Peppermint: The Fresh Herb for After Meals

Peppermint is one of the easiest herbs to love. It grows almost by itself, smells wonderful and makes a bright, refreshing tea.

How people use it

Peppermint tea has a long tradition as an after-dinner drink. Many people find it pleasant when they feel full or bloated. Peppermint oil capsules have been studied for irritable bowel syndrome, and some studies found they helped some people's symptoms. Tea is much milder than these capsules.

How to brew it

• Use a handful of fresh leaves or one to two teaspoons of dried leaves per cup.
• Pour on hot water, cover and steep for five to ten minutes.
• Drink warm, or cool it with ice in summer.

Growing peppermint

Peppermint spreads fast. Grow it in a pot, even if you have a garden, or it may take over your flower beds. It likes some sun, regular water and frequent picking. Pick the leaves before the plant flowers for the best flavor.

Safety notes

• Peppermint can make heartburn and acid reflux worse for some people, because it can relax the muscle at the top of the stomach.
• Peppermint oil is very strong. Never give it to babies or young children, and never put it near their faces.
• If you take medicines or have a health condition, ask your pharmacist before using peppermint supplements.

A small daily ritual

A cup of peppermint tea after lunch can be a simple pause in a busy day: something warm, fresh and green, made with leaves you may have grown yourself.