How to Make Peppermint Tea

Peppermint tea is one of the sweet beverages that brings to the table many health benefits. Peppermint falls between water-mint and spearmint. Peppermint is very rich in methanol. It is commonly used in ice creams, candies, and toothpaste.  Mint can also be spiced using various ingredients, making it a great base tea. Read on to know more about the tea and know how to brew it at home to reap the health benefits. 

Health Benefits of Peppermint Tea

Mint tea is known for multiple health benefits, but it is well-known for the digestive system. It eliminates stomach cramps, nausea, and gas thanks to its antispasmodic effects. The latter help relax the muscles that react and result in cramping and bloating. Studies have also shown that mint tea possesses anti-parasitic properties that fight giardia and other infections that cause digestive problems. Antioxidants in the tea also increase the production of bile, which ensures efficient breaking down and processing of food. To reap these benefits, drink the tea during or after a meal.  If you want to start your day full of energy and focus, you do not have to go for that cup of coffee, a cup of mint tea would just do. Studies show that the tea boosts the memory, and protects the user against Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease.  This explains the rising popularity of peppermint tea. Here are peppermint tea recipes that will help you make a cup of fresh mint tea or in some cases spice it up a little.

Peppermint Tea Recipes

Thanks to its great flavor, it is pretty easy to make mint tea. You can play with it and try it with different flavours until you find one that knocks off your socks.  Here are options to choose from;

Standard Mint Tea

Ingredients:

• Sweetener (optional)
• 2 cups hot water
• A handful of fresh mint leaves, one peppermint tea bag/ 2 teaspoons of dried mint leaves. 

Instructions: If you are using tea bags, use and follow the instructions of the manufacturer. Fresh tea leaves may have a lengthy procedure, but it is easy and fast. Preferably using a motor, grind the leaves to get the oil that flavors the tea. If you are using loose leaf teas, remember to use an infuser to contain them. Unlike other teas that we recommend you to use boiling water, for peppermint it is different. We require you to boil the water and then let it cool for a minute or two – it is best served with hot water. Pour your water to a cup and add  the tea leave or tea bags. Using a lid, cover your tea and let it steep for a few minutes. Dry leaves takes at least 5 minutes to taste while fresh leaves may take up to 8 minutes. The longer the steeping time, the stronger the flavor. Taste your tea after 5 minutes of steeping and then taste it in 45 seconds intervals until you achieve your desired taste.  Add any sweetener or lemon to flavor your tea.

Iced Peppermint Tea

Ingredients:

• 2 teaspoons of honey
• 4 cups of hot water
• Lemon juice or 2 freshly squeezed limes
• 3 peppermint tea bags, 4 teaspoons dried mint leaves or 2 handfuls of fresh peppermint leaves

Instructions: Harvest your fresh peppermint leaves, wash, dry and then crash to get the flavor Using a stove or kettle, boil your water and then let it cool for 2 minutes. Add your fresh leaves and let it steep for 5 minutes. Strain the tea to remove the dry or fresh as you pour the water into a jug. If you used tea bags, discard them. Add honey, sugarcane or brown sugar into the jug – the sweeteners dissolve faster in warm water. You can also use sugar syrups or pure sugar. Add the lemon juice or squeeze the two limes into the tea. Give the tea a few minutes to cool to room temperature then place it in the fridge for 3-4 hours.  Put 3-4 ice cubes in glasses and add your tea. Garnish your drink with lime and serve it immediately.

Peppermint and Ginger Tea

Ingredients:

• 4 lemon slices
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 cups of water
• Sweetener (optional)
• 1 handful of fresh mint leaves
• 1 2-inch piece of ginger

Instructions: Put your water in a bowl and add the ginger and 3 slices of lemon ,and boil the water. Add peppermint leaves and let them simmer for 8-10 minutes at medium heat. If you want to sweeten the tea add agave or honey – they are great options for organic tea. If you want an all-natural taste, you can steep a stevia leaf and steep with the peppermint leaves. Using a mesh strainer, remove the ginger and the leaves. Garnish your tea with a mint sprig, lemon and cinnamon stick.

Homemade Chocolate Mint Tea Blend

Ingredients:

• 1/2 Cup Cacao Nibs
• 1/2 Cup Pu-erh Tea
• 1/2 Cup Dried and Crumbled Mint Leaves

Instructions: Carefully mix all ingredients Store the mixture in an airtight jar. For every tablespoon use 8 ounces of boiling water Garnish depending on your preferences. You can add a drop of cream, and drink it with grounded gingerbread and crushed candy canes.

Fruit-Infused Peppermint Tea

Summertime is an excellent time to test this type of mint tea. You can try it with any desired fruit. The tea blends perfectly with citrus fruits, figs, and berries. Tree fruits such as apricots, plums, and cherries can also be good. Stone fruits like pears and apples increase the peppermint flavor. For an earthy flavor, infuse mint tea in herbs and flower.  Follow the procedure and use any herbs or fruits of your choice to make your fruit-infused mint tea; Ingredients:

• 1 cup fruit or 3/4 cup herbs and flowers
• Ice
• 1 cup of fresh mint leaves
• 5 cups boiling water

Instructions: Boil water and add fresh mint leaves. Add flowers and herbs at this juncture if you have any. Simmer and steep the mixture for 10 minutes.  Strain the tea leaves and add the sweeteners while the water is hot. Add the desired fruit and refrigerate for 3-4 hours. Add the ice in glasses and pour in your tea. Love Your Peppermint The benefits of peppermint tea are great, whether it’s cold or hot. Try different flavors until you get your all-time peppermint tea. Drink up and get healthy.