Beverages

10 Less-known Benefits of Peppermint Tea

Teas are widely consumed beverages of all time. The history of tea dates back to ancient China. There is an extensive range of teas and tea making style, and each of it has its health benefits apart from its flavor. Here, we will talk about the benefits of peppermint tea, the nutritional value of peppermint tea, DIY recipe and side effects as well.

But before that, here are some quick facts:

By mint or menthe, we refer to or talk about a plant family which has around 15-20 species. Spearmint and peppermint are two of them. This mint is native to Asia and Europe. People are using it for thousands of years because of the advantages of peppermint tea.

Peppermint Tea: An Overview

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Peppermint is an aromatic herb and primarily used as an ingredient for candies, mouth fresheners, toothpaste, medicines, and zero-caffeine teas. The leaves of the tree have essential oils and mint essential oils are one of the favorite aromatic oils.

Many foods also require mint to add a distinct flavor. Coolers, Mojitos and summer drinks get the refreshing cooling touch from this magic herb. The benefits of peppermint tea are known to man from prehistoric periods and are widely consumed to treat many diseases.

[Also Read: Surprising Benefits of Peppermint Oil]

What is the nutritional composition of Peppermint Tea?

Peppermint Tea boasts of nutritional composition that renders you those benefits of peppermint tea. Let us try understanding them. Peppermint is rich in vitamins and minerals like magnesium, potassium, calcium, iron, phosphorus, vitamin C, vitamin A, etc.

Mint is also known for its high level of anti-oxidant properties. Essential oils(1) like limonene, menthone and menthol are the secrets behind its aroma.

Two tablespoons of fresh peppermint can give us:

  • Protein: 0.12 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 0.48 grams
  • Fat: 0.03 grams
  • Fiber: 0.30 grams

10 Unheard Health Benefits of Peppermint Tea

We have already discussed the health-boosting components of peppermint tea. The benefits of peppermint tea are the result of the compound nutritional structure of peppermint tea.

Only a cup of warm peppermint tea can help us prevent and treat so many things that we may avoid taking random pills. Starting from relieving menstrual cramps to unclogging sinus blockages, a cup of peppermint tea is an excellent option for giving us instant relief.

1. Anti-Oxidant

Mint contains anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant property. The nutrient is known as rosmarinic acid. This nutrient can provide relief to allergy symptoms and fight free radicals.

As a result, it naturally detoxifies the body and organs. Detoxification can prevent the risk of many diseases. Most of the common ailments are related to inflammation and free radicals. You should be thankful for natural remedies like peppermint tea (2) because you need just a cup of this cup to flush out harmful toxins from your body.

2. Menstrual cramp

Mint has a natural ability to relax your muscles so that it can give us relief from menstrual cramp. According to a study, peppermint can reduce the intensity of menstrual pain and work as an anti-inflammatory agent.

Having peppermint tea during menstrual cycle not only helps you eliminate the pain and feel better but also uplifts your energy and mood.

[Also Read: Essential Oils for Menstrual Cramps]

3. Migraine Pain

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The presence of menthol in peppermint is known for increasing blood flow. Apart from that it also provides a cooling sensation. Peppermint is also a powerful remedy for pain and can relax muscles. All these help in easing migraine pain and treat a few specific types of headaches. The aromatic effect of peppermint tea can unclog the sinus tract and work well if you are suffering from a headache.

[Also Read: Natural Treatments for Migraine]

4. Sleep improvement:

If you have insomnia, then try peppermint tea. It can help you get a sound sleep. Peppermint tea is caffeine free and can relax your muscles. And as a result, you tend to sleep well.

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5. Better Energy:

Mint can increase energy level and reverse fatigue symptoms effectively.  Use of peppermint oil in aromatherapy reduces the untimely sleepiness. The strong aroma of peppermint uplifts your vibes and makes you feel more energetic throughout the day.

6. Great for Weight Loss:

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If you are obese and looking for a refreshing way to shed some pounds, then add a cup of peppermint tea into your diet. Peppermint tea will not add any extra calorie and let you feel full for a long time.

Apart from that, peppermint tea is a great anti-oxidant and promotes digestive health. So, the regulated bowel system, proper digestion, and higher metabolism regulate the entire internal system and help you to reduce some weight.

[Also Read: Home Remedies for Migraine Relief]

7. Good for Digestive Issues:

You can use Peppermint tea for stomach issues like bloating or gas. Peppermint eases the digestive tract muscles internally and prevents spasm. Apart from it, peppermint tea also works wonders for nausea or vomiting.

The cooling effect of mint is significant for an upset stomach, and acid reflux affected pains. It can increase the bile secretion which supports our digestion.

8. Allergy and Common cold:

Menthol is an organic decongestant. It helps to ease the mucus-clogged sinus channels due to cold. Peppermint teas can also give you relief from sore throat and dry cough. Peppermint is anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory. Any warm and aromatic beverages are known as a temporary reliever of cold and sinus related issues.

The rosmarinic acid present in peppermint reduces allergic reaction like itchy-ness, runny nose, and sneezing, etc.

9. Good for Skin:

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The presence of anti-oxidants and anti-inflammatory properties helps to get a clearer and toxin free blood circulation. Consuming peppermint tea detoxify our gut, digestive tract, and the entire system and as a result, we get a brighter skin every day.

Apart from that mint gives our skin a cooling effect.

10. Good for Oral health:

Mint has an anti-bacterial agent which is beneficial for oral health. Peppermint tea reduces the chances of accumulation of bacteria and kills food-borne bacteria. It is also capable of killing the bacteria of your mouth.

Apart from that, the presence of the essential oils reduces bad-breath and gives you a fresh feeling. That is why mint is one of the vital ingredients of toothpaste, and most of the mouth fresheners contain mint. You can get a fresh breath after consuming peppermint tea.

How to Make Peppermint Tea?

The best thing about peppermint is, one can grow (3) it in a window pot or the garden. The easy availability and the benefits of peppermint tea is the reason behind its popularity. It is effortless to make your cup of tea, and anyone can do it at ease.

So, here is your recipe:

What you need:

  • A handful of peppermint leaves.
  • Water to make tea.
  • Lemon (optional)
  • Honey (as a sweetener)

How to make it:

  1. Add the water to a pan and boil.
  2. Add the leaves and let it soak.
  3. Strain the tea after a few minutes as soon as you get the aroma.
  4. Strain it in your tea mug.

Finally, add a dash of lemon juice or honey to this.

What are the side effects of Peppermint Tea?

Herbs can have adverse effects on some people. Besides all the benefits of peppermint tea, it also has some side effects that you should be aware of.

  • If you are suffering from gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD, then avoid peppermint tea. It can be harmful to you.
  • Excessive consumption of peppermint can have some toxic effect so consume it moderately.
  • Peppermint can be too intense for kids, and it can make them uncomfortable.
  • If you have already suffered from gallstones, then talk to your doctor first.
  • Start moderately and see if there is any reaction.

Peppermint is being used for centuries, and the benefits of peppermint tea are making people healthy since ages. You need to take the initiative and motivation to take the right decision and the right action. The nutritional values and peppermint tea benefits do not require you to set aside a particular time or run on the treadmill or to compromise with your daily routine either.

Peppermint is readily available and affordable. And making the peppermint tea is more convenient than that as well. So, make your peppermint tea, and sip it slowly to get better health every day.