Excesses, indigestible or low-quality food, eating quickly, stress… All these factors can end up causing us to suffer digestion-related problems.
Luckily, natural medicine can help us on these occasions. There are many herbal teas that can help us treat problems such as heaviness, bloating, gas, heartburn and, ultimately, all those discomforts related to poor digestion.
Ginger: against heaviness and nausea
Ginger and the different ways to take it are a classic when we talk about infusions to improve problems related to digestion.
The main bioactive components of ginger are shogaol and gingerol, rich in antioxidant elements that help reduce inflammatory processes related to digestive tract diseases.
According to a study published by the World Journal Gastroenterology , the components of ginger help to empty the digestive system more quickly and efficiently, thus helping to reduce the feeling of bloating.
On the other hand, ginger tea is often recommended for nausea related to motion sickness, chemotherapy, or even pregnancy. In the latter case, it is convenient to monitor the doses, so consult your doctor before using it.
Fennel: for acidity
Fennel is a good ally for treating common digestive problems such as indigestions and acidity. It also has a long history of use as a carminative.
Commission E, a group of experts created by the German Ministry of Health that analyzed the efficacy of a multitude of plants traditionally considered medicinal, cataloged it as an effective remedy for the treatment of dyspepsia and flatulence. In addition, its oil is a good stimulant of gastrointestinal motility.
Fennel can be taken in the form of an infusion or consume its bulb. This is rich in fiber, so it is a good food to treat and prevent constipation.
Rooibos: for infant colic
Traditional South African medicine recommends rooibos infusion to treat infant colic.
These benefits would be due to the antispasmodic properties of rooibos.
This infusion does not contain any caffeine, is low in tannins and is the only known source of aspalathin, a potent antioxidant.
Mint: for stomach irritation
Menthol and menthone are two organic compounds present in mint with anti-inflammatory properties. Thanks to them, the mint infusion can help relieve discomfort related to stomach irritation.
Mint is also well known for its antiviral and antimicrobial properties, so it’s a good remedy if your complaints are related to mild food poisoning.
There is a very interesting study from the University of Adelaide, in Australia, which analyzed the properties of mint to treat irritable bowel syndrome. According to him, the infusion would be effective in reducing inflammation and relieving the gastrointestinal tract.
Chamomile: calming abdominal pain
Chamomile is famous for its sedative and calming properties. Its infusion is excellent for treating gas and related abdominal pain.
A study analyzed its effects on problems caused by irritable bowel syndrome disease and found that its components help soothe intestinal and stomach muscles. Researchers also found that chamomile can help combat the bloating effects of lactose.
Chamomile is an excellent remedy for relieving heartburn and stomach reflux, as it inhibits the production of pepsin, a digestive enzyme linked to acid reflux. The problem arises when too much pepsin is produced and reaches the esophagus. Chamomile helps control this digestive enzyme and the harmful effects of its excess.
Chamomile is an excellent remedy to relieve heartburn and stomach reflux. Chamomile is believed to be helpful in relaxing muscles and relieving spasms associated with various gastrointestinal disorders.
It is also effective for treating colic in children.
Dandelion: against colic
From the small yellow flowers of this plant it is possible to obtain a very effective infusion to treat colic.
In addition, studies such as that of the Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine of the Aarhus University Hospital, in Denmark, show how its consumption increases the production of gastric juices such as bile, helping the body to break down food more efficiently. Studies also show that it helps the body digest complex carbohydrates more efficiently and improves insulin uptake.
Senna alexandrina: remedy for constipation
A lesser known infusion but with very powerful laxative effects is Senna ( Cassia angustifolia ). Tea contains sennosides, compounds that promote peristalsis and stimulate bowel movements.
Although it is very effective, it should not be abused. Its prolonged use has been linked to side effects such as dependence and abdominal discomfort.
Melisa: to stop gas
Lemongrass or lemon balm ( Melissa officinalis ) produces a delicious infusion, with a mild lemon aroma, and very effective in improving the sensation of bloating and flatulence.
Lemon balm is an herb from the Mediterranean region and is widely used in traditional medicine to treat digestion-related complaints and also as a relaxant and sleep inducer.
Solve your digestive problems with an infusion
A cup of the right infusion can solve a large number of digestive ailments.
The infusions not only work, but are also delicious and healthy. They can be your first resource to relieve a specific situation of stomach aches, gas or nausea.
However, if the problems recur or persist, seriously consider the need to see your doctor. These discomforts may be symptoms of an underlying problem, such as a food intolerance or illness.
