Mint teas are a great way to refresh during (or after) a day in the garden, and they’re good hot or cold, alone or in herbal blends or infused water. What we love about mountain mint tea is it is one of the most attractive and strongest in the mint family, Lamiaceae.

Scientifically known as Pycnanthemum, mountain mint is a group of perennial plants native to North America. Their vibrant and minty aroma has made them a favorite amongst herbal tea lovers.

More than just a pleasing flavor, mountain mint is packed with beneficial properties that can have a profound impact on one’s health. In this article, we’ll explore these benefits and provide you with three simple recipes for mountain mint tea.

Proven Benefits of Mountain Mint Tea

• Digestive Aid: The minty coolness of mountain mint is known to soothe the digestive system, aiding in relieving symptoms of indigestion, bloating, and gas.
• Immune Boost: High in antioxidants, mountain mint can help to boost the immune system and shield the body from common infections.
• Respiratory Relief: Mountain mint has traditionally been used to alleviate congestion and soothe coughs due to its natural decongestant properties.
• Stress Reduction: The soothing scent of mountain mint can help reduce stress and anxiety, promoting relaxation and improved sleep quality.
• Pain Relief: The anti-inflammatory properties of mountain mint can help alleviate pain, especially headaches and menstrual cramps.

About Mountain Mint

The Mountain mint genus (Pycnanthemum), includes several varieties, including Pycnanthemum virginianum and Pycnanthemum muticum. See our article on Mountain Mint uses and varieties for more.

As with other plants in the mint family, these plants are known for their minty aroma and are often used for culinary and medicinal purposes.

The most common use for mint plants is mint teas.

Mountain Mint Taxonomy (Genus Pycnanthemum):

• Kingdom: Plantae (plants)
  • Clade: Tracheophytes (vascular plants)
    • Clade: Angiosperms (flowering plants)
      • Clade: Eudicots (true dicotyledons)
        • Clade: Asterids
          • Order: Lamiales
            • Family: Lamiaceae (mint family)
              • Genus: Pycnanthemum

Mountain Mint Nutritients

• Nutritional Composition: Mints, including mountain mint, are all low in calories. While the mint herb is not significant sources of macronutrients, it does contain small amounts of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, calcium, and iron.
• Phytochemicals: Mints are well known for their rich content of phytochemicals, including various essential oils, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds. These phytochemicals contribute to the distinct aroma, flavor, and health benefits of mints.

5 Common Phytochemicals in Mints

Most mints are high in antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties, amongst others.

1. Apigenin: A flavonoid with antioxidant properties that may have anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects.
2. Luteolin: A flavonoid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may support brain health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
3. Menthol: Known for its cooling sensation, menthol is often used for its soothing effect on the respiratory system and as a topical analgesic.
4. Rosmarinic Acid: A polyphenol with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may protect against oxidative stress and support immune health.
5. Quercetin: A flavonoid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may have cardiovascular benefits and support the immune system.

NOTE: The exact nutrient composition and quantities for any plant may vary depending on the specific species and growing conditions.

See also, Uses for Lemon Balm, catnip and bee balm… our other favorite mints to grow.

Mountain Mint Tea Recipes

Now, let’s take a look at three different ways you can enjoy the benefits of mountain mint tea. These are just starter recipes. Naturally, there are countless delightful herbal combinations you can create for mountain mint tea, and of all the many we’ve concocted, none have tasted bad!

The brewing instructions will be the same for each recipe.

Mountain Mint Tea Recipes Brewing Instructions

If you prefer stronger tea, increase the quantity of herbs accordingly, (or less for milder, such as herb-infused waters).

Ingredients:

• Fresh or dried mountain mint leaves
• Hot water

Instructions:

1. If using fresh mountain mint leaves, rinse them under cold water and pat dry. If using dried mountain mint, simply measure out the appropriate amount.
2. Place the leaves into a tea infuser or directly into a teapot. The general rule of thumb is one teaspoon of dried leaves or one tablespoon of fresh leaves per cup of water, adjusting more or less to taste, depending on if you prefer stronger or milder teas.
3. Pour hot water, but not boiling — 140°F (60°C) or less to preserve nutrients — over the leaves. Steep for about 5-10 minutes (more is usually fine too), depending on your taste preference.
4. Strain the tea into a cup, if needed, and enjoy it hot. For a chilled version, let it cool down and then refrigerate.

Super Simple Mountain Mint Tea Recipes

1. Classic Mountain Mint Tea

• 1-2 tsp dried mountain mint leaves or 1-2 tbsp fresh mountain mint leaves
• 1 cup of water

This classic recipe lets the natural, crisp flavor of the mountain mint shine through.

2. Mountain Mint and Lemon Tea

• 1 tsp dried mountain mint leaves or 1 tbsp fresh mountain mint leaves
• 1 lemon slice
• 1 cup of water

The addition of lemon not only adds a refreshing tang to the tea but also bolsters its immune-boosting properties.

3. Mountain Mint and Honey Tea

• 1-2 tsp dried mountain mint leaves or 1-2 tbsp fresh mountain mint leaves
• 1 tsp of honey
• 1 cup of water

Honey brings a touch of natural sweetness to mint tea, creating a soothing beverage perfect for winding down.

3 Recipes for Mountain Mint Tea Blends

Remember to follow the same brewing instructions provided earlier for these tea blends, and if using fresh herbs use 1 tablespoon chopped.

1. Mountain Mint and Lemon Balm Tea Blend:

• 1 tsp dried mountain mint leaves
• 1 tsp dried lemon balm leaves
• 1 cup of hot water

2. Mountain Mint and Chamomile Tea Blend:

• 1 tsp dried mountain mint leaves
• 1 tsp dried chamomile flowers
• 1 cup of hot water

3. Mountain Mint and Lavender Tea Blend:

• 1 tsp dried mountain mint leaves
• 1 tsp dried lavender flowers and/or leaves
• 1 cup of hot water

Enjoy the delightful combinations of mountain mint with these complementary herbs for a variety of flavors and potential health benefits.

Mountain Mint Herb Infused Water

For a mild herb-infused water, we like to use a tea infuser pitcher or bottle. We fill it in the morning (or the night before and refrigerate it), then sip on it throughout the day.

See also, cucumber water with lemon mint.

Whether you choose the classic version or a variation with added ingredients, each cup of mountain mint tea brings a moment of calm along with its numerous health benefits. Enjoy the refreshing flavor and bask in the goodness this herbal infusion has to offer.