Calming Herbal Teas for Natural Relief from Diverticulitis Flares

Understanding Diverticulitis and Finding Relief With Calming Herbal Teas

Diverticulitis is a common digestive disease that affects over 10 million Americans. It occurs when small pouches called diverticula form in the wall of the colon. When these pouches become inflamed or infected, it results in the condition known as diverticulitis.

Diverticulitis can cause abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, constipation, and diarrhea. Attacks of diverticulitis can range from mild to severe. Repeated episodes of inflammation can lead to other complications such as bleeding, infections, perforations or tears in the colon, or blockages.

What Causes Diverticulitis?

While the exact cause is unknown, the development of diverticula that can lead to diverticulitis is thought to occur from a combination of factors:

• A low-fiber diet. Eating a diet low in fiber causes stools to be harder and more difficult to pass, which increases pressure in the colon.
• Changes in colon structure. With aging, the tissues supporting the colon can become thicker and less elastic, again leading to increased pressure in the colon.
• Genetics. Some people are just more prone to developing diverticula and diverticulitis.

Diverticulitis tends to affect older adults more frequently. Obesity also increases risk. Anything that obstructs the colon and causes pressure to build can further the development of diverticula.

Conventional Treatment for Diverticulitis

Treatment for diverticulitis usually begins with antibiotics to clear infection along with resting the colon by sticking to clear liquids. More severe cases may require hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics. Surgery is sometimes necessary in complicated cases or after repeated episodes.

To prevent future diverticulitis flares, the mainstay of treatment is increasing dietary fiber intake to produce larger, softer stools. Doctors also recommend probiotics to support gut bacteria balance and sometimes prescribe medications to reduce colon spasms.

Can Herbal Teas Soothe and Calm Diverticulitis?

Using herbs to find relief from gastrointestinal conditions like diverticulitis has become quite popular. Many herbs have anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and antimicrobial properties that can aid gut health.

Herbal teas are one of the most accessible ways to experience the benefits of medicinal plants. They are easy to prepare, gentle on the stomach, and lend themselves perfectly to creating soothing beverages ideal for digestive upsets.

5 Soothing Herbal Teas for Diverticulitis

Here are 5 calming herbal blends that may help ease diverticulitis symptoms:

1. Chamomile Tea

Chamomile tea is prepared from the dried flowers of the chamomile plant, which belongs to the Asteraceae family. Chamomile has been used since Ancient Egyptian times for its medicinal properties.

This herb contains compounds called apigenin, bisabolol, and matricin that give chamomile anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties. Chamomile is gentle enough to be given to infants yet powerful enough to treat digestive diseases in adults.

Chamomile tea can be soothing when the intestines go into spasm during a diverticulitis flare. It may also help relieve associated nausea.

2. Marshmallow Root Tea

Marshmallow root comes from the Althaea officinalis plant native to Europe and Western Asia. Both the root and leaves contain mucilage, a thick gummy substance that gives marshmallow its therapeutic effects.

The mucilage coats, soothes, and lubricates irritated tissues in the digestive tract. It acts as a barrier against inflammation in the colon's lining. Marshmallow root may also have prebiotic effects to support healthy gut flora.

Drinking marshmallow root tea can reduce inflammation and irritation caused by diverticulitis. Just be sure to brew it for at least 10 minutes to release the mucilage.

3. Slippery Elm Tea

Like marshmallow, slippery elm contains abundant mucilage obtained from the inner bark of the tree. The slippery, slimy texture gives slippery elm the ability to coat membranes and promote tissue healing.

In diverticulitis, slippery elm can line the diverticula and irritated areas of the intestines. It acts as a soothing demulcent to provide relief from painful bowel movements or abdominal cramps.

To brew, pour boiling water over slippery elm bark powder and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before drinking.

4. Peppermint Tea

Peppermint is a popular herb used to improve numerous digestion-related issues thanks to its antimicrobial and antispasmodic effects. The potent menthol compound in peppermint offers pain-relieving properties.

Peppermint tea can ease excessive gas, abdominal pain, and cramping caused by diverticulitis. It also stimulates bile flow to support healthy digestion.

Enjoy this bright, refreshing tea either hot or cold, but be cautious if you have acid reflux as peppermint may worsen symptoms.

5. Ginger Tea

Ginger root contains bioactive compounds like gingerols and shogaols that give it anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Studies consistently find ginger effective for relieving nausea, vomiting, cramps, and other GI issues.

The spicy, warming nature of ginger makes it an excellent choice for soothing diverticulitis flare-ups. Try adding some honey and lemon for additional relief and flavor.

Precautions When Using Herbal Teas for Diverticulitis

Herbal teas offer a natural way to find relief from diverticulitis symptoms, but there are some precautions to keep in mind:

• Consult your doctor before using herbal remedies, especially if you take any medications or have other medical conditions.
• Drink herbal teas in moderation as large amounts may cause side effects.
• Look for reputable brands and high-quality ingredients.
• Be aware that herbals are not regulated by the FDA for safety and efficacy.
• Stop use if you experience any adverse reactions.
• See your doctor if symptoms persist or worsen despite using herbal teas.

The Takeaway

Incorporating herbal teas into your daily routine can provide a soothing, natural way to calm diverticulitis flares and keep your digestive system calm. Chamomile, marshmallow root, slippery elm, peppermint, and ginger teas contain compounds that reduce inflammation, pain, cramping, and other gut issues.

Use herbal teas as a complementary therapy under the supervision of your doctor and along with conventional medical treatment and lifestyle changes. With the power of plants, a healthy gut and relief from diverticulitis are within reach.

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.