Peppermint tea benefits and how to prepare it

Peppermint (Mentha × piperita) is an aromatic perennial plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family. It is the result of a natural cross between water mint (Mentha aquatica) & spearmint (Mentha spicata). It is distinguished by its oval, deep green leaves & stems that are sometimes tinged with purple. What makes it truly unique is its high concentration of menthol, a compound with both refreshing & invigorating effects.

Long used in traditional medicine, peppermint is now one of the most prized plants in herbal medicine for its targeted & rapid benefits. It is available in various forms, including essential oils, extracts, & capsules; however, it is in the form of an infusion that it reveals the full richness of its active ingredients, in a gentle & effective way.

Beyond its intense aroma, peppermint has a remarkable biochemical composition. It contains menthol, menthone, eucalyptol, as well as flavonoids, phenolic acids, & tannins. These components give it digestive, antispasmodic, stimulating, & refreshing properties. Peppermint tea allows you to enjoy these benefits without irritating the body, making it a valuable ally for digestive comfort & daily energy.

Peppermint tea is packed with benefits & can provide real relief for many common issues. Thanks to its high content of active ingredients such as menthol, menthone, & eucalyptol, it acts on the body in several ways. Here are its main benefits:

Relief from digestive problems

Peppermint is one of the most effective plants for supporting the digestive system. It stimulates bile secretion, promotes fat digestion, & soothes feelings of heaviness after meals. Thanks to its antispasmodic properties, it relaxes the smooth muscles of the digestive tract, helping to reduce bloating, gas, spasms, & abdominal cramps. Consumed as an infusion, especially after a heavy meal, it contributes to better digestion & relieves frequent digestive discomfort.

Antispasmodic effect

Thanks to its relaxing compounds, peppermint acts directly on the digestive muscles. It effectively relieves abdominal cramps & intestinal tension, particularly in people prone to functional digestive disorders or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). This effect is one of the key mechanisms for relieving intestinal discomfort.

Stimulation of liver and bile functions

Peppermint also supports the liver in its role as a metabolic filter. It stimulates the production & evacuation of bile, which facilitates the digestion of lipids & helps prevent feelings of heaviness, especially after rich meals. This stimulation of bile makes it a valuable plant for people prone to slow digestion or sluggish liver function.

Reduction of nausea and vomiting

The menthol contained in the plant has a natural antiemetic effect. Peppermint tea is therefore useful for calming temporary nausea, particularly that associated with motion sickness, digestive problems, or stress. It can be consumed at the first signs of discomfort for fast, gentle relief without significant side effects.

Improved concentration and alertness

Thanks to its mildly stimulating effect, peppermint promotes better oxygenation of the brain & can help improve concentration & mental alertness. Unlike caffeine, it does not over-stimulate the nervous system, but enhances attention in a gentler way. Its refreshing flavour, combined with its neurotonic action, makes it an ideal drink when you are feeling tired, for example in the middle of the day.

Relief from mild headaches

The antispasmodic & vasodilatory properties of peppermint can also be beneficial for mild headaches or those caused by digestive issues or tension. The infusion helps to release tension & provides gentle, natural relief.

Natural refreshing effect

In summer, drinking cold peppermint tea is a pleasant way to quench your thirst while enjoying its invigorating effects. Thanks to its thermoregulatory properties, menthol provides a refreshing sensation & helps the body cope better with the heat.

Gentle respiratory support

The menthol contained in the plant helps open the airways & soothes irritated mucous membranes. In cases of colds, congested throats, or mild coughs, a hot peppermint infusion can thin secretions, soothe the throat, & provide a comforting refreshing sensation.

Slightly antibacterial and antiviral effect

Thanks to menthol & other active compounds, peppermint tea has a mild effect against certain microbes. It can support the body’s natural defences, particularly in the digestive & respiratory systems.

Focus on our Organic Digestive Mint Herbal Tea

Deliciously fresh, perfectly minty, & slightly spicy, Organic Digestive Mint Herbal Tea is particularly enjoyable after a meal. Its unique blend combines seven plants known to aid digestion & promote well-being after meals. A deliciously effective infusion to soothe digestive discomfort. Caffeine-free, it can be enjoyed at any time of day.

Preparing a good peppermint infusion requires only a few ingredients, but a few simple steps can help you maximise its benefits:

Ingredients

• 1.5 to 2 g of dried peppermint leaves (one heaped tablespoon), or a handful of fresh leaves

• 250 ml of spring or filtered water

• A teapot, teacup, or mug with a lid

Good to know: To fully enjoy its benefits, cover the infusion to preserve its aromatic compounds, such as menthol.

Preparation steps

1. Heat the Water Bring the water to a simmer (around 90°C). It is best not to boil it in order to preserve the aromatic & active compounds.

2. Add the Leaves Place the peppermint leaves in a teapot, an infuser, or directly into your cup. If using fresh leaves, crush them slightly between your fingers to release the aromatic oils.

3. Steep Pour hot water over the leaves. Cover & let steep for 7 to 10 minutes. This steeping time allows both the active compounds & the aromas to be extracted.

4. Strain & Enjoy Carefully strain your infusion, then enjoy it plain, or with a spoonful of honey or a few drops of lemon juice if you wish.

Tip: You can also combine it with other digestive herbs such as lemon balm, fennel, or lemon verbena, depending on your needs.

Peppermint tea can be used in several ways, depending on your needs:

• After meals: Drinking a cup 15 to 30 minutes after eating aids digestion and reduces digestive discomfort.

• In case of nausea: drinking a cup at the first sign of nausea can help to quickly relieve symptoms.

• Bloating or cramps: drinking an infusion when symptoms appear improves digestive comfort.

• In the morning or during the day: one cup for a natural caffeine-free boost, especially in the early afternoon to stimulate alertness.

• As a preventive measure or treatment: drink 1 to 2 cups a day for one to two weeks, alternating with other targeted infusions. Useful for difficult digestion or irritable bowel syndrome.

• Cold version: infuse, chill in the refrigerator, and enjoy with a few ice cubes and a twist of lemon for a refreshing summer drink.

• And in the evening? If you are sensitive to its tonic effect, it is best to consume it in the early evening, as it can delay sleep in some people.

Note: for optimal effect, consume it regularly, but in periods. Avoid continuous use throughout the year.

Other natural alternatives to peppermint tea have similar effects, such as soothing the digestive system, providing a refreshing sensation, or promoting relaxation. They can be used as a supplement or replacement, depending on your needs.

Organic Chamomile Dreams Herbal Tea

This organic blend combines chamomile, lemon balm, linden, poppy, and saffron. It has a gentle and calming effect on the digestive system, ideal for soothing the stomach and mind without stimulating the nervous system. Steep for 5 to 10 minutes in simmering water, drinking one to two cups per day, especially in the evening or when relaxing.

Organic turmeric powder

Rich in anti-inflammatory curcuminoids & antioxidants, this powder aids digestion & supports liver function. It is easy to use on a daily basis: in smoothies, hot dishes, or drinks such as “golden milk.” The recommended dosage is ½ to 1 teaspoon per day to fully benefit from its properties while avoiding excess. Please note that high doses of turmeric are not recommended in cases of gallstones or ulcers, during pregnancy or breastfeeding, & medical advice should be sought in cases of liver disorders or when taking anticoagulants, especially when combined with black pepper.

Discover our Organic Turmeric Powder

France BIO Vegetable Activated Charcoal – 120 capsules

Made from French chestnut charcoal activated by steam, this supplement works by adsorbing intestinal gases to effectively reduce bloating, flatulence, & digestive discomfort. The recommended dosage is 4 capsules (1 g) before meals & 4 capsules immediately after, up to a maximum of 8 per day, to be swallowed with water. It provides a targeted, temporary solution, ideal after a heavy meal or during periods of difficult digestion. Please note that this supplement is for adults only & should be used with caution if you are undergoing medical treatment or are pregnant. Follow the recommended dosage & take it separately from medication & contraceptive pills.

Peppermint tea requires a few precautions:

• Children under 6 years of age: should avoid it due to the presence of menthol.

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women: medical advice is recommended before regular consumption.

• Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or hiatal hernia: menthol may aggravate symptoms by relaxing the oesophageal sphincter.

• Gallstones or liver disorders: seek advice from a healthcare professional.

• Medication: interactions are possible, particularly with antacids & anticoagulants.

• Allergies: although rare, a reaction to menthol or mint may occur.

After a heavy meal, or if your digestion is a little sluggish, consider drinking a warm peppermint infusion around 30 minutes after eating. It will relieve feelings of heaviness & gently support the digestive process.

Stéphanie Catrysse is a naturopath (certified by the FENA), a wellness massage and lymphatic drainage practitioner, and a personal development consultant.

Passionate about alternative medicine, she practices with a holistic approach to health.