By Leen Randell

Updated: Nov 13, 2024

10 Best Herbal Teas For Upper Abdominal Pain

Herbal teas for upper abdominal pain are a natural remedy that helps to alleviate discomfort and inflammation in the upper abdominal region.

They work by soothing the digestive system, reducing inflammation, and promoting relaxation. The best herbal teas for upper abdominal pain include Zingiber officinale, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Foeniculum vulgare, Cinchona officinalis, Mentha x piperita, Ginkgo biloba, Curcuma longa, Silybum marianum, Cinnamomum verum, and Artemisia absinthium.

If left untreated, upper abdominal pain can negatively impact daily life, causing missed work, social isolation, and decreased productivity, ultimately affecting one's overall well-being and quality of life.

1. Zingiber officinale

Zingiber officinale teas helps with upper abdominal pain because it has natural anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and calm the digestive tract.

The active compound, gingerol, relaxes the muscles in the stomach and reduces inflammation, providing relief from pain and discomfort. Additionally, ginger has been shown to improve digestion and reduce nausea, making it an effective remedy for alleviating upper abdominal pain caused by indigestion, bloating, and other digestive issues.

Its warm and comforting properties also aid in relaxation.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale teas that help with upper abdominal pain.

• Gingerols: Help to reduce inflammation and relieve pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
• Shogaols: Act as a natural anti-inflammatory agent by blocking the action of pro-inflammatory compounds and reducing pain.
• Terpenes: Display analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to alleviate pain and discomfort associated with upper abdominal pain.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Zingiber officinale used to make teas for upper abdominal pain.

• Rhyzomes: Dried and powdered rhyzomes are commonly used to make teas for upper abdominal pain due to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Roots: The roots of Zingiber officinale are often used in teas to help alleviate upper abdominal pain due to their ability to warm and relax the digestive system.
• Buds: The buds of the plant are sometimes used in teas to soothe upper abdominal pain caused by digestive issues, such as bloating and cramping, due to their gentle anti-inflammatory effects.

2. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Glycyrrhiza glabra teas helps with upper abdominal pain because of its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to soothe the digestive system.

The licorice root, a key ingredient in this tea, has been used for centuries to calm stomach ulcers and reduce inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.

By reducing inflammation and promoting healing, Glycyrrhiza glabra tea may alleviate symptoms of conditions such as gastritis, peptic ulcers, and irritable bowel syndrome, providing relief from upper abdominal pain and discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra teas that help with upper abdominal pain.

• Saponins: These compounds help alleviate upper abdominal pain by reducing inflammation and modulating the immune response, thereby providing relief from conditions such as gastritis and peptic ulcers.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Glycyrrhiza glabra have anti-inflammatory properties, which contribute to their pain-relieving effects by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the upper abdominal region.
• Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, helping to relax the smooth muscles in the upper abdominal region and reducing pain caused by spasms or inflammation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Glycyrrhiza glabra used to make teas for upper abdominal pain.

• Roots: Glycyrrhiza glabra roots are primarily used to make teas for upper abdominal pain due to their anti-inflammatory properties.
• Leaves: Glycyrrhiza glabra leaves are used to make teas for upper abdominal pain due to their antispasmodic and soothing effects.
• Roots: Glycyrrhiza glabra roots are also used to make teas for upper abdominal pain due to their ability to relax the digestive muscles and reduce inflammation.

3. Foeniculum vulgare

Foeniculum vulgare teas helps with upper abdominal pain because of its anti-inflammatory and carminative properties.

The active compounds in the tea, particularly anethole, have been shown to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, reducing spasms and cramping that can cause discomfort. Additionally, the tea's ability to stimulate digestive enzymes and improve gut motility can help to alleviate symptoms of indigestion and bloating, making it a potential natural remedy for upper abdominal pain.

This can provide relief and promote overall digestive health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare teas that help with upper abdominal pain.

• Anethole: This terpene constituent helps with upper abdominal pain by relieving spasms and relaxing the smooth muscles in the digestive tract, reducing discomfort and pain.
• Foeniculin: This phenolic constituent has anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with upper abdominal conditions.
• Apiol: This phenolic constituent has a calming effect on the digestive system, reducing spasms and inflammation, which in turn helps alleviate upper abdominal pain.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Foeniculum vulgare used to make teas for upper abdominal pain.

• Leaves: The leaves of Foeniculum vulgare are used to make teas for upper abdominal pain because they contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory and carminative properties.
• Seeds: The seeds of Foeniculum vulgare are used to make teas for upper abdominal pain because they are rich in anethole, a compound that helps to relax muscles and reduce spasms.
• Buds: The buds of Foeniculum vulgare are used to make teas for upper abdominal pain because they contain volatile oils that have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.

4. Cinchona officinalis

Cinchona officinalis teas helps with upper abdominal pain because it contains quinine, a natural compound with anti-inflammatory properties.

The quinine in Cinchona officinalis interacts with various bodily systems to reduce pain and inflammation. Additionally, Cinchona officinalis has been found to relax the digestive tract muscles, which can help alleviate cramps and spasms associated with upper abdominal pain. This tea may also help to soothe digestive issues, promoting a sense of calm and relief.

Its unique properties make it a potential remedy for upper abdominal discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cinchona officinalis teas that help with upper abdominal pain.

• Quinine: It helps with upper abdominal pain by reducing inflammation and relieving spasms in the stomach muscles.
• Quinovic acid glycosides: These compounds have been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate upper abdominal pain caused by inflammation in the digestive tract.
• Quercetin: It has antioxidant properties that can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the stomach, which can contribute to upper abdominal pain.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Cinchona officinalis used to make teas for upper abdominal pain.

• Leaves: Alkaloids such as quinine and cinchonine in Cinchona officinalis leaves help alleviate upper abdominal pain by reducing inflammation.
• Barks: The barks of Cinchona officinalis contain quinine and other alkaloids that help relieve upper abdominal pain and reduce fever.
• Leaves: The leaves of Cinchona officinalis are also used for their antimalarial properties, which can indirectly alleviate upper abdominal pain caused by malaria.

5. Mentha x piperita

Mentha x piperita teas helps with upper abdominal pain because its active compounds, peppermint oil and menthol, have natural relaxant properties that ease muscle spasms and cramping in the digestive tract.

The oil's anti-inflammatory effects reduce swelling and irritation in the stomach, while its carminative properties help eliminate trapped gas and ease bloating.

As the digestive system relaxes and becomes more efficient, upper abdominal pain often subsides, providing relief from symptoms associated with conditions like irritable bowel syndrome and indigestion.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita teas that help with upper abdominal pain.

• Menthol: Provides rapid pain relief and reduces inflammation by blocking the production of pain-causing chemicals and acting as a local anesthetic.
• Caryophyllene oxide: Exhibits anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, helping to reduce pain and inflammation associated with upper abdominal conditions.
• Rosmarinic acid: Demonstrates anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help alleviate pain and discomfort caused by inflammation in the upper abdominal region.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Mentha x piperita used to make teas for upper abdominal pain.

• Leaves: Mint leaves are used due to their carminative properties, which help to ease digestive discomfort and relieve cramps.
• Buds: Mint buds are used due to their high concentration of menthol, which helps to relax the muscles in the stomach and relieve cramps.
• Stems: Mint stems are used due to their ability to stimulate digestion and relieve nausea associated with upper abdominal pain.

6. Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo biloba teas helps with upper abdominal pain because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The flavonoids and terpenoids present in Ginkgo biloba have been shown to improve blood flow and reduce oxidative stress, which can contribute to abdominal pain. Additionally, Ginkgo biloba is believed to relax smooth muscle and reduce spasms in the digestive tract, providing relief from cramps and discomfort.

Its potential to soothe the digestive system and promote overall well-being may also contribute to its pain-relieving effects.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba teas that help with upper abdominal pain.

• Ginkgolides: These terpenoid compounds help by inhibiting platelet-activating factor (PAF), which is involved in the pathogenesis of upper abdominal pain conditions such as biliary colic and cholecystitis.
• Bilobalide: This sesquiterpene lactone contributes to the relief of upper abdominal pain by modulating neurotransmitter release and exerting anti-inflammatory effects, thus reducing the severity of pain.
• Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds exhibit antioxidant properties, which help in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the upper abdominal region, thereby alleviating pain associated with conditions like gastritis and peptic ulcers.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Ginkgo biloba used to make teas for upper abdominal pain.

• Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part of Ginkgo biloba due to their high concentration of flavonoids and terpenoids, which are believed to soothe and alleviate upper abdominal pain.
• Seeds: The seeds are also used to make teas, as they contain ginkgotoxin, which may help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in the upper abdomen.
• Roots: The roots of Ginkgo biloba may also be used to make teas, as they contain compounds that may help reduce spasms and alleviate discomfort in the upper abdominal region.

7. Curcuma longa

Curcuma longa teas helps with upper abdominal pain because it contains curcumin, a potent anti-inflammatory compound that reduces inflammation and discomfort in the abdominal region.

The tea's active ingredient also exhibits antioxidant properties, which help neutralize free radicals that can exacerbate pain and inflammation. By reducing oxidative stress and promoting healing, Curcuma longa teas alleviate upper abdominal pain, making it a popular natural remedy for conditions such as gastritis, indigestion, and bloating.

Its soothing effects can bring quick relief.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa teas that help with upper abdominal pain.

• Curcuminoids: They help with upper abdominal pain by reducing inflammation, which in turn alleviates digestive discomfort and soothes the stomach lining.
• Tumerone: It helps by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, thereby reducing the severity of upper abdominal pain caused by digestive issues.
• Demethoxycurcumin: This constituent aids in reducing pain and inflammation in the upper abdomen by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and molecules.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Curcuma longa used to make teas for upper abdominal pain.

• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are the most commonly used part for making teas, as they contain high concentrations of curcumin, which is a natural anti-inflammatory compound that helps alleviate upper abdominal pain.
• Stems: Stems of Curcuma longa are also used to make teas, as they contain some amount of curcumin and other bioactive compounds that help soothe upper abdominal discomfort.
• Leaves: Leaves of the plant are occasionally used to make teas, as they contain some amount of curcumin and other compounds that may help ease upper abdominal pain.

8. Silybum marianum

Silybum marianum teas helps with upper abdominal pain because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The silymarin compound found in this herb has been shown to protect the liver and gallbladder, reducing inflammation and alleviating discomfort in the upper abdominal region. Additionally, silymarum's ability to improve digestion and reduce oxidative stress contributes to its effectiveness in alleviating upper abdominal pain.

This herbal remedy has been used for centuries to soothe digestive issues and promote overall well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Silybum marianum teas that help with upper abdominal pain.

• Lignans: Help alleviate upper abdominal pain by reducing inflammation and modulating the gut microbiome, thus providing relief from digestive discomfort.
• Flavonoids: Act as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, which help to soothe the digestive tract and reduce pain associated with upper abdominal issues.
• Silymarin: Exerts hepatoprotective effects, reducing liver inflammation and oxidative stress that may contribute to upper abdominal pain, and supports liver function for improved overall digestive health.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Silybum marianum used to make teas for upper abdominal pain.

• Seeds: They are used to make teas for upper abdominal pain due to their potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Leaves: Leaves are used to make teas for upper abdominal pain due to their potential to soothe and calm the digestive system.
• Flowers: Flowers are used to make teas for upper abdominal pain due to their potential to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of digestive issues.

9. Cinnamomum verum

Cinnamomum verum teas helps with upper abdominal pain because it has natural anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the digestive system.

The tea's active compounds, including cinnamaldehyde, have been shown to reduce inflammation and relax the muscles in the upper abdomen, providing relief from cramps and discomfort.

Additionally, Cinnamomum verum's carminative properties help alleviate gas and bloating, further contributing to its pain-relieving effects and making it a popular natural remedy for alleviating upper abdominal pain.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cinnamomum verum teas that help with upper abdominal pain.

• Cinnamaldehyde: It helps with upper abdominal pain by acting as a carminative, relieving gas and bloating in the digestive system, and also by reducing inflammation in the stomach lining.
• Eugenol: It helps with upper abdominal pain by acting as a local anesthetic and anti-inflammatory agent, numbing the stomach lining and reducing pain and inflammation.
• Lignans: They help with upper abdominal pain by acting as a natural antispasmodic, relaxing the muscles in the digestive tract and reducing spasms that can cause abdominal pain.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Cinnamomum verum used to make teas for upper abdominal pain.

• Barks: Used due to its warm, spicy, and carminative properties that help soothe and calm the digestive system.
• Leaves: Used due to its ability to reduce inflammation and relax the muscles in the abdominal region, providing relief from pain.
• Rhyzomes: Used due to its anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that help to ease cramps and spasms in the upper abdominal area.

10. Artemisia absinthium

Artemisia absinthium teas helps with upper abdominal pain because it has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.

The active compounds present in this herb, such as thujone and borneol, help to relax the smooth muscles in the digestive tract and reduce inflammation. This leads to a decrease in pain and discomfort in the upper abdominal region.

Additionally, the herb's ability to stimulate digestion and improve gut motility can also contribute to alleviating symptoms of upper abdominal pain, providing relief and promoting overall digestive health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Artemisia absinthium teas that help with upper abdominal pain.

• Artabsin: Helps to reduce inflammation and relax the smooth muscles in the gastrointestinal tract, providing relief from upper abdominal pain.
• Thujone: Exhibits analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with upper abdominal issues.
• Bornyl acetate: Demonstrates anti-inflammatory and spasmolytic effects, which can help to reduce muscle spasms and inflammation in the upper abdominal region, providing relief from pain.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Artemisia absinthium used to make teas for upper abdominal pain.

• Leaves: They contain bioactive compounds that help ease digestive issues and reduce inflammation.
• Stems: They contain similar bioactive compounds to the leaves, which can help alleviate upper abdominal pain and discomfort.
• Roots: They are believed to have carminative properties, helping to reduce gas and alleviate discomfort in the upper abdominal region.