People have used tea for thousands of years to treat digestive problems and other ailments. We know that some herbal teas help with nausea, constipation, indigestion and more. Fortunately, most of them are widely available and fairly easy to make.
Here are 6 teas that improve digestion.
Ginger
Ginger, scientifically known as Zingiber officinale, is a flowering plant native to Asia. Its rhizome (the underground part of the stem) is used as a popular spice around the world. Compounds known as gingerols and shogaols in ginger help stimulate stomach contractions and emptying. Thus, it can help with nausea, cramping, bloating, gas or indigestion. Research comparing the effects of ginger tea and ginger supplements is limited, but tea may provide similar benefits.
To make ginger tea, boil 2 tablespoons (28 grams) of sliced ginger root in 2 cups (500 ml) of water for 10-20 minutes.
Fennel
Fennel is a plant that can be consumed in many different ways. It has a licorice-like flavor and can be consumed raw or cooked. Animal studies have shown that fennel helps prevent stomach ulcers. It can also help relieve constipation and promote bowel movements.
You can make fennel tea by pouring 1 cup (250 ml) of boiling water over 1 teaspoon (4 grams) of fennel seeds. Let sit for 5-10 minutes before straining or drinking. You can also use freshly grated fennel root.
Dandelion
Dandelions are wild plants. They have yellow flowers and can be grown in most places in the world. Dandelion contains compounds that will stimulate the stomach muscles and promote flow into the small intestines. Dandelion can help protect against ulcers by fighting inflammation and reducing stomach acid production. Therefore, drinking dandelion tea can promote healthy digestion.
To make dandelion tea, boil 2 dandelion flowers with 4 glasses of water. Then remove from the stove and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. Strain before drinking.
Black tea
Black tea has a variety of healthy compounds. These are thearubigins, which can improve indigestion, and theaflavins, which act as antioxidants and protect against stomach ulcers. Although there are not enough studies yet, existing studies show that black tea can prevent ulcers. Black tea can also prevent indolence by delaying gastric emptying. Therefore, drinking black tea can help improve digestion and protect against ulcers.
Cassia
Cassia contains chemicals called sansosides that act on smooth muscle, promoting contractions and bowel movements. Studies show that senna acts as an effective laxative in both children and adults. Senna tea can be an effective and easy way to get rid of constipation.
You can make senna tea by keeping 1 teaspoon (4 grams) of dried senna leaves in 1 cup (250 ml) of boiling water for 5-10 minutes.
Peppermint
Peppermint is known for its refreshing aroma and soothing the stomach. Studies have shown that menthol, a peppermint compound, improves digestive issues. Peppermint oil is used to cure inflammatory bowel syndrome (IBS), which affects the large intestine and can cause stomach pains, bloating, gas, and other uncomfortable conditions. Peppermint tea may also provide similar benefits to peppermint oil.
To make mint tea, soak 8-10 fresh mint leaves in 1 cup (250 ml) of boiling water for 10 minutes.
Possible side effects
While herbal teas are generally considered safe for healthy people, you should be cautious when adding a new type of tea to your routine. Currently, there is limited information available on the safety of some teas in children, pregnant and breastfeeding women. What’s more, some herbs can interact with medications and cause unwanted side effects such as diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting if herbal teas are consumed excessively. If you want to try a new herbal tea to improve your digestion, start with a low dose and pay attention to how you feel. Also, consult your doctor or dietitian first if you are on medication or if there is a difference in your health status.
