By Leen Randell

Updated: Nov 13, 2024

10 Best Herbal Teas For Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Herbal teas for irritable bowel syndrome are natural remedies that help alleviate symptoms of IBS, such as abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel movements.

These teas work by soothing the digestive system and reducing inflammation. The best herbal teas for IBS include Foeniculum vulgare, Peumus boldus, Zingiber officinale, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Cinchona officinalis, Aloe ferox, Ilex paraguariensis, Aloe barbadensis, Artemisia absinthium, and Cassia auriculata.

If left untreated, IBS can significantly impact daily life, causing fatigue, anxiety, and social isolation due to the discomfort and unpredictability of symptoms.

1. Foeniculum vulgare

Foeniculum vulgare teas helps with irritable bowel syndrome because it contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.

These properties help to reduce inflammation and ease muscle spasms in the digestive tract, alleviating symptoms such as cramps, bloating, and abdominal pain. Foeniculum vulgare also has carminative properties, which help to release trapped gas and promote digestion, further contributing to its therapeutic effects on irritable bowel syndrome.

This natural remedy offers a non-pharmacological approach to managing IBS symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare teas that help with irritable bowel syndrome.

• Fenchone: Helps with irritable bowel syndrome by relaxing the muscles in the digestive tract and reducing spasms.
• Anethole: Aids in reducing inflammation in the gut and alleviating symptoms such as bloating and discomfort associated with irritable bowel syndrome.
• Lignans: Exerts prebiotic effects, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and improving digestion, which helps to alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Foeniculum vulgare used to make teas for irritable bowel syndrome.

• Leaves: Foeniculum vulgare leaves are used to make teas for irritable bowel syndrome because they contain carminative properties that help alleviate symptoms of bloating and gas.
• Seeds: Foeniculum vulgare seeds are used to make teas for irritable bowel syndrome because they are rich in essential oils, particularly anethole, which has anti-inflammatory and carminative properties that help soothe digestive issues.
• Buds: Foeniculum vulgare buds are used to make teas for irritable bowel syndrome because they have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that help reduce inflammation and alleviate cramps in the digestive tract.

2. Peumus boldus

Peumus boldus teas helps with irritable bowel syndrome because of its unique properties, which soothe and calm the digestive system.

The tea's antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory compounds help to relax the muscles in the intestines, reducing cramps and spasms associated with IBS.

Additionally, boldine, the primary active compound in Peumus boldus, has been shown to enhance the motility of the digestive system, allowing food to pass through the intestines more efficiently, and reducing symptoms of bloating and constipation.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Peumus boldus teas that help with irritable bowel syndrome.

• Boldine: Helps to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome by exerting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects on the gut.
• Triterpenoids: Exhibits anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and inflammation.
• Flavonoids: Possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Peumus boldus used to make teas for irritable bowel syndrome.

• Leaves: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of boldine, a compound that helps to relax the muscles in the digestive tract.
• Barks: The barks are used to make teas that help to soothe digestive issues due to their anti-inflammatory properties.
• Stems: The stems are also used to make teas that help to calm digestive issues, including irritable bowel syndrome, due to their ability to relax the muscles in the digestive tract.

3. Zingiber officinale

Zingiber officinale teas helps with irritable bowel syndrome because it contains compounds like gingerol and shogaol, which have anti-inflammatory properties.

These properties help to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, alleviating symptoms of IBS such as abdominal pain and cramping. Additionally, ginger has been shown to improve digestion by increasing the movement of food through the digestive system and reducing nausea.

By reducing inflammation and improving digestion, ginger teas can help to alleviate the symptoms of IBS, providing relief to those affected.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale teas that help with irritable bowel syndrome.

• Gingerols: Help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in the digestive tract associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
• Gingerdiones: Have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce spasms and cramping in the intestines common in IBS.
• Volatile oils: Act as an anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic agent, which can help relax the muscles in the digestive tract and reduce symptoms of IBS.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Zingiber officinale used to make teas for irritable bowel syndrome.

• Roots: The roots of the ginger plant also contain gingerol and shogaol, which are responsible for its therapeutic effects, making them a popular choice for teas.
• (optional) leaves: Some teas may use the leaves of the ginger plant, but they are not as widely used as the rhizomes or roots, and their effectiveness is less documented.

4. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Glycyrrhiza glabra teas helps with irritable bowel syndrome because it contains licorice root, which has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the digestive tract and reduce inflammation in the gut.

The flavonoids and glycosides present in the tea help to relax the muscles in the digestive system, easing cramps and spasms.

Additionally, glycyrrhizin, a key component of the tea, has been shown to have a protective effect on the gut lining, reducing symptoms of IBS such as bloating, abdominal pain, and changes in bowel movements.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra teas that help with irritable bowel syndrome.

• Triterpenoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation and irritation in the digestive tract, alleviating symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Glycyrrhiza glabra have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which help to protect the gut lining from damage, reduce inflammation, and alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Glycyrrhiza glabra have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce inflammation, protect the gut lining, and alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, such as abdominal pain and diarrhea.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Glycyrrhiza glabra used to make teas for irritable bowel syndrome.

• Roots: They are used to make teas for irritable bowel syndrome as they contain glycyrrhizin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties.
• Leaves: They are used to make teas for irritable bowel syndrome as they contain flavonoids and other compounds that may help soothe digestive issues.
• Fruits (note: This is not as widely reported but found in some reports): They are used to make teas for irritable bowel syndrome as they contain compounds that may help alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.

5. Cinchona officinalis

Cinchona officinalis teas helps with irritable bowel syndrome because of its unique combination of quinine and other alkaloids.

These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe digestive issues and reduce symptoms of IBS, such as abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel movements. Additionally, Cinchona officinalis teas can help regulate gut motility and alleviate cramps, allowing the body to return to its natural digestive rhythm.

Its natural properties make it an effective complementary remedy for managing IBS symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cinchona officinalis teas that help with irritable bowel syndrome.

• Quinic acid: Helps with irritable bowel syndrome by reducing inflammation and modulating gut microbiota.
• Quinidine: Contributes to alleviating irritable bowel syndrome symptoms by inhibiting spasms in the digestive tract.
• Quinine: Exhibits anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the digestive system and alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Cinchona officinalis used to make teas for irritable bowel syndrome.

• Leaves: The leaves are the primary part used to make teas for irritable bowel syndrome due to their high alkaloid content, particularly quinine and quinidine, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Barks: The barks are used to make teas as they contain alkaloids that help to soothe the digestive system and alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are used to make teas for irritable bowel syndrome as they contain a high amount of alkaloids, including quinine and quinidine, which help to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of the condition.

6. Aloe ferox

Aloe ferox teas helps with irritable bowel syndrome because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe the digestive tract and reduce inflammation.

The antioxidants present in Aloe ferox tea help to heal and protect the lining of the gut, promoting a healthy balance of gut bacteria. This can lead to reduced symptoms of IBS such as abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel movements.

Additionally, Aloe ferox tea can help to regulate bowel movements and improve overall digestion.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe ferox teas that help with irritable bowel syndrome.

• Anthraquinones: Help by increasing water and electrolyte secretion in the intestines, reducing inflammation and promoting regular bowel movements.
• Polysaccharides: Contribute to soothing the gut lining, reducing inflammation and promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, which can alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
• Phenolic acids: Possess anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce inflammation in the gut, which may help alleviate symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Aloe ferox used to make teas for irritable bowel syndrome.

• Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part of Aloe ferox for teas due to their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Barks: The barks are used to make teas that can help reduce inflammation and promote digestive health.
• Stems: The stems are used to make teas that can help alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, such as bloating and cramping.

7. Ilex paraguariensis

Ilex paraguariensis teas helps with irritable bowel syndrome because of its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to regulate gut motility.

The tea's high antioxidant content and presence of compounds like theobromine and theophylline can help soothe digestive issues and reduce inflammation in the gut. Additionally, the tea's prebiotic properties can promote a healthy balance of gut bacteria, which is essential for maintaining a balanced digestive system and alleviating symptoms of IBS.

This natural approach can provide relief for those suffering from IBS symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ilex paraguariensis teas that help with irritable bowel syndrome.

• Theaflavans: They have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract and alleviate symptoms associated with IBS.
• Caffeic acid: It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which help protect the gut from oxidative stress and reduce inflammation, thereby improving digestive health.
• Quinic acid derivatives: They have prebiotic properties, which help promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, improve digestion, and reduce symptoms of IBS.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Ilex paraguariensis used to make teas for irritable bowel syndrome.

• Leaves: The leaves of Ilex paraguariensis are used to make teas for IBS due to their high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Barks: The barks of Ilex paraguariensis are used to make teas for IBS due to their potential in reducing inflammation and promoting digestive health.
• Seeds: The seeds of Ilex paraguariensis are used to make teas for IBS due to their potential in reducing inflammation and improving gut health.

8. Aloe barbadensis

Aloe barbadensis teas helps with irritable bowel syndrome because its anti-inflammatory properties soothe the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and discomfort.

The gel's high mucilage content creates a protective barrier, allowing gut lining to heal and repair. Additionally, Aloe vera's prebiotic properties support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, promoting a balanced gut microbiome. This leads to improved digestion, reduced bloating, and alleviation of IBS symptoms, such as abdominal pain and irregular bowel movements.

Regular consumption can bring relief and improve overall digestive health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe barbadensis teas that help with irritable bowel syndrome.

• Anthraquinones: Help reduce inflammation and spasms in the digestive tract, alleviating symptoms of IBS such as abdominal pain and cramping.
• Polysaccharides: Act as prebiotics, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, which can help regulate bowel movements and alleviate symptoms of IBS such as constipation or diarrhea.
• Glycoproteins: Exhibit anti-inflammatory and soothing effects on the digestive tract, which can help reduce inflammation and irritation associated with IBS.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Aloe barbadensis used to make teas for irritable bowel syndrome.

• Leaves: Rich in anti-inflammatory compounds that help soothe digestive issues.
• Rhyzomes: Contain gel-like substance that helps to calm inflammation in the digestive tract.
• Stems: Rich in antioxidants that aid in reducing inflammation and promoting healthy digestion.

9. Artemisia absinthium

Artemisia absinthium teas helps with irritable bowel syndrome because it contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can soothe the digestive tract and alleviate symptoms of IBS.

The tea's essential oils, particularly thujone, have been shown to relax the muscles in the stomach and intestines, reducing cramping and discomfort.

Additionally, Artemisia absinthium has been found to have antimicrobial properties, which can help regulate the balance of gut bacteria and reduce inflammation, further contributing to its potential benefits for IBS sufferers.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Artemisia absinthium teas that help with irritable bowel syndrome.

• Thujone: Acts as a spasmolytic agent to help relax smooth muscle in the gastrointestinal tract, reducing cramping and discomfort associated with IBS.
• Absinthin: Exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract and alleviate symptoms of IBS such as abdominal pain and bloating.
• Bornyl acetate: Possesses carminative properties, helping to reduce gas and alleviate symptoms of bloating and discomfort often experienced by individuals with IBS.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Artemisia absinthium used to make teas for irritable bowel syndrome.

• Leaves: Used to make teas due to their carminative properties, which help to alleviate bloating and cramps associated with IBS.
• Stems: Utilized in teas as they are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties that may help soothe digestive issues.
• Seeds: Used in teas for their carminative and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help to reduce symptoms of IBS such as abdominal pain and cramping.

10. Cassia auriculata

Cassia auriculata teas helps with irritable bowel syndrome because it contains bioactive compounds that possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

These compounds help in soothing the digestive tract and reducing inflammation, thus alleviating symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea associated with IBS. The tea's ability to regulate gut motility and improve gut health also contributes to its therapeutic effects.

By promoting a balanced gut environment, Cassia auriculata tea provides relief from IBS symptoms and promotes overall digestive well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cassia auriculata teas that help with irritable bowel syndrome.

• Auriculasin: This flavonoid may help alleviate IBS symptoms by reducing inflammation in the gut and improving gut motility.
• Quercetin: As an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound, quercetin may help soothe the digestive tract, reduce pain, and modulate the gut microbiome.
• Gallic acid: This phenolic acid may help protect the gut lining from oxidative stress and inflammation, thereby reducing symptoms of IBS such as abdominal pain and diarrhea.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Cassia auriculata used to make teas for irritable bowel syndrome.

• Leaves: The leaves of Cassia auriculata are used to make teas due to their potential anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which may help alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
• Stems: The stems of Cassia auriculata are used to make teas due to their potential anti-diarrheal and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help manage symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
• Roots: The roots of Cassia auriculata are used to make teas due to their potential carminative and anti-diarrheal properties, which may help soothe digestive issues associated with irritable bowel syndrome.