Peppermint Tea: Digestion, Focus and the Right Brew

Peppermint vs spearmint

Peppermint is a hybrid of water mint and spearmint, and it is far higher in menthol — that is the cooling, almost sharp quality. Spearmint is sweeter and rounder, dominated by carvone instead.

If peppermint tastes aggressive to you, or gives you heartburn, spearmint gives you the same fresh character without the bite. Moroccan-style mint tea uses spearmint for exactly this reason.

How to brew it

Dried peppermint takes boiling water and a full five to seven minutes. Cover the cup — menthol is volatile, and an uncovered mug loses most of the aroma in the first minute.

Fresh mint is a different drink: brighter, greener, less medicinal. Use a generous handful of leaves per mug, bruise them lightly against the side with a spoon, and steep for four minutes.

• Dried: 1 tablespoon (2 g) per 8 oz (240 ml), 205°F (96°C), 5–7 minutes covered
• Fresh: a small handful of leaves per 8 oz (240 ml), 205°F (96°C), 4 minutes
• Iced: brew double strength, then pour over ice

What it is good for

Peppermint's best-supported use is digestive: peppermint oil has reasonable evidence for easing IBS symptoms, and peppermint tea is a much milder version of the same thing. Most people simply find it settling after a large meal.

The cooling menthol aroma also makes it a good afternoon cup when you want the ritual of tea without more caffeine — it feels alert without being stimulating.

This guide is general information for everyday drinkers, not medical advice. If you are pregnant, taking medication or managing a health condition, check with a healthcare professional before making an herb part of your daily routine.

The reflux caveat

Peppermint relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter, which is exactly what you do not want if you get heartburn. If a nightly mint cup leaves you with reflux, switch to spearmint, chamomile or rooibos rather than pushing through.