Peppermint Tea – Precautions and Possible Interactions

Peppermint tea is a very popular herbal medicine consumed all over the world. However, most herbs may trigger some side effects and/or interact with other medications (including other herbs). For this reason you should get to know potential side effects, precautions and possible interactions with peppermint. And remember that if you suffer from any serious illnesses, you should always consult consuming herbal medicines with your healthcare provider. Here are five most common and most important precautions and possible interactions with peppermint tea.

Peppermint tea and pregnancy

Peppermint is considered generally safe for pregnant women and drinking one to two cups of peppermint a day is likely to be safe during pregnancy. However, if you want to consume larger amounts of peppermint (to benefit from some of its numerous health benefits), you should consult it with your doctor first.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease and hiatal hernia

Individuals who suffer from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and hiatal hernia can’t drink peppermint tea because it may make the symptoms worse. Peppermint can relax the sphincter which allows stomach acids to flow back into the esophagus. This results in making the symptoms of heartburn and indigestion worse.

Peppermint tea and small children

Do NOT give peppermint in any form to infants or small children. Giving peppermint tea to small children or infants may cause a burning sensation in the mouth. Applying peppermint oil to the face of an infant may result in life-threatening problems with breathing.

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Peppermint tea and blood sugar

Some studies show that taking peppermint for a longer period of time may reduce blood sugar levels which raises the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). If you suffer from diabetes and take any drugs for diabetics, you should avoid drinking peppermint tea because it may possibly reduce your blood sugar to dangerous levels.

Peppermint tea and blood pressure

Some studies show that peppermint may have blood pressure lowering effects. If you suffer from hypertension and take any antihypertensive medication, you should consume peppermint with caution. And if you suffer from hypotension (low blood pressure), you should avoid drinking the tea all together. As mentioned before, peppermint tea is generally safe for most people, but if you have any special medical conditions, it’s always better to stay on the safe side and talk with your doctor first.

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