Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder in women of reproductive age, characterized by imbalanced hormone levels, irregular menstrual cycles, and cysts on the ovaries.
Mint helps balance hormones in the body. Today, mint is also used to help manage polycystic ovary syndrome in women.
Let's learn about Spearmint for PCOS now to protect your health.
What is PCOS - Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder affecting women, characterized by excessive androgen levels and often abnormal insulin activity.
It leads to various complications, including menstrual irregularities, infertility, hirsutism, acne, obesity, and metabolic syndrome.
Diagnosis involves identifying traits such as hyperandrogenism, chronic anovulation, and polycystic ovaries.
The disorder's exact cause is unclear, but genetics, gestational environment, and lifestyle factors play significant roles. [1]
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) occurs in 5% to 10% of women (1). In the US, it is the most common cause of infertility. [2]
The Relation of PCOS And Hyperandrogenism
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is believed to stem from functional ovarian hyperandrogenism (FOH), where androgen secretion is dysregulated.
Research from 1989–1995 and subsequent studies have supported this hypothesis. Prenatal androgen exposure, poor fetal growth, and acquired obesity are implicated environmental factors. [3]
High androgen levels often increase the risk of metabolic disorders, obesity, and hair loss. Increased blood insulin levels due to insulin resistance may be present and may contribute to the increased androgen content of firecracker eggs. [4]
Controlling hyperandrogenism is key in addressing the symptoms and complications associated with PCOS.
Is Spearmint Good for PCOS?
Recent research suggests that spearmint tea may help reduce androgen levels in women with hirsutism, a common issue in polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).
However, whether this translates to clinical improvement in hirsutism severity is unclear. In a 30-day trial, spearmint tea significantly reduced testosterone levels. [5]
A study conducted in 2022 found that spearmint exhibited anti-androgen properties, leading to reductions in testosterone levels and hirsutism among women with PCOS. [6]
What are the Benefits of Spearmint for PCOS?
Spearmint May Reduce Free Testosterone
The study investigated the effectiveness of spearmint tea in reducing hirsutism in women with PCOS.
Over 30 days, participants who consumed spearmint tea twice daily experienced significant reductions in free and total testosterone levels, along with subjective improvements in hirsutism. [7]
One study focused on observing the effects of herbal tea made from Mentha spicata (mint) on androgen levels in women with hirsutism.
Twenty-one women participants, including those with polycystic ovary syndrome and idiopathic hirsutism, drank spearmint tea twice daily for five days during the follicular phase of their menstrual cycle.
The results showed a significant decrease in free testosterone concentration and an increase in luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and estradiol concentration after treatment with spearmint tea.
Spearmint tea consumption may help lower free testosterone levels, thereby mitigating symptoms associated with hyperandrogenism.[8]
Ten human trials with 560 participants were systematically analyzed to explore the relationship between herbal consumption and health.
Findings suggest that herbal infusions, typically consumed at a rate of 1-3 cups per day with infusion times of up to 15 minutes, may positively impact various aspects of health.
Specifically, spearmint tea has been linked to joint stiffness and hormone control benefits. [9]
Spearmint's Antioxidant Properties
Based on the evaluation of Brazilian spearmint extracts, it demonstrated significant antioxidant activity. This was determined by measuring the antioxidant activity index (AAI).
These findings suggest spearmint possesses notable antioxidant capabilities, especially in its methanolic extract form. [10]
Regarding the drying method for preserving the antioxidant capacity of mint, This study focuses on the effects of different drying methods on the antioxidant properties of mint.
The results showed that the freeze-drying method caused mint to retain the highest phenolics content and antioxidant capacity, while oven and microwave drying rapidly reduced both indicators. [11]
Spearmint May Improve Gut Health
A study focused on evaluating the bioavailability of peppermint oil and spearmint oil through a series of in vitro tests.
Research results show that peppermint and spearmint oil have significant anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties in vitro.
Reducing inflammation may help alleviate symptoms associated with enteritis and promote gut health.
Although these oils did not affect intestinal integrity in vitro, they promise to improve overall gut health. [12]
Spearmint essential oil may help reduce bloating and indigestion, possibly due to its bioactive compound carvone, which has pain-relieving and antispasmodic effects. However, more human studies are needed to confirm these effects. [13]
May Help to Reduce Blood Sugar Levels
Consuming mint can help stabilize blood sugar, which is especially beneficial for those with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) - a condition often accompanied by insulin resistance.
Studies have shown that peppermint tea and oil can help control blood sugar.
Furthermore, they are known to be especially effective in reducing digestive problems, balancing hormones in women, reducing facial hair growth, improving memory, and lowering blood pressure. [6]
Benefits for Focus And Mental Health
A study investigated the effects of spearmint extract on cognitive performance, sleep, and mood in individuals with age-associated memory impairment (AAMI).
Participants took either 900 mg/day of spearmint extract or a placebo for 90 days.
Results showed improved working memory and spatial accuracy, better sleep quality, and positive effects on mood in the spearmint group compared to placebo. [14]
Learn more: Benefits of Spearmint for Anxiety & How to Use It
May Regulates Menstrual Cycle
Research has demonstrated the effectiveness of spearmint tea in regulating the menstrual cycle and reducing androgen hormones, especially in women with hirsutism.
Two selected studies demonstrated a decrease in testosterone levels and an increase in certain hormones after drinking spearmint tea for 5 and 30 days.
Spearmint tea shows promise as a drug-free option for managing symptoms of elevated androgens. [15]
Reduce Hair Loss and Improve Hair Health
Mint has confirmed anti-androgen properties, which can aid in reducing hair loss and improving hair health, especially in individuals with conditions like PCOS, leading to hirsutism or androgenetic alopecia.
However, its application in clinical practice might be limited due to factors like the relationship between androgen hormones and hair follicle growth and cell turnover time. [16]
Improve Skin and Reduce Acne
Increased androgen hormones in women can lead to conditions such as hirsutism and acne.
Recent studies have explored the potential of spearmint tea to reduce androgen hormones, offering a non-drug treatment option. Thereby decreasing symptoms such as acne on the skin and protecting our skin. [17]
Spearmint's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may aid in reducing acne and improving skin health in individuals with PCOS.
Read more: Benefits Of Spearmint On Skin: How To Use Spearmint For Acne?
How to Use Spearmint Tea for PCOS?
To include spearmint tea in your PCOS management, follow these steps:
- Get high-quality organic spearmint tea leaves or bags.
- Boil water and pour it over the tea in a cup.
- Let it steep for 5-10 minutes to extract the beneficial compounds.
- Optionally, enhance the flavor with honey or lemon.
- Enjoy 1-2 cups of spearmint tea daily as part of your routine.
In addition to drinking mint tea, you can also consider taking a mint supplement in capsule form. Supplement capsules are easy to carry and use.
You can incorporate capsules into your daily routine, providing a standardized mint dose for consistent effects.
How Much Spearmint Tea for PCOS Women Should Consume?
You can drink one to two cups of mint tea daily, which is beneficial for women with PCOS.
It is important to note that the effects of spearmint tea may not be immediate but may manifest gradually with regular consumption over a period of at least 5 to 6 months.
Other Methods for PCOS
In addition to spearmint tea, other lifestyle modifications and treatments can help manage PCOS effectively. These may include:
- Embrace a balanced diet filled with whole foods, veggies, lean proteins, and healthy fats. [18]
- Engage in regular exercise to enhance insulin sensitivity and boost overall well-being. [19]
- Implement weight management tactics, as excess weight can worsen PCOS symptoms. [20]
- Practice stress-relief methods like yoga, meditation, or counseling to lower stress levels, which can affect hormone equilibrium. [21]
Conclusion
Spearmint has shown promising results in managing PCOS symptoms thanks to its anti-inflammatory and hormone-regulating properties.
Adding it to your daily routine can benefit gut health, blood sugar regulation, hormone balance, focus and mental health, menstrual cycle regulation, and hair and skin health. Spearmint for PCOS is a solution you can refer to and use.
Related Article:
Benefits Of Spearmint Leaf: Medical Properties & Side Effects
