Can You Drink Peppermint Tea While Pregnant?

Pregnancy can bring on all kinds of new sensations — some magical, some a little uncomfortable. If you're navigating nausea, bloating, or sleepless nights, you might be reaching for natural remedies to help you feel your best.

Peppermint tea is a popular go-to for many expecting moms thanks to its soothing aroma and calming properties, but is it safe to consume during pregnancy? Let’s take a look.

What Is Peppermint Tea?

Peppermint tea is a caffeine-free herbal infusion made from the dried leaves of the peppermint plant (Mentha × piperita), a hybrid of watermint and spearmint.

Known for its refreshing flavor and cooling effect, peppermint contains menthol, a compound that gives it both its distinct taste and soothing properties [*].

Is Peppermint Tea Safe During Pregnancy?

Yes, when consumed in moderation, peppermint tea is generally considered safe during pregnancy.

In a major study of over 3,000 pregnant women using data from the Quebec Pregnancy Registry, peppermint tea was one of the four most commonly consumed herbal products. The study found no significant link between its use and low birth weight or other negative pregnancy outcomes [*].

However, not all research tells the same story. An animal study using Mentha spicata, which is one of the parent plants of peppermint, found potential concerns. Rats given a concentrated tea made from Mentha spicata for 30 days showed signs of uterine tissue damage, including oxidative stress and inflammation [*].

While this study was conducted on rats and used significantly higher concentrations than a typical human tea intake, it does highlight the importance of moderation. Herbal remedies, even familiar ones like peppermint, can have effects that vary with dosage and individual sensitivity.

Benefits of Peppermint Tea While Pregnant

Peppermint tea offers several benefits that make it helpful during pregnancy. Here are a few perks that come with enjoying it:

Eases Nausea and Morning Sickness

Peppermint tea’s natural aroma and menthol content can help reduce feelings of nausea, especially during the first trimester [*].

Relieves Bloating and Indigestion

Digestive slowdown is common during pregnancy. Peppermint tea may help relax the muscles of the digestive tract, promoting smoother digestion and reducing bloating or gas [*].

Helps With Tension Headaches

Peppermint tea may help ease tension headaches during pregnancy due to its natural menthol content, which has muscle-relaxing and pain-relieving properties. While most evidence supports topical peppermint oil, drinking the tea may offer similar mild relief [*].

Soothes Muscle Cramps

Peppermint tea may help relieve muscle cramps during pregnancy due to its natural antispasmodic and muscle-relaxing properties. Studies on peppermint essential oil show it can improve physical performance and reduce muscle tension by relaxing smooth muscles and enhancing circulation [*].

Pregnancy and Peppermint Tea Precautions

While peppermint tea is widely used and considered safe, it’s important to be mindful of a few potential concerns.

Limit Intake to 1 to 2 Cups Per Day

A study from the Quebec Pregnancy Registry found no link to low birth weight with moderate use, but large amounts of any herbal product should be avoided [*].

Be Aware of Allergic Reactions

If you have never tried peppermint before or have developed new sensitivities during pregnancy, monitor for any unusual symptoms such as a rash or digestive upset [*].

Avoid if You Have Reflux

While peppermint can soothe indigestion and ease IBS symptoms, it may actually worsen heartburn. This is because peppermint can relax the muscle that keeps stomach acid out of the esophagus, potentially triggering or intensifying acid reflux [*].

Discuss Medications With Your Doctor

A 2011 study found that almost 70 percent of women using herbal products during pregnancy were also taking prescribed medications. Interactions can occur, even with tea, so make sure your healthcare provider knows everything you are taking [*].

Can Peppermint Tea Cause Miscarriage?

There is no strong evidence showing that peppermint tea causes miscarriage when consumed in moderation.

Data from the Quebec Pregnancy Registry, which included more than 3,000 women, found no association between peppermint tea consumption and miscarriage or low birth weight, even during the later trimesters.

However, because peppermint can relax uterine muscles in theory, some professionals recommend keeping intake moderate, particularly early in pregnancy [*].

In general, one or two cups a day is considered safe, but drinking peppermint tea excessively is not recommended.

What About Mint Tea During Pregnancy?

Mint tea is usually considered safe during pregnancy when enjoyed in moderation. Unlike peppermint tea, which has a higher concentration of menthol, general mint teas, such as those made from spearmint, tend to be milder and gentler on the stomach.

If you’re unsure about what kind of mint is used in your tea, you can always check the label [*].

Pregnancy-Safe Peppermint Recipes

If you’re looking for a few easy ways to enjoy peppermint while pregnant, these simple recipes are both safe and tasty.

1. Classic Peppermint Tea

A calming and hydrating drink that may help with cramps and bloating.

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon dried peppermint leaves or 5–6 fresh peppermint leaves
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
• 1–2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice (optional)

Instructions:

1. Add peppermint leaves to a cup and pour in boiling water.
2. Cover and let steep for 5-7 minutes.
3. Strain, then stir in lemon juice and honey to taste.
4. Sip warm or let cool and serve over ice.

2. Peppermint Yogurt Parfait

A cool, probiotic-rich snack that’s gentle on the stomach and easy to make.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1–2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh peppermint leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
• 1/4 cup granola
• 1/4 cup fresh berries (like strawberries or blueberries)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix yogurt with chopped peppermint and sweetener if using.
2. In a glass or jar, layer yogurt, granola, and berries.
3. Repeat layers if desired, then top with a few extra mint leaves for garnish.

3. Frozen Peppermint & Cucumber Popsicles

Hydrating and soothing, these are great for warmer months or hot flashes.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cucumber, peeled and sliced
• 1 tablespoon fresh peppermint leaves
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1-2 teaspoons honey (optional)
• 1 cup coconut water

Instructions:

1. Blend all ingredients together until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds.
3. Freeze for at least 4 hours or until solid.

The Bottom Line

Peppermint tea is a gentle and widely used herbal remedy that may help with common pregnancy symptoms like cramps, bloating, and headaches.

Research supports its safety when consumed in moderation. No significant risks were found for low birth weight or other negative outcomes, and it remains a popular choice among expecting mothers [*].

As with any herbal product, it is best to enjoy it mindfully and check in with your doctor or midwife if you have any questions or concerns.

A warm cup of peppermint tea can be a relaxing addition to your day, but it is always smart to stay informed and cautious during pregnancy.

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