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Peppermint—the word conjures up images of bubble gum, right? But, peppermint is also used to provide flavor to various other products. Some of them are toothpaste and tea. It is an active ingredient in various medicinal and cosmetic products. Peppermint plants are generally found in Europe and Asia. Some species also grow in Australia, South Africa and South America. The plant blooms from July till August. The leaves of this flavorful plant are dark green in color.
Peppermint tea is an amazing way to enjoy the medicinal properties of peppermint. It is caffeine- free and is known for its healing properties. The tea is prepared from dried leaves of the peppermint plant. It supports the immune system and can help lower stress and fatigue. But, there are some surprising peppermint tea effects that can be harmful.
Fun FactDried peppermint leaves were found in ancient Egyptian pyramids dating back to 1000 B.C.
10 Side Effects Of Peppermint Tea
Here are some of the peppermint tea side effects that can make you swear off this flavorful drink:
1. Not Advisable For Individuals With Indigestion Problem
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Individuals suffering from indigestion should consult their doctor before consuming peppermint tea. It might interfere with their indigestion medication, causing adverse side effects.
Related: 14 Home Remedies For Digestive Problems And Prevention Tips
2. Lowers Sugar Level
Peppermint tea can lower the blood sugar levels in the body. As a result, this tea might interact with your diabetic drugs. So, individuals who are diabetic should avoid this tea or only take it after consulting their doctor.
3. Allergic Reactions
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Side effects of peppermint tea can also result in developing allergic reactions (1), (2). Headache, unsteady feet and mouth sores are some of the symptoms of peppermint allergy. When you notice such symptoms, avoid taking the tea or consult a doctor.
Related: 14 Best Home Remedies For Skin Allergies | Causes And Symptoms
4. Not Advisable For Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease
Those with Hiatal Hernia or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) should avoid peppermint tea. While some people get relief from GERD symptoms by drinking peppermint tea, others report worsening their symptoms. Peppermint relaxes the esophageal sphincter, which can result in stomach acids leaking into the esophagus.
5. Emmenagogue Effects
Peppermint oil has emmenagogue effects, which means that it might stimulate uterine blood flow and put pregnancy at risk (4). Though peppermint tea contains less amount of peppermint, it is better to avoid peppermint tea or consult your doctor before consuming a cup. Pregnant and lactating women should stay away from peppermint in all its forms to be safe.
6. Strong For Infants
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Peppermint tea is considered to be very strong for small children and babies. It might cause breathing difficulties and a burning sensation in the mouth. It is better to consult your doctor before giving it to your infants and children. No matter the temptation, avoid giving even small doses of peppermint tea to your child.
Related: 9 Tips To Make Your Baby’s Skin Glow
7. Drug Interactions
Peppermint tea also interferes with some specific medications. Drugs taken for stomach acid, blood pressure, cyclosporine and diabetes, interact with peppermint tea and cause side effects (5). So, if you are on medication for any of these health issues, rather say no to peppermint tea.
8. Contamination
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not give license for the production of herbal supplements and tea. So there is no guarantee that the peppermint tea you are consuming is free from contamination.
9. Stomach Disorders
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One of the major side effects of peppermint tea include serious stomach disorders. Diarrhea, muscle pain, cramping, drowsiness, tremors and a drop in heart rate are some of the side effects of the over consumption of peppermint tea.
10. Stomach Ulcers
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Here comes a serious side effect of peppermint tea! Many doctors advise that people with stomach ulcers should avoid peppermint tea. It is important to avoid it especially because it contains menthol, which can aggravate the ulcer and cause further damage.
Peppermint tea is considered to be effective and safe, when you use it with care. It is better however to consult your doctor if you are concerned, before drinking peppermint tea.
Stylecraze SaysWhile there are no established limits on consumption, you should stick to 1 to 2 cups of peppermint tea daily.
Infographic: Major Side Effects Of Peppermint Tea
Peppermint tea is a refreshing herbal tea with a multitude of benefits. However, excess consumption of this tea may lead to several side effects. While we have covered all the negative effects of peppermint tea in the article, there are a few serious side effects of this herbal concoction that you must be aware of. Click on the infographic below to learn about the unexpected side effects of drinking peppermint tea.
Peppermint is a refreshing, aromatic herb that has been used for its therapeutic properties. Its tea is also considered safe for consumption and is loaded with many nutrients. However, having excess peppermint tea may cause some adverse effects. It may not be suitable for people with indigestion. It also may cause allergic reactions, lower blood sugar levels way too much, and interact with certain drugs. Hence, check with your doctor if you have any health concerns before taking peppermint. Moderate intake is advised.
