10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Upset Stomach
Herbal tinctures are concentrated liquid extracts made from dried herbs, often used for their therapeutic properties.
They are commonly used to alleviate symptoms of an upset stomach, such as nausea, bloating, and indigestion. Herbs like ginger, peppermint, and chamomile are frequently included in these tinctures due to their soothing and anti-inflammatory effects. Taking a few drops of these tinctures under the tongue or diluted in water can provide quick relief for digestive discomfort.
However, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider before using herbal tinctures, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.
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1. Cuminum cyminum
Cuminum cyminum, commonly known as cumin, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its potential digestive benefits.
Cumin herbal tinctures are concentrated liquid extracts made from the seeds of the cumin plant, often used to support digestive health. These tinctures may help alleviate symptoms of an upset stomach by promoting digestion and reducing bloating. The active compounds in cumin, such as cuminaldehyde and thymol, are believed to have carminative and anti-inflammatory properties.
While cumin tinctures can be a natural remedy for mild digestive discomfort, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before use, especially for individuals with existing health conditions or those taking medications.
2. Cnicus benedictus
Cnicus benedictus, also known as blessed thistle, is a traditional herbal remedy often used to support digestive health.
Its herbal tinctures are believed to help alleviate symptoms of upset stomach, such as bloating, gas, and indigestion, due to their bitter compounds that stimulate digestive enzymes. The active constituents in blessed thistle, including sesquiterpene lactones and flavonoids, may contribute to its anti-inflammatory and carminative properties. While some studies suggest potential benefits for digestive function, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially for individuals with existing medical conditions or those taking medications.
As with any herbal supplement, quality and proper dosage are key to ensuring safety and effectiveness.
3. Aloe barbadensis
Aloe barbadensis, commonly known as aloe vera, has been used for centuries for its soothing and healing properties, and its herbal tinctures are increasingly recognized for their potential to alleviate upset stomach symptoms.
These tinctures are made by extracting the gel from the aloe leaf and combining it with alcohol, creating a concentrated form that can be taken internally. The anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of aloe vera may help reduce stomach irritation, soothe inflammation, and promote the healing of the gastrointestinal lining. Some studies suggest that aloe tinctures may help regulate digestion and ease symptoms such as bloating, nausea, and indigestion.
However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using aloe tinctures, as they may interact with certain medications or have side effects in some individuals.
4. Curcuma longa
Curcuma longa, commonly known as turmeric, has been traditionally used for its medicinal properties, and its herbal tinctures are gaining attention for their potential to alleviate upset stomach symptoms.
The active compound in turmeric, curcumin, possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help reduce gastrointestinal inflammation and soothe digestive discomfort. When prepared as a tincture, curcuma longa can be more easily absorbed by the body, enhancing its bioavailability and effectiveness. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using turmeric tinctures, especially for individuals with existing medical conditions or those taking other medications.
While some studies suggest its benefits, more research is needed to fully understand its efficacy and safety for treating upset stomachs.
5. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale, commonly known as ginger, has been widely used for centuries to alleviate symptoms of an upset stomach.
Ginger tinctures, which are concentrated liquid extracts of the root, are a popular herbal remedy due to their potent anti-inflammatory and antiemetic properties. These tinctures can help reduce nausea, vomiting, and digestive discomfort by calming the gastrointestinal tract. When taken in appropriate doses, ginger tinctures are generally considered safe for most people, though they may interact with certain medications.
They are often recommended as a natural alternative or complementary treatment for digestive issues.
6. Mentha piperita
Mentha piperita, commonly known as peppermint, is widely used in herbal tinctures to alleviate symptoms of an upset stomach.
These tinctures harness the calming and antispasmodic properties of peppermint oil, which can help reduce intestinal cramping and bloating. Peppermint tinctures are often recommended for individuals suffering from indigestion, gas, or irritable bowel syndrome due to their ability to relax the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract. The essential oil of peppermint is typically diluted in alcohol to create the tincture, ensuring safe and effective use.
Regular use of peppermint tinctures may provide natural relief from digestive discomfort without the side effects associated with some pharmaceutical alternatives.
7. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, commonly known as licorice root, is a popular herbal remedy used in tincture form to soothe upset stomachs.
The tinctures are made by extracting the active compounds from the dried root of the plant using alcohol, which helps preserve the healing properties. Licorice root is known for its anti-inflammatory and demulcent properties, which can help reduce irritation and inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. It is often used to relieve symptoms such as heartburn, indigestion, and nausea.
However, long-term use of licorice root tinctures should be monitored due to potential side effects like increased blood pressure and potassium loss.
8. Foeniculum vulgare
Foeniculum vulgare, commonly known as fennel, is a popular herb used in the preparation of herbal tinctures for digestive support, including relief from upset stomach.
The tincture is typically made by soaking the dried fennel seeds in alcohol, allowing the active compounds to be extracted over time. Fennel contains essential oils like anethol, which have antispasmodic and carminative properties that help soothe the gastrointestinal tract. These tinctures are often used to alleviate symptoms such as bloating, gas, and cramping associated with indigestion or mild gastrointestinal discomfort.
However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before use, especially for individuals with existing medical conditions or those taking other medications.
9. Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia, commonly known as English lavender, is often used in herbal tinctures to support digestive health.
These tinctures are valued for their calming and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of an upset stomach. The essential oils in lavender are believed to soothe the gastrointestinal tract and reduce nausea and bloating. When taken in appropriate dosages, lavender tinctures may help regulate digestion and promote a sense of well-being.
However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using lavender tinctures, especially for prolonged periods or in combination with other medications.
10. Silybum marianum
Silybum marianum, also known as milk thistle, is a popular herbal remedy that has been used for centuries to support liver health and digestive function.
Its active compound, silymarin, is believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help soothe an upset stomach. Herbal tinctures made from Silybum marianum are often taken in small doses to aid digestion and reduce gastrointestinal discomfort. These tinctures are typically prepared using alcohol as a solvent to extract the beneficial compounds from the plant.
While generally considered safe, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using milk thistle tinctures, especially for prolonged periods or in combination with other medications.