Can Spearmint Tea Help Treat PCOS? How It Works?

The answer is yes. Spearmint tea helps treat PCOS by lowering testosterone levels, which are often high in people with PCOS. It could potentially prevent problems like acne and hair loss brought on by high testosterone. It helps bring testosterone back to a normal range, improving related symptoms. It may eventually slow down the growth of facial hair, but it won't eliminate any existing abnormal hair.

In this article, we’ll dive into how spearmint tea can help reduce free testosterone levels, its anti-androgen benefits, and any potential side effects you should know about.

Spearmint, Mentha spicata, is popularly known as “Pudina” in India. This herb originated in Europe and is popularly used in many kinds of toothpaste and chewing gums for its fresh mint flavor. Its other names include garden mint, common mint, lamb mint, and mackerel mint.

In older times, spearmint tea has been used as a natural herbal remedy for a variety of minor ailments, including digestive issues.

Additionally, it is used in a wide variety of cuisines, including sauces, desserts, and main courses. Spearmint tea provides several health benefits besides its minty taste.

PCOS, or polycystic ovarian syndrome, is a complex endocrine condition that mainly affects women. It is characterized by the ovaries producing too many androgens or male hormones, causing hormonal imbalance.

Androgens are necessary for the maintenance of several aspects of female health, such as bone density and sexual and reproductive function. However, 60–80% of women with PCOS are thought to produce high levels of androgens, such as testosterone, which can cause physical symptoms that are typical of the condition, such as weight gain, ovulation difficulties, facial hair, and hyperandrogenism.

Recent studies have linked spearmint tea consumption to a decrease in androgen levels, including DHEA and testosterone, which are frequently increased in PCOS patients. By reducing testosterone levels, spearmint tea may help treat conditions like hirsutism (excessive hair growth), acne, and irregular menstruation.

In another study, participants who drank spearmint tea twice daily for five days during the follicular phase of their menstrual cycles experienced decreased free testosterone and increased LH and FSH.

According to one theory, spearmint may prevent the enzymes that transform testosterone into the stronger androgen dihydrotestosterone (DHT). By lowering DHT levels, spearmint might decrease overall androgen levels and relieve PCOS symptoms like hirsutism and acne.

Spearmint tea helps in reducing the level of testosterone in the body, and spearmint is rich in antioxidants and other healthy plant compounds. It can help in hormone balance, blood sugar regulation, digestion, stress reduction, and memory enhancement.

• Lower Free Testosterone Levels Naturally: Improves hormonal imbalances associated with PCOS and may reduce acne and excessive hair growth.
• Lowers Blood Pressure: Contains carvone, which works similarly to blood pressure–lowering compounds.
• Helps with Digestive problems: Relaxes stomach muscles, easing nausea and digestive discomfort.
• Helps with Hirsutism: Reduces excessive facial and body hair by lowering testosterone.
• Helps in Joint Stiffness: Contains rosmarinic acid that may reduce joint pain and stiffness.

Most people can safely drink spearmint tea daily. According to study results, two cups a day is sufficient to improve digestion and hormones.

Although most people tolerate spearmint tea well, those who have specific medical concerns or sensitivities to any mint should be cautious and speak with a healthcare professional before including spearmint tea in their daily diet.

Changes may occur after consuming the tea for at least five to six months since it is a herbal tea, not a medication.

Ingredients:

• 1–2 teaspoons of dried spearmint leaves (or a handful of fresh spearmint leaves)
• 1 cup of boiling water
• Honey or lemon (optional)

Instructions:

• Put the spearmint leaves in a mug or teapot.
• Pour boiling water over the leaves.
• Cover and steep for 5–10 minutes.
• Strain the leaves.
• Add honey or lemon if desired.

• Sweeten it up: Add honey for extra sweetness.
• Add lemon: For a tangy taste.
• Mix it up: Combine with herbal teas like tulsi.
• Add ginger: For a digestive boost.
• Serve iced: Cool and serve over ice.

Spearmint tea and its supplements may not be suitable for everyone.

• May worsen acid reflux or GERD.
• Not suitable for people with liver or kidney issues.
• Avoid if allergic to mint.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before use.

Spearmint tea isn’t a quick fix, but when combined with a PCOS-friendly diet, exercise, stress management, and proper sleep, it can help reduce high testosterone levels and manage symptoms naturally.