How to Make Peppermint Tea

Peppermint tea is simple, soothing, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re making it fresh from your garden, using dried leaves, or relying on a trusty tea bag, you’ll end up with a delicious and calming drink you’ll want to enjoy all year long.

Peppermint tea is one of the simplest and most refreshing herbal teas you can make at home. With its cooling flavor and soothing aroma, it’s a favorite for calming digestion, easing stress, and enjoying a naturally caffeine-free pick-me-up. Whether you have fresh peppermint leaves growing in your garden, dried mint stored in your pantry, or just a tea bag, this recipe will show you how to make the perfect cup.

One of the best things about peppermint tea is its versatility—you can brew it hot for a cozy, soothing drink, or serve it over ice for a crisp and cooling refresher. With only a few ingredients, it’s a quick and rewarding herbal tea that anyone can enjoy.

How to Make Peppermint Tea

For this recipe you will need a handful of fresh peppermint leaves,  2 teaspoons of dried leaves, or 1 peppermint tea bag.

If using fresh leaves: gently crush them with a spoon or mortar to release the oils.

If using dried leaves: measure them into a tea infuser.

If using a tea bag: simply unwrap and set aside.

Bring water to a boil, then let it cool for 1–2 minutes. Herbal teas brew best with hot—but not boiling—water.

Place your leaves or tea bag in a mug. Pour the hot water over them.

Cover with a lid or small plate and steep:

• Fresh leaves: 8–10 minutes
• Dried leaves: 5 minutes
• Taste every 30 seconds after the first few minutes to adjust strength to your liking.

Remove leaves or tea bag.

Add sweetener, lemon, or other add-ins if desired.

Enjoy hot, or let cool and pour over ice for a refreshing iced version.

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Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully flexible. Here’s how you can adapt it:

• Peppermint Source:
  • Use fresh peppermint leaves straight from your garden or grocery store for the brightest flavor.
  • Use dried peppermint leaves if you’ve preserved your summer harvest or bought bulk loose leaf tea.
  • Use a peppermint tea bag for the most convenient option.
• Sweeteners: Honey, maple syrup, or agave add a hint of sweetness without overpowering the mint. Stevia or monk fruit also work for sugar-free options.
• Add-ins: A slice of lemon, a sprinkle of ginger, or even a cinnamon stick can add depth to your cup. For a refreshing summer version, add ice cubes and a few fresh lemon slices after brewing.

How to Use This Recipe

• Hot Tea: Brew as directed, sip slowly, and let the soothing aroma calm your senses.
• Iced Tea: Brew a stronger cup (with extra leaves or a longer steep), let cool, and pour over ice.
• Tea Blends: Combine peppermint with chamomile for relaxation, green tea for a gentle energy boost, or hibiscus for a tart and colorful twist.

Peppermint tea is also a great natural remedy to keep on hand. It’s often used to freshen breath, relieve minor headaches, and help settle a queasy stomach.

FAQ

Can I drink peppermint tea every day?
Yes! Peppermint tea is naturally caffeine-free and safe for most people to drink daily.

How long should peppermint tea steep?
Fresh leaves taste best with 8–10 minutes of steeping, while dried leaves are usually ready after 5 minutes.

Can I grow my own peppermint for tea?
Absolutely! Peppermint grows easily in containers or garden beds and provides a steady supply of fresh leaves for tea.

Does peppermint tea help with sleep?
Peppermint tea doesn’t contain caffeine and has a relaxing aroma, which makes it a great evening tea.

Related:

• How To Make Peppermint Oil
• The Best Peppermint Essential Oil To Buy
• DIY Peppermint Milk Bath
• Peppermint vs Spearmint: What’s the Difference?
• Peppermint Oil vs Apple Cider Vinegar

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