Peppermint Tea Health Benefits

Peppermint is a medicinal herb, that is mostly known for its soothing properties. Although, this plant is indigenous to Europe and Asia, it is now cultivated across the world. Peppermint is believed to be a hybrid of water mint and spearmint.

The active ingredient in peppermint is menthol, which is mostly responsible for its refreshing and cooling effect. Peppermint is consumed in the form of peppermint tea or tisane.

Peppermint tea is prepared from dried peppermint leaves. If you have peppermint in your garden then pluck some peppermint leaves and dry them in sun for a few days. When the leaves become absolutely crispy, crush them to make powder.

Take 2 tbsp of this powder in a pot and pour boiling water in it. Let the infusion stand for about 15 minutes, so as to get the best aroma. Drink this concoction hot or chilled, with chopped fresh peppermint leaves.

Peppermint is said to cure a plethora of health problems. Health benefits of peppermint tea are mainly due to its relaxing effect on the body.

Peppermint is an effective remedy for digestive problems such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), gallstones, constipation etc. It is also used to cure stomach cramps, due to its muscle relaxing properties. Moreover, it also soothes the inflammation of the digestive tract and helps reduce flatulence.

Peppermint tea acts as an immune system booster, thus keeps diseases and infections at bay. It is rich in some vitamins like vitamin B, as well as minerals like calcium and phosphorous, which strengthen the immune system. It also relieves the symptoms of common cold and flu and prevents you from getting infected again.

Peppermint tea is a good stress reliever, as it has a soothing and calming effect on the body. Many people who regularly drink this tea, report reduced symptoms of anxiety and stress. Also, drinking this tea at night helps you to sleep better. The stress relief, that is reported after drinking this tea, may be linked to its immune boosting properties.

Peppermint is an essential ingredient in toothpastes and mouthwashes. The active menthol in peppermint supposedly cures gum diseases responsible for bad breath. Regular consumption of peppermint tea relieves you of bad breath, permanently. Chewing a couple of peppermint leaves can give you a quick but temporary relief from bad breath.

Apart from the mentioned ailments, peppermint is also effective against the following health concerns.

• Peppermint tea cures migraine, nausea and vomiting.
• It helps reduce weight by suppressing the appetite.
• It also reduces the occurrence of herpes.

• It controls muscle fatigue and reduces chronic muscle pain.
• Peppermint tea is effective in fighting against mild asthma.
• It relieves chest congestion and is effective against cough.
• It instantly relieves baby colic.
• It helps in weight loss.

Along with the several health benefits of peppermint tea, there are a few side effects which should be taken into account, if you are planning to drink it regularly. It is not recommended for people having acid reflux disease. Also, it is not beneficial for pregnant women since it may bring about uterine relaxations at wrong time.

Apart from this, there are no other side effects of drinking peppermint tea. Hence, if you are planning to live a healthy lifestyle, you may start your day with peppermint tea, to avail the numerous health benefits.

Disclaimer: The information presented here is for educational purpose only and not for self-diagnosis/ treatment. We do not encourage its usage as an alternative for medical practitioner's advice.