10 Best Herbal Teas For Upset Stomach

Herbal teas are a natural and soothing remedy for an upset stomach, often providing relief without the side effects of over-the-counter medications.

Common herbs such as ginger, peppermint, chamomile, and fennel are known for their calming and anti-inflammatory properties that can help ease nausea, cramping, and bloating. Ginger tea, in particular, is effective in reducing vomiting and nausea by soothing the digestive tract. Peppermint tea can relax the muscles of the gastrointestinal system, while chamomile offers a calming effect that may reduce stress-related stomach discomfort.

Drinking these herbal teas warm and in moderation is generally safe for most people, though those with specific allergies or medical conditions should consult a healthcare provider before use.

1. Camellia (Camellia sinensis)

Camellia sinensis, the plant from which green, black, and white teas are derived, contains compounds that may help soothe an upset stomach.

Its natural antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties can reduce irritation in the digestive tract. Drinking mild, brewed Camellia sinensis tea may help alleviate symptoms such as nausea and bloating. However, it is important to avoid strong or caffeinated varieties, as they may exacerbate stomach discomfort.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using Camellia sinensis tea for digestive issues.

2. Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)

Matricaria chamomilla, commonly known as chamomile, is a popular herbal tea used to soothe an upset stomach due to its calming and anti-inflammatory properties.

The tea is made from the dried flowers of the plant and is known to help reduce stomach cramps, nausea, and indigestion. Chamomile contains compounds like apigenin, which may contribute to its digestive benefits by relaxing the muscles in the gastrointestinal tract. It is often recommended as a gentle and natural remedy for mild digestive discomfort.

However, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before using chamomile, especially for those with allergies or taking medications.

3. Cumin (Cuminum cyminum)

Cuminum cyminum, commonly known as cumin, is often used in herbal teas to soothe an upset stomach due to its carminative and digestive properties.

The essential oils in cumin, such as limonene and cineole, help reduce bloating and gas, making it a natural remedy for digestive discomfort. Drinking cumin tea can also stimulate the production of digestive enzymes, aiding in the breakdown of food and easing nausea. To prepare the tea, simply steep a teaspoon of whole cumin seeds or a few drops of cumin essential oil in hot water for several minutes.

While generally safe, individuals with gastrointestinal conditions should consult a healthcare provider before using cumin regularly.

4. Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Zingiber officinale, commonly known as ginger, has been widely used for centuries in herbal teas to alleviate symptoms of an upset stomach.

The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, possess anti-inflammatory and carminative properties that help reduce nausea and digestive discomfort. Drinking ginger tea can stimulate digestion and relax the gastrointestinal tract, making it a natural remedy for indigestion, bloating, and motion sickness. It is often recommended as a safe and effective alternative to over-the-counter medications for mild stomach ailments.

To prepare ginger tea, simply steep fresh or dried ginger root in hot water for several minutes, and enjoy it warm for maximum soothing effects.

5. Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)

Foeniculum vulgare, commonly known as fennel, is a popular herb used in herbal teas to alleviate symptoms of an upset stomach.

The seeds of the fennel plant contain compounds such as anethole, which have mild antispasmodic and carminative properties that can help soothe digestive discomfort. Drinking fennel tea is often recommended for its ability to reduce bloating, gas, and cramping associated with indigestion or gastrointestinal distress. It is typically prepared by steeping the dried seeds in hot water for several minutes, and can be enjoyed either warm or chilled.

While generally safe for most people, individuals with allergies to related plants or those on certain medications should consult a healthcare provider before using fennel tea regularly.

6. Thistle (Silybum marianum)

Silybum marianum, also known as milk thistle, is a herbal remedy commonly used in the form of tea to support digestive health.

This herb contains active compounds like silymarin, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help soothe an upset stomach. When brewed as a tea, silybum marianum can be gentle on the stomach and may aid in reducing nausea and bloating. It is often recommended for individuals experiencing mild digestive discomfort or as a complementary therapy alongside conventional treatments.

However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using it, especially for those with existing medical conditions or taking other medications.

7. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Glycyrrhiza glabra, commonly known as licorice root, has been traditionally used in herbal teas to soothe upset stomachs due to its anti-inflammatory and demulcent properties.

The herb contains compounds like glycyrrhizin, which can help reduce irritation in the gastrointestinal tract and promote a calming effect on the stomach lining. When brewed into a tea, licorice root can help alleviate symptoms such as heartburn, indigestion, and nausea by coating and protecting the stomach lining. However, long-term use of licorice root tea may lead to side effects such as high blood pressure due to its effect on sodium retention.

It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using licorice root tea, especially for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those taking medications.

8. Dog rose (Rosa canina)

Rosa canina, also known as rosehip, is a traditional herbal remedy commonly used to support digestive health.

Its tea is made from the dried fruits of the rose plant and is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and anti-inflammatory compounds. Rosa canina herbal tea is often recommended for soothing an upset stomach due to its gentle nature and ability to reduce gastrointestinal inflammation. The tea can help alleviate symptoms such as nausea, bloating, and indigestion when consumed regularly.

It is typically prepared by steeping the dried rosehips in hot water for several minutes, making it a simple and accessible remedy for digestive discomfort.

9. Black pepper (Piper nigrum)

Piper nigrum, commonly known as black pepper, is often used in herbal teas to help alleviate symptoms of an upset stomach.

The active compound in black pepper, piperine, is believed to enhance digestion and reduce bloating by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes. When brewed into a tea, black pepper can help soothe nausea and ease gastrointestinal discomfort. However, it is important to use it in moderation, as excessive consumption may irritate the stomach lining.

This herbal tea is typically combined with other calming herbs like ginger or fennel to enhance its soothing effects on the digestive system.

10. Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

Mentha piperita, commonly known as peppermint, is a popular herb used in herbal teas to alleviate symptoms of an upset stomach.

The essential oils in peppermint, particularly menthol, have soothing properties that help reduce intestinal cramping and gas. Peppermint tea can also help ease nausea and bloating by relaxing the muscles in the digestive tract. It is often recommended for those suffering from irritable bowel syndrome or other gastrointestinal discomforts.

However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using peppermint tea, especially for individuals with certain medical conditions or those taking medications.