How to Make Mint Tea With Fresh Mint, According to a Tea Sommelier

Mint tea is more than just a beverage. It’s a small ritual, a caffeine-free refresher, and a soothing way to wind down. And, if you use your own mint, a beautiful way to use an herb famous for its prolific growth. If you’re new to brewing your own herbal teas at home, mint is the perfect place to start. Hardy, forgiving, and flavorful, mint requires little more than hot water and a moment of pause to become a warm cuppa.

Here’s everything you need to know to make fresh mint tea at home with leaves from your own garden or planters. It’s a simple, accessible practice, but carries with it a quiet luxury that feels straight out of Martha’s playbook.

Why Mint Tea Deserves a Spot in Your Daily Routine

Mint has been used for centuries as both a culinary herb and a healing plant. "It has potential health benefits and can assist with some conditions, like digestive issues, colds, and nausea," explains professional tea sommelier Daniela Titiun. "I mostly enjoy my mint tea after a heavy meal as I definitely feel the benefits right away."

Fresh mint tea is naturally caffeine-free, which makes it perfect for winding down in the evening or replacing your afternoon cup of coffee with something gentler. But of course, mint tea's bright, invigorating flavor is oftentimes its main draw. "I always invite people to drink it because they enjoy the flavor, not just to focus on its benefits," says Titiun. (You don't have to tell us twice.)

What Types of Mint Are Best Suited for Tea

"There are several types of mint," Titiun shares. "The most well known are peppermint and spearmint, but you can make tea with almost any type of mint."

According to Titiun, the flavor profiles differ slightly and it's all up to each individual's personal preference. "Peppermint has a higher menthol content, so that translates into a cooler, fresher, flavor," she says, while spearmint is slightly milder and sweeter.

How to Make Mint Tea with Fresh Mint

Fresh mint tea requires little more than—you guessed it—fresh mint. "There's no getting it wrong," promises Titiun.

1. Pluck a handful of fresh mint leaves and rinse them gently under cool water to remove any dirt or debris.
2. Place the leaves in a mug or a teapot and pour in boiled water.
3. Cover and steep for 5-7 minutes. "You can either remove the leaves or leave them in," says Titiun. "Leaving them to steep for longer than seven minutes won't affect the strength."
4. Sip and enjoy! "If you prefer a stronger flavor," says Titiun, "add double or triple the amount of leaves." 

Want to make a larger batch for hosting? "Use a loaded handful with about 33 ounces of boiling water and let steep for about seven minutes," instructs Titiun. "Remove the leaves and let it cool, then cover completely and store it in the fridge." Your mint tea will stay fresh in the fridge for about three days.

A Few Flavorful Variations to Try

Fresh mint tea is delicious all on its own—but it also plays well with other herbs and ingredients. Here are a few combinations to inspire your next brew.

• Mint, lemon, and honey: Soothing and slightly sweet.
  
• Mint and ginger: Warming and supports digestion.
  
• Mint and lavender: Calming and floral.
  
• Mint and green tea: For a refreshing little caffeine kick.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with what you have on hand—your herb garden may be full of new favorites waiting to be discovered.