Peppermint tea benefits are known the world over, as it is one of the most widely used herbal teas available. Peppermint has a strong sweet flavor and is a powerful healing plant. The dried leaves of the peppermint plant are used to make a tea which is refreshing and can be drunk either hot or cold. Originating from the Mediterranean region, peppermint is now cultivated all over the world. The tea can be made from dried or fresh peppermint leaves, and for an organic peppermint tea it is very easy to grow the herb in your own garden.
The health benefits of peppermint tea include:
1) Treating digestive discomfort, including indigestion, heartburn and irritable bowel syndrome. Some restaurants will hand out mints after your meal, as it can aid digestion. Taking peppermint can improve bile production, which helps to break down fats in the system.
2) Soothing the feeling of nausea and controlling the urge to vomit.
3) The herb can help to prevent a build up of gas in the digestive tract.
4) Peppermint tea benefits include its mild antiseptic and antibacterial action, which can help sufferers of bad breath, making it an excellent ingredient in toothpastes and mouthwashes.
5) It is thought to be beneficial for helping to break down gallstones, but this should only be attempted under a doctor’s supervision, as it depends on the type of stone.
6) The tea can be a useful remedy when suffering from a cold or cough, as it has mild expectorant properties and can encourage the body to expel mucus from the respiratory system.
7) One of the main benefits of peppermint tea is to strengthen the immune system. It has good amounts of nutrients, which can help the body to fight off illness and infection.
8) The tea is thought to be a useful remedy for stress thanks to its refreshing aroma. It can help to relieve headaches and aid with restful sleep which are both symptoms of stress.
9) The tea is also beneficial if suffering from travel or motion sickness due to its calming effect on the stomach.
Care should be taken when purchasing peppermint tea, as some brands are actually a blend of peppermint and ordinary tea rather than just peppermint. When used alone, it is a caffeine-free drink, but when blended with other teas it may contain caffeine, which can aggravate symptoms such as headaches. Organic peppermint tea is a good option if you want to ensure that the herb is pure and not tainted with any chemicals.
Peppermint tea is one of the safest herbal drinks, but there are a few side effects to be aware of when using it. If the herb is combined with other herbs and teas, it may interact with them to aggravate some symptoms. Pregnant women should consult their doctor before drinking peppermint tea as it may cause the muscles of the uterus to relax too much. Excessive amounts of the tea can cause diarrhea and heart palpitations. Those with acid reflux problems should avoid the herb.