Spearmint vs peppermint — which should I use?

Spearmint (Mentha spicata) is the everyday Persian mint — gentler, low in menthol, safe in larger amounts and around children. Peppermint (Mentha × piperita) is stronger and cooler from menthol, better for tension headaches and one-off digestive cramping but more likely to worsen reflux.

Does spearmint really help with hormones?

Small clinical trials in women with mild hirsutism and PCOS show that two cups of spearmint tea daily for 30 days modestly lowered free testosterone and improved subjective symptoms. It is a useful adjunct, not a substitute for medical care.

Fresh, dried, or oil — what's best for daily use?

Fresh leaves in salads and yogurt and dried mint in soups and tea are the safest daily Persian forms. Reserve concentrated peppermint oil capsules for specific complaints like IBS, and only after talking to a clinician if you take other medications.

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Mint

Refreshes the spirit, calms the stomach, clears the head.

Traditional wisdom and modern evidence—clearly explained.

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Evidence: Emerging
Reviewed by: Moji Tehrani, founder
Last reviewed: July 2026

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Mint

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