Herbal Tea for Bloating

Herbal teas are any type of tea not made from the Camellia sinensis plant, whose leaves create black, green, oolong and white teas. Herbal teas are made from a variety of plants, using the leaves, bark, roots and other parts of the plant. Herbal teas are commonly used as herbal remedies for numerous conditions, including bloating.

Dandelion

Dandelion leaf tea has mild laxative properties, which relieve bloating. It is also a diuretic, which reduces water retention that can cause bloating. Dandelion root tea is also a diuretic that soothes digestive problems. Make the tea by steeping 1 to 2 tsp. of dandelion leaves or 1/2 to 2 tsp. of dandelion root in a cup of boiling water for five to 10 minutes. Dandelion tea is seen as generally safe, although it can cause allergic reactions or mouth sores. Talk to your doctor before drinking dandelion tea if you have gallbladder problems or gallstones or are taking Lithium, antacids or antibiotics.

Alfalfa

Alfalfa is another herbal tea with diuretic and laxative qualities used to relieve bloating. Steep 1 tbsp. of peppermint leaves in a cup of boiling water for 3 to 5 minutes. However, alfalfa has a number of safety considerations, although generally seen as safe. Alfalfa can cause sun sensitivity. Stay away from alfalfa if you have an autoimmune disease, diabetes, a kidney transplant or a condition related to hormones. Talk to your doctor if you are on medication, because alfalfa can interfere with some.

Lemon Balm

Lemon balm herbal tea relieves the digestive tract, soothing gas and bloating. Steep 1/4 to 1 tsp. of lemon balm leaves in a cup of boiling water for 3 to 5 minutes. Lemon balm is typically considered safe, although you should avoid it if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Also, it interacts negatively with sedatives and thyroid medications.

Peppermint

Peppermint tea is known for relieving many digestive conditions and bloating is one of them. Peppermint tea calms your digestive muscles so digestive gas can go through without pain and bloating. Steep one tbsp. of peppermint leaves in a cup of boiling water for three to five minutes. Avoid peppermint tea if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or have GERD, a hiatal hernia, gallstones or are taking cyclosporine or medications for blood pressure, diabetes or to reduce stomach acid.