Peppermint or Mentha piperita is a perennial herb that belongs to the family Lamiaceae. It grows between 12-24 inches high and has dark green leaves. The leaves are covered with hair and give out a strong peppermint aroma when crushed. This herb is native to Europe but nowadays, it is cultivated in most of the temperate regions around the globe.
Peppermint tea is made from the peppermint leaves and it has been used for many years to treat various disorders of the body and mind. It relieves many ailments including indigestion, diarrhea, stomach ulcers, migraine, etc. It also helps in lowering blood pressure, relieves headaches caused by too much caffeine intake and helps in curing sleep disorders.
Peppermint tea is a refreshing beverage that helps in relaxing the body and mind. It is also a good source of Vitamin A and C. Regular consumption of peppermint tea can improve digestion, reduce nausea and vomiting, cure diarrhea and constipation, relieve gas, etc. In this article, we will discuss some of the wonderful health benefits of peppermint tea.
Let’s take a look at its health benefits.
Helps in Reducing Nausea
Peppermint tea is very effective in treating nausea. It stimulates the stomach lining and helps in relieving nausea. The menthol present in peppermint tea is very effective in curing nausea. In a study conducted on 30 pregnant women, it was found that drinking peppermint tea helped in reducing the feeling of nausea by 60%.
Treats Stomach Ulcers and Acid Reflux
Peppermint tea has antispasmodic properties that can relieve muscle cramps caused by irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It also has an anti-inflammatory effect that helps in treating heartburn or acid reflux. Mint tea also inhibits the release of gastric juices and increases the production of bile. This leads to the formation of a protective layer on the stomach lining. This layer protects the stomach from damage caused by acid reflux.
Reduces Diarrhea
Peppermint tea is very effective in reducing diarrhea. It contains menthol and menthone that can reduce the spasms of the intestinal muscles. This helps in reducing the frequency and severity of diarrhea. Peppermint tea also stimulates the movement of bowel movements and prevents constipation by increasing peristalsis (the wave-like muscular movements that push food from one end to another).
Cures Stomach Cramps
Peppermint tea is an effective remedy for stomach cramps. It helps in relaxing the muscles of the stomach and improves digestion. Peppermint tea also reduces flatulence (gas) and prevents bloating of the abdomen. This can be done by adding peppermint oil to your diet. You can add a few drops of peppermint oil to a glass of water or boil 4-6 peppermint leaves in a cup of water for 10 minutes and drink it while it is still warm.
Reduces Caffeine Intoxication
Peppermint tea has a soothing effect that provides relief from excessive caffeine intake. Caffeine is found in coffee, tea, cola, etc., which is a common cause of insomnia. Peppermint tea also prevents headaches, stress and exhaustion associated with excessive caffeine intake.
Relieves Symptoms of Asthma
Peppermint tea has been found to be effective in treating asthma and bronchitis. It can relieve cough, congestion, wheezing and breathing problems. Peppermint tea helps in relaxing the muscles lining the lungs and airways. This helps in relieving symptoms associated with asthma and bronchitis. It also has an anti-inflammatory effect which relieves pain associated with these conditions.
Soothes the Stomach After Eating Spicy Food
Peppermint tea is very helpful in soothing the stomach after eating spicy food. It contains menthol that has antispasmodic and analgesic properties. These properties help in relaxing the muscles of the stomach and relieving gas and bloating caused by spicy food.
You can drink peppermint tea by adding two teaspoons of dried peppermint leaves in a cup of water and let it steep for five minutes. Strain the peppermint tea and add a tablespoon of honey to it. Honey helps in soothing the stomach and facilitates digestion.
Helps in Curing Jaundice
Jaundice is a condition when the color of the skin and eyes turn yellow. It is a common condition, but if not treated on time, it can be fatal. So, it is very important to treat jaundice on time to save a person’s life.
Peppermint tea is very effective in curing jaundice. It contains menthol that has a cooling effect on the body. It helps in treating swelling of the liver and gallbladder by reducing inflammation. It also improves digestion, thus helping in curing jaundice.
Treats Headache, Fever and Sore Throat
Peppermint tea can help you get relief from headache, fever or sore throat caused by cold or flu. It is also very effective in treating inflammatory conditions of the brain. It helps in relieving pressure on the nerves and muscles of the head. Peppermint tea can also help in treating sinus infection that is caused by cold or flu.
The best time to drink peppermint tea is during the winter to treat flu and cold. You can also have it during the spring season to get relief from allergic reactions.
Peppermint tea can be taken with honey as well as lemon juice, but it is best to avoid having it with sugar. For children suffering from cold and flu, peppermint tea can be taken with honey to get relief from pain in the throat.
Helps in Treating Menstrual Cramps
Peppermint tea is very effective in treating menstrual cramps caused by dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation). It contains menthol and menthone that help in reducing cramps. Menthol can reduce the spasms of the muscles lining the uterus and the intestines. It also has antispasmodic action and is a mild anesthetic. Peppermint tea can be taken during menstruation to reduce pains and discomfort.
The best time to drink peppermint tea is at the onset of menstrual cramps, as this will provide immediate relief.
