Do you have to drink mint tea cold or hot? The ultimate guide

December 31, 2025 •

3 min read

In Morocco, serving hot mint tea is a timeless tradition and a symbol of hospitality, often enjoyed with fresh spearmint and green tea leaves. However, people in many cultures across the globe also enjoy mint tea served cold, demonstrating that you can drink mint tea cold or hot. This versatility is one of its greatest appeals.

Quick Summary

Mint tea can be enjoyed either hot or cold, offering distinct sensory experiences and potential benefits depending on the temperature. The preparation method can be adapted for either version, with taste and personal preference being the deciding factors. Different serving temperatures can accentuate different flavor notes and provide different soothing effects.

Key Points

No Single Rule: You do not have to drink mint tea either cold or hot; both methods are acceptable and offer unique benefits.
Hot for Comfort: Hot mint tea is ideal for soothing digestion, relieving stress, and easing cold symptoms.
Cold for Refreshment: Iced mint tea is a crisp, cooling, and hydrating beverage, perfect for warmer weather.
Flavor Varies with Temperature: Hot brewing produces a more intense, aromatic flavor, while cold brewing yields a smoother, milder taste.
Preparation is Adaptable: You can easily prepare mint tea for either temperature by either chilling a hot brew or using a cold-brew method.
Cultural Context: In some cultures, like Morocco, serving hot mint tea is a long-standing tradition symbolizing hospitality.
Health Benefits Consistent: Many of the key health benefits, such as antioxidant properties, are present whether the tea is served hot or cold.

Mint tea, derived from the leaves of the mint plant, is a delightful and versatile beverage enjoyed worldwide. The question of whether it should be served hot or cold has no single answer, as both methods are traditional and offer unique characteristics. The best temperature for your mint tea depends largely on the occasion, your personal preference, and the specific effects you are seeking. There is a rich cultural history associated with both serving methods, from the warming, aromatic ritual of Moroccan hospitality to the refreshing, cooling sensation of a summer iced tea.

The Hot Mint Tea Experience

Drinking mint tea hot is a time-honored practice that provides a soothing and comforting experience. The warmth and steam help release the invigorating aroma of the mint, which can have a calming effect.

Benefits of Hot Mint Tea

Digestive Aid: The warmth can help ease digestive discomfort. Menthol has antispasmodic effects.
Stress Relief and Relaxation: A warm cup promotes relaxation.
Relief from Cold Symptoms: Steam and menthol act as natural decongestants.
Flavor Profile: Hot water extracts more robust flavors.

The Cold Mint Tea Experience

Iced mint tea offers a crisp, cool, and refreshing alternative. The cooling sensation is enhanced when chilled.

Benefits of Cold Mint Tea

Hydration: Iced mint tea is a flavorful way to stay hydrated.
Cooling Effect: Menthol provides a natural cooling sensation.
Milder Flavor: Cold-brewed tea is smoother and less bitter.
Potential Weight Management: Cold beverages may slightly increase calorie burn.

Brewing Methods for Your Preferred Temperature

Using fresh or loose-leaf mint provides a fresher flavor than a tea bag.

Making Hot Mint Tea

Boil water: Bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
Add mint leaves: Add a handful of fresh mint leaves (or a tea bag). Bruising leaves helps release oils.
Steep: Cover and steep for 5 to 7 minutes, or longer for stronger flavor.
Strain and serve: Strain and pour into a mug. Add sweetener or lemon if desired.

Making Iced Mint Tea

Method 1: Hot brew, then chill: Brew hot tea, cool, then pour over ice. Garnish as desired.
Method 2: Cold brew: Combine mint and cold water in a pitcher. Refrigerate for several hours or overnight for a smoother tea.

Hot vs. Cold Mint Tea Comparison Table


Aspect	Hot Mint Tea	Cold Mint Tea
Flavor Profile	More robust and aromatic.	Smoother and less bitter.
Sensation	Warm and comforting.	Cool and refreshing.
Key Benefits	Aids digestion, soothes colds, and relieves stress.	Boosts hydration and provides a cooling sensation.
Best Served	In colder weather, after a meal, or in the evening.	In warmer weather, as a daytime refreshment.
Preparation Time	Quick brewing time (5-7 minutes).	Requires longer chilling or cold-brewing.
Versatility	Can be enjoyed plain or with minimal additions.	Can be mixed with citrus, sweetened, and used as a base for cocktails.

Conclusion

Choosing between hot or cold mint tea is a matter of personal taste and desired experience. Both methods are valid ways to enjoy this beverage, offering benefits from soothing digestion to providing antioxidant properties. Experiment to find your preference for any moment. For a traditional Moroccan approach, combine green tea, fresh spearmint, and sugar.

Authoritative Resource

For more information on the health benefits of mint tea, both hot and cold, and its preparation, check out this comprehensive article from WebMD: Mint Tea: Health Benefits, Nutrition Facts, and How to Prepare It.

Important Considerations

Mint tea can trigger acid reflux in some individuals.
Consult a doctor if you are on medication, as mint tea can interact.
Flavor varies by mint type (peppermint vs. spearmint).

Editor's Note: The WebMD article linked here was reviewed and deemed authoritative for the topic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, using fresh mint leaves is a fantastic way to make iced mint tea. You can steep them in boiling water and then chill the brew, or cold-brew them in water overnight for a smoother flavor.

No, mint tea does not lose its health benefits when served cold. Studies indicate that iced tea can carry similar antioxidant properties to hot tea. Cold-brewing may even preserve certain compounds more effectively.

Both peppermint and spearmint can be used for either hot or cold tea, with the choice coming down to personal preference. Peppermint tends to be stronger and more invigorating, while spearmint offers a milder, sweeter flavor.

For hot mint tea, a steeping time of 5 to 7 minutes is generally recommended for a full flavor. For a stronger taste, you can steep for up to 10 minutes. For cold-brewing, you will need to steep overnight.

To enhance the flavor of mint tea, you can add sweeteners like honey, a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime, or a pinch of spices like cinnamon or ginger. These additions can be used in both hot and iced versions.

Yes, pure herbal mint tea, made only from mint leaves, is naturally caffeine-free. However, if your mint tea is a blend that also contains green or black tea leaves, it will contain caffeine.

Mint tea, being a zero-calorie and flavorful beverage, can be a healthy alternative to high-sugar drinks. Some research suggests cold tea can slightly increase calorie burn as your body warms it, but this effect is minimal.

Yes, different types of mint, such as peppermint and spearmint, offer slightly different flavor profiles. Peppermint is generally more potent, while spearmint is sweeter. The choice depends on your desired taste.