The secrets to health and happiness are not really secrets at all but rather, age-old remedies that people have been using for millennia. Among other simple tips such as “walk daily,” “eat a natural diet” and “smile more,” one that can have a profound effect on your health and comfort is “drink more tea.”
Civilizations have been using herbal teas to treat digestive issues and soothe symptoms such as nausea, constipation, bloating and indigestion for thousands of years, and for good reason — they work! Whether you’ve been feeling a bit bloaty lately, have had trouble digesting your food or simply want to keep your system in balance, add these five herbal teas to your diet.
1. Ginger Tea
Ginger is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent that contains a compound called gingerol. Studies show that gingerol helps to stimulate stomach contractions and trigger emptying, two actions that can help to alleviate bloating, relieve gas and encourage bowel movements. Research also suggests that ginger can help with cramping, nausea and indigestion.
2. Peppermint Tea
Peppermint is an herb known for its cool and refreshing flavor and ability to calm an upset stomach. Peppermint contains menthol, which is a compound that has been proven to improve digestive issues in both human and animal research groups. In one four-week study of 57 people who live with irritable bowel syndrome, 75% of people who took peppermint capsules twice a day showed an improvement in symptoms. This is compared to just 38% of people who took a placebo.
3. Dandelion Tea
Dandelions may be a weed, but they’re a weed with powerful health and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies show omile Teathat dandelion contains compounds that, like ginger, trigger muscle contractions and the subsequent flow of food through the GI tract. Additional research found that dandelion extract fights inflammation, decreases the production of stomach acid and protects against ulcers.
To make dandelion tea, bring a mixture of two cups of dandelion flowers and four cups of water to a boil. Remove it from the heat and let steep for 10 to 15 minutes. Pour the mixture through a colander or sieve and into your cup, and drink up.
4. Chamomile
Chamomile is an herb that boasts several supposed health benefits, ranging from a better night’s sleep to reduced cancer risk. It also helps to promote digestive health. Per the findings from a few different studies and anecdotal evidence, chamomile promotes better digestion, helps protect against diarrhea and fights stomach ulcers.
5. Fennel
Fennel is an herb that has a black-licorice type taste and that you can eat both raw and cooked. Though it is not fully understood why or how, findings support the theory that fennel is a natural laxative. Studies in which older adults consumed fennel tea for a month found that it promotes healthy bowel movements and relieves constipation. Other findings suggest that the anti-inflammatory agents in fennel also help to protect against and fight ulcers.
People have been using herbal teas as remedies for stomach pain and digestive issues for thousands of years. If you recently experience digestive issues, or if you just want to protect against them, drink a cup of tea each night — or more for more benefit. Give the above five herbal remedies a try.