Can mint be steeped in water for drinking?
Jun 24, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yu Yongchao
Introduction
In general, mint can be steeped in water and consumed, but excessive intake is not recommended. The amount of mint used should be controlled, as excessive consumption may overly stimulate the gastrointestinal tract due to its cold nature, leading to abdominal pain and diarrhea, especially for individuals with deficiency-cold of the spleen and stomach, who should further reduce the dosage. Pregnant and lactating women should consult a physician before consumption to avoid potential adverse effects of mint's stimulating properties on their health or the fetus.
Generally speaking, mint can be consumed as an infusion, but excessive consumption is not recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:
Mint is rich in volatile oil components such as menthol and mint ketone. When steeped in water, it releases a distinctive cool aroma. Drinking mint infusion can directly stimulate the oral mucosa, not only refreshing the breath but also helping to relieve heat during summer. Its cool and pungent properties can better exert the effect of dispersing wind-heat when consumed as a beverage, and it may help alleviate symptoms such as headache and sore throat caused by wind-heat感冒 (wind-heat感冒 is commonly translated as "wind-heat" in traditional Chinese medicine). Additionally, it can promote the secretion of digestive juices, aiding in the improvement of stomach discomfort and loss of appetite. Moreover, mint infusions contain nutrients such as vitamin C and dietary fiber, which can provide minor nourishment to the body. Adding honey or lemon can enhance the taste and health benefits.
Consumption of mint infusion should be controlled, as excessive intake may overly stimulate the gastrointestinal tract due to its cold nature, leading to abdominal pain and diarrhea; individuals with a cold constitution of the spleen and stomach should especially reduce consumption. Pregnant and lactating women should consult a physician before consumption to avoid potential adverse effects from mint's stimulating properties on the body or fetus.
