Mint Tea – 100g

Mint Tea: A Refreshing Burst of Nature

Mint tea, a vibrant and aromatic herbal infusion, is made from steeping fresh or dried leaves of the mint plant, most commonly peppermint or spearmint. Here in Aluva, Kerala, where fresh herbs thrive, a cup of mint tea offers an instant burst of cool, invigorating freshness with every sip. Its crisp, clean taste, often described as cooling and slightly sweet, makes it a popular choice year-round – refreshing in the heat and comforting when you need a warm embrace. Naturally caffeine-free, it’s a wonderfully aromatic beverage that has been enjoyed for centuries, not just for its delightful flavor but also for its widely recognized therapeutic properties.

Health Benefits:

Mint tea is packed with beneficial compounds, especially menthol (in peppermint) and carvone (in spearmint), which contribute to its many health advantages:

Aids Digestion: Perhaps its most famous benefit, mint tea is excellent for soothing an upset stomach, relieving indigestion, bloating, and gas. It relaxes digestive muscles, easing discomfort.

Relieves Headaches & Migraines: The menthol in peppermint can act as a muscle relaxant and pain reliever, helping to alleviate tension headaches.

Freshens Breath: Its strong, pleasant aroma and antimicrobial properties naturally combat bad breath.

Alleviates Cold & Flu Symptoms: The menthol acts as a decongestant, helping to clear nasal passages and ease breathing during colds, coughs, and sinus infections.

Reduces Stress & Anxiety: The aromatic compounds have a calming effect, helping to relax the mind and body.

May Improve Sleep: While not a sedative, its relaxing properties can help promote a more restful sleep by calming the nervous system.

Boosts Energy & Focus: The invigorating aroma can stimulate the mind, enhancing alertness and concentration without caffeine.

How to Prepare Mint Tea:

Preparing a comforting cup of mint tea is incredibly simple:

Boil Water: Bring fresh, filtered water to a rolling boil.

Prepare Mint:

Fresh Mint: Place 7-10 fresh mint leaves (gently bruised or torn to release oils) directly into your cup or teapot.

Dried Mint: Use 1-2 teaspoons of dried loose-leaf mint or a mint tea bag.

Pour Water: Pour the hot water over the mint leaves.

Steep: Cover your cup or teapot to trap the beneficial volatile oils. Steep for 5-10 minutes (shorter for a milder taste, longer for a stronger brew).

Strain & Enjoy: Strain out the leaves (if using fresh or loose leaf) and savor your refreshing mint tea. You can add a slice of lemon or a touch of local honey from Kerala if desired.

Nutritional Facts (Approximate values per 8 oz / 240 ml serving, unsweetened):

Mint tea is very low in calories and doesn’t provide significant macronutrients. Its benefits are derived from its powerful plant compounds.

Energy: 0-2 kcal

Protein: 0 g

Total Fat: 0 g

Carbohydrates: 0-0.5 g

Dietary Fiber: 0 g

Sugars: 0 g

Sodium: 0 mg

Potassium: Trace amounts

Vitamins/Minerals: Contains trace amounts of various compounds (e.g., Vitamin A, Vitamin C, iron, magnesium) but not in quantities to be a primary source.

7 Key Highlighting Points:

Incredibly Refreshing: Offers a distinct cooling sensation and invigorating aroma.

Potent Digestive Aid: Widely recognized for soothing indigestion, bloating, and nausea.

Naturally Caffeine-Free: A perfect choice for any time of day, without stimulant effects.

Aromatically Calming: Helps reduce stress and anxiety, promoting mental relaxation.

Relieves Cold Symptoms: Acts as a natural decongestant, easing breathing.

Freshens Breath Naturally: Its strong menthol content combats bad breath.

Versatile & Easy to Prepare: Delicious hot or iced, and simple to brew from fresh or dried leaves.