Mind, Body, Mint: Surprising Spearmint Tea Health Benefits
Most people know the cool and refreshing flavor of fresh spearmint. Fresh spearmint leaves are popularly used as a flavor for all kinds of breath-freshing products, such as chewing gum, mouthwash, toothpaste, and, of course, herbal tea.
Spearmint tea has a refreshing aroma and delightful taste, similar to chewing gum and mouthwash. But do you know of the many health benefits associated with drinking spearmint tea?
The spearmint plant is long recognized for its remarkable therapeutic properties, from aiding digestive upsets to potentially alleviating menstrual cramps and reducing blood pressure. This article takes a cool look at the rich history, taste, and all the health benefits you can get from your inviting cup of spearmint tea.
The History of Spearmint Tea
Spearmint hails from the mint family of plants and is scientifically known as Mentha spicata. This plant has roots dating back to ancient civilizations. The Greeks and Romans valued Mentha spicata for its medicinal properties. They used it to treat various ailments, from indigestion to respiratory issues, and even to help lower blood sugar. Cultivation of the mentha spicata plant spread throughout Europe and, like most other teas, eventually found its way to the Americas.
Tea lovers have been enjoying spearmint tea for almost as long as black and green tea, and it's even easier to prepare. This refreshing beverage is simply made by covering the leaves of the spearmint plant with hot water and leaving it to steep for a few minutes.
Like other teas, the health benefits of spearmint tea are many and varied. Traditional medicine systems, including Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), incorporated this minty herb to heal digestion, relieve stress, lower blood sugar, and improve human health.
What Does Spearmint Tea Taste Like?
Spearmint and peppermint tea come from the mint family, but each one offers a distinct flavor profile and are quite different from other herbal teas. When you consume spearmint tea, you'll immediately notice its refreshing coolness, followed closely by its subtle sweetness. The earthy undertones give this tea a multi-layered flavor profile. The aroma of this mint tea is a fresh and invigorating blast that wakes the senses with each sip.
When you brew a cup of spearmint tea, expect a light greenish-yellow infusion that is both soothing and revitalizing. The mild flavor of this herbal tea makes it a popular choice for those seeking a gentle and pleasant herbal beverage you can enjoy day and night.
Health Benefits of Spearmint Tea
In the search for better health, we tend to explore various traditional and complementary treatments in tandem. Whether you're using spearmint extract, spearmint oil, or spearmint tea, it is always best to talk to your healthcare provider about including it in your diet in case there are any potential risks to your health.
Let's explore some of the wonderful health benefits of spearmint tea.
A Great Way To Treat Digestive Issues
One of spearmint tea's most well-known health benefits is its ability to promote better digestion and alleviate symptoms of an upset stomach. The natural antioxidant compounds found in this healthy drink, such as menthol and rosmarinic acid, possess carminative properties. These unique properties can help soothe digestive tract discomfort, reduce bloating, reduce acid reflux, relax the stomach muscles, and relieve nausea and gas.
Spearmint tea can also help alleviate symptoms of gastrointestinal reflux disease (GERD) by calming the stomach and reducing acid reflux. Its anti-inflammatory effects may also help reduce irritation of the esophagus, providing additional relief from GERD discomfort.
Furthermore, spearmint tea can stimulate bile flow, promoting better digestion of fats and aiding in the breakdown of food. Enjoyed either as a hot tea or cold brew, spearmint tea serves as a gentle yet effective natural remedy that helps relieve symptoms of digestive ailments, promoting overall digestive wellness and comfort.
Aids Hormone Imbalances of Women
Spearmint tea has gained some notable attention for its potential to help balance hormones, particularly female hormones. Studies suggest that spearmint tea may have anti-androgenic effects, meaning it could reduce the levels of male hormones like testosterone. This unique property makes it a potential remedy for conditions influenced by hormonal imbalances, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Relief From Symptoms of Menstruation and Period Cramps
For centuries, spearmint tea has been used as a natural remedy for menstrual discomfort and period cramps. The antispasmodic properties of spearmint extract and spearmint tea may help relax the uterus muscles, reduce abdominal pain and the intensity of menstrual cramps, and relieve associated symptoms such as bloating and mood swings.
May Help With Lower Blood Sugar
One of the most wonderful potential health benefits of spearmint tea is how it can help with blood sugar problems. Some research suggests that compounds found in spearmint extract may improve insulin sensitivity and help regulate glucose metabolism, which may help reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Lowering blood sugar can also help improve moods, create fewer cravings, and promote better-looking skin.
Assists in Lowering Blood Pressure
Spearmint tea is a promising natural remedy for lowering high blood pressure. Rich in antioxidants, particularly rosmarinic acid, it aids in reducing blood vessel contractions, which can lead to reduced blood pressure.
Spearmint tea may help decrease the resistance that the heart encounters in pumping blood throughout the body by dilating blood vessels. Consequently, this tasty tea may lower both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
Moreover, spearmint tea's natural diuretic properties contribute to flushing excess sodium and water from the body, further assisting in blood pressure regulation. Spearmint tea may be a simple yet effective ally for managing hypertension and promoting cardiovascular health.
Improves Working Memory
Spearmint tea has cognitive-enhancing properties that may benefit adults' working memory, focus, and concentration. Preliminary studies suggest that certain compounds in spearmint may have neuroprotective effects, helping to preserve cognitive function and potentially reducing the risk of age-associated memory impairment and cognitive decline.
Reduces Swelling and Inflammation in Your Body
The anti-inflammatory properties of spearmint tea can help reduce swelling and inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation has officially been linked to various health issues, including heart disease, arthritis pain, and autoimmune disorders.
Consuming spearmint tea or applying spearmint essential oil to the affected area regularly may help mitigate inflammation and promote overall wellness. A recent pain relief study of participants with knee pain and arthritis found less pain and stiffness from consuming two cups of spearmint tea per day over four months.
A Great Way To Combat Infections
Like other essential oils, Spearmint essential oil possesses remarkable antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, making it a valuable natural remedy for various health and hygiene applications. Rich in compounds like carvone and limonene, spearmint oil and its counterpart peppermint oil exhibit potent antibacterial effects against several harmful bacteria, including strains such as Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus.
Studies have shown that spearmint oil can inhibit the growth of fungi like Candida albicans, making it helpful in combating fungal infections. Furthermore, the refreshing aroma of the essential oil in personal care items and household cleaning products effectively eliminates germs while leaving behind a pleasant scent.
In summary, spearmint oil stands strong as a natural powerhouse in the fight against microbial threats, offering both therapeutic and practical benefits.
Reduces Bad Breath and Improves Oral Health
There is a reason why so many brands of chewing gum and breath fresheners use the power of peppermint or spearmint as their primary flavor. Of all the herbal teas, spearmint tea contains natural compounds, particularly menthol, that have antibacterial properties.
This means it can help freshen your breath and improve oral health. Additionally, spearmint tea stimulates saliva production, which helps wash away food particles and bacteria, thus reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Helps to Reduce Stress and Anxiety and Improve Sleep
Spearmint tea possesses calming properties that can help promote relaxation and reduce stress and anxiety. Even the slightest whiff of spearmint tea's soothing aroma and flavor can relax the mind and body, promoting a sense of calmness and tranquility.
Who doesn't like a good night's sleep? Consuming spearmint in supplement form or as a warm cup of tea before bedtime may also help improve sleep quality and duration.
Mint Tea May Increase Your Fertility and Help with PCOS
Thinking about starting a family? Research suggests that spearmint tea may have beneficial effects on fertility, particularly in women with conditions like PCOS. By lowering levels of androgens, spearmint tea may help regulate menstrual cycles and improve ovulatory function, increasing the chances of conception.
Are There Any Side Effects or Potential Risks of Spearmint Extract and Spearmint Tea?
While one or two cups of spearmint tea daily is generally considered safe for many, too much spearmint tea may lead to a few side effects. Some individuals may experience allergic reactions or digestive issues.
Additionally, spearmint tea may interact with certain medications or exacerbate existing health conditions. It is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating spearmint tea into your routine, especially if you have any underlying medical concerns.
Tips for Serving and Drinking Spearmint Tea
Spearmint tea is not only a delightful and refreshing tea, but it also offers several health benefits. We recommend using fresh or dried leaves over tea packaged in tea bag form because most of the nutrients and flavor from a tea bag are weaker due to the over-processing of the leaves.
With your tea hot water and tea leaves ready, follow these tips for brewing and serving your inviting and therapeutic cup of tea:
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Choose Quality Spearmint Leaves: When preparing spearmint tea, always choose fresh or high-quality dried leaves. Nothing compares to the intensity of the flavor and aroma of tea made with loose-leaf tea leaves. Fresh leaves will be potent, and dried leaves will be fragrant.
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Proper Water Temperature: Heat water to the appropriate temperature before pouring it over the leaves. We like to use a temperature of around 200°F (93°C) for optimal brewing. Like any other tea, avoid boiling water, as it can scald the delicate leaves and leave you with a bitter brew.
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Steeping Time: Allow the leaves to steep in hot water for 5-10 minutes to get the most flavor and health benefits. Steeping time can vary. It depends on your personal preference and desired strength. Longer steeping times tend to yield a stronger, more robust flavor.
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Strain Before Serving: After steeping, strain the tea to remove any sediment or debris from the leaves. This ensures you'll enjoy a smooth and enjoyable drinking experience, free from unwanted particles in your cup. A fine mesh strainer or tea infuser like these will do the job perfectly.
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Sweeten to Taste: While spearmint tea is naturally refreshing and sweet, you may choose to sweeten it slightly with honey, agave syrup, or another natural sweetener. Add your sweeteners gradually, tasting as you go. You want to achieve the desired sweetness level without overpowering your brew's unique minty flavor.
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Enjoy Hot or Chilled: Fancy a minty iced tea or a soothing warm brew? You can enjoy spearmint tea, either hot or chilled. It's up to your preference - and the weather! To serve it hot, pour the freshly brewed tea into a cup or mug and savor its warmth and aroma. Allow the brew to cool before pouring it over ice for a refreshing iced tea. Garnish the cold brew with a sprig of fresh mint, and enjoy.
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Experiment with Variations: Because mint is a reasonably versatile flavor, you can get creative with your spearmint tea concoctions by experimenting with different flavor combinations. Add a couple of slices of fresh lime or lemon for a citrusy twist or a few fresh berries for a hint of sweetness. Mint also pairs well with other herbs like lavender or chamomile for a unique and aromatic blend.
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Store Properly: To preserve the freshness and flavor of spearmint tea, store it in an airtight container away from direct sunlight and moisture. The dried leaves of the spearmint plant should be kept in a cool, dark place, while you can refrigerate fresh leaves to extend their freshness.
By following these tips, you can have a great cup of spearmint tea every single time. So brew yourself a soothing pot of spearmint tea, invite some family or friends over, and enjoy its invigorating flavor and health-boosting benefits.
In Summary: Spearmint Tea and Your Health
Spearmint tea offers a refreshing and flavorful way to support overall health and well-being. From aiding digestion to potentially balancing hormones and reducing inflammation, the health benefits of spearmint tea are numerous and diverse.
Mint isn't just a candy cane flavor! Incorporating this aromatic herbal beverage into your daily routine not only tantalizes your taste buds but also provides a natural boost to your mind and body. Embrace the power of spearmint tea as a refreshing addition to your wellness journey. For a delicious spearmint tea blend, try these delightful and refreshing teas!