10 Proven Benefits of Peppermint Tea

The benefits of peppermint tea are well-known around the world and are a plus to the sweet flavor of this traditional drink.

The truth is Peppermint tea is a great option for those looking for a caffeine-free tea with a few potential health benefits. 

This aromatic herbal tea is actually derived from the hybrid plant Peppermint (Mentha × piperita), a cross between watermint and spearmint, and it has been used throughout time for different purposes.

The delightful minty flavor and potential benefits of peppermint tea make it a very interesting option for those looking for alternative and natural ways to improve their health. It originated in Europe and Asia and it is now popular across the world.

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The leaves of peppermint are rich in essential oils, including menthol, menthone, and limonene, with menthol being responsible for the cooling sensation and characteristic minty scent.

Although further research needs to be performed to truly understand the potential benefits of peppermint tea, some studies claim this refreshing beverage can enhance digestion, boost focus, and even alleviate migraines. 

Here are 10 potential benefits of peppermint tea and extracts.

Top 10 benefits of peppermint tea

1. Might help with digestive issues

Peppermint tea boasts a multitude of potential benefits, and one prominent area is its positive impact on digestive health. This aromatic herbal infusion has been associated with the alleviation of various digestive symptoms, including gas, bloating, and indigestion. Studies on peppermint, particularly its oil form, reveal promising findings.

An analysis from 2014, encompassing nine studies and involving 726 individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) treated with peppermint oil for a minimum of 2 weeks, concluded that peppermint consistently outperformed a placebo in delivering relief from IBS symptoms.

In a specific study involving 72 individuals with IBS, peppermint oil capsules demonstrated a remarkable 40% reduction in IBS symptoms after 4 weeks, a noteworthy improvement compared to the 24.3% seen with a placebo.

While scientific exploration into the benefits of peppermint tea on digestion is currently limited, the shared active components suggest that the tea may potentially offer some advantages. 

The diverse array of findings underscores the myriad benefits of peppermint tea, making it a compelling choice for those seeking natural remedies for digestive discomfort.

2. Might relieve headaches

We have already established there are several potential benefits of peppermint tea treasured throughout time, right?

Well, this beverage holds promise in potentially alleviating tension headaches and migraines. The muscle relaxant and pain-relieving properties inherent in peppermint make it a notable candidate for addressing certain types of headaches. 

The presence of menthol in peppermint oil enhances blood flow and delivers a cooling sensation, contributing to the potential relief of pain.

In a randomized clinical study conducted in 2010, involving 35 individuals with migraines, the application of peppermint oil to the forehead and temples yielded significant pain reduction after 2 hours, showcasing its effectiveness compared to a placebo. 

Of course this, and other benefits of peppermint tea, still needs to be studied.

3. It refreshes your breath

Peppermint, widely utilized in toothpaste, mouthwash, and chewing gum, possesses not only a delightful aroma but also antibacterial properties that combat the germs responsible for dental plaque, potentially enhancing breath. 

Studies indicate that a rinse containing peppermint, tea tree, and lemon oils contributed to improved breath symptoms in individuals who had undergone spine surgery. 

Another study involving female students revealed a noticeable improvement in breath after using a peppermint mouth rinse for just one week. 

While scientific evidence regarding the breath-freshening effect of drinking peppermint tea is limited, the presence of peppermint oil in the tea suggests potential benefits for breath enhancement.

4. Sinus relief

Peppermint’s antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties make peppermint tea a potential ally in alleviating clogged sinuses linked to infections, the common cold, and allergies. 

Menthol, a key compound in peppermint, may enhance the perception of airflow in the nasal cavity, potentially providing relief from congestion. 

Although peppermint tea itself hasn’t been extensively studied for its effects on nasal congestion, the evidence suggests that the warmth and menthol content of the tea may offer some relief, aligning with findings on warm beverages improving symptoms of sinus congestion.

5. Might boost your energy

While there are no specific studies on peppermint tea, research on natural compounds in peppermint suggests potential benefits for energy levels. In a study, young individuals experienced reduced mental fatigue during a cognitive test when given peppermint oil capsules. 

Peppermint oil aromatherapy demonstrated effectiveness in reducing fatigue compared to a placebo in individuals admitted to a cardiology center. 

Although the direct effects of peppermint tea on energy haven’t been investigated, the shared compounds hint at the possibility of a natural energy boost.

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6. Might ease your menstrual cramps

Peppermint, known for its muscle relaxant properties, may offer relief from menstrual cramps. 

While the direct impact of peppermint tea on menstrual cramps hasn’t been studied, the compounds within peppermint have shown potential benefits. 

In a study involving 127 females with painful periods, peppermint extract capsules demonstrated effectiveness comparable to a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug in reducing pain intensity and duration. 

Although further research is warranted, it is plausible that peppermint tea could yield similar effects.

7. It has antibacterial potential

While scientific exploration into the antibacterial effects of peppermint tea is limited, peppermint oil has displayed significant antibacterial properties. 

Studies indicate that peppermint oil effectively eliminates and prevents the growth of common food-borne bacteria, including E. coli, Listeria, and Salmonella. 

Additionally, peppermint oil has demonstrated effectiveness against bacteria causing human illnesses such as Staphylococcus and pneumonia-linked bacteria. 

Furthermore, menthol, a component of peppermint, has exhibited antibacterial activity in older test-tube studies. 

This, as well as other potential benefits of peppermint tea, still need further investigation.

8. Might improve your sleep

Peppermint tea, being naturally caffeine-free, emerges as an ideal pre-bedtime choice. Its muscle relaxant properties may contribute to relaxation before sleep.

Although limited scientific evidence exists on the direct impact of peppermint tea on sleep, a study found that inhaling peppermint oil improved sleep quality in individuals with cancer. 

More high-quality studies are needed to comprehensively understand the effects of peppermint on sleep. In summary, while evidence is limited, peppermint tea, as a caffeine-free option, may aid relaxation before bedtime.

9. Might become an ally for weight loss

Peppermint tea, with its calorie-free nature and pleasant sweetness, presents itself as a sensible option for those aiming for weight loss. However, research on the direct effects of peppermint tea on weight is scarce. 

A study involving 13 healthy individuals revealed that taking a peppermint oil capsule led to reduced appetite compared to not taking peppermint. 

On the contrary, an animal study suggested that mice given peppermint extracts gained more weight than the control group. Further studies are required to delve into the relationship between peppermint and weight loss.

10. Might be helpful against allergies

Peppermint contains rosmarinic acid, a plant compound associated with decreased allergic reaction symptoms, including runny nose, itchy eyes, and asthma. 

In a study involving 29 people with seasonal allergies, those given an oral supplement containing rosmarinic acid experienced fewer symptoms after 21 days compared to those given a placebo. 

While it remains uncertain whether the rosmarinic acid content in peppermint is sufficient to impact allergy symptoms, there is some evidence suggesting that peppermint may provide relief from allergies. An older study in rats demonstrated that peppermint extract reduced allergic symptoms like sneezing and itchy nose.

These are some of the potential benefits of peppermint tea, however, since further research still needs to be carried out, you should keep in mind that as of now we can only talk about the potential of the herb.

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