No, it’s not green tea, it’s not black tea, and it’s not hibiscus. Turns out the real star when it comes to natural acne remedies is one you may not have considered previously: spearmint tea.

According to some studies, drinking spearmint tea could help purify the skin from within, promoting a more even complexion and reducing impurities when paired with anti-acne skincare and guidance from a derm—especially for those who are dealing with hormonal acne.

Best of all, spearmint tea’s benefits go beyond the skin. It helps boost hydration and has a gentle, energizing effect. Plus, it tastes minty-fresh.

What is spearmint?

You probably know spearmint as the flavor in some toothpastes and classic chewing gums like Wrigley’s Double Mint. But the zingy herb—scientific name mentha spicata L— has long been known for its medicinal properties, too.

Rich in antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial compounds, it’s traditionally been used for everything from easing colds, coughs, and fevers to supporting digestion and soothing sore throats. In a recent scientific review, spearmint’s “essential oils and extracts showed remarkable antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective [liver protecting] activities.” Other studies show it may even help with pain relief when applied topically and may also help fight fungal infections.

How can drinking spearmint tea reduce acne?

When it comes to acne, spearmint seems to work on several levels: balancing hormones, reducing inflammation, providing antioxidants, and potentially even stopping acne-related bacteria from getting out of hand. Of course, it’s important to note that the research is limited—but what research there has been seems pretty promising so far.

Hormone balancers
Spearmint appears to have anti-androgenic effects, meaning it may help lower levels of sebum-producing androgenic hormones like testosterone. To wit, one study found that women who drank spearmint tea twice daily for a month showed a statistically significant decrease in their androgen levels. (And bonus, this action may also help improve symptoms of PCOS.)

Anti-inflammatories
We all know that inflammation plays a role in acne, and that reducing overall inflammation can help improve the way the skin looks. Spearmint contains compounds like rosmarinic acid, which have anti-inflammatory effects.

Antioxidants
Along those same lines, oxidative stress can certainly contribute to the skin looking less than fresh; spearmint’s antioxidants help support overall skin health by protecting cells from damage.

Antimicrobials
Some research also suggests that essential oils and compounds in spearmint may have antibacterial effects, which could inhibit acne-associated bacteria, helping to reduce infection, inflammation, and clogged pores.

How much spearmint tea should you drink?

Based on the research, two cups of spearmint tea a day seems to be the right amount for keeping the acne away. To fully enjoy its purifying power, try it for at least a couple weeks. Just skip the sugar, which can negate the anti-inflammatory effects.

And remember, everyone is different and the science is limited, so it’s best to drink your spearmint tea while doing all the other things you do to keep your skin looking its best. It shouldn’t replace other acne treatments, a balanced diet, or sleep. And, you shouldn’t expect the same kinds of results you might get from something your dermatologist recommends. It isn’t an acne cure-all, just a potential helper.

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