Spearmint, or Mentha Spicata is a minty perennial herb native to Europe and Asia. It gets its name from its characteristic spear-shaped leaves. For hundreds of years, people have used spearmint for flavor and for alleviating various ailments.

Here are a few  potential health benefits.

1. Spearmint is commonly used to help relieve symptoms of nausea, vomiting, indigestion and gas. The compound carvone, which is naturally found in spearmint, has been shown to strongly inhibit muscle contractions in the digestive tract, which may explain how this herb may help in relieving digestive upsets. As always take caution as this mint is not recommended for those who suffer from gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. This is because mint is said to relax the muscles of the lower esophageal sphincter, which can make acid reflux and GERD symptoms even worse.

2. High in Antioxidants
Spearmint contains a large number of antioxidant compounds which are natural chemical compounds found in plants that help protect against and repair damage caused by free radicals, which are harmful molecules that can lead to oxidative stress.

3. Spearmint tea may help promote relaxation and reduce stress. Studies have shown that spearmint extract was found to decrease anxiety and improve sleep by interacting with the GABA receptors in your brain. The leaves contain menthol, which may have a relaxing, effect on the body.

One way to enjoy this herb is by brewing fresh or dried leaves for tea.

Start by drinking the caffeine free spearmint tea at home and pay attention to any subtle changes you may feel. This herbal tea is delicious hot or cold. Enjoy any time of the day.

Boil 4 cups of water.
1.Remove from heat. Add 2 teaspoons of dried blended spearmint leaves to the water.
2.Cover and steep for five minutes.
3.Strain and drink.

People who are allergic to spearmint should not drink this tea.

ttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23390455/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27527127/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23103297/

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S030881460500885X

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26351584/