Peppermint tea

Skrevet av Kjetil Frøitland Eide
Peppermint bush

Peppermint is one of the world's most famous herbs, loved for its fresh, cooling flavor and versatility. In our tea world , peppermint tea is a classic – both as a pure herbal tea and as a flavoring in a variety of blends, such as the popular Moroccan mint , with green tea.

Let’s get this out of the way first: what’s the difference between mint and peppermint? Peppermint (Mentha × piperita) is a natural cross between water mint and spearmint, and is characterized by its high concentration of menthol—what gives it its intense, cooling flavor. Peppermint differs from regular mint by having a stronger, more penetrating aroma, and is more commonly used in teas and essential oils. Spearmint, also known as spearmint, is often used in chewing gum.

  • Spearmint has a mild, sweeter flavor and is often used in cooking and chewing gum.
  • Peppermint has a higher menthol content and provides a stronger, cooler flavor – and is more common in teas and essential oils.

What is peppermint tea?

Peppermint tea is an herbal tea made by steeping dried or fresh peppermint leaves in hot water. Since it is not a “real” tea (it does not contain leaves from the tea plant), it is naturally caffeine-free and therefore perfect for both morning and evening. The taste is easily recognizable: fresh, cool and slightly sweet – often with a menthol-like tingle on the palate. Many drink it for its own pleasure, but peppermint has also gained a reputation for having certain benefits.

Cup of peppermint tea

What is peppermint good for?

Although we do not want to write about health claims, it is worth mentioning some of the known uses for peppermint, based on tradition and experience:

  • Digestion: Many people drink peppermint tea after a heavy meal, and the herb is known to relieve upset stomachs or bloating.
  • Fresh breath: The menthol content not only provides a fresh taste – it can also contribute to a feeling of cleanliness in the mouth.
  • Relaxation: Its cool, soothing flavor makes peppermint tea a popular evening drink.
  • Caffeine-free option: Perfect for those who want to avoid caffeine, without compromising on taste.
  • Refreshing: In its cold version, peppermint tea is a lovely thirst quencher on hot days.

Is peppermint good for the stomach?

Peppermint is perhaps best known for its ability to support a calm and balanced digestion. Many people find that a cup of peppermint tea after a meal can help relieve feelings of bloating, mild nausea or upset stomach. The menthol in peppermint can relax the muscles in the stomach and intestines, allowing gas and digestion to move through the system more easily. Therefore, it is not uncommon for peppermint tea to be recommended as a natural and tasty part of everyday life – especially after heavy or large meals.

Is peppermint tea healthy?

Peppermint contains no calories, is naturally caffeine-free, and is full of flavor – making it a great alternative to sugary drinks. It also contains natural oils and antioxidants that have been used in folk medicine for centuries. That doesn’t mean it’s a miracle drink – but for many, peppermint tea is a drink that both tastes good and can feel soothing.

Here you can see our selection of peppermint tea.


Om forfatteren:

Kjetil Frøitland Eide profil bilde Kjetil Frøitland Eide er en anerkjent te-ekspert og grunnleggeren av Norges Tehus. Med over 15 års erfaring har han bygget opp en solid kunnskap om te og har mottatt flere utmerkelser, inkludert tre stjerner i den prestisjetunge Great Taste Awards. Les mer