Does Spearmint Tea Lower Testosterone? (From a Doctor)

Spearmint tea lowers testosterone by addressing the underlying causes that lead to increased testosterone, such as insulin resistance

This condition exacerbates the symptoms of hyperandrogenism (excessive occurrence of the male sex hormone testosterone).

Multiple studies have shown that spearmint reduces free testosterone levels in the blood

when consumed as a herbal tea or essential oil [1,2].

These studies also demonstrate that spearmint tea can lower hirsutism in women.

Hirsutism is a condition that causes women to present overly male characteristics, such as having excess facial hair.

While the testosterone-lowering capabilities of spearmint may be good for those with high levels of testosterone, they are detrimental for those trying to build muscle mass or strength.

Studies show that testosterone promotes muscle growth, so if you’re trying to bulk up, you might want to consider cutting spearmint tea [3].

Research has replicated this effect using peppermint as well, suggesting that these properties may be inherent in all variations of mint [4].

Highly processed foods often include high levels of trans fats, which have many known adverse health effects [10].

In a cross-sectional study, researchers linked trans fatty acid intake to lower testosterone levels and decreased testicular size.

The same study showed that fatty acids increased luteinizing hormone levels (LH), which controls the menstrual cycle in women, and testosterone production in men [11].

“Processed foods are often high in trans fats, which have been shown to decrease testosterone levels and impair reproductive performance in human and animal studies.”

– Rachael Link, Master of Science, R.D.

Nuts

Several components in nuts can affect androgens (sex hormones), primarily testosterone.

A randomized controlled trial showed that walnuts affect testosterone in women with PCOS [12].

This study also showed that walnuts might decrease testosterone and increase androgen levels.

Nuts also contain high levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids, which can have significant anti-androgen effects [13].

Polycystic ovarian syndrome or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormone regulation disorder that affects women during their reproductive years.

Women with PCOS often have high levels of androgen, especially testosterone.

This hormone imbalance can result in facial or body hair and irregular or painful menstruation.

PCOS patients who drink spearmint tea may find some symptom relief as it brings about healthy testosterone levels and decreases follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).

This hormone is partially responsible for irregular hair growth.

However, consult a healthcare provider before attempting home remedies if you believe you may have a hormone disorder or PCOS.

Are There Any Side Effects to Drinking Spearmint Tea?

Yes, there are some side effects to drinking spearmint tea. These may include sleepiness, relaxed breathing, and lowered testosterone levels.

While these side effects are minor for most people, you should not mix mint tea and sedatives.

Mint tea combined with sedatives compounds the effects and may cause breathing problems [14].