10 Benefits of Spearmint Tea
Spearmint tea is a popular drink consumed all over the world. Its scientific name is Mentha spicata. The leaf gets its name spearmint from its spear shape. The leaf now grows all over the world, but its first use can be traced to Europe and Asia.
Spearmint has a similar taste to peppermint. Both are used to flavor gum, toothpastes, mouthwash, and even candy. One way to enjoy the leaf is brewed into a tea.
Not only is the mint a flavor-enhancing ingredient, it is also a leaf which holds many health benefits. Many of its health benefits are due to its nutrient density and high antioxidant content.
Benefit #1: Good for Digestion
Nausea, vomiting, and gas are common issues that those with digestion problems face. Spearmint has been used as a common reliever to these issues, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which is a common digestion problem that causes bloating, gas, constipation, and diarrhea.
In an 8-week study, 32 people with IBS were given spearmint. At the end of the study, those who received the spearmint product reported feeling less abdominal pain and discomfort from their IBS in comparison to the control group, who received a placebo. In addition, one study found that the mint eased the effects of vomiting and nausea in those who were undergoing chemotherapy.
Benefit #2: May Aid Women with Hormone Imbalances
Many women face issues with hormone imbalances. This may cause irregular periods, difficulty losing weight, acne, hair growth on face, fatigue, and even infertility. Many of these women have higher levels of testosterone than normal for women. However, studies in women have shown that spearmint can decrease testosterone while increasing female hormones. Female hormones are necessary for healthy periods and ovulation.
In one study, women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) drank spearmint tea twice a day for 30 days. After 30 days, it was found that the women had lower testosterone levels and higher follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) in comparison to the group who received the placebo.
Benefit #3: May Reduce Facial Hair in Women
Hirsutism is a condition of unwanted, male pattern hair growth in women. The result of this condition is dark coarse hair on the chin, chest, and upper lip. It often makes women feel very self-conscious and ashamed as our society can be brutal and judgmental. The cause of hirsutism is high levels of male hormones.
In Middle Eastern countries, the women will use spearmint as an herbal remedy to the condition. Recent studies have backed its use. In a 5-day study, 12 women with PCOS who also had facial hair consumed two cups of spearmint tea a day. After the 5 days, the women’s testosterone levels were decreased. Although the study was short, the decrease was impressive. In another study, the women also drank two cups of spearmint tea a day for 30 days. After the trial, they reported a decrease in facial hair.
Benefit #4: May Help Improve Memory
With an increase in stimuli and all the information we are required to learn for school or work, sometimes it feels that memorizing everything is impossible. Well there is some evidence that spearmint may able to help improve memory.
In an animal study, it was found that mice given an extract of spearmint performed better on a maze test then mice who did not get the spearmint. In a human study, older adults with memory problems were given spearmint supplements daily. After the trial, participants experienced improved working memory.
Benefit #5: May Fight Bacterial Infections
Many people chew gum. For some people, it helps keep their breath fresh, and others chew gum when they are anxious. Spearmint gum is a popular flavor, and some studies show spearmint may not only help with keeping our breath fresh, but also fighting off bacteria.
Fighting off bacteria in our mouth is essential. If plaque build ups, it can eat away at our gums which support our teeth. If our gums are chewed away, this can lead to gum disease, which can develop into periodontal disease if untreated. Studies have found that spearmint is very effective in fighting against several types of bacteria. It has also been linked to fighting off bacteria that can cause foodborne illnesses.
Benefit #6: May Help Lower Blood Sugar
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease which develops when an individual’s level of glucose in the blood is too high. If left untreated, this can lead to several health problems such as kidney disease, blindness, loss of limbs, stroke, and even death. Diabetes is a very relevant issue in the United States and its prevalence is spreading worldwide.
Spearmint tea may help lower blood sugar in people whom have diabetes. In an animal study, rats were given spearmint extract. It was reported that the rats with diabetes had a significant lower blood sugar after the trial. Human studies on the issue are still premature; however, research on the topic will surely continue.
Benefit #7: May Help Reduce Stress
Work, school, friends, and family life can be very stressful. Spearmint tea may be the stress reliever you never knew you needed. In South American countries, the tea is commonly used as a destress herbal tea.
Studies have supported the tea as being able to reduce stress. In an animal study, the tea was given to rats. A decrease in anxiety and improved sleep was reported. The reason behind the tea’s relaxation capabilities is believed to be due to the menthol in spearmint. Menthol has a sedative effect on the body.
Benefit #8: May Improve Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is a huge problem in the United States. The condition can lead to heart disease, and if left untreated can cause serious heart problems. Studies show spearmint may help lower high blood pressure.
There is a compound in spearmint called carvone. This compound has been linked to lowering blood pressure. In one animal study, the compound was shown to be effective in reducing blood vessel contractions. It was more effective in doing this in comparison to some blood pressure medications.
Benefit #9: May Help with Arthritis Pain
Arthritis causes painful inflammation and stiffness of the joints. Over 50 million Americans have arthritis. This makes arthritis the number one cause of disability in the country. The condition occurs when the cartilage which protects the joints in the body decrease. Genetics plays a huge role as well as diet and activity level.
Spearmint essential oil may help with the pain that comes with the condition. In one large review, it was found that spearmint essential oils helped relieve arthritis pain when rubbed over the body. In addition, in a 16-week study with 62 people with arthritis, spearmint tea consumed twice a day reduced many arthritis pain-related symptoms.
Benefit #10: Skin Treatment
Spearmint tea is very rich in antioxidants, which is very beneficial for the skin. This is because antioxidants tend to be antiaging. This means they prevent cellular damage and help keep healthy cells alive. In addition, the antioxidants in spearmint tea are anti-inflammatory.
Drinking spearmint tea can cure skin problems such as acne, dark spots, dullness, and wrinkles. Therefore, spearmint tea leaves are also used for face packs and face massages and in preparing drugs and ointments.
