Finding Peace in a Mug
Dealing with a cranky, bloated, or generally upset tummy can completely ruin your day and leave you feeling desperate for a little relief. While it is easy to reach for chalky over-the-counter tablets or sugary pink liquids, nature has already provided a whole pharmacy of delicious options right in the herbal aisle. Brewing a warm cup of herbal tea is one of the gentlest, most effective ways to calm your digestive tract and help your body relax after a heavy meal or a stressful afternoon.
1. Peppermint
Peppermint may just be the absolute king of digestive teas. Thanks to its natural menthol content, it provides a powerful antispasmodic effect directly to your digestive system and relaxes the overzealous muscles in your stomach lining. Enjoy this mouth-watering infusion anytime you need quick relief.
2. Ginger
The active components in ginger, known as gingerols, help speed up gastric emptying so food doesn't linger in your stomach. Simply grate some fresh ginger into boiling water to make a spicy, invigorating drink that tells your stomach to calm down (literally!). Ginger makes a great pantry staple.
3. Chamomile
Chamomile is probably something you turn to when you want to relax before bed, but it's also amazing for soothing your digestive system. The soothing properties in chamomile help lessen swelling in your intestines and ease the stress that can cause physical discomfort in your stomach.
4. Fennel
Steeping the crushed seeds of this licorice-scented plant yields a remarkably soothing drink that has been celebrated since ancient times for its gas-busting capabilities. It contains anethole, a compound that effectively prevents the smooth muscles of your gastrointestinal tract from contracting too violently. You will find that it works incredibly well.
5. Licorice Root
Licorice root works by coating your throat, esophagus, and stomach with a slimy film that protects irritated areas. It's great for those who experience acid reflux or heartburn often after eating spicy foods. Plus, it tastes so good you won't need to add honey or sugar to sweeten it.
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6. Lemon Balm
This citrusy herb is from the mint family, so it comes with that naturally refreshing taste and smell. Lemon balm is great for easing your general upset stomach and pain in your upper abdomen. It also has mild sedative effects that can ease anxiety.
7. Slippery Elm
Slippery elm is a tree that, when mixed with hot water, forms a gel-like substance that coats your whole digestive system. Slippery elm is so healing that it is able to form a protective layer on your digestive tract to protect it from your own gastric juices.
8. Marshmallow Root
Marshmallow root has the same effect as slippery elm. It coats and protects irritated tissues in your gut. It also helps to loosen you up if you're feeling constipated.
9. Dandelion Root
Yes, that's the fluffy weed that you scream at every time you see it popping up in your garden. The root of this plant can be roasted to make a dark, bitter tea that miraculously helps with digestion. Dandelion root jump-starts your liver and gallbladder to produce bile, which helps your body digest fat.
10. Spearmint
If you find the intense, icy punch of traditional peppermint a little too harsh for your liking, this sweeter cousin offers a much gentler alternative. It still delivers plenty of the muscle-relaxing benefits needed to alleviate painful stomach spasms without overwhelming your taste buds. The smooth, aromatic vapor helps clear your senses.
11. Caraway
The tiny seeds of this ancient culinary spice hold an impressive concentration of volatile oils that specialize in dispelling severe intestinal gas. Brewing them into a warm tea helps to harmonize your lower digestive system, effectively stopping painful cramps before they can fully develop. It is particularly helpful if you suffer from a touch of irritable bowel syndrome.
12. Holy Basil
Holy basil, also known as Tulsi, is great for decreasing the effects of stress on your body. Your brain and gut are constantly communicating with each other, so when you're in high-stress mode, your stomach is too.
13. Gentian Root
This root is known for its extreme bitterness, but it can kick-start your digestion. Its medicinal properties help produce digestive enzymes and juices to help your body break down food. Drink this if you're not feeling hungry or if you feel bloated often.
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14. Lemongrass
High in something called citral, lemongrass is great at fighting inflammation and promoting antibacterial effects in your gut. It helps prevent bacteria that cause stomach cramps and relaxes your abdominal muscles to help with pain. Enjoy this hot or cold for a nice lemony boost of flavor.
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15. Hibiscus
The vibrant crimson petals of this tropical flower create a tart, cranberry-like beverage that is naturally rich in beneficial organic acids. It acts as a very mild, natural diuretic and digestive stimulant, helping your body process waste and flush out excess sodium that causes uncomfortable water retention. The refreshing flavor profile is highly unique compared to the standard earthy roots.
16. Rosehip
Harvested from the round portion of the rose flower just below the petals, these tart little fruits are absolutely bursting with vitamin C and antioxidant compounds. They possess exceptional anti-inflammatory qualities that work to soothe the lining of a stomach that has been irritated by acidic foods or medications. Regular consumption helps strengthen your overall gut barrier.
17. Anise
If you are a fan of the bold flavor of black licorice, you will absolutely adore the sweet, distinct taste of this ancient seed tea. It is highly valued in Mediterranean cultures for its ability to reduce the frequency and severity of painful acid indigestion and uncomfortable bloating. The warming properties of the brew help stimulate a sluggish digestive tract.
18. Cardamom
This highly prized, aromatic baking spice contains exceptional gastroprotective properties that can actually help heal damaged stomach tissues over time. Crushing the green pods into hot water releases a complex, sweet, and slightly spicy flavor that works wonders at relieving flatulence and intestinal movement. It is an incredible remedy for neutralizing the heavy effects of dairy products.
19. Raspberry Leaf
While widely celebrated for its targeted benefits toward women's reproductive health, this nutrient-dense leaf is also an incredible astringent for the digestive tract. It contains natural tannins that help tighten and tone relaxed or irritated tissues along the lower intestines, making it a stellar remedy for bouts of loose stools. The flavor is incredibly similar to traditional black tea.
20. Sage
This fuzzy green culinary herb is far more than just a savory addition to your holiday stuffing recipes. It contains high levels of rosmarinic acid, an anti-inflammatory compound that helps dramatically reduce smooth muscle spasms throughout your entire digestive tract. Drinking a cup can quickly minimize the uncomfortable, gassy rumbling that often occurs.
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