10 Best Herbal Teas For Hiccups

Herbal teas are a natural and soothing remedy for hiccups, often used to calm the diaphragm and ease the spasms that cause the involuntary cough.

Common herbs like ginger, fennel, and anise are known for their ability to relax the muscles involved in hiccups. Drinking a warm cup of herbal tea can help soothe the throat and reduce irritation that may contribute to hiccups. Some people find that chamomile or licorice root tea also provides relief due to their calming and anti-inflammatory properties.

While herbal teas are generally safe, it's advisable to consult a healthcare professional if hiccups persist for an extended period.

1. Kava (Piper methysticum)

Piper methysticum, commonly known as kava, is a traditional herbal plant native to the South Pacific islands, often used in ceremonial and medicinal practices.

While primarily known for its calming effects and use in reducing anxiety, some anecdotal evidence suggests that kava-based herbal teas may help alleviate hiccups by relaxing the diaphragm and reducing tension in the respiratory system. However, it is important to note that scientific research on kava's efficacy for hiccups is limited, and its use should be approached with caution due to potential side effects and interactions with other medications. When considering kava for hiccups, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions or those taking regular medication.

Despite its traditional use, kava should not be relied upon as a primary treatment for persistent or chronic hiccups without proper medical guidance.

2. Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)

Foeniculum vulgare, commonly known as fennel, is a popular herb used in herbal teas to alleviate hiccups due to its mild carminative and antispasmodic properties.

The essential oils in fennel, particularly anethole, help relax the diaphragm and reduce the spasms that often trigger hiccups. When brewed into a warm tea, fennel can soothe the digestive system and ease the discomfort associated with persistent hiccups. It is often recommended as a natural remedy, especially for children and adults seeking a gentle alternative to conventional treatments.

However, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before using fennel tea, especially for prolonged or severe cases of hiccups.

3. Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

Mentha piperita, commonly known as peppermint, is a popular herb used in herbal teas to alleviate hiccups due to its calming and soothing properties.

The essential oils in peppermint, particularly menthol, help relax the diaphragm and ease the spasmodic contractions that cause hiccups. Peppermint tea is often recommended for its ability to soothe the digestive system, which can indirectly reduce the frequency of hiccups. To prepare the tea, simply steep fresh or dried peppermint leaves in hot water for several minutes.

While peppermint tea is generally safe for most people, those with acid reflux or gastrointestinal issues should consult a healthcare professional before regular use.

4. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Glycyrrhiza glabra, commonly known as licorice root, has been traditionally used in herbal teas to alleviate hiccups due to its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

The active compounds in licorice root, such as glycyrrhizin and flavonoids, help relax the muscles of the throat and reduce irritation that may trigger hiccups. When brewed into a calming tea, licorice root can provide a gentle and natural remedy for persistent or frequent hiccups. It is often combined with other herbs like fennel or ginger to enhance its effectiveness.

However, long-term use of licorice root tea should be approached with caution, as excessive consumption may lead to side effects such as hypertension or electrolyte imbalances.

5. Cumin (Cuminum cyminum)

Cuminum cyminum, commonly known as cumin, is often used in herbal teas to help alleviate hiccups due to its warming and carminative properties.

The essential oils in cumin, particularly limonene and cumin aldehyde, may help relax the diaphragm and reduce the spasms that cause hiccups. To prepare the tea, simply steep a teaspoon of cumin seeds in hot water for several minutes, then strain and drink slowly. While cumin tea is generally safe for most people, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using it, especially for those with digestive sensitivities or chronic health conditions.

Regular consumption of cumin tea may provide mild relief for occasional hiccups, though it is not a substitute for medical treatment in persistent cases.

6. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Rosmarinus officinalis, commonly known as rosemary, is a versatile herb often used in herbal teas to alleviate hiccups due to its calming and digestive properties.

The essential oils in rosemary, such as cineole and camphor, are believed to help soothe the diaphragm and reduce the spasms that cause hiccups. To prepare a rosemary tea for hiccups, steep a few fresh or dried leaves in hot water for several minutes, then drink slowly to allow the soothing effects to take hold. Many people find that drinking rosemary tea can provide quick relief by promoting relaxation and easing gastrointestinal discomfort.

While it is generally safe, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional if hiccups persist, as they may indicate an underlying health issue.

7. Lemon grass (Cymbopogon citratus)

Cymbopogon citratus, commonly known as lemon grass, is a herbal plant often used to prepare teas that may help alleviate hiccups.

This herb contains compounds like citral and myrcene, which have mild antispasmodic properties that can relax the diaphragm and reduce the spasms associated with hiccups. To prepare the tea, fresh or dried lemon grass is typically steeped in hot water for several minutes. Drinking this tea in small sips can soothe the digestive system and potentially ease the persistent coughing associated with hiccups.

While it is generally considered safe, individuals with allergies or specific health conditions should consult a healthcare provider before using lemon grass tea as a remedy.

8. Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Zingiber officinale, commonly known as ginger, is widely used in herbal teas to alleviate hiccups due to its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, help relax the diaphragm and reduce irritation that may trigger hiccups. Drinking a warm cup of ginger tea can ease the spasms associated with hiccups by improving digestion and reducing nausea. Many people find that adding a small amount of honey or lemon to the tea enhances its effectiveness.

While ginger tea is generally safe, individuals with gastrointestinal issues should consult a healthcare provider before regular use.

9. Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum)

Cinnamomum verum, commonly known as true cinnamon, is often used in herbal teas to help alleviate hiccups due to its soothing and warming properties.

The essential oils in cinnamon, particularly cinnamaldehyde, may help relax the diaphragm and reduce the spasms that cause hiccups. To prepare a cinnamon tea for hiccups, simply steep a teaspoon of cinnamon sticks or ground cinnamon in hot water for several minutes. Drinking this warm tea can provide quick relief by stimulating the vagus nerve, which plays a role in regulating the diaphragm.

While cinnamon tea is generally safe, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional if hiccups persist for an extended period.

10. Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus)

Vitex agnus-castus, commonly known as chasteberry, is a herbal remedy that has been traditionally used to support digestive health and alleviate various gastrointestinal discomforts, including hiccups.

While hiccups are typically harmless and often resolve on their own, some individuals may find relief through the use of chasteberry tea, which is believed to have calming effects on the digestive system. The herb is thought to help regulate nerve function and reduce spasms in the diaphragm, which may contribute to the occurrence of hiccups. However, it is important to note that scientific evidence supporting its efficacy for hiccups is limited, and more research is needed to confirm its benefits.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before use, especially for those with underlying health conditions or who are taking other medications.