What are the benefits of mint-infused water?

October 28, 2025 •

3 min read

While some people find drinking plain water unappealing, mint-infused water offers a flavorful and zero-calorie way to stay hydrated. The simple addition of fresh mint leaves not only enhances the taste but also provides a range of potential health perks, including digestive relief and improved skin health.

Quick Summary

Mint-infused water offers numerous health benefits, including enhanced hydration, digestive relief, and support for weight management. Its anti-inflammatory properties can also benefit skin health and boost the immune system. Preparing this refreshing drink is simple and can encourage better fluid intake.

Key Points

Enhanced Hydration: Mint-infused water is a flavorful, zero-calorie way to increase daily fluid intake and stay hydrated.
Supports Digestion: Mint can help soothe an upset stomach, easing symptoms of indigestion, gas, and bloating.
Improves Skin Health: Antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds in mint combat oxidative stress and help reduce acne and irritation.
Aids Weight Management: By replacing high-calorie, sugary drinks, mint water helps reduce overall calorie consumption and supports weight loss.
Relieves Stress: The calming aroma of mint may help reduce stress and promote a sense of relaxation.
Freshens Breath: The natural mint flavor is an effective way to freshen your breath throughout the day.
Boosts Immunity: Mint leaves contain vitamins and antioxidants that help strengthen the immune system and protect cells from damage.

Enhanced Hydration and a Flavorful Alternative

Many health experts stress the importance of daily hydration for optimal bodily functions, including metabolism, circulation, and temperature regulation. However, plain water can be monotonous for some, leading to inadequate fluid intake. Mint-infused water provides a refreshing and flavorful alternative that can encourage you to drink more throughout the day without adding extra calories or sugar found in many commercial beverages. This simple switch from sugary drinks can be a significant step toward healthier habits and potentially support weight management goals.

Soothing Digestive Discomfort

Mint has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for stomach issues, and while much of the scientific research focuses on more concentrated peppermint oil, mint-infused water can still offer some benefits. The menthol in mint may help relax the muscles of the digestive tract, which can alleviate common discomforts like gas and bloating. This makes a glass of mint-infused water a pleasant and soothing option after a heavy meal. Some studies even suggest that mint can assist with symptoms related to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), though results are not always conclusive.

Promoting Clear and Healthy Skin

Hydration is foundational for healthy skin, but the compounds in mint provide additional dermatological benefits. Mint leaves are rich in antioxidants, such as rosmarinic acid, which help combat oxidative stress and neutralize free radicals that contribute to premature skin aging. The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of mint can also help reduce acne flare-ups and calm skin irritation. By helping to flush out toxins from the body, regular consumption can lead to a clearer, more radiant complexion.

Supporting Weight Management

While not a magic bullet for weight loss, mint-infused water can play a supportive role. By serving as a low-calorie, hydrating alternative to sugary sodas, juices, and other high-calorie drinks, it helps reduce overall calorie intake. Staying well-hydrated can also help you feel full, potentially curbing unnecessary snacking. When combined with a balanced diet and regular exercise, this small change can contribute to a healthier weight over time.

How to Make Mint-Infused Water

Creating your own refreshing mint-infused water is quick and simple. You can customize the recipe by adding other fruits or herbs for a unique flavor profile.

Here’s a basic recipe:

Ingredients: 1 handful of fresh mint leaves, 8 cups of water.
Method 1 (Cold Infusion): Gently crush the mint leaves to release their oils and place them in a pitcher. Add the water and refrigerate for at least an hour, or overnight for a stronger flavor.
Method 2 (Quick Infusion): For faster results, briefly steep the mint leaves in hot water for a few minutes before chilling.

For a more complex flavor, try combinations with other ingredients:

Cucumber Mint Water: Add thinly sliced cucumber for an extra layer of refreshment.
Lemon Mint Water: Incorporate lemon slices for a zesty and detoxifying boost.

Precautions and Potential Side Effects

While generally safe for most people in moderation, there are a few considerations before making mint-infused water a staple of your diet. Some individuals with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) or severe heartburn may find that mint can aggravate their symptoms, as it can relax the lower esophageal sphincter. Those with chronic kidney or diabetic kidney disease should also consult a doctor before increasing their intake. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should exercise caution, as large doses are not recommended without consulting a healthcare professional.

Mint Infused Water vs. Other Popular Beverages


Feature	Mint-Infused Water	Sugary Sodas/Juices	Plain Water
Calories	Virtually zero	High (added sugars)	Zero
Sugar Content	None	Very high	None
Hydration	Excellent (adds flavor)	Poor (often diuretic)	Excellent
Nutrients	Trace antioxidants	Vitamin C (some juices)	None
Flavor	Refreshing minty taste	Sweet, artificial	Neutral
Dental Health	Good	Poor (acidic, high sugar)	Excellent

Conclusion

Mint-infused water is an accessible and delicious way to upgrade your hydration routine. From its potential to soothe digestive woes and improve skin health to its role in a weight management strategy, it offers a simple upgrade to plain water. By swapping out high-calorie, sugary beverages for this refreshing alternative, you can support your overall health and wellness. As with any dietary change, listen to your body and consult with a healthcare professional if you have underlying conditions or concerns. The simplicity and effectiveness of this beverage make it an easy habit to adopt for a healthier lifestyle.

For more information on the health benefits of mint, visit Healthline at Healthline.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

Mint-infused water is best consumed within 1-2 days. For the freshest flavor, it is recommended to replace the mint leaves daily as they can start to break down and affect the taste.

Yes, you can use dried mint leaves to make mint-infused water or tea, but fresh mint is typically preferred for a more vibrant flavor. For a quick infusion, steeping dried mint in hot water and then chilling it can work well.

For most people, mint water is safe. However, individuals with GERD or heartburn may find that it worsens their symptoms by relaxing the esophageal sphincter. It's best to consult a doctor if you have a pre-existing condition.

Mint water can assist with weight loss by replacing high-calorie sugary drinks with a zero-calorie, flavorful alternative. It promotes hydration and can help you feel full, though it is not a direct weight-loss treatment.

To get the most flavor, gently muddle or crush the fresh mint leaves with a wooden spoon before adding them to your water. This process releases the natural oils and aroma, intensifying the infusion.

While small amounts are often considered safe, pregnant women should consult their doctor before regularly or heavily consuming mint-infused water. Large doses are not recommended without professional medical advice.

Yes, adding other fruits like lemon, lime, cucumber, or berries is a great way to create delicious, customized infused waters. This adds new flavors and additional nutrients.