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Last updated: Apr 12, 2024

10 best herbal teas for gut health

Sipping on a soothing cup of herbal tea can be a wonderful way to support gut health.

Among the top picks are peppermint tea, which calms digestive discomfort and reduces inflammation, and ginger tea, which stimulates digestion and alleviates nausea. Dandelion root tea is another standout, as it promotes a healthy balance of gut bacteria and supports the liver's detoxification processes.

Finally, licorice root tea is renowned for its ability to soothe stomach ulcers and heartburn, while also supporting the growth of beneficial gut microbes.

1. Peppermint

Peppermint tea aids gut health due to its active compounds, particularly menthol, which boast antispasmodic properties.

These properties relieve gastrointestinal discomfort by relaxing the gastrointestinal muscles, thereby alleviating symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome such as bloating and abdominal pain. Moreover, peppermint oil, the essential oil of peppermint leaves, exhibits carminative effects, reducing gas buildup in the gut and easing digestion.

Furthermore, it combats inflammation in the gut lining, enhancing nutrient absorption and maintaining gut integrity. In addition, peppermint tea's antibacterial qualities target and eliminate harmful gut bacteria, fostering a balanced gut microbiome.

Therefore, peppermint tea is an efficacious natural remedy for promoting gut health.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in peppermint tea that help with gut health.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in peppermint tea that aid with gut health.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint tea for gut health.

  1. Measure - Boil 1 cup of water and let 1 peppermint tea bag steep for 5-10 minutes.
  2. Select - Choose a tea bag that contains pure peppermint leaves, without any added flavors or sweeteners.
  3. Prepare - Warm up a mug by rinsing it with hot water.
  4. Steep - After boiling, let the water cool slightly before pouring it over the tea bag in the mug.
  5. Serve - Discard the tea bag and enjoy the hot peppermint tea, which can help soothe the gut and aid in digestion.

2. Ginger

Ginger tea aids gut health due to its proven carminative and intestinal spasmolytic properties, which mean it soothes the intestines and reduces gas accumulation.

This herbal tea also boasts significant levels of gingerols and shaogals, compounds known to stimulate digestion and absorption, thereby alleviating digestive discomfort. Furthermore, ginger tea's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce inflammation in the gut lining, promoting overall gut health. Additionally, ginger tea facilitates gut motility, allowing food to move through the GI tract smoothly, preventing symptoms like bloating, cramps, and indigestion.

Lastly, consistent ginger tea consumption inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria in the gut, further contributing to a balanced gut microbiome.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in ginger tea that help with gut health.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in ginger tea that aid with gut health.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger tea for gut health.

  1. Peel and chop 1-2 inches of fresh ginger root into small pieces, then place in a pot.
  2. Pour 4 cups of water into the pot and bring to a boil.
  3. Reduce heat and let simmer for 10-15 minutes.
  4. Strain the ginger pieces from the water, then add the liquid to a mug.
  5. Stir in 1-2 teaspoons of raw honey and squeeze half a lemon for added gut health benefits, enjoy!

3. Fennel

Fennel tea aids gut health through its carminative properties, which effectively alleviate bloating and gas.

This tea's rich antioxidant content, including quercetin and vitamin C, reduces inflammation in the gut, promoting overall digestive health. Furthermore, fennel tea's antispasmodic agents soothe the gastrointestinal tract, easing discomfort from cramps or spasms. Additionally, fennel seeds contain volatile oils, such as anethole, which stimulate the production of gastric enzymes, enhancing digestion and nutrient absorption.

Finally, the tea's antibacterial properties inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria in the gut, contributing to a balanced microbiome and improved gut health.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in fennel tea that help with gut health.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in fennel tea that aid with gut health.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel tea for gut health.

  1. Chop: Cut the stalks and fronds off one fresh fennel bulb, then chop the bulb into thin slices.
  2. Measure: Pour 4 cups of water into a pot and add 2 tablespoons of fennel slices.
  3. Boil: Bring the water to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
  4. Strain: Strain the tea into a teapot or mug, discarding the fennel pieces.
  5. Serve: Drink the tea while warm, up to three times a day for gut health benefits.

4. Chamomile

Chamomile tea's anti-inflammatory properties, provided by its volatile oils, including chamazulene and bisabolol, contribute to gut health by reducing inflammation in the digestive tract.

This herbal tea also contains flavonoids, such as apigenin and luteolin, which exhibit antispasmodic effects, helping to relax the smooth muscles of the intestines and alleviating digestive discomfort. Moreover, chamomile tea's soothing effect on the stomach lining stems from its ability to increase the production of mucin, a glycoprotein that forms a protective barrier against acid and enzymes in the gut.

Additionally, chamomile tea's mild bitter properties stimulate the release of bile from the liver, promoting healthy digestion and the absorption of nutrients.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in chamomile tea that help with gut health.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in chamomile tea that aid with gut health.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile tea for gut health.

  1. Measure - Pour 1 cup of fresh water into a saucepan and bring it to a boil.
  2. Steep - Add 1 heaping teaspoon of dried chamomile flowers to a tea infuser and place it in a cup.
  3. Pour - Once the water has boiled, carefully pour it over the chamomile flowers in the cup.
  4. Steep (again) - Allow the chamomile to steep for 5-7 minutes to extract its medicinal compounds.
  5. Strain - Remove the tea infuser and enjoy your homemade chamomile tea for gut health.

5. Licorice

Licorice tea, derived from the root of the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant, offers proven benefits for gut health.

This herbal tea contains active compounds, like glycyrrhizin, which exhibits anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, helping to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract. Moreover, licorice tea supports the integrity of the stomach lining and eases symptoms of heartburn, acid reflux, and indigestion. Additionally, it encourages the production of mucus in the gastrointestinal tract, providing a protective layer that combats stomach acids.

Lastly, licorice tea's antimicrobial qualities help maintain a healthy balance of gut flora, further promoting optimal gut performance.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in licorice tea that help with gut health.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in licorice tea that aid with gut health.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice tea for gut health.

  1. In a pot, combine 1 cup of chopped licorice root with 8 cups of water.
  2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes.
  3. Strain the liquid to remove the licorice root pieces.
  4. Add honey or lemon to taste, if desired.
  5. Drink the tea while warm, up to three times a day for gut health.

6. Marshmallow

Marshmallow tea, derived from the marshmallow plant's roots, contains a substance called mucilage.

This mucilage turns into a gel-like consistency when mixed with water, forming a protective layer in the digestive tract. This coating soothes and cushions the gut lining, reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy gut environment. Consequently, marshmallow tea alleviates digestive issues such as leaky gut syndrome, ulcers, and acid reflux.

Furthermore, it encourages the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, reinforcing the immune system and enhancing nutrient absorption.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in marshmallow tea that help with gut health.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in marshmallow tea that aid with gut health.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow tea for gut health.

  1. In a saucepan, combine 2 cups of water, 1 tablespoon of dried marshmallow root, and 1 cinnamon stick; simmer for 15 minutes to extract flavors.
  2. Turn off heat, add 1 tablespoon of sliced dried orange peel and 1 teaspoon of grated ginger, then steep for 10 minutes to allow ingredients to meld.
  3. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a teapot or heatproof pitcher, discarding solids.
  4. Stir in 1-2 teaspoons of raw honey to taste, and squeeze a slice of fresh lemon for added vitamin C and flavor.
  5. Serve hot, Enjoy your soothing marshmallow tea for gut health!

7. Slippery Elm

Slippery elm tea contains mucilage, a substance that turns into a slick gel when mixed with water.

This gel can coat the mouth, throat, stomach, and intestines, creating a smooth and protective barrier. By coating the digestive tract, slippery elm tea can alleviate irritation and soothe inflammation, helping to maintain gut health.

Its demulcent properties also encourage the production of more mucus in the gastrointestinal tract, providing additional protection and lubrication. Furthermore, this herbal tea stimulates the nerve endings in the gastrointestinal tract, promoting the secretion of digestive fluids and aiding in the breakdown of food.

Ultimately, slippery elm tea enhances gut health by safeguarding the digestive tract, reducing inflammation, and supporting the digestive process.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in slippery elm tea that help with gut health.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in slippery elm tea that aid with gut health.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic slippery elm tea for gut health.

  1. Measure - Fill 1 cup with sliced or powdered slippery elm bark.
  2. Boil - Pour 2 cups of water into a pot and bring to a boil.
  3. Steep - Add slippery elm bark to boiling water, reduce heat, and simmer for 10 minutes.
  4. Strain - Remove from heat, let cool, then strain the tea into a cup.
  5. Serve - Drink the tea while warm, up to 3 times a day for gut health.

8. Senna

Senna tea, derived from the senna plant, contains anthraquinone glycosides that have a laxative effect, promoting bowel movements and alleviating constipation.

This tea stimulates the colon's natural peristaltic action, helping to maintain gut regularity and ease digestion. Its natural properties make it a popular choice for those seeking to relieve irregularity and support gut health. Furthermore, senna tea's ability to cleanse the digestive tract allows for better nutrient absorption, contributing to overall gut health.

Lastly, senna tea's use as a natural laxative spans centuries, attesting to its effectiveness in promoting gut health and regularity.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in senna tea that help with gut health.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in senna tea that aid with gut health.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic senna tea for gut health.

  1. Measure: Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1-2 teaspoons of dried senna leaves.
  2. Steep: Let the mixture steep for 10-15 minutes to allow the senna leaves to release their properties.
  3. Strain: Strain the tea to remove the senna leaves, leaving only the liquid.
  4. Sweeten (optional): Add a small amount of honey or lemon to taste, if desired.
  5. Serve: Drink the tea while still warm, preferably at bedtime, to support gut health.

9. Dandelion

Dandelion tea promotes gut health due to its natural abundance in therapeutic compounds.

This infusion contains fiber, which supports the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Dandelion tea also provides prebiotics that ferment in the gut, enhancing digestion and nutrient absorption. Furthermore, it stimulates the production of stomach acid and bile, optimizing the breakdown of food.

Lastly, dandelion tea boasts anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the gastrointestinal tract, contributing to overall gut health.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in dandelion tea that help with gut health.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in dandelion tea that aid with gut health.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion tea for gut health.

  1. Gather 2-3 dandelion plant heads with intact yellow flowers and unopened buds.
  2. Rinse collected dandelion plants thoroughly, removing any dirt or insects.
  3. Chop dandelion plants, including flowers and stems, then steep in 2 cups of boiling water for 10 minutes.
  4. Strain the steeped dandelion tea into cups, discarding the solid plant material.
  5. Consume the warm dandelion tea up to three times a day for gut health benefits.

10. Skullcap

Skullcap tea, derived from the Scutellaria lateriflora plant, contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that actively support gut health.

This herbal tea combats oxidative stress in gut cells, promoting their overall function and integrity. Skullcap tea also reduces inflammation in the digestive tract, which encourages a balanced gut environment. Additionally, it relaxes gut muscles, alleviating issues such as cramps and spasms.

Moreover, skullcap tea stimulates the production of digestive enzymes, enhancing nutrient absorption and further contributing to optimal gut health.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in skullcap tea that help with gut health.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in skullcap tea that aid with gut health.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic skullcap tea for gut health.

  1. In a small pot, combine 1 cup of water and 2 teaspoons of dried skullcap herb, and bring to a boil.
  2. Reduce heat, cover, and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
  3. Strain the tea to remove the herbs, and discard the solids.
  4. Add honey or lemon to taste, if desired.
  5. Drink the tea while it's still warm, up to three times a day for gut health.

What is gut health and how can it affect your life?

Gut health refers to the balance of microorganisms in the digestive tract, which plays a pivotal role in overall well-being.

A healthy gut contains a diverse range of bacteria that aid in digestion, support the immune system, and produce vital nutrients. Conversely, an imbalanced gut can lead to digestive issues, weakened immunity, and increased susceptibility to chronic conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and depression.

Thus, maintaining a healthy gut is essential for general health and quality of life.

What other natural remedies help with gut health?

Probiotics are the most common and effective natural remedy for gut health.

These are live bacteria and yeasts that naturally live in your body and are particularly plentiful in your intestines. When taken in sufficient amounts, they can provide numerous health benefits, including improved digestion, enhanced nutrient absorption, and a stronger immune system.

In addition, consuming probiotic-rich fermented foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, and kefir can help restore the balance of bacteria in your gut and alleviate symptoms of various gastrointestinal disorders. Furthermore, a diet high in fiber found in fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains serves as an ideal prebiotic that fuels the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.

By incorporating these natural remedies into your daily routine, you can significantly enhance your gut health and overall well-being.