Spearmint tea has become one of the most talked-about wellness drinks on social media, with many users claiming it can help everything from hormonal acne to unwanted facial hair. While it may sound like another trendy health hack, some early research suggests there could be legitimate benefits behind the buzz.
According to dermatologist Dr. Joyce Park, several small studies have found that spearmint tea may influence hormone levels, particularly in women with elevated androgen levels. Although more research is needed, experts say drinking spearmint tea regularly could offer a few surprising health perks.
Here are four things that may happen to your body if you drink spearmint tea every day for two weeks.
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1. Your Hormones May Become More Balanced
One of the most promising areas of spearmint tea research involves its potential anti-androgen effects. Dr. Park highlighted a study involving women with hirsutism, a condition characterized by excessive hair growth often linked to elevated testosterone levels. After drinking spearmint tea twice daily, researchers observed a significant decrease in free testosterone levels.
A follow-up study involving 42 participants produced similar findings, with women who consumed spearmint tea for 30 days experiencing reductions in both free and total testosterone. While the studies were relatively small, the results suggest spearmint tea may help support hormonal balance in some individuals.
2. You May Notice Less Inflammation
Spearmint contains plant compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation throughout the body. Chronic inflammation has been linked to a wide range of health concerns, including skin issues, metabolic disorders, and age-related diseases.
While Dr. Park's discussion focused primarily on hormones, experts note that many herbal teas, including spearmint, can contribute beneficial antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress. Reducing inflammation may also support healthier skin and overall wellness over time.
3. Hormone-Related Skin Issues Could Improve
One reason spearmint tea has gone viral is its reputation as a natural remedy for hormonal acne. Dr. Park points out that there is currently no published research proving that spearmint tea directly treats acne.
However, because elevated androgen levels are known to contribute to hormonal breakouts, the hormone-lowering effects seen in studies have generated excitement among dermatologists and patients alike. "We know that high levels of male hormones contribute to hirsutism and PCOS," she explained. "These studies are promising in saying that there may be something there."
That said, she stresses that spearmint tea should not replace dermatologist-prescribed treatments such as spironolactone, topical medications, or birth control pills when appropriate.
4. Symptoms Related To PCOS May Improve
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects hormone levels and can lead to symptoms such as irregular periods, acne, and excess hair growth. Because the studies cited by Dr. Park found reductions in testosterone levels alongside increases in hormones like luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), researchers believe spearmint tea could potentially support women dealing with hormone-related PCOS symptoms.
In one study, participants even reported improvements in unwanted hair growth, although objective measurements did not show significant changes during the short study period. Researchers suggested that longer-term use may be necessary to see visible results.
Bottom Line
Drinking spearmint tea every day for two weeks may help support hormonal balance, reduce inflammation, improve hormone-related skin concerns, and potentially benefit women with PCOS. However, experts caution that the research remains limited, and spearmint tea should be viewed as a complementary wellness habit rather than a replacement for medical treatment. If you're considering adding it to your routine—especially if you take medications or have a hormone-related condition—it's always best to check with your healthcare provider first.
