9 Health Benefits of Mint Tea
By Aditi Kulkarni
Mint tea has been celebrated for centuries in European and North African countries, most notably in Moroccan mint tea. As a herbal tea, mint tea has gained popularity for offering a powerful yet relaxing taste. The most well-known type of mint tea is peppermint tea, which contains menthol — the reason why you sometimes feel that cooling sensation in your throat when you eat a peppermint.
Here are 9 health benefits associated with mint tea — and how it can work for you.
1. Calms Stomach Aches
Studies have shown that mint can help indigestion, gas, and bloating. The menthol in peppermint relaxes stomach muscles and speeds up digestion. It also relieves stomach inflammation that causes common stomach aches.
Those with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) may find comfort in mint tea, as it increases stomach bile to ease digestion. But, if you have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), though, you’ll want to avoid drinking mint tea. Menthol will relax your esophagus muscles, which may make your symptoms worse.
2. Lessens Cold and Flu Symptoms
Not only is a cup of hot tea the perfect remedy to a sore throat, but also the menthol in mint tea helps soothe that persistent cough. And, the steam from mint tea can open sinuses because of menthol’s ability to open airways.
Mint tea also contains important nutrients such as vitamin B and potassium to help fight off sickness. The antioxidants in mint tea help white blood cells move faster, thus allowing for more rapid recovery.
3. Improves Breath Freshness
It’s no secret that mint can improve breath freshness: breath mints, toothpastes, and mouthwashes all use peppermint to help improve your breath. The antibacterial properties in mint kill the germs in your mouth to improve your breath.
4. Gives Boost of Energy
While there aren’t studies specifically on the effects of peppermint tea, peppermint has been shown to improve energy levels and fatigue in young adults.
Studies on aromatherapy using peppermint oil have shown decreases in daytime sleepiness, as well.
5. Eases Menstrual Cramps
Peppermint is a muscle relaxant which may soothe menstrual cramps for those with painful periods. While the effects of peppermint tea aren’t known yet, peppermint compounds themselves are useful in treating cramps and pains.
6. Improves Concentration
One study has found that peppermint increases awareness and memory functions. The menthol in peppermint stimulates the hippocampus, which allows for increased concentration and mental awareness.
7. Fights Bacterial Infections
Peppermint oil has been shown to kill bacteria such as E. Coli and Salmonella. It’s also shown that peppermint reduces bacteria buildup in the mouth.
While there isn’t conclusive evidence on the effectiveness of peppermint tea, the oils in peppermint can still help fight against bacteria.
8. Prevents Nausea
Mint tea has antispasmodic properties that can help prevent vomiting. How? The mint compounds help soothe stomach muscles, which may be beneficial for those with motion sickness.
In fact, it’s recommended to drink a cup of mint tea before boarding a plane, boat, or car to assist in motion sickness.
9. Keeps Skin and Hair Healthy
Peppermint can help get rid of dandruff and scalp itchiness by washing hair with peppermint tea. Peppermint can also help redness and acne because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
There are so many ways to enjoy mint tea — and have it work for you in other ways, too! For fast-acting relief to a sore throat, we recommend adding lemon or honey. And, be sure to check out Mint Mahal, a blend that features organic peppermint and the perfect balance of orthodox and CTC black tea.
