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What Tea Is Good for Digestion?

May 12, 2011 | By Caroline Thompson
What Tea Is Good for Digestion?
Photo Credit cup of tea with tea bag image by TEA from Fotolia.com

Tea has been used as a digestive aid for thousands of years. A variety of herbs can be brewed into a warm, soothing cup of tea to help alleviate stomach distress. Teas and herbs have different tastes, qualities and stimulating effects. Before using herbs in any form, consult your health care provider, especially if you are taking any medications.

Peppermint Tea

Peppermint has a long history as a digestive aid. The leaf and oil of the peppermint plant are both used in herbal tea. When steeped in hot water, peppermint leaves make an aromatic cup of tea. Peppermint oil can also be added to warm water for flavor or to make a cup of tea. Peppermint tea bags are readily available at your local grocery store. Peppermint reduces gastrointestinal spasms and helps reduce heartburn, according to MedlinePlus.

Chamomile Tea

Chamomile is a daisy-like flower that is used to make a soothing tea. There are two types of chamomile: Roman and German. Chamomile is used for a variety of conditions, including sleeplessness, anxiety and digestive problems. Chemicals in chamomile work to help reduce gas, relax muscles and relieve nausea, according to MedlinePlus. Chamomile also helps to stimulate the bowel, gastric and bile secretions, while acting as an antispasmodic. Chamomile in large doses may cause vomiting or an allergic reaction in people with ragweed, marigold, daisy or other allergies. Most grocery stores carry a variety of chamomile teas.

Dandelion Tea

Dandelion, while a weed in your garden, is an effective digestive aid in your cup of tea. Unlike chamomile, where the flower is used to make tea, the root and sometimes the leaves of the dandelion plant are used to make tea. Dandelion is also used to make wine. Dandelion tea contains vitamins A, C, D and B-complex, and the minerals iron, potassium and zinc. Dandelion tea made from the leaves causes a diuretic effect, helping to increase urine production and water secretion. Dandelion tea made from the roots is an appetite stimulant and digestive aid, and may even promote gastrointestinal health, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Dandelion tea is used to soothe upset stomach, flatulence, fullness and constipation.

Green Tea

Green tea is loaded with antioxidants and has a range of health benefits, including as an aid in digestion and fat metabolism. The leaves of green tea are brewed in hot water to make the tea. Green tea contains a polyphenol called catechin epigallocatechin gallate, or EGCG, which has an anti-inflammatory effect in the intestines. Green tea also helps to break down triglycerides into fatty acids, which provide energy for your body and help control your cholesterol levels. A variety of green teas are available at your local grocery store. Green tea comes in caffeinated and decaffeinated varieties.

References

Article reviewed by J.A. Rist Last updated on: May 12, 2011

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