By Leen Randell
Updated: Nov 13, 2024
10 Best Herbal Teas For Difficulty Eating
Herbal teas for difficulty eating are natural remedies that aid individuals with dysphagia, a condition characterized by difficulty swallowing food and liquids, thereby promoting easier digestion and alleviating discomfort.
The best herbal teas for this issue include Zingiber officinale, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Cinchona officinalis, Foeniculum vulgare, Cinnamomum verum, Ginkgo biloba, Lavandula angustifolia, Matricaria chamomilla, Panax ginseng, and Rosmarinus officinalis.
Without these remedies, individuals may experience weight loss, malnutrition, and a decline in overall quality of life, potentially leading to social isolation and decreased independence.
1. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale teas helps with difficulty eating because it has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe digestive issues and reduce nausea.
The warming and carminative effects of ginger tea can also help to ease symptoms of dyspepsia, indigestion, and irritable bowel syndrome, making it easier for individuals to eat and digest food. Additionally, ginger has been shown to stimulate digestive enzymes and improve digestion, promoting overall gut health and comfort.
This can lead to a more enjoyable eating experience.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale teas that help with difficulty eating.
- Gingerols: These sesquiterpenes have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate nausea and reduce discomfort associated with eating, making it more manageable for individuals with difficulty eating.
- Shogaols: These compounds have been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract and alleviate symptoms of nausea and discomfort that may make eating difficult.
- Zingerone: This compound has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of nausea and discomfort, making it easier for individuals with difficulty eating to consume food.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Zingiber officinale used to make teas for difficulty eating.
- Rhyzomes: These are the most commonly used parts, as they contain the highest concentration of gingerols and shogaols, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can aid digestion.
- Leaves: The leaves of the ginger plant are used to make teas that can help alleviate nausea and stimulate digestion, making it easier to eat.
- Buds: Ginger buds are used to make teas that are said to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain in the digestive tract, making eating more comfortable.
2. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra teas helps with difficulty eating because of its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
The licorice root in the tea has been traditionally used to calm digestive issues and promote relaxation in the stomach. It also helps to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, making it easier for food to pass through. Additionally, the tea can help to reduce symptoms of dyspepsia and irritable bowel syndrome, allowing individuals to eat more comfortably and with less discomfort.
This can lead to improved digestion and reduced difficulty eating.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra teas that help with difficulty eating.
- Saponins: Saponins help with difficulty eating by reducing inflammation in the digestive tract and promoting a healthy gut environment, which can alleviate discomfort and pain associated with eating.
- Glycyrrhizin: Glycyrrhizin helps with difficulty eating by soothing the digestive system, reducing inflammation and irritation, and promoting the healing of mucous membranes in the mouth and throat.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids help with difficulty eating by exerting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that can reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the digestive tract, making it more comfortable to eat.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Glycyrrhiza glabra used to make teas for difficulty eating.
- Roots: Glycyrrhiza glabra roots are used to make teas for their anti-inflammatory properties and to soothe digestive issues.
- Leaves: Glycyrrhiza glabra leaves are used to make teas for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to ease digestive discomfort.
- Roots: Glycyrrhiza glabra roots are also used to make teas for their licorice content, which has been shown to aid in digestion and reduce inflammation in the mouth and throat.
3. Cinchona officinalis
Cinchona officinalis teas helps with difficulty eating because it is rich in quinine, which has been found to stimulate appetite and improve digestion.
The tea's anti-inflammatory properties may also help soothe digestive issues, such as bloating and nausea, that can make eating uncomfortable. Additionally, Cinchona officinalis has been traditionally used to treat conditions like anorexia and weight loss, suggesting its potential to increase hunger and improve overall eating habits.
This makes it a promising remedy for individuals experiencing eating difficulties.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cinchona officinalis teas that help with difficulty eating.
- Quinine alkaloid: Quinine has been shown to improve appetite and digestion by stimulating the digestive system and increasing the secretion of digestive enzymes.
- Quinic acid: Quinic acid has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate digestive discomfort and pain associated with eating difficulties, such as inflammation of the digestive tract.
- Cinchonine alkaloid: Cinchonine has been traditionally used to treat nausea and vomiting, which can be symptoms of difficulty eating; its anti-emetic properties may help alleviate these symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Cinchona officinalis used to make teas for difficulty eating.
- Leaves: Leaves are the primary part used for making Cinchona tea, which is traditionally used to stimulate appetite and aid digestion.
- Barks: The barks of Cinchona officinalis contain alkaloids that help in stimulating appetite and improving digestion, making them a popular choice for teas.
- Stems: Cinchona stems are sometimes used to make teas, which are believed to have a similar effect as the leaves in stimulating appetite and aiding digestion.
4. Foeniculum vulgare
Foeniculum vulgare teas helps with difficulty eating because it contains compounds that have natural carminative and anti-inflammatory properties.
These properties can aid in reducing discomfort and pain associated with eating, allowing individuals to consume food more comfortably. The tea's calming effect on the digestive system can also help alleviate nausea and bloating, making it easier for people to eat and digest their meals without feeling overwhelmed.
This can be particularly beneficial for those experiencing dysphagia or difficulty swallowing.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare teas that help with difficulty eating.
- Fenchone: Helps stimulate appetite and digestion, contributing to alleviating difficulty eating.
- Anethole: Exhibits carminative properties, which aid in reducing gas and discomfort in the digestive system, making it easier to eat.
- Selinene: Displays anti-inflammatory and spasmolytic effects, which can help soothe digestive discomfort and promote easier eating.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Foeniculum vulgare used to make teas for difficulty eating.
- Leaves: The leaves are used to make teas for difficulty eating because they are rich in essential oils and flavonoids, which may help stimulate digestion and relieve symptoms associated with digestive issues.
- Seeds: The seeds are used to make teas for difficulty eating because they are a natural source of fennel oil, which may help reduce inflammation and improve digestion.
- Buds: The buds are used to make teas for difficulty eating because they are rich in antioxidants and may help soothe the digestive system and reduce symptoms associated with digestive issues.
5. Cinnamomum verum
Cinnamomum verum teas helps with difficulty eating because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which can soothe digestive issues and reduce discomfort.
The warm, spicy flavor of this tea can stimulate appetite and improve digestion, making it easier to eat and enjoy meals. Additionally, Cinnamomum verum has been shown to have carminative effects, helping to relieve bloating and gas that can make eating uncomfortable.
Overall, this herbal tea can help alleviate digestive issues and make eating a more enjoyable experience.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cinnamomum verum teas that help with difficulty eating.
- Cinnamaldehyde: Acts as a digestive aid by stimulating digestive enzymes and improving gut motility, making it easier to eat and digest food.
- Cinnamomin: Exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract and alleviate symptoms of conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) that may make eating difficult.
- Eugenol: Has analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate pain and discomfort in the mouth, throat, or digestive tract, making eating more comfortable and manageable.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Cinnamomum verum used to make teas for difficulty eating.
- Leaves: Used to make teas for difficulty eating due to their calming and digestive properties that can aid in improving appetite.
- Barks: Used to make teas for difficulty eating due to their warming and digestive properties that can stimulate appetite and improve digestion.
- Buds: Used to make teas for difficulty eating due to their aromatic and digestive properties that can help to stimulate appetite and reduce nausea.
6. Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo biloba teas helps with difficulty eating because it improves blood flow to the brain and digestive system.
This enhanced circulation can increase saliva production and stimulate appetite, making it easier to chew and swallow food. Additionally, ginkgo biloba's anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce inflammation in the esophagus and digestive tract, allowing for smoother food passage.
As a result, individuals with difficulty eating may experience relief and improved digestion when consuming ginkgo biloba tea.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba teas that help with difficulty eating.
- Flavonoids: These compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to improve blood flow to the digestive system and alleviate symptoms of difficulty eating.
- Bilobalide: As a ginkgolide, bilobalide is a neuroprotective agent that helps to improve cognitive function and memory, which can be beneficial for individuals who experience difficulty eating due to cognitive impairments.
- Ginkgolides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the digestive system, thereby alleviating symptoms of difficulty eating.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Ginkgo biloba used to make teas for difficulty eating.
- Leaves: Used for teas due to their rich antioxidant and flavonoid content, which may help improve digestion and appetite.
- Buds: Used for teas as they are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that may aid in reducing digestive discomfort and promoting appetite.
- Roots: Used for teas as they contain bioactive compounds that may help stimulate digestion and improve appetite.
7. Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia teas helps with difficulty eating because of its calming properties and ability to soothe the digestive system.
The tea's anti-inflammatory compounds may reduce stomach discomfort and ease anxiety related to eating, making it easier to consume food. Additionally, the fragrance and taste of lavender may trigger a sense of relaxation, allowing individuals to feel more at ease during meals.
This can lead to a more enjoyable and stress-free eating experience.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia teas that help with difficulty eating.
- Linalool: Helps with difficulty eating by reducing anxiety and stress, which can contribute to eating disorders and decreased appetite.
- Linalyl acetate: Contributes to difficulty eating by promoting relaxation and reducing gastrointestinal inflammation, which can alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other gastrointestinal disorders.
- Caryophyllene: May help with difficulty eating by reducing pain and inflammation associated with gastrointestinal disorders, such as IBS, which can lead to decreased appetite and eating difficulties.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Lavandula angustifolia used to make teas for difficulty eating.
- Leaves: They are used to make teas for difficulty eating due to their soothing and calming properties, which can help ease digestive issues and promote relaxation.
- Flowers: They are used to make teas for difficulty eating due to their calming and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate digestive discomfort and promote appetite.
- Stems: They are used to make teas for difficulty eating due to their potential to reduce inflammation and promote digestive health, which can help alleviate digestive issues and improve appetite.
8. Matricaria chamomilla
Matricaria chamomilla teas helps with difficulty eating because of its soothing and calming properties.
The tea's anti-inflammatory effects can help ease digestive discomfort and reduce anxiety, making it easier to consume food. Its relaxing properties can also calm the mind and body, reducing stress and anxiety that may be contributing to eating difficulties.
Additionally, chamomile's gentle, gentle stomach-soothing properties can help alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, further aiding in a more comfortable eating experience.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla teas that help with difficulty eating.
- Apigenin: An anti-inflammatory flavonoid that helps reduce anxiety and stress associated with eating difficulties, promoting a more comfortable mealtime experience.
- Luteolin: A flavonoid antioxidant that may help alleviate inflammation in the digestive tract, making it easier to eat and digest food.
- Alpha-bisabolol: A soothing terpene that can calm digestive issues, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which often contributes to difficulty eating.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Matricaria chamomilla used to make teas for difficulty eating.
- Flowers: They are the most commonly used part in teas for their soothing and calming effects.
- Leaves: They are also used in teas for their mild flavor and potential benefits in aiding digestion.
- Stems: Some herbal teas use the stems of Matricaria chamomilla for their ability to help soothe the digestive system and ease eating difficulties.
9. Panax ginseng
Panax ginseng teas helps with difficulty eating because it may improve digestion and reduce inflammation in the gut.
The herb's active compounds, such as ginsenosides, can stimulate the appetite and enhance nutrient absorption. Additionally, Panax ginseng's adaptogenic properties may help alleviate stress and anxiety that can contribute to eating difficulties.
As a result, individuals who drink Panax ginseng tea may experience a boost in appetite and an improvement in overall digestive health, making it easier to eat and maintain a balanced diet.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Panax ginseng teas that help with difficulty eating.
- Ginsenosides: These compounds may help alleviate difficulty eating by reducing inflammation and improving blood flow to the digestive system, promoting healthy digestion and nutrient absorption.
- Panaxynol: It may help alleviate difficulty eating by acting as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent, protecting the digestive system from damage and promoting overall health.
- Saponins: These compounds may help alleviate difficulty eating by reducing anxiety and stress, which can contribute to eating difficulties, and promoting a sense of calm and well-being.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Panax ginseng used to make teas for difficulty eating.
- Roots: The roots are the primary part used due to their high concentration of active compounds, including ginsenosides, which are believed to aid digestion and appetite.
- Leaves: The leaves are often used in teas to help stimulate appetite and improve digestion, as they contain smaller amounts of ginsenosides and other bioactive compounds.
- Buds: The buds, being a young and tender part of the plant, are sometimes used to make teas that are believed to have a mild effect on stimulating appetite and improving digestion.
10. Rosmarinus officinalis
Rosmarinus officinalis teas helps with difficulty eating because it has been traditionally used to stimulate appetite and improve digestion.
The rosmarinic acid and other compounds in rosemary tea are believed to enhance gastric secretions and improve nutrient absorption, making it easier to digest food. Additionally, rosemary's aromatic properties may help to reduce nausea and discomfort associated with eating, allowing individuals to consume a balanced diet and regain their strength.
This can be particularly beneficial for those experiencing eating difficulties due to illness or medication.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosmarinus officinalis teas that help with difficulty eating.
- Carnosic acid: This constituent may help improve appetite and digestion by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the gastrointestinal tract.
- Rosmarinic acid: This compound may aid in reducing inflammation and improving gut health, which can help alleviate symptoms of difficulty eating such as nausea and abdominal discomfort.
- Cineole: This terpene may help stimulate appetite and improve digestion by reducing nausea and vomiting associated with difficulty eating, allowing individuals to consume food more comfortably.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Rosmarinus officinalis used to make teas for difficulty eating.
- Leaves: They are used to make teas for difficulty eating because of their high concentration of antioxidants and essential oils that aid digestion.
- Flowers: They are used to make teas for difficulty eating because of their carminative properties that help to relieve indigestion and improve appetite.
- Stems: They are used to make teas for difficulty eating because of their anti-inflammatory properties that help to soothe digestive issues and promote a healthy appetite.