A nice, hot cup of tea may just be the thing you need to soothe an upset stomach. This is because herbs used for some teas have a calming effect on your body as well as your mind.

So the next time you experience digestive issues, make yourself any one of these six herbal teas:

1. Ginger tea

Ginger, a staple in spice racks around the world, has long been used as a natural medicine for gut problems. In Ayurvedic medicine, natural healers often used ginger to treat an upset stomach and nausea.

Scientists now know that ginger’s beneficial effects on the gut are thanks to a compound called gingerol, which has been shown to increase digestive responsiveness. Ginger also promotes regular bowel movement.

Ginger tea is available in supermarkets and health food stores. But making some at home is easy enough. Start by grating about a one-inch piece of fresh ginger root. Steep it in a cup of boiling water for 10–20 minutes. Strain and discard before drinking. If the taste is too strong, try adding a teaspoon of organic honey.

2. Peppermint tea

Minty peppermint leaves are ideal for soothing stomach troubles and supporting digestion. In fact, it is a go-to remedy for ailments like nausea and menstrual cramps. A recent review of 14 studies on peppermint oil showed that it helped reduce the duration, frequency and severity of stomach pain in children.

Research shows peppermint’s soothing effects on the gut can be traced to a number of active compounds, such as menthol, menthone and limonene.

To make peppermint tea, crush a handful of peppermint leaves then steep them in a cup of hot water for about seven to 12 minutes.

3. Fennel tea

Fennel seeds are typically added to stocks and used as a dry rub for meat because of their powerful aroma. But it turns out, fennel seeds are great for soothing stomach problems, too.

When steeped in hot water, fennel seeds release a compound that helps relax your digestive muscles. In fact, one study showed that fennel seeds were incredibly effective at relieving painful menstruation.

The compound that fennel seeds release also has antibacterial properties. So drinking fennel tea every day can help reduce your susceptibility to infection.

4. Green tea

Green tea, arguably the healthiest tea on Earth, has been extensively studied for its array of benefits. One such benefit has to do with gut health. Research indicates that green tea can help relieve an upset stomach and reduce the frequency and severity of diarrhea, especially that caused by invasive cancer treatments.

Green tea also helps fight inflammation, which can lead to ulcers and bleeding in people with gastritis. Make a cup of green tea by steeping loose tea leaves for two to three minutes in hot water.

5. Licorice tea

Licorice root has been used medicinally for thousands of years. Its beneficial effects on the gut can be traced to glycyrrhizic acid. This anti-inflammatory compound can help relieve stomach problems, including ulcers, indigestion and heartburn. Additionally, glycyrrhizic acid helps strengthen your immune system.

To soothe an upset stomach fast, bring a cup of water to a boil and add a teaspoon of chopped licorice root. Let it simmer for 10 minutes and strain before serving.

6. Chamomile tea

Chamomile tea is a light and flavorful tea that’s often recommended for gastrointestinal problems. Chamomile contains antioxidants called flavonoids. They help fight inflammation, which can cause an upset stomach. Chamomile can also relax your digestive muscles and treat issues like nausea, gas and diarrhea.

To make chamomile tea, steep a handful of dried chamomile flowers in hot water.

Herbal teas help treat gut issues like an upset stomach quickly. For best results, opt for tea best suited for your symptoms, especially if you have underlying gut problems.

Sources:

PureWow.com

HormonesBalance.com