Among the infusions that have great benefits for health, there is mint tea, a drink used since time immemorial by different cultures, in the mitigation of various symptoms and diseases, with great results .
In the following article, we present you with all the necessary information about this drink that is so beneficial for the body.
What is mint?
The mint plant, scientifically named mentha piperita , is a shrub native to Central Asia.
Its leaves have properties according to tradition and natural medicine, which provide solutions to various problems such as: colic, cough, nasal congestion, cold, throat irritation, rheumatic problems and even kidney stones.
This plant belongs to the Labiadas family and is also known as mint lemon balm, English mint, among others. It is an aromatic herb with a therapeutic capacity as an astringent, carminative , antiseptic, stimulant, anodyne, spasmolytic and vermifuge.
In galenic preparations made from the leaves, its antiviral, antifungal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and spasmolytic effect is recognized. This was confirmed by a study on “Antiparasitic activity of a decoction of mentha piperita linn “. (1)
Note: Mentha piperita , not a native plant in nature, is a cross between water mint and spike mint.
Health benefits of mint tea
The therapeutic use of peppermint tea is achieved through its extensive and beneficial nutrients and chemical compounds. Here we mention the most relevant:
1. Strengthens the immune system
The content of phenolic components and vitamin C that act as antioxidants in the body, act by reinforcing the protective activity of the immune system.
To highlight: A study highlights the increase in antioxidant capacity in the production of a filter when adding mint. (two)
2. Stimulates good blood circulation
For every 100 grams of mint, around 600 mg of potassium is obtained, an essential mineral for blood circulation that helps prevent and alleviate vascular pathology , in addition to helping us eliminate excess fluids that accumulate, especially in the legs . , slowing down the circulation of blood.
In combination with magnesium and calcium , it helps in the movement of the heart, especially in the movement of the myocardium.
Note: A publication from the Oregon State University describes the importance of potassium consumption in the daily diet for blood circulation in the body. (3)
3. Reduces cholesterol
The antioxidants contained in the mint leaf and therefore in the mint tea, prevents the formation of atheromas in the walls of the veins due to high concentrations of bad cholesterol (LDL) in the blood.
In a web publication, the mechanism of action of antioxidants in the formation of low-density cholesterol is explained. (4)
4. Fights gastrointestinal discomfort
Thanks to its high menthol content, mint tea produces therapeutic actions in diseases such as dyspepsia, as well as combating aerophagia and intestinal bloating.
Likewise, it favors the digestive process by improving the functioning of the liver, and helps to reduce and/or avoid vomiting and abdominal cramps.
5. Relieves respiratory conditions
Mint tea has an effect on the mucous membranes of the respiratory system that helps to decongest, acts as an expectorant and antiseptic , thanks to a mixture of therapeutic and medicinal properties that help to improve the symptoms of some respiratory conditions naturally. The action of menthol and vitamin C stands out here.
6. Reduces headaches, muscle and menstrual pain
Another of the properties of mint is its analgesic, anti-inflammatory and relaxing action, treating contractures, osteoarticular pathologies, strains or cramps. Its content of vitamins C and B3, and minerals such as magnesium, calcium, among others, help the proper functioning of the musculoskeletal system.
Note: Serves as a sedative thanks to the presence of menthol , relieving mental and physical stress. Its effect on gastrointestinal discomfort is attributed to the fact that headaches do not appear associated with poor digestion.
7. Fight bad breath
The astringent and antiseptic effect of menthol, in addition to the antibacterial action of its components in mint tea, combat halitosis, a product of the proliferation of bacteria in the oral cavity.
Fun fact: That is why certain brands of toothpastes or toothpastes include mint among their components.
8. Reduces stress and fatigue
Thanks to the relaxing action of the aroma of mint tea, it serves as a sedative thanks to the presence of menthol, relieving mental and physical fatigue.
9. Improves mental performance and concentration
Mint tea combined with other aromatic herbs such as ginkgo and rosemary becomes a neuroprotective and peripheral vasodilator infusion , increasing intellectual performance, improving concentration and even relieving migraines if consumed periodically.
10. Promotes weight loss
The diuretic effect of mint tea due to its water and potassium content helps regulate fluids in the body. Its antioxidant effect also regulates the presence of bad cholesterol in the blood, in addition to collaborating in the elimination of toxins in the blood, through kidney function.
Note: All of these factors contribute to the loss of body weight.
11. Fight insomnia
Mint tea has a relaxing effect, being able to mitigate the adverse effects of sleep disorders, caused by psychological disorders.
12. Promotes breastfeeding
Since stress, depression and different types of anxiety affect the production of breast milk during the baby’s lactation period, mint tea is recommended to mitigate these altered psychological states, relaxing cognitive functions.
This favors the tranquility of the mind and the organism , thanks to the calming effect of the aroma of menthol.
Note: One study concluded the relationship between stress or anxiety in the success of breastfeeding. (5)
It is vitally important not to exceed the consumption of mint, since it can cause harmful effects, and can cause kidney or liver damage.
Properties of mint tea
The chemical and nutritional composition of mint tea is very interesting, and they give it various beneficial properties for human health. Here we mention them:
vitamins
Mint tea contains vitamins that offer important benefits such as: Vitamin A, Vitamin B1. B2 and B3 or niacin , plus vitamin C.
minerals
The presence of minerals such as potassium, calcium, sodium, iron, manganese, and phosphorus, attribute great benefits to mint tea.
Note: This drink also contains calcium nitrate, formic acid, gallic acid, limonene, 1,8-cineole, 3-octanol, menthone, menthofurane, isomenthone, menthyle acetate, neomenthol, b-caryophyllene, and menthol.
How to prepare and consume mint tea?
The preparation of mint tea is indicated to start the morning and prepare the digestive system for food processing, in addition to the rest of the benefits mentioned above. We give you a simple recipe to prepare it:
Ingredients
- Mint leaves
- Hot water
- sweetener to taste
Preparation and consumption
- First place water in a container until it boils.
- Then put the hot water in a glass or cup.
- Then add the fresh mint leaves and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Add sweetener to taste and consume hot.
Key Findings
- The use of mint tea comes from traditional medicine.
- It is indicated especially for affections of the digestive tract.
- Carminative properties are attributed to it .
- The mint leaf is easy to get in nature and it is also easy to grow.
- Excessive use can cause side effects.
- It is used to treat respiratory conditions , due to its menthol content.
University Professional in the area of Human Resources, Postgraduate in Occupational Health and Hygiene of the Work Environment, 14 years of experience in the area of health. Interested in topics of Psychology, Occupational Health, and General Medicine.