Herbal teas have been used to help remediate digestive problems and other health issues.
Different kinds of herbal teas can help with digestive conditions like indigestion, constipation, and nausea. Thankfully, many of these herbs are within easy reach.
Here are the best herbal teas for digestion.
Peppermint Tea
ASIN: B000H7K0WE
The green herb peppermint is known to soothe digestive problems and bring quick relief to those suffering digestive distress. Not only that, but peppermint tea also has a refreshing taste.
Studies indicate that a substance in peppermint called menthol can help to enhance digestion.
Peppermint oil finds widespread use in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome.
A study lasting 4 weeks was carried out on those with IBS. 75 percent of participants who consumed peppermint oil twice each day reported significant benefits to digestive health. Whereas 38% of people taking a placebo reported improvement.
Ginger Tea
ASIN: B07SQX3853
Ginger is a herb that is used all over the world thanks to its health benefits and great flavor.
Certain substances within ginger help the stomach to contract and empty. As a result, this spice is helpful for indigestion, gas, bloating, cramping and nausea.
One review found that consuming 1.5g of ginger each day can reduce vomiting and nausea induced by motion sickness, chemotherapy, and pregnancy.
Another research paper shows that ginger can reduce the stomach’s time to empty.
However, you should be aware that these results apply to fairly large amounts of ginger. Ginger tea may be able to extend these benefits.
Gentian Root Tea
ASIN: B0140F7WY2
Gentian root grows all over the world. This plant has various kinds for treating stomach problems and stimulating appetite. Unsurprisingly, gentian root has been used in herbal remedies for a long period of time.
This plant has bitter chemicals called iridoids that boost production of digestive acids and enzymes.
Another study noted that when participants drank a mixture of gentian root and water, the digestive system benefited from increased blood flow. This may be one reason why gentian root bolsters digestion.
You can try drinking gentian root tea before meals to boost digestion.
Fennel Tea
ASIN: B0002UDY9W
Fennel is good for your tummy; it is also pleasing to your taste buds. It tastes somewhat like licorice. You can consume it in either cooked or raw form.
From animal studies, it can be seen that fennel prevents the formation of stomach ulcers. This capability may be due to antioxidant compounds in fennel that can combat damage that leads to ulcers.
Not only that, it can improve bowel movements, thereby alleviating constipation. But it’s not known how exactly fennel exerts its laxative effects.
Angelica Root
Angelica is a plant known for its taste which is similar to celery.
What’s fascinating about this plant is that all its parts find use in herbal medicine. The root, in particular, can soothe digestion.
From animal studies, it is seen that the angelica root’s polysaccharide can protect the stomach against damage by boosting blood vessels and healthy cells inside the digestive system.
As a result of this property, the angelica root might help protect against the effects of ulcerative colitis. This is an adverse health condition that may develop due to inflammation.
A test-tube study on human cells indicates that angelica root helps the digestive tract secrete more acids. This can lead to improved digestion.
Dandelion Tea
ASIN: B0194A3SCI
Dandelion is a kind of weed. Although it may be a nuisance for frustrated homeowners, this plant has several health benefits.
From animal studies, it can be seen that compounds contained within dandelion extract can help boost digestion. This is achieved by increasing blood flow to the intestine and inducing muscle contractions.
One study carried out on rodents discovered that dandelion extract helps prevent stomach ulcers since it counters the effects of inflammation and reduces stomach acid production.
Although a few studies show the beneficial effects of dandelion on digestion, most of these are animal studies. More research needs to be done on human beings.
However, instead of waiting for science, you may decide to try out dandelion tea yourself.
Senna Tea
ASIN: B0064Y4ZKM
Senna has compounds known as sennosides. These disintegrate inside the colon and then boost the function of smooth muscle. This promotes bowel movement and contraction.
For those suffering from constipation, senna may be an effective treatment.
A study was carried out on people with cancer who needed to consume opioids – these are known to cause constipation. Those participants who consumed sennosides had a better bowel movement pattern than those who didn’t.
However, since senna is effective at constipation relief, you should be careful. At higher doses, this powerful laxative may lead to diarrhea.
Marshmallow Root
ASIN: B07K1YCB3R
Marshmallow root finds its origins in the flowering plant known as Althaea Officinalis.
Marshmallow root has polysaccharides, including mucilage. These can stimulate the mucus-generating cells in your digestive system to work more efficiently.
Besides bolstering mucus production, marshmallow root also possesses antioxidant capabilities that reduce histamine levels. This compound is produced in larger amounts when inflammation is in progress. Due to its antioxidant effect, marshmallow root is protective against ulcer development.
Black Tea
Black tea is commonly consumed in many parts of the world. Consuming this tea may be a good idea since it helps boost digestive health.
However, you should note that it is also high in caffeine.
Our Final Thoughts
You can take the top herbal teas for digestion listed above to resolve various digestive issues. However, before you try out anything, inform your doctor about it and ask whether they can interfere with your medication.
