By Leen Randell
Updated: Nov 13, 2024
10 Best Herbal Teas For Stomach Cramps
Herbal teas for stomach cramps are natural remedies made from various plant extracts that help alleviate abdominal pain and discomfort.
They work by reducing inflammation, relaxing muscles, and soothing the digestive system. The best herbal teas for stomach cramps include Zingiber officinale, Foeniculum vulgare, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Cinchona officinalis, Mentha x piperita, Matricaria chamomilla, Artemisia absinthium, Peumus boldus, Ginkgo biloba, and Urtica dioica.
If left untreated, stomach cramps can lead to missed workdays, social isolation, and a reduced quality of life, causing significant distress and discomfort for those affected.
1. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale teas helps with stomach cramps because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe and calm the digestive system.
The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, have been shown to reduce muscle spasms and ease nausea, providing relief from crampy discomfort.
Additionally, ginger's warming effect can help to increase blood flow and stimulate digestion, making it a popular natural remedy for alleviating stomach cramps and promoting overall digestive health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale teas that help with stomach cramps.
- Gingerols: They help with stomach cramps by reducing inflammation and relaxing the muscles in the gastrointestinal tract.
- Shogaols: They alleviate stomach cramps by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that cause pain and inflammation.
- Zingiberene: It helps with stomach cramps by blocking the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that can stimulate muscle contractions in the digestive tract.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Zingiber officinale used to make teas for stomach cramps.
- Rhyzomes: The most commonly used part for making teas due to its high concentration of gingerols and shogaols, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: Used in some herbal teas to add a milder flavor and contribute to the overall digestive benefits, although they are less potent than the rhyzomes.
- Buds: Sometimes used to make teas that are milder in flavor and less spicy than those made from mature rhyzomes, while still providing some digestive relief.
2. Foeniculum vulgare
Foeniculum vulgare teas helps with stomach cramps because it contains compounds like anethole, which have natural anti-inflammatory properties.
This helps to relax the muscles in the stomach and reduce spasms. Additionally, the tea's carminative properties help to release trapped gas, further alleviating cramping. The anti-spasmodic effects of fennel tea also help to soothe the digestive system, providing relief from cramps and discomfort.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to calm digestive issues and promote overall gut health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare teas that help with stomach cramps.
- Ferniculum: It helps with stomach cramps due to its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce inflammation and relax the smooth muscle in the digestive tract.
- Anethol: It helps with stomach cramps due to its antispasmodic properties, which relax the muscles in the digestive tract and reduce cramping.
- Sesquiterpene: It helps with stomach cramps due to its ability to inhibit the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that stimulates muscle contractions in the digestive tract.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Foeniculum vulgare used to make teas for stomach cramps.
- Leaves: They are used to make teas for stomach cramps due to their high content of carminative compounds that help to ease digestion and reduce discomfort.
- Seeds: They are used to make teas for stomach cramps due to their ability to reduce spasms and ease cramps by releasing oils that have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Stems: They are used to make teas for stomach cramps due to their high content of volatile oils that have antispasmodic properties, helping to relax the muscles and alleviate cramps.
3. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra teas helps with stomach cramps because it contains anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the digestive system.
The licorice root in the tea reduces inflammation and relaxes the muscles in the stomach, providing relief from cramps and spasms. The antispasmodic properties of Glycyrrhiza glabra also help to regulate muscle contractions, allowing the stomach to function normally.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to alleviate digestive issues, making it a popular choice for those suffering from stomach cramps.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra teas that help with stomach cramps.
- Glycyrrhizin: Glycyrrhizin is a triterpenoid saponin that helps with stomach cramps by inhibiting prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that cause inflammation and pain in the digestive tract.
- Liquiritigenin: Liquiritigenin is a flavanone that helps with stomach cramps by reducing inflammation and relaxing smooth muscle in the digestive tract, thus alleviating cramping and spasms.
- Isoflavans: Isoflavans are a group of phenolic compounds that help with stomach cramps by reducing inflammation and modulating the gut's nervous system, which can help to calm spasms and relieve cramping.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Glycyrrhiza glabra used to make teas for stomach cramps.
- Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are commonly used to make teas for stomach cramps because they contain glycyrrhizin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: The leaves of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make teas for stomach cramps because they contain flavonoids and saponins, which can help soothe digestive issues.
- Flowers: The flowers of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make teas for stomach cramps because they have a calming effect and contain compounds that can reduce inflammation in the digestive system.
4. Cinchona officinalis
Cinchona officinalis teas helps with stomach cramps because they contain quinine, a natural compound with anti-inflammatory properties.
This compound helps to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, reducing spasms and cramping. Additionally, Cinchona officinalis teas have been traditionally used to soothe digestive issues, including nausea and indigestion. The tea's ability to calm the digestive system also helps to alleviate stomach cramps, promoting a sense of relief and comfort for those experiencing discomfort.
This natural remedy offers a holistic approach to managing stomach cramps.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cinchona officinalis teas that help with stomach cramps.
- Quinine: Quinine acts as an antispasmodic agent, helping to relax smooth muscles in the gastrointestinal tract and alleviate stomach cramps.
- Quinovic acid glycosides: Quinovic acid glycosides possess anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation in the stomach and alleviate cramping pain.
- Kaempferol: Kaempferol has analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to numb the pain and reduce inflammation in the stomach, thereby providing relief from stomach cramps.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Cinchona officinalis used to make teas for stomach cramps.
- Leaves: The leaves are the primary part used due to their high content of quinine and other alkaloids that help alleviate stomach cramps.
- Barks: The barks are also used, as they contain cinchonine and other compounds that aid in reducing inflammation and relieving stomach discomfort.
- Stems: The stems may be used in some preparations, although less commonly, as they can contain smaller amounts of the active alkaloids found in the leaves and barks.
5. Mentha x piperita
Mentha x piperita teas helps with stomach cramps because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which ease digestive discomfort.
The menthol content in peppermint oil relaxes the muscles in the stomach and intestines, reducing spasms and cramps. Additionally, its carminative properties help to expel gas and alleviate bloating, making it an effective remedy for stomach cramps caused by indigestion, irritable bowel syndrome, and other digestive issues.
Its soothing effects calm the digestive system, providing relief and promoting a sense of well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita teas that help with stomach cramps.
- Menthol: Helps to reduce stomach cramps by acting as a local anesthetic and relaxant, thereby easing muscle spasms and discomfort.
- Menthone: Contributes to the relief of stomach cramps by inhibiting the production of stomach acid and reducing inflammation in the digestive tract.
- Rosmarinic acid: Helps to alleviate stomach cramps by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can reduce inflammation and protect the stomach lining from damage.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Mentha x piperita used to make teas for stomach cramps.
- Leaves: The leaves of Mentha x piperita are the most commonly used part to make teas for stomach cramps due to their high concentration of menthol and menthone, which have natural anti-inflammatory properties.
- Stems: The stems of Mentha x piperita are also used to make teas for stomach cramps, as they contain similar compounds to the leaves that help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
- (optional) buds: The buds of Mentha x piperita can be used to make teas for stomach cramps, as they have a higher concentration of menthol and menthone than the mature leaves, providing a stronger analgesic effect.
6. Matricaria chamomilla
Matricaria chamomilla teas helps with stomach cramps because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The flavonoids and terpenoids present in the tea work together to calm the digestive system and reduce inflammation in the stomach. This leads to a decrease in muscle spasms and cramps, providing relief from discomfort and pain.
The tea's gentle, gentle action also helps to relax the stomach muscles, promoting a sense of calm and ease, making it a popular remedy for stomach cramps and digestive issues.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla teas that help with stomach cramps.
- Apigenin: This phenolic compound helps to reduce inflammation and relax smooth muscles in the digestive tract, alleviating stomach cramps and discomfort.
- Alpha-bisabolol: As a terpenoid, alpha-bisabolol has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the digestive system, reducing spasms and cramps caused by stomach irritation.
- Luteolin: This flavonoid has anti-spasmodic and anti-inflammatory effects, which help to calm the stomach muscles and reduce cramping, providing relief from stomach discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Matricaria chamomilla used to make teas for stomach cramps.
- Flowers: They contain apigenin and luteolin, which are responsible for their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
- Leaves: Rich in flavonoids and terpenoids, they help to relax the muscles and reduce inflammation in the stomach.
- Seeds: The seeds contain sesquiterpene lactones, which have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects, helping to alleviate stomach cramps.
7. Artemisia absinthium
Artemisia absinthium teas helps with stomach cramps because of its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
The tea's bioactive compounds, such as absinthin and artabsin, have been found to relax smooth muscle tissue, reducing muscle spasms and cramping in the stomach and digestive tract. This leads to a decrease in pain and discomfort, providing relief from cramps caused by menstrual cycles, digestive issues, or other gastrointestinal disorders.
Regular consumption of Artemisia absinthium tea may also help to soothe and calm the stomach, promoting overall digestive health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Artemisia absinthium teas that help with stomach cramps.
- Thujone: Thujone helps with stomach cramps by reducing inflammation and relaxing smooth muscle spasms, thereby alleviating pain and discomfort.
- Artabsin: Artabsin has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help to calm stomach muscle spasms and reduce inflammation, providing relief from stomach cramps.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Artemisia absinthium teas exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which help to reduce inflammation and alleviate stomach cramps by protecting the stomach lining from damage.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Artemisia absinthium used to make teas for stomach cramps.
- Leaves: Used due to their high concentration of sesquiterpenes, which have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.
- Buds: Utilized for their similar composition to leaves, including sesquiterpenes, which help alleviate stomach cramps.
- Stems: Employed for their bittersweet flavor and aroma, which can stimulate digestion and relieve stomach discomfort.
8. Peumus boldus
Peumus boldus teas helps with stomach cramps because of its unique ability to relax the muscles in the digestive tract.
The tea contains compounds that have a calming effect on the smooth muscle, reducing spasms and inflammation. This can provide relief from cramps caused by irritable bowel syndrome, menstruation, or other digestive issues. The anti-inflammatory properties also help to soothe and calm the stomach, reducing discomfort and promoting a sense of well-being.
Regular consumption may also improve overall digestive health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Peumus boldus teas that help with stomach cramps.
- Boldine: Acts as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, reducing inflammation and soothing stomach cramps.
- Isoquinoline alkaloids: Have a spasmolytic effect, relaxing the smooth muscles in the digestive tract and alleviating stomach cramps.
- Flavonoids: Exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with stomach cramps.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Peumus boldus used to make teas for stomach cramps.
- Leaves: They are used due to their high concentration of alkaloids and other compounds that help alleviate stomach cramps and other digestive issues.
- Barks: The barks of the Peumus boldus tree contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, making them effective in treating stomach cramps.
- Roots: The roots of the tree are also used to make teas for stomach cramps, as they contain compounds that help relax the muscles and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.
9. Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo biloba teas helps with stomach cramps because of its unique properties that soothe and calm the digestive system.
The flavonoids and terpenoids present in ginkgo biloba have anti-inflammatory effects, reducing inflammation in the stomach and intestines. This helps to relax the muscles and reduce spasms, providing relief from cramps and discomfort. Additionally, ginkgo biloba teas can improve blood flow to the digestive system, promoting healthy digestion and reducing symptoms of stomach cramps.
It may also help to reduce nausea and bloating.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba teas that help with stomach cramps.
- Flavonoids: These constituents help with stomach cramps by reducing inflammation and improving blood flow to the digestive tract.
- Terpenoids: These constituents help with stomach cramps by relaxing smooth muscle in the digestive tract and reducing spasms.
- Bilobalide: This constituent helps with stomach cramps by inhibiting the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that can cause smooth muscle contractions in the digestive tract.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Ginkgo biloba used to make teas for stomach cramps.
- Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part of Ginkgo biloba for teas due to their rich content of flavonoids and terpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.
- Seeds: The seeds, also known as ginkgo nuts, are used in teas to help alleviate stomach cramps due to their ability to relax the smooth muscles in the digestive tract.
- Buds: The buds are sometimes used in teas for their potential to ease stomach cramps, possibly due to their ability to reduce inflammation and modulate the digestive system.
10. Urtica dioica
Urtica dioica teas helps with stomach cramps because it contains compounds like histamine and polysaccharides that have anti-inflammatory properties.
These compounds help to soothe and calm the stomach muscles, reducing spasms and cramping. Additionally, the tea's anti-inflammatory effects may also help to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, which can contribute to stomach cramps.
The tea's natural properties work to ease discomfort and promote a sense of calm, providing relief from stomach cramps.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica teas that help with stomach cramps.
- Flavonoids: These constituents have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in the stomach muscles.
- Saponins: Saponins can help relax smooth muscle, including those in the stomach, thereby reducing muscle spasms and cramps.
- Polysaccharides: Polysaccharides may have anti-inflammatory and soothing effects on the digestive system, helping to calm stomach cramps and discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Urtica dioica used to make teas for stomach cramps.
- Leaves: High in anti-inflammatory compounds, which help reduce pain and inflammation associated with stomach cramps.
- Roots: Rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids that have soothing and anti-inflammatory properties to ease stomach discomfort.
- Stems: Contain urticine and other compounds that help relax muscles and reduce spasms, providing relief from stomach cramps.