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July 24, 2025 3 min read

Introduction: The Mint Tea Dilemma

Mint teas are beloved worldwide for their refreshing aroma and wellness benefits—but not all mint teas are the same. The two most common types, spearmint and peppermint, may seem similar at first sip. However, their flavor profiles, health benefits, and ideal uses vary dramatically.

Whether you’re managing stress, seeking hormone balance, or just craving a cool, flavorful cup, knowing the difference helps you choose better.

Let’s dive into the world of spearmint vs. peppermint tea and discover which one deserves a spot in your daily tea ritual.

🆚 Spearmint vs. Peppermint: What Sets Them Apart?

Feature Spearmint Tea Peppermint Tea
Botanical Name Mentha spicata Mentha × piperita
Menthol Content ~0.5% (mild) ~40% (strong)
Flavor Profile Sweet, soft, grassy Bold, cool, sharp
Caffeine Caffeine-free (unless blended) Caffeine-free
Best For Hormonal support, daily sipping Digestive relief, sinus relief


What Is Spearmint Tea?

Spearmint tea is made from Mentha spicata, a naturally sweet, soft mint. Its low menthol level gives it a gentle flavor, perfect for all-day sipping or mixing with green teas.

Unlike peppermint, spearmint is less aggressive on the palate—making it ideal for those seeking a more balanced, calming cup.

Top Benefits of Spearmint Tea:

  • Helps balance hormones (especially in women with PCOS)

  • May reduce excess facial hair linked to high androgens

  • Soothes mild digestive discomfort

  • Offers anti-inflammatory properties

  • May enhance memory and focus

  • Caffeine-free when consumed alone

🍃 Try This: Our Makalu Mint Green Tea features spearmint, fennel, and eucalyptus blended with full-leaf green tea for a minty, vibrant, antioxidant-rich brew.

Makalu Mint Green Tea tin by Nepali Tea Traders – premium loose leaf green tea with spearmint and fennel


What Is Peppermint Tea?

Peppermint (Mentha × piperita) is a hybrid of spearmint and watermint. With high menthol content, it delivers that instantly cooling, bold punch—perfect when you want a strong pick-me-up or relief from discomfort.

Top Benefits of Peppermint Tea:

  • Eases bloating, gas, and indigestion

  • Helps relieve headaches and migraines

  • Supports respiratory relief (sinus congestion, colds)

  • Calms muscle tension

  • Stress-reducing and mentally refreshing

  • Naturally caffeine-free

Peppermint is often enjoyed after meals, during cold season, or when you need a bold, refreshing boost.

Key Differences Explained

1. Flavor and Aroma

  • Spearmint: Mild, sweet, herbaceous, grassy

  • Peppermint: Sharp, menthol-heavy, icy cool, intense

👉 Spearmint is perfect if you're sensitive to menthol or want something soothing. Peppermint is great for an energizing, sinus-clearing experience.

2. Digestive Support

  • Spearmint: Gentle on the gut, helps with mild bloating and nausea.

  • Peppermint: Strong muscle relaxant in the digestive tract—ideal for IBS, cramps, gas.

If you suffer from serious digestive issues, peppermint offers more intense relief.

3. Hormonal Balance

  • Spearmint is your best bet for PCOS and hormonal acne support. Studies suggest it may lower androgens, which can help regulate periods and reduce unwanted hair.

  • Peppermint does not provide the same hormonal benefits.

4. Stress and Focus

  • Spearmint has calming effects thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties and sweet aroma.

  • Peppermint offers a sharper mental refresh, ideal for tired mornings or headache relief.

5. Caffeine-Free? It Depends.

Both herbs are naturally caffeine-free.

However, blends like Makalu Mint Green Tea combine spearmint with green tea, offering gentle caffeine plus mint’s wellness perks.

🍵 When to Choose Spearmint vs. Peppermint

Choose Spearmint If You:
Prefer mild, sweet flavor
Have sensitive digestion
Want hormonal balance support
Plan to sip throughout the day
Want a kid-friendly mint tea


Choose Peppermint If You:
Love bold, cooling flavors
Struggle with gas or indigestion
Need sinus or headache relief
Want an intense, refreshing tea
Enjoy strong post-meal brews


Featured Blend: Makalu Mint Green Tea

A full-leaf green tea blended with organic spearmint, fennel, and a hint of eucalyptus. The result? A golden liquor bursting with cooling mint, sweet fennel, and bright citrusy undertones.

Flavor Notes: Spearmint, Fennel, Sweet Mint, Dried Citron
Enjoy it: Hot or Iced | Morning or Midday | For Calm Clarity

🔗 Shop Makalu Mint Green Tea Blend


Frequently Asked Questions

Does spearmint tea have caffeine?

No—pure spearmint tea is naturally caffeine-free. But blends like Makalu Mint contain caffeine from green tea.

Can I drink peppermint or spearmint tea daily?

Yes! Both are safe in moderation. If you’re pregnant or have a medical condition, consult your doctor.

Which is better for bloating—spearmint or peppermint?

Peppermint is more effective for acute bloating. Spearmint is gentler and ideal for everyday digestion support.

Can I drink them together?

Absolutely! Many blends use both for a balanced flavor—cooling and sweet.

Sip Your Way to Minty Wellness

Whether you’re team spearmint or team peppermint, you’re making a refreshing choice that supports your body naturally.

Want to go deeper into the world of mint teas?
👉 Explore our Ultimate Guide to Mint Teas: Spearmint, Peppermint & Green Mint Blends for detailed brewing tips, origins, health benefits, and the best blends to try from Nepal.

Looking for the best of both worlds?
🌿 Try our Makalu Mint Green Tea—a Nepali mint blend that’s refreshing, energizing, and soothing in every sip.

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