Peppermint tea is a drink that is either a mixture of tea and peppermint (Mentha piperita) or an infusion of peppermint alone. This drink is said to have health benefits. It is sometimes called mint tea, although there are other kinds of mint that could be used in that case.

Acquisition and preparation

---

One can grow peppermint or buy the leaves in markets. Peppermint tea (or herbal infusion) bags can be purchased in health food shops or from most supermarkets.

To prepare an infusion of straight peppermint, pour very hot (but not boiling) water over one or two teaspoons of dried peppermint leaves in a cup. The cup should be covered for about 10 minutes, and then the leaves should be strained out.

One can also use commercially prepared tea bags that contain either a mixture of tea and peppermint or peppermint alone. To prepare peppermint tea in this manner, simply place a peppermint tea bag into a cup and pour boiling hot water over it. Usually allow 2–3 minutes for the full flavour to come out. It is not recommended that you add milk, even though with other teas, this is common.

Health benefits and concerns

---

Some believe peppermint tea has healing effects, as a result of the menthol that it contains. It may ease such problems as irritable bowel syndrome, nausea and vomiting. It can also take the edge off bad breath, due to its minty flavour, control mild asthma, and even help to manage stress.

However, peppermint tea has muscle relaxant properties and therefore may relax the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing the contents of the stomach to move upwards into the esophagus. For this reason, patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are advised to avoid peppermint.

External links

---

• Whole Health MD website outlining the health benefits

Herbal tea