Mint Tea

What Is Mint Tea?

Mint tea is a refreshing, menthol-scented herbal tea brewed from fresh or dried leaves of mint plants (Mentha species). It is one of the most widely consumed herbal teas in the world and naturally contains no caffeine.

The intensity of its aroma varies by the type of mint used (field mint, sweet mint, and others); sweetened mint tea is a traditional offering in North African and Middle Eastern cuisines.

Mint Tea Nutrition

Unsweetened brewed mint tea is practically calorie-free and contains no significant macronutrients; for that reason, no numerical nutrition table is provided. The menthol and essential oils in the leaves provide its characteristic freshness.

What Are the Benefits of Mint Tea?

Mint tea is traditionally consumed after meals for a refreshing effect; its menthol aroma makes it a popular soothing drink. Research on its compounds is ongoing, but the findings have not led to definitive health recommendations.

This information is general; mint tea is an herbal tea, not a medical treatment.

How to Choose Mint Tea

Fresh mint should have bright green, unwilted leaves; dried mint should retain its green color and have a strong menthol aroma.

• Fresh mint should be bright green, firm, and unwilted.
• Dried mint should retain its green color and not have turned brown.
• It should have a strong menthol aroma when rubbed.

How to Store Mint Tea

Fresh mint wrapped in damp paper keeps in the refrigerator for a few days; dried mint can be stored in a sealed jar for about 1 year in a cool, dark place.

Using Mint Tea in the Kitchen

Mint tea can be enjoyed hot or cold with ice and lemon; brewed mint infusion is also used to add a refreshing note to lemonade and syrups.

How to Make Fresh Mint Tea

Add a handful of washed fresh mint leaves to a pot of hot water and steep for 4–5 minutes; strain and drink with honey and lemon if desired.

Iced Mint Tea

Mix brewed and cooled mint tea with ice, a lemon slice, and fresh mint for a refreshing summer drink.

What Recipes Use Mint Tea?

Hot mint tea, iced mint lemonade, Moroccan-style sweet mint tea, and mixed herbal teas are among the best-known uses of mint tea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does mint tea contain caffeine?

No. Mint tea is an herbal tea and contains no caffeine, so it can be enjoyed throughout the day and in the evening.

Is tea made with fresh or dried mint better?

Fresh mint gives a brighter, fresher aroma; dried mint is available year-round and has a more intense menthol flavor. Both are good choices.

Why is mint tea drunk after meals?

Because of its refreshing menthol aroma, mint tea is traditionally consumed after meals; this is mostly a palate-cleansing custom.

Can children drink mint tea?

Lightly brewed mint tea is commonly consumed; however, consulting a doctor before giving herbal tea to very young children or babies is recommended.

Can mint tea be drunk cold?

Yes. Brewed and cooled mint tea is enjoyed as a refreshing cold drink with ice and lemon, especially in summer.