshing and soothing qualities make it a delightful choice. Moreover, particularly for those seeking a flavorful and potentially health-promoting beverage. So, next time you want to enjoy a cup of tea, consider indulging in the invigorating taste and potential benefits of peppermint tea.