Pregnancy brings a lot of joy and happiness to the family and to the new parents to be. But it also gives the mother morning sickness, nausea, and many more unavoidable situations. Following a balanced diet that provides all the vital nutrients like proteins, carbs, vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber to keep the mother’s body healthy. Herbal drinks have the power to curb many problems caused during pregnancy. One of the herbal teas that are avidly used is Peppermint tea during pregnancy. Go through this article to know all about the benefits, side effects of peppermint tea along with DIY preparation.
What Is Peppermint Tea?
The extracts derived from the dried leaves of the peppermint plant is called Peppermint tea. This herbal tea has an infusion of peppermint Mentha Piperita, a cross between watermint and spearmint. That is the reason it is also known as Mint tea, and it is free of caffeine. It also adds freshness to your breath as it has mint in it.
Is Peppermint Tea Safe During Pregnancy?
Peppermint tea is one of the herbal teas that is used prominently used by pregnant women to treat nausea, morning sickness, and gas. It may also increase heartburn, which is a common complaint among pregnant women. It is okay to drink 1 to 2 cups per day, and it is advised not to consume this tea in large quantities as it may cause side effects.
See More: Eucalyptus Oil in Pregnancy
Health Benefits Of Peppermint Tea During Pregnancy:
When compared to the caffeinated drinks and sugary beverages available in the market, herbal teas are a safer option with many health benefits such as hydrating your body, assimilation of nutrients that help your body’s overall health. The benefits that peppermint tea gives your body are:
1. Improves Digestion:
As the pregnancy progresses, digestion and gas become issues to be dealt with daily. Peppermint tea, when you are pregnant, can ease the muscles in your stomach, help with your gastrointestinal and digestive problems. It has a carminative that keeps your body from accumulating gas that results in discomfort. Cramps, bloating, and indigestion can also be reduced with the analgesic nature of this peppermint tea. The process of bile juice production is stimulated with the consumption of peppermint tea, which boost your digestive health and bowel movements.
2. Diminishes Vomiting & Nausea:
If you are an expectant mother, then nausea and vomiting are part of your daily routine. What if we tell you herbal tea such as peppermint tea helps relieves you from nausea that is part and parcel of the early days of the pregnancy. It works as an antispasmodic that helps you control the feeling of vomiting, which is none other than morning sickness during pregnancy time.
3. Reduces Respiratory Issues:
Peppermint tea is an antispasmodic that helps you relieve any respiratory issues. If you are suffering from cough, then this tea helps soothe and relax your throat and chest muscles. It also enables you to reduce the symptoms caused by flu and cold quickly.
4. Boosts Your Immunity:
Peppermint tea also has antibacterial properties that help you overcome common cold, cough, and fever. It also has vitamin B, potassium, and calcium traces that help your body absorb nutrients making it strong enough to fight ailments. It not only helps your body fight symptoms of diseases but prevents reoccurrence.
5. Reduces Stress Level:
Peppermint tea has antioxidants and vitamin C that works as a stress reliever. As the pregnancy progresses, many pregnant women feel nervous and stressed. With the sedative nature of this tea, it relaxes your muscles and puts you in a state of tranquillity and serenity. It also helps you maintain your blood pressure and body temperature with its anti-inflammatory properties.
6. Reduces Fever:
When you are pregnant, and you are down with a fever, you cannot take many antibiotics as it may affect the baby too. Peppermint tea has menthol increases sweating, thereby brings down your body temperature from inside. It also reduces the inflammation and discomfort associated with fever.
See More: Essential Oils for Pregnancy
Side Effects Of Peppermint Tea:
Herbal tea, when taken in small amounts, are safe to consume but in excess, can result in harm for both mother and the baby. But if you don’t exceed the limit, then it is pretty safe. Some of the side effects are:
- Peppermint tea, when taken in excess, makes your uterus relax, which might lead to a miscarriage.
- It is better if you consult a doctor if you have a history of miscarriages before consuming it.
- The medicines that are mandatory during pregnancy may cause a chemical reaction with the peppermint tea.
- If you are a patient suffering from chronic respiratory disorders such as asthma, it may cause allergic reactions and stop drinking it immediately.
- If taken in excess, peppermint tea may cause drowsiness, muscle pain, and reduced heart rates.
How To Prepare & Serve Peppermint Tea During Pregnancy:
Here are some simple DIY recipes to make yourself a quick cup of refreshing peppermint tea. It can be tried with a variety of combinations. Here are a few you can try in the comfort of your home.
A) Simple Peppermint Tea:
Ingredients:
- One spoonful dried peppermint leaves.
- One cup of water.
- Honey to taste.
How To Prepare:
- Boil a cup of water in a bowl.
- Now add the spoonful dried peppermint leaves to the hot water.
- Let the aroma get into the water.
- Remove the bowl from the stove and strain the tea.
- Add honey according to your taste.
B) Ginger Peppermint Tea:
Ingredients:
- One spoon dried peppermint leaves.
- One cup of water.
- Fresh ginger shreds.
- Honey to taste.
How To Prepare:
- Boil a cup of water in a bowl or a pan.
- Add the spoonful dried peppermint leaves and fresh ginger slices to the boiling water.
- Let it steep for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Strain the tea and add honey according to your taste.
C) Licorice Peppermint Tea:
Ingredients:
- One spoonful dried liquorice.
- One spoon dried peppermint leaves.
- One cup of water.
- Honey to taste.
How To Prepare:
- Boil the cup of water in a bowl.
- Add the dried licorice and peppermint leaves to the bowl and let it steep for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Strain the tea and add honey according to your taste.
See More: Oil of Oregano While Pregnant
Herbal teas are very beneficial to anyone, especially pregnant ladies, and they are restricted about what they eat and drink. Peppermint tea during pregnancy is one of those herbal teas that are beneficial when taken in a limited amount, such as 2 or 3 cups a day. Along with a plethora of benefits, it also has some side effects. It is best if you consult a physician before you try to consume peppermint tea.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers:
Q1. When can I drink peppermint tea?
Ans: As peppermint tea is caffeine-free, it can be consumed at any time of the day. Drinking post-meal can aid your digestion. Drinking it at night can make you relaxed and have a peaceful sleep.
Q2. How many cups of peppermint tea can a pregnant lady consume per day?
Ans.: It is advised, especially for pregnant ladies, to limit their consumption of peppermint tea to two to three cups per day. Make sure you do not exceed 200 grams of usage of peppermint tea leaves.
Q3. Is it ok to put milk in peppermint tea?
Ans: Avid tea drinkers prohibit you from adding milk to the tea as it diminishes the minty and menthol taste. By adding milk, it also reflects on weight gain.
Disclaimer: This article or our website is in no way a replacement for a doctor’s advice. We offer you a list of suggestions that you can follow under a physician’s discretion. Since it is for pregnant women, it is always better to take advice before you consume anything.