How to Brew Spearmint Tea for Digestive Relief
By Sourced. Blended. Shared. LMTC | Lake Missoula Tea Co. | Published: 2026-10-17
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to brew loose-leaf spearmint tea for digestive relief. This guide covers water temperature, steeping time, and common mistakes to avoid for a perfect cup.
Quick Answer
For digestive relief, brew loose-leaf spearmint tea at 200°F (93°C) for 5-7 minutes. Use one teaspoon of leaves per cup. The longer steep extracts more of the calming compounds that help soothe an upset stomach.
Why Spearmint Works for Digestion
Spearmint has been used traditionally to ease digestive discomfort. Its aromatic and bold flavor comes from natural oils that can help relax the muscles of the digestive tract, reducing bloating and gas. Unlike peppermint, spearmint is milder and less likely to cause heartburn, making it a gentler choice for sensitive stomachs.
For best results, use loose-leaf spearmint tea rather than bagged versions. Loose leaves retain more of the volatile oils responsible for the soothing effect. Lake Missoula Tea Co.'s Spearmint offers a full, minty flavor with a snappy, cool finish similar to wintergreen.
Choosing Your Spearmint Tea
Quality matters when brewing for digestive relief. Look for organic, whole-leaf spearmint that hasn't been crushed into dust. The small leaf size in many loose-leaf options brews quickly and releases flavor efficiently. Lake Missoula Tea Co.'s Spearmint is a botanical tea that refreshes both mind and body, with a crisp, clean taste that works hot or iced.
Step-by-Step Brewing Guide
- Heat the Water to 200°F (93°C): Bring fresh, filtered water to a boil, then let it cool for about 30 seconds. Spearmint is a delicate herb, and boiling water can scorch the leaves, making the tea bitter. Use a thermometer or an electric kettle with temperature control for accuracy. Common mistake: Using boiling water directly on the leaves. Let it cool slightly to preserve the minty flavor.
- Measure One Teaspoon of Loose Leaves Per Cup: Place one heaping teaspoon of loose spearmint leaves into your infuser or teapot per 8 ounces of water. For a stronger digestive cup, you can add an extra half teaspoon. The leaves expand as they steep, so don't overpack the infuser. Checkpoint: Too many leaves can make the tea overly strong and bitter. Start with one teaspoon and adjust to taste.
- Steep for 5 to 7 Minutes: Pour the hot water over the leaves and cover your cup or pot to trap the steam. Steep for at least 5 minutes to allow the essential oils to infuse. For deeper digestive relief, steep up to 7 minutes. The longer steep extracts more of the calming compounds without becoming harsh. Common mistake: Steeping less than 5 minutes results in a weak tea with minimal digestive benefits. Set a timer to avoid under-steeping.
- Strain and Serve: Remove the infuser or strain the tea into your cup. Spearmint tea is best enjoyed hot, but you can also let it cool and serve over ice for a refreshing iced tea. If you prefer sweetness, add a small amount of honey—it complements the minty flavor without overpowering it. Checkpoint: Don't leave the leaves in the cup while drinking, as they will continue to steep and may become bitter.
Product Facts
- Spearmint: Spearmint refreshes the mind and body. Both aromatic and bold. With a full, minty flavor like wintergreen: snappy and cool. The bold, aromatic profile means the tea delivers a satisfying flavor even with a longer steep, which is ideal for extracting digestive-soothing compounds.
