Medicinal Plant Research 2024, Vol.14, No.3, 151-161 http://hortherbpublisher.com/index.php/mpr 158 The safety of peppermint tea during pregnancy and lactation is a topic of ongoing research. While peppermint is commonly used to alleviate nausea and digestive issues during pregnancy, there is limited documentation on its safety. Some studies suggest that peppermint tea can be consumed in moderation, but it is recommended that pregnant and breastfeeding women consult with their healthcare provider before using peppermint tea to ensure it does not pose any risks to the mother or the developing fetus (Holst et al., 2011; Laelago, 2018; Sarecka-Hujar and Szulc-Musioł, 2022). 7.2 Allergic reactions and sensitivities Allergic reactions to peppermint tea are rare but can occur, particularly in individuals with a known allergy to menthol or other components of the mint family. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include skin rashes, headaches, and respiratory issues. It is important for individuals with known sensitivities to avoid peppermint tea and seek medical advice if they experience any adverse reactions (Poswal et al., 2019). 7.3 Long-term consumption and chronic effects The long-term consumption of peppermint tea has not been extensively studied, and there is limited data on its chronic effects. While short-term use is generally considered safe, the potential impacts of prolonged use remain unclear. Some concerns have been raised about the possibility of peppermint tea affecting liver health and interacting with certain medications over time. Therefore, it is advisable to consume peppermint tea in moderation and consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions (Ahmed et al., 2017). 8 Concluding Remarks Peppermint tea has been shown to offer a variety of health benefits, particularly in the areas of cognitive performance, digestive health, and anti-inflammatory effects. Studies have demonstrated that peppermint tea can significantly improve long-term memory and speed of memory, as well as increase subjective alertness in healthy adults. Additionally, peppermint essential oil has been found to be efficacious and well-tolerated in the short-term management of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), providing relief from symptoms such as pain and discomfort. Peppermint tea also exhibits potential in altering pharmacokinetics of clinically administered drugs and promoting cancer chemoprevention through NAT2 inhibition. Furthermore, peppermint has shown promise in reducing the severity of nausea, vomiting, and anorexia in patients undergoing chemotherapy. Its anti-inflammatory properties are supported by evidence suggesting that peppermint can suppress inflammation through various biochemical pathways. Future research should focus on conducting more rigorous and large-scale clinical trials to confirm the efficacy and safety of peppermint tea in various health conditions. While current studies provide promising results, the lack of replication and the limited number of human trials necessitate further investigation. Specifically, more research is needed to explore the long-term effects of peppermint tea consumption on cognitive performance and digestive health. Additionally, the potential interactions between peppermint tea and other medications should be thoroughly examined to ensure safe clinical applications. Investigating the synergistic effects of peppermint tea when combined with other herbal teas, such as white tea, could also open new avenues for developing effective functional foods with enhanced health benefits. Peppermint tea holds a significant place in modern herbal medicine due to its wide range of therapeutic properties. Its ability to improve cognitive function, alleviate digestive disorders, and reduce inflammation makes it a valuable addition to the repertoire of natural remedies. As more scientific evidence emerges, peppermint tea could become a mainstream option for managing various health conditions, offering a natural and accessible alternative to conventional treatments. The integration of peppermint tea into daily health routines could contribute to overall well-being and preventive health care, reinforcing its role as a versatile and beneficial herbal medicine.
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