Mint
Mentha × piperita
T Traditional usePeppermint leaf tea is traditionally used for indigestion and wind; it can make heartburn worse in people with acid reflux.
Image: Herbadex Botanik Stüdyosu · Özel Üretim
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At a glance
The EMA classes peppermint (Mentha × piperita) leaf as a traditional herbal medicine for indigestion and wind. The assessment rests on long-standing use, not clinical trials. Other culinary mint species are outside its scope.
Updated: October 15, 2026
✓ This herb record is backed by official European Medicines Agency (EMA HMPC) herbal monographs.
What is it used for?
T Traditional use
Traditional use: Based on at least 30 years of documented traditional use rather than clinical trials.
How do we rate evidence levels? →Traditionally used to relieve digestive complaints such as indigestion and wind. [1]
How is it used?
Tea
Pour 100–150 ml of boiling water over 1.5–3 g of dried peppermint leaf.
Amount: 3 times daily
Duration limit: See a doctor if no better after 2 weeks
[1]Safety & interactions
Minimum age: 4 years
- Avoid if you have acid reflux or heartburn; it may get worse.
- Take care if you have gallstones or other bile duct problems.
- Not recommended under 4 years; the dose for ages 4–11 is 1–2 g.
- Do not use if you are allergic to menthol or peppermint.
Drug interactions
No recorded interactions
Side effects
- Worsening of acid reflux and heartburn (frequency unknown)
⚕ When to see a doctor
- If high fever, shortness of breath or purulent/bloody phlegm develops
- If symptoms do not improve within 1–2 weeks or worsen
- If severe abdominal pain, jaundice, rash or allergic reaction occurs
Did you know?
Peppermint leaf tea is assessed from age 4; peppermint oil is not used in young children. [1]
Frequently asked questions
Is peppermint tea good for heartburn?
No. The EMA advises people with acid reflux (heartburn) to avoid peppermint leaf, because heartburn may increase.
How do I make peppermint tea?
Pour 100–150 ml of boiling water over 1.5–3 g of dried leaf. Adults can drink it 3 times a day.
Can I drink peppermint tea during pregnancy?
Safety in pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established, so the EMA does not recommend medicinal use. Small culinary amounts are not covered by this assessment.
Can children drink peppermint tea?
Children over 4 can use 1–2 g three times daily; it is not recommended under 4.
Sources
Cite This Page
Mint (Mentha × piperita). Herbadex — Doğal Şifa Rehberi (2026). https://herbadex.com/en/herb/mint/
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