Teas for upset stomach, like peppermint tea and melon seed tea, can help to relieve stomach aches, burning and nausea, as these teas tend to contain soothing properties that act on the digestive system.
An upset stomach may be a sign of gastritis, GERD, stomach ulcers, gastroenteritis or even anxiety.
Although these teas should not replace medical treatment, they are a great remedy to manage discomfort and can be used as a complement to medically prescribed treatment.
Some teas for upset stomach include:
1. Peppermint tea
Peppermint tea, scientifically known as Mentha piperita L., is rich in volatile oils like menthol and menthone. These contain anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and analgesic properties that help to relieve stomach aches and reduce gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea and vomiting.
Read more about the health benefits of peppermint tea.
Ingredients
- 6 peppermint leaves, chopped
- 5 oz (150 mL) of boiling water
How to prepare
Place the leaves in a teacup and pour the boiling water over them, Cover and steep for 5 to 7 minutes. Then strain, sweeten with honey as desired, and drink 3 to 4 cups per day, after meals.
2. Boldo tea
Boldo tea, prepared with dried Chile boldo or fresh Brazilian boldo leaves, is rich in boldin and rosmarinic acid. These substances have digestive, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and astringent properties that can help to reduce gastric acid and protect the stomach to relieve pain.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon of boldo leaves, chopped
- 5 oz (150 mL) of boiling water
How to prepare
Add the leaves to the water and steep for 5 to 10 minutes. Then strain and drink while still warm, 2 to 3 times per day, before or after meals. Another option is to drink a cup of boldo tea before going to bed to promote optimal digestion after dinner.
Boldo tea can cause side effects, especially if consumed in excessive quantities or for more than 20 days. It is contraindicated for pregnant women or patients with acute hepatitis, gallbladder stones, biliary duct inflammation or pancreatitis.
3. Fennel tea
Fennel tea contains anethole, estragol and camphor which have antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and digestive action. This tea can help to relieve stomach inflammation and decrease the burning sensation in the throat. This tea also promotes stomach emptying, making it a great natural option for relieving stomach aches and reducing heartburn flare-ups.
Learn more about what fennel is used fo and the health benefits it can provide.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon of fennel seeds
- 1 cup of boiling water
How to prepare
Add the seeds to the boiling water, cover and soak for 10 to 15 minutes. Then strain and drink 2 to 3 cups per day, 20 minutes before a meal. You can also purchase fennel tea in tea bag forms.
Fennel tea should not be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women.
4. Marshmallow tea
Marshmallow tea should be prepared with the root of the medicinal plant known as Althaea officinalis. This plant contains anti-inflammatory, soothing and protective properties that relieve pain and burning in the stomach.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon of marshmallow roots
- 1 cup of boiling water
How to prepare
Add the marshmallow roots to the boiling water and soak for 10 minutes. Then strain and drink, up to 2 cups per day.
5. Ginger tea
Ginger tea contains gingerol, chogaol and zingerone, which are substances with anti-inflammatory and antiemetic properties. These can help to relieve esophageal inflammation and reduce stomach acid, which can relieve stomach pain and burning.
Ginger tea has an antiemetic action which can help to relieve nausea and vomiting caused by stomach pain.
Ingredients
- 1 of ginger root, grated or sliced
- 1 liter of boiling water
How to prepare
Boil the water and add the ginger roots. Cook the roots for 5 to 10 minutes, then remove and drink the infusion. This recipe allows for 3 to 4 servings, which can be divided throughout the day and taken 20 minutes before a meal.
Another option is to replace the ginger roots with ginger powder.
This tea is not recommended for patients with active stomach bleeding (from an ulcer, for example), nor for patients taking anticoagulants. Ginger itself contains anticoagulant properties that increase the risk for bleeding and hemorrhage.
What to eat with an upset stomach
Pain and burning from an upset stomach can be a sign of stress or poor eating habits, as well as other conditions. Determining the underlying cause is essential for treatment, however you should also try to avoid certain foods, like sugar, fat, oranges, lemons, strawberry, fast food, tomatoes and onions.
