Peppermint tea stomach ache. Exploring the Surprising Side Effects of Peppermint Tea: An In-Depth Analysis
What are the unexpected side effects of peppermint tea? Discover the health benefits, nutrition facts, and proper preparation methods in this comprehensive guide.
Peppermint Tea: Unveiling the Unexpected
Peppermint tea, a beloved beverage in many cultures, is often touted for its numerous health benefits. However, like any herbal remedy, it can also have unexpected side effects that are crucial to understand. In this comprehensive article, we delve into the world of peppermint tea, exploring its nutritional profile, potential benefits, and the surprising consequences that may arise from its consumption.
Mint Tea: Clearing the Confusion
Before diving into the specifics, it’s important to clarify the differences between the various types of mint teas. Peppermint, spearmint, and orange mint are the most common varieties, each offering unique flavors and potential health effects. While they share some similarities, understanding the nuances between these mint species can help you make an informed choice when selecting the right tea for your needs.
The Nutritional Breakdown of Mint Tea
Mint tea, whether made from peppermint, spearmint, or a blend, is generally low in calories and devoid of fat, cholesterol, and sodium. However, the nutritional profile can vary depending on the specific variety and brewing method. Let’s take a closer look at the key nutrients found in a typical serving of mint tea.
Vitamins and Minerals
Mint leaves contain trace amounts of essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, iron, and magnesium. However, the concentrations of these nutrients in a cup of mint tea are relatively low, as many of them are removed during the steeping process.
Antioxidants and Phytochemicals
Mint leaves are rich in antioxidants and various phytochemicals, including menthol and menthone. These compounds may contribute to the potential health benefits associated with mint tea, such as anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects.
Exploring the Potential Benefits of Mint Tea
Mint tea has long been associated with a range of potential health benefits, from soothing an upset stomach to relieving cold and flu symptoms. Let’s dive deeper into the research and understand the extent of these claimed benefits.
Digestive Health
Peppermint tea, in particular, has been shown to have a relaxing effect on the muscles of the stomach, potentially helping to alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other digestive issues. However, it’s important to note that peppermint can also be an irritant, so it should be avoided by individuals with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Respiratory Relief
The menthol in peppermint can help open nasal passages and provide temporary relief for cold and flu symptoms. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of mint leaves may also contribute to this potential benefit.
Unexpected Side Effects of Peppermint Tea
While peppermint tea is generally considered safe for most people, it’s important to be aware of the potential side effects that can arise, particularly for those with certain health conditions or taking specific medications.
Heartburn and Indigestion
Ironically, while peppermint tea can help with digestive issues, it can also worsen symptoms of acid reflux and GERD. This is due to the relaxing effect of peppermint on the lower esophageal sphincter, which can allow stomach acid to flow back up into the esophagus.
Medication Interactions
Peppermint may interact with certain medications, such as cyclosporine (a drug used by organ transplant patients) and medications metabolized in the liver or those that reduce stomach acid. It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating peppermint tea into your regimen, especially if you are taking any medications.
Kidney Stone Concerns
Peppermint may help promote kidney function, but it’s not recommended for individuals with a history of kidney stones, as it could potentially increase the risk of stone formation.
Pregnancy Considerations
The safety of peppermint tea during pregnancy has not been extensively studied. While some research suggests it may be safe, it’s always best to consult with your healthcare provider before consuming peppermint tea or any other herbal remedy during pregnancy.
Brewing the Perfect Cup of Mint Tea
Preparing mint tea can be a simple and enjoyable process, but there are a few key considerations to keep in mind to ensure the best flavor and potential health benefits.
Steeping Time
Mint tea should not be steeped for more than 10 minutes, as prolonged steeping can result in a bitter taste. The optimal steeping time is around 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors and compounds to infuse into the water without becoming overpowering.
Choosing the Right Variety
When selecting a mint tea, you can choose from peppermint, spearmint, or a blend. Each variety offers distinct flavors and potential health benefits, so consider your personal preferences and any specific health needs when making your selection.
Caffeine Considerations
While pure mint tea is naturally caffeine-free, some commercially available mint teas may contain added green tea or other ingredients that can contribute to a caffeine content. If you’re looking to avoid caffeine, be sure to read the label carefully and opt for a pure herbal mint tea.
Conclusion
Peppermint tea, with its refreshing aroma and potential health benefits, has long been a beloved beverage. However, as with any herbal remedy, it’s crucial to understand the unexpected side effects that can arise, particularly for individuals with certain health conditions or taking specific medications.
By exploring the nutritional profile, potential benefits, and possible drawbacks of peppermint tea, this comprehensive guide aims to empower you to make informed decisions about incorporating this versatile herbal tea into your lifestyle. Remember, as with any health-related matter, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet or supplement regimen.
Health Benefits, Nutrition, Preparation Information, and More
Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors
In this Article
- What Is Mint Tea?
- Mint, Peppermint, or Spearmint?
- Is Mint Tea Good for You?
- Nutrition
- Mint Tea: Possible Side Effects
- How to Prepare Mint Tea
from the WebMD Ingredients Guide
Serving Size 1 Bag (1.7 g)
Calories 0
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 0 g
0%
Saturated Fat 0 g
0%
Trans Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 0 mg
0%
Sodium 0 mg
0%
Potassium 0 mg
0%
Total Carbohydrate 0 g
0%
Dietary Fiber 0 g
0%
Sugar 0 g
Protein 0 g
0%
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
- Vitamin C 0%
- Iron 0%
- Vitamin B6 0%
- Magnesium 0%
- Calcium 0%
- Vitamin D 0%
- Cobalamin 0%
- Vitamin A 0%
Mint tea is a traditional tea that’s celebrated in many cultures. In Moroccan culture, the tea is steeped with mint and green tea leaves, and sugar, and commonly served at all times of day.
On the North American continent, early Native Americans made a tea from wild mint leaves in order to relieve an upset stomach.
Ancient civilizations like the Greeks and Egyptians used peppermint as medicine. Chewing peppermint leaves is a Persian folk remedy for toothaches. In India, herbal mixtures containing peppermint treat indigestion, coughs, colds, and other ailments.
Mint tea can be prepared using spearmint, peppermint, or orange mint leaves. It shouldn’t steep for more than 10 minutes, or it could start to develop a bitter taste. You can serve it cold or hot.
By itself, mint tea does not contain caffeine, but some mixed mint teas may contain caffeine from other ingredients.
Mint tea can contain both peppermint and spearmint leaves, which can be combined in varying proportions, depending on your personal preference. Spearmint and peppermint have flavors that are very different from each other, and they both offer health benefits.
Spearmint contains a compound known as carvone, giving it a mild flavor that’s sweet and cool. Carvone is also found in caraway seeds and dill.
Peppermint, on the other hand, is loaded with menthol and menthone, giving it a sharp, spicy flavor.
There is some limited evidence that mint tea may help with some symptoms:
Stomach and digestion: Peppermint tea may relieve an upset stomach. And in some cases, it has been seen to relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It does this by causing the muscles of the stomach to relax and by improving the flow of bile, helping food digest and pass through the stomach more quickly. But peppermint can also be an irritant, so it should not be used if you have gastroesophageal reflux disease, also known as GERD.
Cold and flu: Some people report that mint tea relieves cold and flu symptoms. The aroma from peppermint seems to help open nasal passages. Menthol has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may also help relieve these symptoms.
Mint leaves contain vitamin C, antioxidants, anti-inflammatories, and other vitamins and minerals. But the amount of these found in a cup of tea is very low, because many of them are removed when these leaves are prepared into a tea.
The menthol in peppermint can cause adverse side effects in large amounts. While it’s difficult to consume too much menthol by drinking peppermint tea, it’s not recommended for people with certain health conditions.
Before adding peppermint tea to your diet, talk to your doctor about these considerations:
Heartburn
Peppermint can help with digestion and stomach pain but can worsen acid reflux. If you have experience indigestion due to gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, you should avoid peppermint.
Medication Interactions
Peppermint may interact with certain medications. It should not be taken with cyclosporine, a drug taken by organ transplant patients. It may also reduce the effect of medications metabolized in the liver or drugs that reduce stomach acid.
Some studies show that peppermint may lower your blood sugar and blood pressure as well, so it’s not recommended for people taking medication for diabetes or blood pressure issues.
Kidney Stones
Peppermint may help to promote good kidney function, but it’s not recommended for people who have kidney stones.
Pregnancy Concerns
Research has not found any harmful effects from pregnant women drinking peppermint tea. This But this has not been well-studied, however, so speak to your doctor before drinking the herbal beverage while pregnant.
There are many commercially available mint teas, sold in tea bags or loose leaf, for you to choose from. Many are mixes that contain peppermint, green tea, and spearmint. Green tea contains caffeine, so if you are avoiding caffeine, look for an herbal mint tea that does not include green tea.
If you would like a stronger flavor and improved health benefits, you may wish to make your own tea using fresh ingredients. To make mint tea:
- Boil 2 cups of water.
- Remove from heat and add a handful of torn or chopped mint leaves.
- Cover and steep for 5 minutes.
- Strain and drink.
Experiment with different amounts of peppermint and spearmint leaves. You may find that you prefer one mix for a cooling and refreshing summer drink, and a completely different combination for a warm, comforting winter drink.
Top Picks
Health Benefits, Nutrition, Preparation Information, and More
Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors
In this Article
- What Is Mint Tea?
- Mint, Peppermint, or Spearmint?
- Is Mint Tea Good for You?
- Nutrition
- Mint Tea: Possible Side Effects
- How to Prepare Mint Tea
from the WebMD Ingredients Guide
Serving Size 1 Bag (1. 7 g)
Calories 0
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 0 g
0%
Saturated Fat 0 g
0%
Trans Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 0 mg
0%
Sodium 0 mg
0%
Potassium 0 mg
0%
Total Carbohydrate 0 g
0%
Dietary Fiber 0 g
0%
Sugar 0 g
Protein 0 g
0%
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
- Vitamin C 0%
- Iron 0%
- Vitamin B6 0%
- Magnesium 0%
- Calcium 0%
- Vitamin D 0%
- Cobalamin 0%
- Vitamin A 0%
Mint tea is a traditional tea that’s celebrated in many cultures. In Moroccan culture, the tea is steeped with mint and green tea leaves, and sugar, and commonly served at all times of day.
On the North American continent, early Native Americans made a tea from wild mint leaves in order to relieve an upset stomach.
Ancient civilizations like the Greeks and Egyptians used peppermint as medicine. Chewing peppermint leaves is a Persian folk remedy for toothaches. In India, herbal mixtures containing peppermint treat indigestion, coughs, colds, and other ailments.
Mint tea can be prepared using spearmint, peppermint, or orange mint leaves. It shouldn’t steep for more than 10 minutes, or it could start to develop a bitter taste. You can serve it cold or hot.
By itself, mint tea does not contain caffeine, but some mixed mint teas may contain caffeine from other ingredients.
Mint tea can contain both peppermint and spearmint leaves, which can be combined in varying proportions, depending on your personal preference. Spearmint and peppermint have flavors that are very different from each other, and they both offer health benefits.
Spearmint contains a compound known as carvone, giving it a mild flavor that’s sweet and cool. Carvone is also found in caraway seeds and dill.
Peppermint, on the other hand, is loaded with menthol and menthone, giving it a sharp, spicy flavor.
There is some limited evidence that mint tea may help with some symptoms:
Stomach and digestion: Peppermint tea may relieve an upset stomach. And in some cases, it has been seen to relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It does this by causing the muscles of the stomach to relax and by improving the flow of bile, helping food digest and pass through the stomach more quickly. But peppermint can also be an irritant, so it should not be used if you have gastroesophageal reflux disease, also known as GERD.
Cold and flu: Some people report that mint tea relieves cold and flu symptoms. The aroma from peppermint seems to help open nasal passages. Menthol has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may also help relieve these symptoms.
Mint leaves contain vitamin C, antioxidants, anti-inflammatories, and other vitamins and minerals. But the amount of these found in a cup of tea is very low, because many of them are removed when these leaves are prepared into a tea.
The menthol in peppermint can cause adverse side effects in large amounts. While it’s difficult to consume too much menthol by drinking peppermint tea, it’s not recommended for people with certain health conditions.
Before adding peppermint tea to your diet, talk to your doctor about these considerations:
Heartburn
Peppermint can help with digestion and stomach pain but can worsen acid reflux. If you have experience indigestion due to gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, you should avoid peppermint.
Medication Interactions
Peppermint may interact with certain medications. It should not be taken with cyclosporine, a drug taken by organ transplant patients. It may also reduce the effect of medications metabolized in the liver or drugs that reduce stomach acid.
Some studies show that peppermint may lower your blood sugar and blood pressure as well, so it’s not recommended for people taking medication for diabetes or blood pressure issues.
Kidney Stones
Peppermint may help to promote good kidney function, but it’s not recommended for people who have kidney stones.
Pregnancy Concerns
Research has not found any harmful effects from pregnant women drinking peppermint tea. This But this has not been well-studied, however, so speak to your doctor before drinking the herbal beverage while pregnant.
There are many commercially available mint teas, sold in tea bags or loose leaf, for you to choose from. Many are mixes that contain peppermint, green tea, and spearmint. Green tea contains caffeine, so if you are avoiding caffeine, look for an herbal mint tea that does not include green tea.
If you would like a stronger flavor and improved health benefits, you may wish to make your own tea using fresh ingredients. To make mint tea:
- Boil 2 cups of water.
- Remove from heat and add a handful of torn or chopped mint leaves.
- Cover and steep for 5 minutes.
- Strain and drink.
Experiment with different amounts of peppermint and spearmint leaves. You may find that you prefer one mix for a cooling and refreshing summer drink, and a completely different combination for a warm, comforting winter drink.
Top Picks
The benefits and harms of mint tea (tea with mint)
The ancients learned about the unique healing properties of mint hundreds of years ago. And to this day, this plant is on everyone’s lips. You can’t confuse mint with anything. Such wild popularity came to her for a gentle, refreshing, tonic taste and unique aroma.
A cup of fresh mint will help you escape from stress, unobtrusively relax after a busy day and gently calm the nervous system. In the heat, it will bring the long-awaited coolness and warm in the harsh winter cold. But why is mint tea so useful? When should you refrain from it? What are its most popular cooking methods and most delicious recipes? A full review of mint tea is below.
Mint and its properties
Even before our era, mint was available to man. It is mentioned on the cuneiform tablets of the Assyrians, it was found in the tombs of the Egyptian pharaohs. Mint is even mentioned in the Gospel of Matthew. This plant is easily recognizable – it has branched stems and leaves, a bit reminiscent of nettles. Mint reaches a height of 80 cm. The menthol contained in them gives a special aroma to its leaves. It is he who provides the mint drink with a unique refreshing taste.
The chemical composition of mint
The first and, perhaps, the main chemical substance in mint is Menthol. This is an organic substance containing secondary alcohol. It is he who gives the mint leaves a specific smell. But menthol still has something to surprise. It has strong cooling properties: it stimulates cold receptors in the skin and mucous membranes, and can be used as an antiseptic and local anesthetic.
Peppermint very well reduces capillary permeability and improves blood circulation due to such a substance as rutin. With regular use of the herb, it helps to reduce the risk of blood clots.
The next chemical in mint is carotene. It is considered a natural immune stimulant, because it reduces the production of free radicals. It is especially beneficial for the elderly or those who are partly stressed. The high content of T-lymphocytes in food containing carotene accelerates the immune response to external stimuli.
Peppermint also contains many useful acids. In particular – ascorbic and chlorogenic. The first increases the body’s resistance to viral infections, participates in the formation of collagen, improves iron absorption. The second acts as a strong antioxidant, reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease. The leaves, stems and flowers of mint also contain an essential oil with a high percentage of menthol, azulene and flavonoids.
What kind of mint is there
Along with all the well-known pepper and lemon types of mint, there are still about a dozen variations of the plant. This grass is not alone, but has many brothers. Among them are chocolate, menthol, field, cat, water, fragrant, forest, Japanese, pepper, curly, Mexican, lemon, wild. And each of them has its own rules for planting, its own habitat and its own properties. But we are only interested in the two most famous types: peppermint and lemon mint.
Peppermint
Peppermint is familiar to everyone without exception. It is a perennial plant and can reach up to one meter in length. The leaves are green, the characteristic difference is the jagged edges. Peppermint easily tolerates winter and severe frosts. Do not forget that it is artificially bred and is a kind of water mint.
Lemon balm (melissa)
Lemon balm is commonly called lemon balm. It can often be found in garden plots. This is a hardy perennial plant. In height, it can also reach up to 1 meter. A distinctive feature of this type of mint is the presence of a lemon aroma, especially during flowering. That’s why she was named accordingly.
The benefits and harms of mint
Stress, depression, neurosis – all these emotional and psychological disorders inevitably haunt modern man. But their destructive effect can be minimized, of course, not only by medication. Along with physical activity or the practice of meditation, mint tea can help a person. And yes, this is not an exaggeration. Of course, it is not a panacea for all problems, but you should not forget about the gigantic amount of useful properties of mint.
Health benefits of mint
We can talk about the beneficial properties of mint for a very long time. We will focus on ten main points.
• Peppermint tea has a strong sedative effect. He is able to gently relax after a working day, relieve tension and stress.
• It is difficult to overestimate the usefulness of mint tea in the treatment and prevention of colds. It can not only reduce the temperature, but also improve the general condition of a sick person.
• If you drink mint tea in conjunction with medicines, it will help eliminate severe symptoms of acute respiratory diseases. Moreover – to improve the discharge of sputum from the lungs and relieve the runny nose.
• If your wife says she has a headache again, give her mint tea. It is considered to be a great help in relieving headaches in women. In addition, the drink is able to regulate the menstrual cycle.
• Among the merits of mint tea is the normalization of blood pressure. It also helps blood circulation, relieves heart conditions and helps with unbearable spasms during migraine attacks.
• If your agenda is to lose weight, mint tea will be a great help in this matter. It is able to speed up the metabolism.
• Peppermint tea dressing can even be applied to irritated skin. It has an antibacterial effect, so a freshly brewed infusion will soothe itching.
• Peppermint tea helps with problems with the gastrointestinal tract, in particular – reduces the acidity of the stomach, contributing to the normalization of its microflora.
• Peppermint tea has an anti-spasmodic effect. It not only helps to eliminate intestinal colic and balance the bile balance, but also reduces gas formation.
• Peppermint tea perfectly normalizes sleep, eliminates anxiety, and even improves brain activity.
Harms and contraindications
The ten benefits we have identified seem impressive. They can impress to such an extent that mint tea will be perceived as a universal remedy for almost any infection. However, this drink has its known drawbacks. Let’s talk about them.
First, mint tea is contraindicated in diabetics. Menthol may react with preparations containing insulin.
Secondly, mint often causes an allergic reaction in children. If, after using it, a rash develops on the skin, a headache begins, or breathing becomes difficult at all, you must immediately stop eating mint.
Thirdly, mint tea should not be drunk during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Although the testimony of doctors in this matter is ambiguous. However, it has been proven that menthol reduces the mother’s ability to produce milk.
Fourth, if you suffer from varicose veins or low blood pressure, mint should also be avoided. With a decrease in vascular tone, this herb can lead to an exacerbation of any other chronic disease. It is not recommended to abuse mint tea and people suffering from heartburn.
The use of mint in cooking, medicine and perfumery
Mint contains a fragrant oil called geraniol. It is one of the main constituent substances in perfumery, used to create perfumes and aromatize soaps, body cosmetics, and detergents.
Mint has also found its use in cooking. It is an aromatic seasoning for various dishes. Mint leaves are a great decoration for cakes and cocktails. In Germany, France and England, mint is widely used as a seasoning for vegetables. It is added to various spice mixtures to improve the aroma and taste of sauces and marinades.
Peppermint proved to be useful for medicine as well. An infusion of its leaves is taken in several cases: for vision problems, as a sedative, to reduce fever, for gastrointestinal diseases, and even as an aphrodisiac. As we have said, mint can also be used externally. For example, it does an excellent job as an analgesic for rheumatic pains in the joints, as well as for insect bites. Peppermint essential oil contains a lot of menthol, which has an analgesic, antiseptic effect, relieves stress, reduces weather sensitivity.
Ways to Harvest Mint
There are three of the most time-honored ways to harvest mint for the winter. The first one is to dry it properly. The second is to expose to the freezing effect of cold and the third is to prepare mint syrup. Each method is original in its own way and allows mint to retain its beneficial properties.
Drying mint
Mint starts flowering in June. At this time and until the end of July, they begin to collect it. High humidity can adversely affect the drying process, so picking mint bushes is best either in the morning or in the evening. In the first case, the rum will just have time to dry, and in the second, on the contrary, it will not yet have time to form.
First, dirty and damaged leaves must be removed from all raw materials. The rest should be washed and dried thoroughly with a paper towel. Drying itself can be done either in the fresh air, or in the oven or microwave. It all depends on how much time you have.
For outdoor drying, the stems are tied into bundles and hung upside down. To do this, you need to find a dark, dry place with good air circulation. Paradoxically, direct sun exposure during drying should be avoided. As soon as the leaves begin to easily come off the stems, drying stops.
Drying in an open oven is incomparably faster – only 15-20 minutes. The main thing is not to overdo it with the temperature, because at more than 75 degrees the leaves lose all their useful qualities. Dried mint keeps for about a year and a half. So that it does not lose its taste, it is necessary to use an airtight container made of glass, metal or plastic.
Freezing mint
The main property of freezing is to extend the shelf life of the product without significant loss of its quality. Frozen mint perfectly retains its unique taste and aroma. For proper freezing it is necessary to use fresh leaves without damage and stains. You can freeze mint in several ways:
• Whole leaves. To begin with, immerse the mint in cool water, and then let the towel soak up all the moisture. We put the resulting dry clean leaves in a glass jar, tightly close the lid and send it to the freezer.
• In ice cubes. Any mold will do. First, wash the leaves and tops of the stems under running water. Then carefully lay out in molds, and pour cool boiled water. This method is good because the leaves will not be able to crumble.
• Freezing mint gruel. In the end, we also freeze mint, but in a different state. First, we drive the leaves through a meat grinder or blender, while adding water. After the gruel is sent in molds to the freezer.
Peppermint Syrup
Peppermint Syrup is an original way to create a delicious menthol flavor in tea. It can give a real gastronomic pleasure, because it contains a lot of sugar. Moreover, ready-made syrup is also an ingredient for many confectionery products.
The proportions are approximately as follows. To prepare 200 g of syrup, 100 g of mint leaves, 250 g of sugar, a pinch of citric acid, 70 g of water are needed. We cut the mint coarsely, add 125 g of sugar and add citric acid. After that, leave for about 10 hours. During this time, the leaves have time to secrete the juice. Pour 125 g of sugar with water, bring to a boil over low heat and boil for 4-5 minutes until completely dissolved. Pour mint with the resulting syrup and leave to cool for 5-6 hours, then boil for about 5 minutes, strain through a fine sieve and pour into a pre-sterilized jar.
Mint tea recipes
Dozens of different recipes have been created with mint tea, from culinary delights to simple home-made recipes. Below you will see the most preferred options for both the seasoned tea grower and the inexperienced lover.
Green tea with mint
As you know, green tea itself has a tonic effect, because its leaves are the least fermented. And in combination with mint – a real storehouse of useful properties – green tea becomes an ideal choice for evening tea drinking.
To prepare it, we need 400 ml of water with a temperature not exceeding 80 degrees, two teaspoons of tea and mint to taste. The main thing is not to bring the water to a boil, because boiling water eliminates the characteristic taste of green hour. Moreover, it deprives the drink of useful properties.
Moroccan tea
Mint leaves are the main component of tea from Morocco. In addition to them, we will need, of course, water, green tea and sugar. You can add spices and citrus slices to taste. This will make Moroccan tea even more tart and rich. As spices for Moroccan tea, you can use cinnamon stick, star anise, cardamom beans or cloves. Instead of sugar, many gourmets prefer to add honey. All these components will give the tea a unique bouquet of flavors.
Moroccan tea is essentially simple. While we are brewing green tea separately, spices poured with boiling water should be waiting for us in another bowl. When they are combined, Moroccan tea is obtained.
Mint and ginger tea
Mint as a universal puzzle piece. Wherever you attach it, everywhere it is felt in its place. Even in black, even in green tea. And in combination with mint and ginger, the beneficial properties of the drink are doubled. This tea contains xanthine derivatives (caffeine, theophylline, theobromine) and a glutamine derivative, theanine. These substances have stimulant properties. Peppermint and ginger tea also contains many nutritional components such as vitamin E, vitamin C, vitamin B1, fluoride and potassium.
Most likely this tea will be bitter. This can be justified by the presence of gingerols in the composition. The astringency of the drink is due to phenolic compounds known as catechins. They constitute a group of compounds closely related to tannins. In short, the benefits are indescribable. When combining mint and ginger, the level of caffeine in tea will increase, the content of alkaloids will also increase, but the level of antioxidants will decrease.
Conclusion
Well, here we have learned all the subtleties of mint tea. And most importantly – answered the most common questions. What are the types of mint and how to harvest it correctly? What is mint tea good for, and what is harmful? What are its main properties? And what are the recipes for mint tea? We hope you were helpful! Delicious and relaxing tea parties, friends!
How mint affects the body — Fur coat
Mint is healthy, tasty and can become a home decoration like a flowerpot. But how and how much can you eat or drink tea from it?
Mint – varieties
Mint is a perennial plant with green elliptical leaves. It is not particularly demanding on cultivation – it likes moist soil and moderate sunlight. The most popular mint varieties are:
- Peppermint is the most popular type of mint. It is used as a spice and addition to desserts and cocktails, as a medicinal infusion or as one of the ingredients of cosmetics. Peppermint is a cross between green and field mint.
- Mint green – has similar properties to its predecessor. It is used in the production of toothpastes and chewing gum.
- Field mint – most commonly used for digestive problems.
Mint leaves and stems are mainly used in raw form, or they are used to prepare infusions, extracts and essential oils.
It should be added that mint not only freshens the breath, but is also a source of vitamins A, C, B1 and B9(folic acid), as well as minerals: magnesium, manganese, copper, iron, potassium, zinc, phosphorus and selenium. In addition, the peppermint variety contains the highest amount of antioxidants of any herb commonly available.
Mint can be a home decoration / © Pexels
Mint – health properties
Mint’s main benefit is its beneficial effect on irritating the digestive system. It has a relaxing effect on the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal tract and thereby reduces pain. Peppermint is indispensable in the treatment of digestive problems such as flatulence and constipation. This is all due to the content of menthol in the leaves, which reduces the secretion of bile.
Try mint and licorice tea, which regulates the proper functioning of the intestines.
For problems with the digestive system, the best solution is an infusion of mint leaves and stems, which should be used even prophylactically after heavy and hard to digest meals.
For indigestion with impaired juice secretion, peppermint increases the amount of gastric juice, which improves digestion and absorption of food. At this point, it should be added that mint is an excellent support for people who want to lose extra pounds. Because mint, influencing the processes of digestion, supports the process of losing weight. It is included in dietary supplements that help maintain a figure.
Mint is also effective for irritable bowel syndrome, a condition that affects about 20% of people worldwide. According to scientists from the University of Adelaide in Australia, peppermint oil helps relieve intestinal pain and reduce pain associated with inflammation in the digestive tract.
Scientists who published their study in Clinical Gastroenterology in 2014 and researchers at McMaster University in Canada believe that people with irritable bowel syndrome should be given peppermint oil, soluble fiber and antispasmodics as a first line of treatment for the condition. It should be noted that, according to their research, the most effective, in their opinion, was peppermint oil.
Mint also has antibacterial and antiviral properties, according to research. It supports the fight against bacteria that cause digestive disorders, as well as against salmonella, E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus. It also has a calming effect – mint tea is given in stressful situations.
According to experts, mint has a positive effect on the fight against yeast-like fungi of the genus Candida, as well as dermatophytes and molds.
If we drink mint leaf tea before going to bed, our sleep will be much more restful than usual. Interestingly, a study published in the journal Neuroscience shows that the smell of mint can strengthen memory and increase our concentration.
In addition to its calming effect, peppermint, or rather its infusion, reduces migraine-related illnesses and opens the mind. Even in ancient times, peppermint oil, which was rubbed into the skin, was supposed to soothe migraine headaches. In addition, peppermint oil, used as an ointment, has soothing properties for neuralgia and muscle pain.
In addition, mint leaves, used as an ointment, have antipruritic and local anesthetic and anti-inflammatory effects, causing a feeling of coolness. This ointment is recommended in natural medicine, in particular, for chicken pox. However, the wonderful properties of mint do not end there, as it can be successfully used to speed up the healing process of the unsightly blisters that are a symptom of herpes. This is also confirmed by studies in which mint leaf extract suppressed the activity of the herpes simplex virus.
Another benefit of mint, according to Cancer Journal, is that the plant has properties that protect against radiation used to treat cancer. The ingredients contained in mint can protect us from DNA damage and radiation. Mint also has anti-cancer properties, according to animal studies.
In conclusion, chewing mint leaves helps reduce bad breath. Here, however, it should be noted that it is not necessary to spit them out, you can swallow them without fear for your own health, but do not forget to rinse them thoroughly under running water first.
Peppermint essential oil – when and how to use?
Peppermint oil is used in the fight against respiratory diseases. Peppermint extract is used in inhalation preparations, as well as in warming ointments or rubbing to relieve the symptoms of sinusitis, colds and flu (3-4 drops pour into hot water). Mint is also included in dietary supplements that support the digestive system.
For catarrh of the upper respiratory tract, peppermint oil can be used as an ointment, that is, rubbed into the skin in the chest and nose. However, this technique should not be used for young children and infants, as laryngospasm and bronchospasm may occur.
Peppermint oil has antibacterial and expectorant properties, making it much easier to get rid of excess secretions from the lungs. In addition, peppermint oil is one of the main ingredients of tablets and lozenges for sore throats – it has an analgesic effect, especially on mucous membranes, and also gives a feeling of coolness.
Mint side effects
The main form in which peppermint can show side effects is the oil, which is very irritating if consumed too concentrated. Peppermint Stomach Drops, which relieve stomach pain, can cause vomiting, diarrhea, drowsiness, imbalance, lethargy, and lethargy if taken in excess. The side effects of peppermint tea are much less common, but drinking too much can have a laxative effect.
In particular, the oil should not come into contact with the skin of children under 2 years of age (the area around the mouth and nose should be most carefully protected).
Peppermint oil is preferably diluted with water or another oil (eg jojoba, sweet almond, avocado) or olive oil. This will make it safer to use peppermint oil. Remember that you can not exceed the dose of vegetable oil by more than 5-10 drops.
Also be aware that peppermint can cause allergic skin reactions.
Mint in a cocktail / © Pexels
Mint in cooking
Don’t forget to use mint in your kitchen. Leaves and stems are a great addition to fish dishes, and one of the main ingredients of lemonade along with lemon. Mint is also widely used by bartenders as an addition to drinks and cocktails. Mint gives a feeling of freshness, which is why it is so often used in the kitchen.
In addition, mint leaves are excellent for making milk. If they are thrown into a pot of boiling milk, they will prevent it from curdling. In addition, fresh mint leaves go well with desserts, salads and any sauces (for example, used in English cuisine).
Use of mint during pregnancy
During pregnancy, experts say, you should be careful with preparations containing mint in their composition. Even though peppermint can soothe nausea in pregnant women, there is still uncertainty about the safety of mint use during this period.
Follow us
in google news
Tags
mint
superfoods
Order at Silpo
Go to “Silpo” and choose goods at super prices
Jelly “Premiya”® with a taste of cherry, 90g
18
99
UAH
Go
Atlantic rib caviar Norven in white sauce with smoked salmon, 160g
49
99
UAH
Go
Migdal lubrication, 250g
134
00
UAH
Go
Lavash BKK “Caucasian”, 230g
20
99
UAH
Go