Spearmint Tea vs. Peppermint Tea: Health Benefits, Differences & Which One to Choose
Mint teas have long been celebrated for their refreshing flavors, natural caffeine-free energy, and medicinal properties. But did you know that spearmint tea and peppermint tea are actually different cousins in the mint family?
While they share a fresh aroma and soothing taste, their menthol content, health benefits, and flavor profiles vary significantly. In this guide, we’ll explore everything from digestion and hormonal support to stress relief and bad breath remedies, helping you choose the best mint tea for your needs.
What Is Spearmint Tea?
Spearmint tea is made from the spearmint plant (Mentha spicata). It’s named after its spear-shaped leaves and has been used for centuries, not just for tea but also in cooking, toothpaste, gum, and even skincare.
For a richer and more robust tea experience, try our Himalayan Spearmint Black Tea Blend—a perfect fusion of spearmint's refreshing sweetness with the bold depth of black tea.
Flavor Profile of Spearmint Tea
- Mild and sweet
- Less intense than peppermint
- Smooth and easy on the palate
- Ideal for sipping all day
It’s the kind of tea you can sip all day without it overwhelming your palate.
Health Benefits of Spearmint Tea:
- Supports Hormonal Balance: Especially beneficial for women with PCOS.
- Reduces Excess Facial Hair: Helps manage androgen-driven hair growth.
- Aids Digestion: Gentle relief for mild upset stomach, bloating, and abdominal pain.
- Freshens Breath Naturally: Essential oils combat bad breath.
- Cognitive Support: May enhance memory and focus.
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Naturally Caffeine-Free: Great for kids and evening sipping.
What Is Peppermint Tea?
Peppermint tea comes from the peppermint plant (Mentha × piperita), which is actually a hybrid of spearmint and watermint. Think of peppermint as the bolder, more dramatic cousin in the mint family.
Flavor Profile of Peppermint Tea
- Strong, cool, and refreshing
- Sharp menthol kick
- Leaves a lingering cooling sensation
- Perfect caffeine-free pick-me-up
It’s perfect when you want something bold or need a little pick-me-up without caffeine.
Health Benefits of Peppermint Tea
- Soothes Digestive Issues: Helps with bloating, gas, indigestion, and abdominal pain.
- Relieves Headaches & Migraines: Menthol helps relax tension and improve circulation.
- Reduces Stress & Anxiety: Promotes relaxation for physical tension relief.
- Supports Respiratory Health: Clears nasal congestion naturally.
- Acts as a Natural Pain Reliever: Anti-inflammatory compounds reduce discomfort.
- Improves Breath: Peppermint leaves and essential oils combat odor.
Spearmint Tea vs. Peppermint Tea: The Key Differences
1. Menthol Content — The “Cool” Factor
- Peppermint is loaded with menthol, giving it that icy-cool sensation and strong flavor. This menthol content is why peppermint tea is great for clearing sinuses, soothing headaches, and easing muscle tension.
- Spearmint has way less menthol, which makes it milder and sweeter. It’s perfect if you want a refreshing tea without the punch-in-the-face coolness of peppermint.
2. Digestive Benefits — Who Wins?
Both teas help with digestion, but peppermint tea takes the crown here. Its high menthol content relaxes the muscles in your digestive tract, making it great for:
- Bloating
- Gas
- Indigestion
- Stomach cramps
Spearmint tea, on the other hand, is gentler. It’s helpful for mild tummy troubles but won’t be as powerful as peppermint when you’re feeling really uncomfortable.
3. Hormonal Health — A Spearmint Specialty
This is where spearmint tea shines. Studies suggest it can help balance hormones, especially in women with conditions like PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome). It may even reduce excess hair growth caused by hormonal imbalances.
Peppermint tea doesn’t have these hormonal benefits, so if that’s your focus, spearmint is the better choice.
4. Stress Relief — Which Is More Calming?
Both teas are calming because they’re caffeine-free, warm, and soothing. But they offer different vibes:
- Peppermint tea is like taking a deep, refreshing breath — it clears your head and relaxes tense muscles, which can be great if your stress shows up as headaches or physical tension.
- Spearmint tea offers a gentler calm. Its mild sweetness feels like a cozy hug, perfect for winding down after a long day.
When to Choose Spearmint vs. Peppermint Tea
Choose Spearmint Tea If You:
- Prefer a mild, sweet flavor
- Want hormonal support
- Have sensitive digestion
- Enjoy sipping tea throughout the day
- Need a gentle option for children
Choose Peppermint Tea If You:
- Love bold, refreshing flavors
- Need quick relief from bloating, cramps, or headaches
- Are dealing with colds or nasal congestion
- Want a natural anti-inflammatory tea
Can You Drink Both?
Absolutely! Mixing spearmint and peppermint allows you to enjoy:
- The bold, cooling menthol of peppermint
- The sweet, soothing flavor of spearmint
It’s a perfect balance for both flavor and wellness benefits.
How to Brew Your Mint Tea Perfectly
- Boil water (around 190–200°F for herbal tea)
- Add 1 tsp dried leaves (or 1 tea bag)
- Steep 5–7 minutes
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Strain & sip
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Optional: Add honey, lemon, or ginger for extra flavor and digestive support
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Cold brew: Steep overnight in fridge for refreshing iced tea
The Final Sip: Which Mint Tea Wins?
At the end of the day, it’s not about which tea is “better” — it’s about what you need:
- Need bold flavor and quick relief from headaches or bloating? Peppermint tea has your back.
- Want a mild, sweet tea to support hormonal health or sip all day? Spearmint tea is your new best friend.
Or better yet, keep both in your tea stash. Because sometimes you need bold, and sometimes you need sweet — and there’s no reason you can’t have both.
Buy26° Himalayas Loose Leaf Spearmint Black Tea |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which is better for digestion — spearmint or peppermint?
Peppermint is stronger for digestive issues like bloating, cramps, and indigestion because of its high menthol content. Spearmint is gentler, making it better for mild discomfort.
2. Does spearmint tea help with weight loss?
While spearmint tea isn’t a magic weight-loss drink, it can support healthy habits by reducing cravings and aiding digestion.
3. Is peppermint tea safe to drink every day?
Yes! Peppermint tea is safe for daily drinking. Just be mindful if you have acid reflux, as it can sometimes make symptoms worse.
4. Can kids drink spearmint or peppermint tea?
Spearmint tea is milder and generally safe for kids in small amounts. Peppermint tea is safe too, but its strong menthol might be too intense for very young children. Always consult a doctor if unsure.
5. Which tea is better for stress — spearmint or peppermint?
Both are calming. Peppermint is great for stress-related headaches or muscle tension, while spearmint offers a softer, cozy kind of calm.
6. Can I drink spearmint and peppermint tea together?
Definitely! Mixing them gives you a balanced flavor — sweet from the spearmint and refreshing from the peppermint.
