Soothe Your Upset Stomach with Tea's Soothing Effects

Understanding Upset Stomach and How Tea Can Help

An upset stomach, also known as indigestion or dyspepsia, refers to a group of gastrointestinal symptoms that affect the upper abdomen. These symptoms include abdominal pain or discomfort, bloating, nausea, and feeling overly full after eating only a small amount of food.

There are many potential causes of an upset stomach, including eating too much or too quickly, eating greasy or spicy foods, stress and anxiety, food intolerances, and infections. Fortunately, there are several teas that can help soothe an unsettled digestive system.

The Benefits of Tea for Upset Stomach

Many herbal teas have compounds that act as digestive aids, anti-inflammatories, antispasmodics, and natural pain relievers. The most evidence-backed teas for soothing an upset stomach include:

• Peppermint tea
• Ginger tea
• Fennel tea
• Chamomile tea
• Lemon balm tea

Research shows these teas can help relax gastrointestinal muscles to alleviate cramping and spasms, reduce inflammation and gas production, and ease nausea and stomach pain. The menthol in peppermint and citrus flavors also have a calming effect.

How Peppermint Soothes the Stomach

Of all the herbal teas for upset stomach, peppermint is one of the most well-researched. Peppermint contains a powerful compound called menthol that is responsible for its refreshing flavor and many of its medicinal benefits.

Menthol has muscle relaxant and pain-relieving effects. It helps relax tight, contracted digestive muscles to reduce painful stomach cramping and spasms. The antispasmodic action of menthol also allows excess gas and bloating to pass more easily.

Additionally, menthol triggers cold-sensitive nerves in the stomach lining that signal feelings of comfort and satisfaction. This creates a cooling sensation that helps calm the stomach down.

Brewing Peppermint Tea for Upset Stomach

Brewing a cup of fresh peppermint tea is simple. Start by bringing water to a boil. Remove from heat and add 1-2 teaspoons of fresh peppermint leaves or a peppermint tea bag. Let steep for 5-7 minutes before straining out the leaves and enjoying. Be careful not to over-steep the tea or it may become bitter.

For best results, drink a cup of peppermint tea when stomach symptoms first start or 30-60 minutes after a meal. The antispasmodic effects kick in within minutes and the soothing feeling can last for hours. Peppermint capsules can also be taken as an alternative if tea is not preferred.

Other Soothing Teas for Upset Stomach

Ginger Tea

Ginger is another go-to natural remedy for a finicky stomach. Like peppermint, ginger contains compounds called gingerols that relax gastrointestinal muscles to relieve cramping, bloating, and gas. Ginger also has anti-nausea benefits that suppress stomach churning.

Fennel Tea

Fennel tea tastes a little like licorice thanks to a compound called anethole. Anethole has been shown to reduce intestinal spasms and inflammation while also preventing excess gas production. Try sipping on a cup of fennel tea 30 minutes before or after meals.

Chamomile Tea

Chamomile is frequently used for its comforting, soothing properties. A compound in chamomile called apigenin binds to receptors in your stomach lining to decrease stomach contractions and secretions of acid and enzymes. This helps calm general stomach upset.

Lemon Balm Tea

Lemon balm contains chemicals that help relax gastrointestinal muscles and ease cramping associated with irritable bowel syndrome. The lemon-like flavor also triggers saliva production and digestive juice secretions which improves poor digestion. Steep lemon balm tea bags for 5 minutes before drinking.

When to Avoid Tea for Upset Stomach

While most herbal teas are very safe, there are a few things to be aware of. Avoid drinking peppermint or fennel tea if you have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or hiatal hernia as the muscle relaxant effect can worsen acid reflux symptoms. You should also use caution with any menthol products if you have gallbladder issues.

Pregnant women should limit chamomile consumption since it acts as a uterine stimulant that could trigger preterm labor. And everybody should stop drinking tea if symptoms persist or worsen as that could indicate a more serious medical condition needing evaluation.

The Takeaway

An upset stomach is never fun to deal with. Thankfully, herbal teas like peppermint, ginger, fennel, chamomile, and lemon balm can help calm digestive distress in multiple ways. Their antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, anti-nausea, and gas-reducing properties combine to relax and soothe your unsettled stomach effectively and naturally.

So next time indigestion strikes, brew one of these teas and drink your discomfort away. Just be cautious with reflux issues or pregnancy and discontinue use if problems persist.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.