4 Benefits Of Spearmint Tea For Acne And Its Side Effects

Science explains why sipping this beverage may help manage the breakouts.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Archna Agrawal, MSc (Dietetics), Naturopathy Dr. Archna Agrawal Dr. Archna AgrawalMSc (Dietetics), Naturopathy facebook_icon
Written by Ramona Sinha, MA (English Literature) Ramona Sinha MA (English Literature) linkedin_icon Experience: 11 years
Edited by Anjali Sayee, BTech Anjali Sayee BTech linkedin_icon Experience: 7 years
Fact-checked by Shiboli Chakraborti, MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach Shiboli Chakraborti MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach linkedin_icon Experience: 4 years
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If you have been battling acne for a long time, we know your pain. Would you believe it if we said that you could use spearmint tea for acne treatment? The benefits of spearmint tea for the skin and acne relief are all over social media. To find out the truth, we decided to investigate this claim further. So, before you pour yourself a cup of spearmint tea, read this article to learn how it can help treat acne.

Spearmint Tea For Acne: What Does Science Say?

Spearmint tea is not directly linked to acne reduction.

However, its anti-androgeni  Male sex hormones responsible for developing male sexual characteristics and maintaining the reproductive system. properties may help control hormonal acne.

Spearmint tea is a common herbal remedy or self-care ingredient in the Middle East for hirsutism in females. It is a natural anti-androgen and can reduce testosterone levels in the body. Androgens like testosterone are linked to the overproduction of sebumi  An oily substance produced by the sebaceous glands that act as a protective layer on the skin. (1), (2), (3). Excess sebum clogs the skin pores, trapping dirt and bacteria, and causes acne. However, the benefits of using this mint for the skin are plenty. It helps soothe, hydrate, tone, and provide anti-aging benefits to the skin.

According to research, about 9.4% of people worldwide suffer from acne vulgaris, which is most prevalent among adolescents. In all ethnic groupings, it affects more than 90% of males and 80% of females.

Though testosterone is a male sex hormone, the ovaries may produce it in small amounts. Drinking spearmint tea reduces testosterone levels, thus regulating excess sebum production. This property may help reduce pimples, especially if it is caused by hormonal fluctuations.

Further research is required to establish the efficacy of spearmint tea for acne. Its acne-reducing benefits are primarily anecdotal, and many people have tried this remedy and found it to be effective.

Haley, a Youtuber, drank spearmint tea for acne and shared the results in one of her vlogs. She states, “My skin has improved, like, 45 to 50 percent. It [the tea] has definitely reduced the amount of breakouts that I get, their frequency and intensity so I get breakouts less and less often (i).”

However, note that spearmint tea may not work for hormonal acne caused by hormones like insulin.

Spearmint tea is one of the most potent of all mints and is known for other benefits. Let us take a look at them.

Other Benefits Of Spearmint Tea

1. May Help With Hirsutism

Spearmint tea may help with hirsutism
Image: Shutterstock

Hirsutism results from excess male hormones and causes excessive thick and coarse hair growth in women. Multiple reasons may cause it – one of them is polycystic ovary syndrome or PCOS. A study found that drinking spearmint tea helped reduce hirsutism in women and could be used as a potential natural treatment for this condition and PCOS (3).

2. May Help Manage Knee Osteoarthritis Symptoms

Spearmint tea may help manage knee osteoarthritis symptoms
Image: Shutterstock

Knee osteoarthritis is caused by degeneration of articular cartilage and is a non-curable condition. The treatments for it revolve primarily around pain management.

High-rosmarinic acid (rosA) spearmint tea has shown promising results in reducing the knee pain associated with the condition (4). This is a special variety of spearmint tea and is not the same as the commercially available variant.

3. May Help With Stress And Insomnia

Spearmint tea may help with stress and insomnia
Image: Shutterstock

Columbian people use spearmint tea for mental wellness, stress relief and to reduce insomnia. A rat study found that spearmint had hypnotic and sedative effects due to phenolic compounds, such as flavonoids and tannins. Spearmint tea can be used for relieving anxiety (5).

4. Rich In Antioxidants

Antioxidants help reduce oxidative stressi  Cell damage triggered by an imbalance between antioxidants and free radicals in the body, causing inflammation and diseases. caused by harmful free radicals.

They cause inflammation and drive the process of acne on your skin. High-rosA spearmint has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties (4). Moreover, spearmint tea also has phenolic compounds, like flavonoids and tannins, that can keep your skin healthy and free of blemishes.

Spearmint tea is often compared with peppermint tea. However, the two have distinct properties. Learn more about them in the next section.

Spearmint Tea Vs. Peppermint Tea

Spearmint and peppermint teas share similar health benefits but have different flavors and aromas. Spearmint tea has a mild, sweet taste with subtle menthol notes. It is often preferred for its gentle, soothing properties that help you sleep better (5). It is also known to aid digestion and alleviate stress. Peppermint tea, with its stronger menthol flavor, is renowned for its cooling effect and antimicrobial and antiviral properties (6). It also may help ease gastrointestinal health (6).

Both teas are suitable for consumption at any time of the day. When choosing between the two, consider your preference for a sweeter, milder flavor (spearmint) or a more intense, cooling taste (peppermint).

Well, when it comes to spearmint tea, it is not all rosy. Adding the tea to your daily routine can cause a few side effects. Understand them before you decide to give it a go.

Side Effects Of Spearmint Tea

1. Reduces Testosterone

Spearmint tea reduces testosterone levels. Men need a healthy amount of testosterone to maintain their energy, libido, and overall mood. Hence, spearmint tea may not be the best solution for them.

2. Low Iron Absorption

Spearmint tea has tannins that can hinder the absorption of iron in your body (7). Thus, if you are anemic or have borderline iron levels, it is best to steer clear of spearmint tea

3. May Irritate The Mucosal Lining

Spearmint tea aids digestion and does not cause heartburn. However, excessive intake may irritate the mucosal lining in your stomach (8). Hence, limit your intake to two cups daily.

4. Kidney And Liver Damage

Spearmint tea may cause kidney and liver damage
Image: Shutterstock

If you have any kidney or liver issues, it is best to avoid spearmint tea. Excessive intake of spearmint tea can worsen your condition (9).

5. May Damage The Uterus During Pregnancy

If you are pregnant, do not drink spearmint tea as it can damage the uterus lining. While there is not much evidence for spearmint tea’s side effects on breastfeeding women, it is better to avoid it (9).

6. May Cause Allergic Reactions

Spearmint tea may cause allergic reactions
Image: Shutterstock

Avoid spearmint if you are allergic to it. Drinking spearmint may cause rashes, hives, skin irritation, mouth and tongue swelling, itchy throat, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and vomiting.

Let us see the quantity of spearmint tea that is safe for consumption.

What Is The Advisable Quantity Of Spearmint Tea?

protip_icon Quick Tip
You should be aware that it will take at least 2-3 months to see the effects of spearmint tea, so be patient and allow the tea to work.

Since spearmint tea is natural, you can safely have about 2-3 cups of it daily.

Infographic: How To Prepare Spearmint Tea

Spearmint tea is a natural drink that is free of caffeine and calories. Drinking it regularly may help solve your acne issues, stress, and insomnia. Since it is a herbal tea, you can have 2-3 cups daily at any time of the day. You may include it in your diet to reap its benefits.

Check out the infographic below to learn how to prepare spearmint tea at home.

how to prepare spearmint tea (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

protip_icon Quick Tip
Additionally, spearmint tea can be mixed in several drinks, such as mojito, mint julep, and sweet tea.

Spearmint tea is not a cure-all for acne. However, it has the potential to minimize hormonal acne by bringing about hormonal balance and lowering testosterone levels and regulating sebum production. Of course, it is advisable to follow your doctor’s advice and the treatment approach suggested for hormonal acne. Nevertheless, if you want to try spearmint tea for acne management, you can go ahead. It has other health benefits and may help with stress and insomnia. Anecdotal evidence also suggests its ability to improve skin complexion. However, if you have anemia or low iron levels, it is advisable to avoid this tea or consult a doctor before consuming it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is green tea or spearmint tea better for acne?

Both teas are good for treating acne. While spearmint tea has anti-androgen properties that may control hormonal acne, green tea’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties help treat acne lesions. However, the topical application of green tea for acne is more effective than oral intake (8).

Can spearmint tea cause breakouts?

No, spearmint tea does not cause acne breakouts.

Does the temperature or brewing time of spearmint tea impact its effectiveness for acne?

No, temperature and brewing time do not affect the effectiveness of spearmint tea for acne. It is generally made by boiling water and spearmint for 10 minutes for perfect flavor.

Can spearmint tea be consumed in addition to other herbal teas or beverages?

Yes, spearmint tea can be consumed in addition to other herbal teas or beverages. Anecdotally it does not cross-react with any of the herbs.

Can spearmint tea be used to improve other skin conditions, such as rosacea or eczema?

Yes, anecdotal evidence suggests that spearmint tea can help in managing skin conditions such as rosacea and eczema as it is rich in antioxidants and can protect from free radical damage.

Is chamomile and spearmint tea good for acne?

Yes, chamomile and spearmint tea are good for acne. Anecdotal evidence suggests that chamomile has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties and when combined with spearmint, it can help manage acne effectively.

Key Takeaways

  • Spearmint is a natural anti-androgen that can reduce testosterone levels in the body.
  • Drinking spearmint tea may help reduce acne as it regulates excess sebum production.
  • It is best to avoid spearmint tea if you are pregnant, anemic, or have kidney or liver issues.

Illustration: Benefits Of Spearmint Tea For Acne And Its Side Effects

spearmint tea for acne

Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team


Spearmint tea is a delicious and healthy beverage. Learn about its amazing benefits, such as improved digestion, reduced stress, and more from this informative video.

Personal Experience: Source

References

Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.

  1. Hormonal treatment of acne vulgaris: an update
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5015761/
  2. An Update on Plant Derived Anti-Androgens
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3693613/
  3. Spearmint herbal tea has significant anti-androgen effects in polycystic ovarian syndrome. A randomized controlled trial
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19585478/
  4. High-Rosmarinic Acid Spearmint Tea in the Management of Knee Osteoarthritis Symptoms
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4259186/
  5. Pharmacological Evaluation of Mentha spicata L. and Plantago major L., Medicinal Plants Used to Treat Anxiety and Insomnia in Colombian Caribbean Coast
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30158996/
  6. A review of the bioactivity and potential health benefits of peppermint tea (Mentha piperita L.)
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16767798/
  7. Iron requirements and bioavailability of dietary iron
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6315480/
  8. Lack of effect of spearmint on lower oesophageal sphincter function and acid reflux in healthy volunteers
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10383511/
  9. Spearmint
    https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/natural/845.html
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Dr. Archna Agrawal
Dr. Archna AgrawalMSc (Dietetics)
Dr. Archna Agrawal is a licensed naturopathy and yoga practitioner with over 20 years of experience in nutrition and counseling. She is also certified in nutrition, child care, and mind-body medicine and is on a mission to help people attain innate healing capacity without having to depend on anything or on anyone.

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Ramona Sinha
Ramona is an editor at StyleCraze with 11 years of experience in writing and editing. She has authored over 200 articles on skin and hair care. She graduated from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal, and did her post-graduation from the University of Kalyani, West Bengal.

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Anjali Sayee
Anjali SayeeAssociate Editor
Anjali is an associate editor at StyleCraze. She specializes in hairstyles and hair and skin care and has written over 200 articles in these domains. She has 7 years of experience, and her philosophy about hair and skin care is simple: if you love and care for it, it will be healthy.

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Shiboli Chakraborti
Shiboli ChakrabortiCommerce Editor
Shiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.

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