Peppermint Tea: Benefits for Digestion, How to Prepare It and Side Effects
Peppermint Tea: Benefits for Digestion, How to Prepare It and Side Effects IMPORTANT: Although peppermint tea is one of the gentlest and most beloved teas in the world, it is not suitable for everyone. The menthol in mint relaxes the sphincter between the stomach and the esophagus, which is why people who suffer from gastroesophageal reflux (heartburn, acid regurgitation, hiatal hernia) may notice their symptoms getting worse. Peppermint tea should be given with caution to infants and small children, in whom menthol can, in rare cases, trigger a spasm of the airways — never place mint under a baby’s nose. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consume moderate amounts and consult their doctor, since large amounts of mint may affect milk flow. People with gallstones or gallbladder conditions should be careful, because mint stimulates bile flow. If you are taking medication (especially drugs metabolized by the liver, antacids, or blood pressure medicine), ask your doctor or pharmacist before drinking large amounts of peppermint tea regularly. ...