Mornings can sometimes feel like a rush, leaving little room for mindful habits that nourish both the body and mind. But what if starting your day with something as simple as a cup of spearmint tea could transform your routine? Spearmint tea, with its soothing aroma and refreshing flavour, brings more than just a moment of calm. This herbal tea is packed with antioxidants and nutrients and has been linked to numerous health benefits, especially when consumed on an empty stomach. In this article, we list seven benefits of drinking spearmint tea on an empty stomach and how it can help improve your overall health.
Benefits Of Drinking Spearmint Tea On An Empty Stomach
1. Aids Digestion and Relieves Bloating
One of the most well-known benefits of spearmint tea is its ability to support digestion. According to a 2013 study, the compound (-)-carvone, naturally present in spearmint, has been found to significantly reduce muscle contractions in the digestive tract, which may explain its effectiveness in soothing digestive discomfort.
Drinking it on an empty stomach can help relax the muscles of your digestive tract, alleviating symptoms of bloating and indigestion. The menthol in spearmint acts as a natural antispasmodic, which can ease stomach cramps and discomfort.
2. Improves Hormonal Balance
Spearmint tea has been found to have a positive effect on hormonal balance, particularly in women. In a five-day study involving 21 women with hormone imbalances, drinking two cups of spearmint tea daily was found to lower testosterone levels while increasing Luteinising Hormone (LH), Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH), and estradiol levels.
This benefit is especially valuable for women dealing with hormone-related skin issues, as the tea's anti-androgenic properties can also help manage acne flare-ups.
3. Supports Weight Loss Efforts
If you're looking to shed a few pounds, starting your day with spearmint tea could give you a natural boost in your weight loss journey. Spearmint tea is low in calories and contains compounds that may promote fat breakdown and improve metabolic health. The tea can also act as a natural appetite suppressant, reducing cravings and helping you stay on track with your healthy eating habits.
4. Boosts Mental Clarity and Reduces Stress
Spearmint tea has been traditionally used to calm the mind and reduce stress. Drinking it first thing in the morning can enhance your mental clarity and help reduce anxiety or nervousness. The soothing properties of spearmint work by relaxing the nervous system, making it a great natural remedy for tension headaches and stress-related fatigue.
According to a 2008 study, spearmint can promote relaxation and relieve stress by interacting with GABA receptors in the brain. GABA is a neurotransmitter that regulates nerve activity.
5. Promotes Respiratory Health
If you frequently suffer from respiratory issues, such as seasonal allergies or congestion, spearmint tea could offer some relief. Its anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce swelling in the respiratory tract, making it easier to breathe. The menthol in spearmint also acts as a natural decongestant, helping to clear nasal passages and reduce sinus pressure.
Drinking spearmint tea on an empty stomach may help keep your respiratory system clear and functioning optimally, which is especially beneficial during cold and allergy seasons.
6. Supports Oral Health
Spearmint is often used in oral care products due to its ability to freshen breath and maintain oral hygiene. When consumed as a tea, it provides a similar benefit, helping to kill bacteria in the mouth and prevent bad breath. Starting your day with a cup of spearmint tea on an empty stomach not only leaves your breath feeling fresh but may also help reduce the risk of gum disease and cavities by promoting better oral health overall.
7. Rich in Antioxidants
A 2016 study revealed that spearmint is rich in antioxidant compounds, including rosmarinic acid, flavones, and flavanones like limonene and menthol. These antioxidants play a vital role in neutralising oxidative stress and free radicals, which can damage cells and contribute to chronic conditions, such as heart disease, cancer, and premature ageing. Regularly drinking spearmint tea may help bolster your body's defences against these harmful effects.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information for informational purposes only, hence, we advise you to consult your own professional if you are dealing with any health issues to avoid complications.]