How does peppermint tea affect digestion. What are the benefits of peppermint for stomach issues. Can peppermint extracts relieve IBS symptoms. Is peppermint effective for nausea and vomiting. How does peppermint impact headaches and migraines. Does peppermint improve breath and oral health. Can peppermint tea alleviate sinus congestion.

The Power of Peppermint: A Natural Remedy for Digestive Discomfort

Peppermint (Mentha × piperita) has been utilized for centuries as a natural remedy for various ailments, particularly digestive issues. This aromatic herb, a hybrid of watermint and spearmint, is renowned for its refreshing taste and potential health benefits. While peppermint tea is a popular beverage, much of the scientific research has focused on peppermint extracts and oils.

The active compounds in peppermint, including menthol, menthone, and limonene, contribute to its therapeutic properties. These essential oils give peppermint its characteristic cooling sensation and minty aroma. But beyond its pleasant flavor, peppermint may offer significant benefits for digestive health.

How does peppermint affect the digestive system?

Peppermint has been shown to have a relaxing effect on the digestive system. It may help alleviate common digestive symptoms such as:

• Gas
• Bloating
• Indigestion
• Abdominal pain

Animal studies suggest that peppermint can relax smooth muscles in the gastrointestinal tract, potentially easing pain and preventing muscle spasms. This relaxation effect may explain why peppermint is often recommended for digestive discomfort.

Can peppermint help with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?

Research indicates that peppermint oil may be particularly beneficial for individuals suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). A comprehensive review of nine studies involving 726 IBS patients found that peppermint oil provided significantly better symptom relief compared to a placebo when used for at least two weeks.

In one specific study of 72 IBS patients, peppermint oil capsules reduced symptoms by 40% after four weeks of use, while the placebo group only experienced a 24.3% reduction. These findings suggest that peppermint could be a valuable natural treatment option for IBS sufferers.

Is peppermint effective for children with abdominal pain?

Peppermint’s benefits extend to pediatric patients as well. A review of 14 clinical trials involving nearly 2,000 children revealed that peppermint reduced the frequency, duration, and severity of abdominal pain. This suggests that peppermint could be a safe and effective remedy for digestive discomfort in younger populations.

Peppermint’s Potential Role in Alleviating Nausea and Vomiting

Beyond general digestive discomfort, peppermint may also help combat nausea and vomiting. A study focused on chemotherapy patients found that the scent of peppermint oil drops reduced both the incidence and severity of nausea and vomiting. This suggests that peppermint’s aromatherapeutic properties could provide relief for individuals undergoing chemotherapy or experiencing nausea from other causes.

While these studies primarily focused on peppermint oil, it’s possible that peppermint tea could offer similar benefits. The soothing warmth of the tea, combined with peppermint’s natural compounds, may provide comfort to those experiencing digestive distress.

Peppermint as a Natural Headache and Migraine Reliever

Peppermint’s therapeutic potential extends beyond digestive health. Its muscle-relaxing and pain-relieving properties may make it an effective remedy for certain types of headaches, including tension headaches and migraines.

How does peppermint alleviate headache pain?

The menthol in peppermint oil has been shown to increase blood flow and provide a cooling sensation when applied topically. This combination of effects may help ease headache pain. A randomized clinical study involving 35 migraine sufferers found that applying peppermint oil to the forehead and temples significantly reduced pain after two hours compared to a placebo.

Another study explored the use of peppermint oil drops administered nasally. The results showed that this method reduced both the intensity and frequency of headaches, proving as effective as lidocaine, a common pain reliever.

While these studies focused on peppermint oil, the aroma of peppermint tea may provide similar muscle-relaxing benefits. However, it’s important to note that scientific evidence specifically supporting peppermint tea for headache relief is currently lacking.

Freshening Breath and Promoting Oral Health with Peppermint

The popularity of peppermint as a flavoring in oral care products is not just due to its pleasant taste. Peppermint possesses antibacterial properties that can help combat the germs responsible for dental plaque and bad breath.

Can peppermint improve breath?

Several studies have demonstrated peppermint’s effectiveness in improving breath freshness. In one study, patients who had undergone spine surgery experienced an improvement in bad breath symptoms after using a rinse made with peppermint, tea tree, and lemon oils.

Another study focused on female students found that using a peppermint mouth rinse led to improved breath after just one week of use compared to a control group. While these studies didn’t specifically examine peppermint tea, the presence of peppermint oil in the tea suggests it may offer similar breath-freshening benefits.

Peppermint’s Impact on Respiratory Health and Sinus Congestion

Peppermint’s therapeutic properties extend to respiratory health, potentially offering relief from sinus congestion and breathing difficulties.

How does peppermint affect sinus congestion?

The antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties of peppermint make it a potential remedy for clogged sinuses caused by infections, the common cold, or allergies. Additionally, research has shown that menthol, a key compound in peppermint, can improve the perception of airflow in the nasal cavity.

While this doesn’t necessarily increase actual airflow, the sensation of easier breathing can provide comfort to those experiencing congestion. The steam from peppermint tea may enhance this effect, potentially offering relief from sinus discomfort.

The Soothing Effects of Warm Peppermint Tea

Beyond the specific benefits of peppermint, the act of drinking warm liquids like peppermint tea can provide additional comfort. Research has shown that warm beverages can temporarily improve airflow and help loosen mucus in the respiratory tract.

This combination of peppermint’s natural properties and the soothing effects of a warm drink makes peppermint tea a potentially effective remedy for respiratory discomfort. While more research is needed to fully understand the extent of peppermint tea’s benefits, its long history of use and the existing scientific evidence suggest it could be a valuable addition to one’s health regimen.

Exploring Peppermint’s Potential for Enhancing Mental Focus and Alertness

While much of the research on peppermint has focused on its physical health benefits, there’s growing interest in its potential cognitive effects. The refreshing scent of peppermint has long been associated with increased alertness and mental clarity.

Can peppermint improve cognitive performance?

Some studies have suggested that peppermint may enhance cognitive function and improve mental performance. The aroma of peppermint has been linked to increased alertness, improved memory, and enhanced problem-solving skills in certain research settings.

A study published in the International Journal of Neuroscience found that the aroma of peppermint was associated with enhanced memory and increased alertness in participants. Another study showed that peppermint tea consumption was linked to improved long-term and working memory in healthy adults.

While more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind these effects, it’s possible that the stimulating scent of peppermint and its impact on increasing blood flow to the brain play a role in these cognitive benefits.

Is peppermint tea a good alternative to caffeinated beverages?

For those looking to reduce their caffeine intake while maintaining mental alertness, peppermint tea could be an excellent alternative. Unlike traditional teas or coffee, peppermint tea is naturally caffeine-free. This means it can be enjoyed at any time of day without the risk of interfering with sleep patterns or causing caffeine-related side effects.

The potential cognitive-enhancing effects of peppermint, combined with its refreshing taste and lack of caffeine, make it an attractive option for those seeking a natural way to boost focus and mental clarity.

Peppermint’s Role in Skincare and Topical Applications

Beyond its internal uses, peppermint has also gained attention for its potential benefits when applied topically. The cooling and soothing properties of menthol, the primary compound in peppermint, make it a popular ingredient in various skincare products and topical treatments.

How can peppermint benefit skin health?

Peppermint oil and extracts have been studied for their potential skin benefits, including:

• Soothing irritated skin
• Reducing inflammation
• Alleviating itching
• Providing a cooling sensation for sunburns or muscle aches

The antimicrobial properties of peppermint may also make it useful in treating certain skin conditions. Some studies have suggested that peppermint oil could be effective against certain types of fungi and bacteria that can cause skin infections.

Can peppermint help with muscle pain and tension?

The analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties of peppermint make it a popular ingredient in topical pain relief products. When applied to the skin, peppermint oil can create a cooling sensation that may help alleviate muscle pain and tension.

A study published in the Journal of International Sports Physical Therapy found that a menthol-based topical analgesic was effective in reducing exercise-induced muscle pain. While this study used a menthol-based product rather than pure peppermint oil, it suggests that the compounds found in peppermint could have pain-relieving properties when applied topically.

It’s important to note that peppermint oil is highly concentrated and should always be diluted before applying to the skin. Peppermint tea, while much milder, could potentially be used as a compress for sore muscles or skin irritations, although more research is needed to confirm its efficacy in this form.

The Potential of Peppermint in Weight Management and Metabolism

While peppermint is not typically thought of as a weight loss aid, some research suggests it may have properties that could support healthy weight management and metabolism.

Can peppermint influence appetite and food intake?

Some studies have indicated that the scent of peppermint may help reduce appetite and food cravings. A study published in the journal Appetite found that participants who inhaled peppermint oil every two hours reported lower hunger levels and consumed fewer calories compared to those who did not inhale the oil.

While this doesn’t necessarily mean that drinking peppermint tea will directly lead to weight loss, it suggests that incorporating peppermint into one’s routine could potentially support mindful eating habits.

Does peppermint affect metabolism?

There’s some preliminary evidence suggesting that peppermint may have a positive effect on metabolism. A study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition found that peppermint oil ingestion improved exercise performance and respiratory parameters in healthy young male students.

While more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between peppermint and metabolism, these initial findings are promising. Peppermint tea, being calorie-free and potentially metabolism-boosting, could be a beneficial addition to a healthy lifestyle focused on weight management.

It’s important to remember that while peppermint may offer these potential benefits, it should not be considered a magic solution for weight loss. A balanced diet and regular exercise remain the cornerstones of healthy weight management.

12 Science-Backed Benefits of Peppermint Tea and Extracts

Peppermint tea is naturally sweet and free of caffeine. It may be linked to health benefits, including improving digestion, boosting focus, and relieving migraine.

Peppermint (Mentha × piperita) is an aromatic herb in the mint family that is a cross between watermint and spearmint (1).

Native to Europe and Asia, it has been used for thousands of years for its pleasant, minty taste and health benefits.

Peppermint is used as a flavoring in breath mints, candies, and other foods. Additionally, many people consume peppermint as a refreshing, caffeine-free tea.

Peppermint leaves contain several essential oils including menthol, menthone, and limonene (2).

Menthol gives peppermint its cooling properties and recognizably minty scent.

While peppermint tea is often drunk for its flavor, it may also have several health benefits. The tea itself has rarely been studied scientifically, but peppermint extracts have.

Here are 12 science-backed benefits of peppermint tea and extracts.

Peppermint may relieve digestive symptoms, such as gas, bloating, and indigestion.

Animal studies indicate that peppermint relaxes your digestive system and may ease pain. It also prevents smooth muscles from contracting, which could relieve spasms in your gut (3).

A 2014 review of nine studies in 726 people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) treated with peppermint oil for at least 2 weeks concluded that peppermint provided significantly better symptom relief than a placebo (4).

In one study in 72 people with IBS, peppermint oil capsules reduced IBS symptoms by 40% after 4 weeks, compared to only 24.3% with a placebo (5).

Additionally, in a review of 14 clinical trials in nearly 2,000 children, peppermint reduced the frequency, length, and severity of abdominal pain (6).

Furthermore, another study showed that the scent of peppermint oil drops reduced the incidence of nausea and vomiting and decreased the severity of nausea in people undergoing chemotherapy (7).

While no studies have examined peppermint tea and digestion, it’s possible that the tea could have similar effects.

summary

Peppermint oil has been shown to relax muscles in your digestive system and improve various digestive symptoms. Therefore, peppermint tea may provide similar benefits.

2. May help relieve tension headaches and migraines

As peppermint acts as a muscle relaxant and pain reliever, it may diminish certain types of headaches (8).

The menthol in peppermint oil increases blood flow and provides a cooling sensation, possibly easing pain (9).

In one 2010 randomized clinical study in 35 people with migraines, peppermint oil applied to the forehead and temples significantly reduced pain after 2 hours, compared to a placebo (10).

Another study found that administering peppermint oil drops into the nose reduced the intensity and frequency of headaches and was as effective as lidocaine, a common pain reliever (11).

While the aroma of peppermint tea may help relax muscles and improve headache pain, there is no supporting scientific evidence to confirm this effect. However, applying peppermint oil to your temples may help.

summary

While no evidence exists that peppermint tea improves headache symptoms, research suggests that peppermint oil reduces tension headaches and migraines.

There’s a reason why peppermint is a common flavoring for toothpastes, mouthwashes, and chewing gums.

In addition to its pleasant smell, peppermint has antibacterial properties that help kill germs that cause dental plaque, which may improve your breath (12).

In one study, people who had undergone spine surgery and had received a rinse made with peppermint, tea tree, and lemon oils experienced improvement in bad breath symptoms compared to those who did not receive the oils (13).

In another 2013 study, female students given a peppermint mouth rinse experienced an improvement in breath after 1 week, compared to the control group (14).

While there is no evidence from scientific studies that drinking peppermint tea has the same effect, the compounds in peppermint have been shown to improve breath.

summary

Peppermint oil has been shown to kill germs that lead to bad breath. Peppermint tea, which contains peppermint oil, may help improve breath as well.

Peppermint has antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. Because of this, peppermint tea may alleviate clogged sinuses due to infections, the common cold, and allergies (15).

Additionally, some older research demonstrates that menthol — one of the active compounds in peppermint — improves the perception of airflow in your nasal cavity. Therefore, steam from peppermint tea may help you feel as though your breathing is easier (16).

Furthermore, warm liquids, such as chicken broth and tea, have been shown to temporarily improve symptoms of sinus congestion such as a runny nose, cough, and sore throat in some older studies (17).

Though peppermint tea has not been studied for its effects on nasal congestion, evidence suggests that it may be helpful.

summary

While there is limited evidence that drinking peppermint tea may help unclog your sinuses, a warm beverage containing menthol — such as peppermint tea — may help you breathe a little easier.

Peppermint tea may improve energy levels and reduce fatigue.

While there are no studies on peppermint tea specifically, research demonstrates that natural compounds in peppermint may have beneficial effects on energy.

In one study, 24 healthy young people experienced less mental fatigue during a cognitive test when given peppermint oil capsules (18).

In another study, peppermint oil aromatherapy was found to reduce the incidence of fatigue more effectively than a placebo in people admitted to a cardiology center (19).

summary

Peppermint oil has been shown to relieve mental and physical fatigue in some studies, but research specifically on peppermint tea is lacking.

Because peppermint acts as a muscle relaxant, it may relieve menstrual cramps (15).

While peppermint tea has not been studied to that effect, compounds in peppermint have been shown to improve symptoms.

In one study in 127 females with painful periods, peppermint extract capsules were found to be as effective as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug in reducing the intensity and duration of pain (20).

Though additional research is needed, it is possible that peppermint tea could have similar effects.

summary

Drinking peppermint tea may reduce the intensity and length of menstrual cramps since peppermint helps prevent muscle contractions. However, more research is needed.

While there are no studies on the antibacterial effects of peppermint tea, peppermint oil has been shown to effectively kill bacteria (21).

In one study, peppermint oil was found to kill and prevent the growth of common food-borne bacteria including E. coli, Listeria, and Salmonella in pineapple and mango juices (22).

Peppermint oil also kills several types of bacteria that lead to illnesses in humans, including Staphylococcus and pneumonia-linked bacteria (23).

Additionally, studies indicate that peppermint reduces several types of bacteria commonly found in your mouth (12).

Furthermore, menthol has also demonstrated antibacterial activity in some older test-tube studies (24).

summary

Studies confirm that peppermint effectively inhibits several types of bacteria, including those that cause food-borne illnesses and contagious illnesses

Peppermint tea is an ideal choice before bed, as it’s naturally caffeine-free.

What’s more, peppermint’s capacity as a muscle relaxant may help you relax before bedtime (15).

That said, there is not much scientific evidence that peppermint enhances sleep.

However, one study found that inhaling three drops of peppermint oil per day over a 7-day period improved sleep quality in people with cancer (25).

Still, more high quality studies on the effects of peppermint on sleep are needed.

summary

Little scientific evidence suggests that peppermint tea is beneficial for sleep. However, it’s a caffeine-free beverage that may help you relax before bedtime.

Peppermint tea is naturally calorie-free and has a pleasantly sweet flavor, which makes it a smart choice when you’re trying to lose weight.

However, there is not much research on the effects of peppermint tea on weight.

In a 2013 study in 13 healthy people, taking a peppermint oil capsule resulted in reduced appetite compared to not taking peppermint (26).

On the other hand, an animal study showed that mice given peppermint extracts gained more weight than the control group (27).

Therefore, more research is needed on peppermint and weight loss.

summary

Peppermint tea is a calorie-free beverage that may help satisfy your sweet tooth and reduce your appetite. However, more studies on peppermint and weight loss are needed.

10. May improve seasonal allergies

Peppermint contains rosmarinic acid, a plant compound found in rosemary and plants in the mint family (28).

Rosmarinic acid is linked to reduced symptoms of allergic reactions, such as runny nose, itchy eyes, and asthma (29).

In one 2004 study in 29 people with seasonal allergies, those given an oral supplement containing rosmarinic acid for 21 days had fewer symptoms of itchy nose, itchy eyes, and other symptoms than those given a placebo (30).

While it’s unknown whether the amount of rosmarinic acid found in peppermint is enough to affect allergy symptoms, there is some evidence that peppermint may relieve allergies.

In fact, in one older study in rats, peppermint extract reduced allergic symptoms, such as sneezing and itchy nose (31).

summary

Peppermint contains rosmarinic acid, which has been shown to reduce allergy symptoms, such as sneezing and runny nose. However, evidence on the efficacy of peppermint tea against allergy symptoms is limited.

Drinking peppermint tea may help improve your ability to concentrate and focus.

While studies on the effects of peppermint tea on concentration are unavailable, two small studies have researched this beneficial effect of peppermint oil, taken by ingestion or inhalation.

In one study, 24 young adults performed significantly better on cognitive tests when they were given peppermint oil capsules (18).

In another older study, smelling peppermint oil was found to improve memory and alertness compared to ylang-ylang, another popular essential oil (32).

summary

Peppermint oil, found in peppermint tea, may help increase alertness and memory, which may
improve concentration.

Peppermint tea is delicious and easy to add to your diet.

You can buy it in tea bags, as loose-leaf tea, or simply grow your own peppermint.

To make your own peppermint tea:

• Bring 2 cups (473 milliliters) of water to a boil.
• Turn off the heat and add a handful of torn peppermint leaves to the water.
• Cover and steep for 5 minutes.
• Strain the tea and drink.

Because peppermint tea is naturally free of caffeine, you can drink it at any time of day.

Enjoy it as a post-meal treat to aid digestion, in the afternoon to boost your energy levels, or before bed to help you relax.

summary

Peppermint tea is a tasty, calorie- and caffeine-free tea that can be enjoyed at any time of day.

Peppermint tea and the natural compounds found in peppermint leaves may benefit your health in several ways.

While research on peppermint tea is limited, several studies outline the benefits of peppermint oil and peppermint extracts.

Peppermint may help improve digestion, freshen your breath, and improve concentration.

Additionally, this mint has antibacterial properties and may improve allergy symptoms, headaches, and clogged airways.

Peppermint tea is a delicious, naturally sweet, caffeine-free beverage that can safely be consumed at any time of day.

Review article: The physiologic effects and safety of Peppermint Oil and its efficacy in irritable bowel syndrome and other functional disorders

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Useful properties and contraindications of mint tea

Stress, depression, hyperactivity, neurosis… Modern man is faced with a lot of psychological and emotional problems. Peppermint tea is a natural sedative that has been known since ancient times.

Many people know the smell and taste of mint tea from childhood. Our grandmothers often used this drink to calm and normalize sleep. But if in former times the properties of plants were discovered empirically, today science knows exactly what beneficial substances are contained in medicinal herbs.

Benefits of mint

The unique aroma of mint leaves is given by the menthol contained in them. It is he who provides the mint drink with a refreshing taste. Essential oils of menthol facilitate breathing and relieve nasal congestion in case of colds. The high content of vitamin C in mint helps to strengthen the immune system and cope with the disease.

Mint leaves have a vasodilating effect, therefore they are indicated for hypertension, chronic headaches. Peppermint tea also cleanses blood vessels, activates the brain. Mint-based drinks have a beneficial effect on the functioning of the heart, improve blood circulation.

Infusion of mint leaves is effective for nervousness, increased anxiety, helps with sleep disorders, insomnia.

Mint will help those who want to lose weight. It suppresses appetite, improves the functioning of the digestive system, and helps to eliminate toxins from the body. The use of mint tea is recommended for those who get motion sickness on the road. Mint relieves nausea, dizziness.

Contraindications to the use of mint are hypotension (low blood pressure), children under 3 years of age, pregnancy, and individual intolerance. People with high stomach acidity should drink mint drinks with caution.

Invigorating or soothing?

Among the properties of mint, two completely opposite ones are always called: soothing (sedative) and invigorating. How is this possible? The fact is that the effect that mint has on the body directly depends on:

• Drink strength,
• Amounts of drink consumed,
• Other components that make up mint tea.

So, in combination with green or black tea in the morning, mint will fill you with vigor and give strength. And if you brew a mint leaf with oregano and drink an infusion with a spoonful of honey 1-2 hours before bedtime, it will soothe, relax and ensure good sleep.

Mint drinks from Altey

There are many recipes for fragrant mint teas. In the tea series “Althea” there are two types of drinks.

For lovers of traditional tea drinking, we suggest trying Green Tea with Mint and Linden. Mint gives this drink an additional flavor accent, and in combination with green tea provides an invigorating effect. Lugovoi tea is a herbal tea, which, in addition to mint, includes oregano, strawberry leaves and St. John’s wort. This combination gives the drink soothing properties.

To prepare a drink from the Altea series, pour 1 teaspoon of tea (or 1-2 filter bags) with a glass of boiling water and let it brew under the lid for about 15 minutes.

Rospotrebnadzor named 10 reasons to fall in love with mint tea

• Lifestyle

Tea with mint, which many people like for its pleasant taste, is a well-known sedative. But this is not the only useful property of this drink – experts have named 9 more pluses to once again drink a cup of aromatic tea.

July 23, 2021

Source:

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Peppermint tea can be drunk at any time of the day. For example, in the morning for breakfast or before bed. During the day, the drink will be especially useful for losing weight – it helps reduce appetite, so it is recommended to drink it half an hour before lunch.

Mint drink is quick and easy to prepare. To do this, pour boiling water over one tablespoon of chopped fresh mint leaves and let it brew for 5 minutes.

What are the health benefits of mint tea? The specialists of the Healthy Nutrition portal of Rospotrebnadzor named 10 useful properties that may convince some to join the ranks of drink fans.

Helps digestion

Peppermint tea is considered a good helper in the work of the digestive tract. According to research by American scientists, a cup of mint drink helps with heartburn and indigestion, can reduce bloating, abdominal pain, flatulence, and generally improves intestinal motility. It is also able to relieve spasms of the intestines, gallbladder and bile ducts.

Relieves stress

Menthol in peppermint leaves is a muscle relaxant and sedative. Therefore, if you want to relax in the evening after work, a cup of warm mint tea is a great remedy.

Relieves headaches

This effect is again due to the relaxing properties of mint. To enhance the effect, it is even advised to combine drinking tea with taking a warm bath.

See also

Supports the gallbladder and liver

Peppermint stimulates the flow of bile from the gallbladder to the liver, which reduces the risk of bile stasis and attacks. With colic and spasms of the gallbladder, it can also relieve pain.

Fights bad breath

Due to its ability to mask unpleasant odors, mint is often added to oral care products – toothpastes, rinses, and chewing gum. In addition, peppermint leaves have antibacterial properties, dealing with some bacteria in the mouth.

Reduces menstrual pain

Peppermint tea helps to relax the abdominal muscles, thereby reducing the severity of menstrual pain.

Helps with coughs

For colds, menthol added to hot water acts on the mucus that accumulates in the respiratory tract and facilitates its removal. It also helps with dry cough and sore throat.

Helps to lose weight

All thanks to its strong aroma that reduces appetite.