By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Bloating
Herbal tinctures for bloating are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants, herbs, and botanicals that help alleviate digestive discomfort and reduce inflammation in the body.
These natural remedies work by soothing the gut lining, reducing gas and water retention, and improving digestion, ultimately providing relief from bloating, discomfort, and digestive irregularities.
Examples of herbal tinctures that help with bloating include peppermint, ginger, and fennel, which have been shown to improve symptoms and quality of life for individuals suffering from IBS, IBD, and other gastrointestinal disorders.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for bloating, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Artemisia absinthium
- 2. Foeniculum vulgare
- 3. Myrrhis odorata
- 4. Mentha x piperita
- 5. Taraxacum officinale
- 6. Matricaria chamomilla
- 7. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 8. Althaea officinalis
- 9. Urtica dioica
- 10. Rumex crispus
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for bloating?
- What ailments similar to bloating are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Artemisia absinthium
Wormwood tinctures helps with bloating because it has natural antispasmodic properties that help to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and spasms that can lead to bloating.
Additionally, wormwood has been shown to have antibacterial properties that help to reduce the growth of bad bacteria in the gut, which can also contribute to bloating.
By soothing the digestive system and promoting a healthy balance of gut flora, wormwood tinctures can help to alleviate uncomfortable symptoms of bloating and promote overall digestive well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Artemisia absinthium tinctures that help with bloating.
- Artabsin: A sesquiterpene lactone found in Artemisia absinthium, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and spasmolytic properties, helping to relax the muscles in the digestive tract and alleviate bloating.
- Thujone: A terpene present in Artemisia absinthium, known for its ability to stimulate digestion and relieve bloating by increasing the contraction of the intestinal muscles and improving the movement of food through the digestive system.
- Sesquiterpene lactones: These compounds have been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract and alleviate symptoms of bloating and discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of wormwood used to make tinctures for bloating.
- Leaves: The leaves of Artemisia absinthium contain thujone, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory and carminative properties, which help to reduce bloating.
- Stems: The stems of Artemisia absinthium contain sesquiterpene compounds, which have been found to have anti-inflammatory and digestive-soothing effects, helping to alleviate bloating.
- Flowers: The flowers of Artemisia absinthium contain flavonoids and terpenes, which have been traditionally used to alleviate digestive issues, including bloating, due to their antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wormwood for bloating.
- Harvest 100g of fresh artemisia absinthium leaves and flowers in the morning when they are at their peak potency.
- Cleanse the plant material by rinsing it gently in cold water and then pat it dry with a paper towel.
- Combine the cleaned plant material with 500ml of 70% vodka in a clean glass jar and store it in a cool dark place.
- Steep the mixture for 4-6 weeks in the dark, shaking the jar every day to help the infusion process.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container and discard the solids.
2. Foeniculum vulgare
Fennel tinctures helps with bloating because of its natural ability to ease digestive discomfort.
The herb's essential oils, such as anethole and fenchone, have a calming effect on the muscles in the gut, reducing spasms and cramps that can contribute to bloating. Additionally, fennel's carminative properties help to break down gas and prevent it from accumulating in the digestive system, allowing for a smoother and more efficient digestion process.
This natural remedy can provide quick relief from bloating and discomfort, promoting overall digestive health and well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare tinctures that help with bloating.
- Anethole: A terpene with carminative properties, helping to alleviate bloating by relaxing the muscles in the digestive tract and reducing gas production.
- Foeniculin: A phenolic compound that exhibits anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects, which can help soothe the digestive system and reduce bloating symptoms.
- Trans-anethol: A terpene with a similar structure to anethole, which has been shown to have a relaxing effect on the digestive system, thereby reducing bloating and gas.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make tinctures for bloating.
- Leaves: The leaves of Foeniculum vulgare are used to make tinctures for bloating due to their carminative and anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate digestive discomfort.
- Seeds: Foeniculum vulgare seeds are used to make tinctures for bloating due to their high content of essential oils, particularly anethole, which has a relaxing effect on the digestive system.
- Roots: The roots of Foeniculum vulgare are used to make tinctures for bloating due to their diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce fluid retention and alleviate discomfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for bloating.
- Harvest 1 part of dried foeniculum vulgare flowers and leaves in the morning when the plant is dry.
- Crush the harvested foeniculum vulgare into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 30 minutes.
- Mix 1 part of the crushed foeniculum vulgare powder with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks shaking the jar every 2 days.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids and label the bottle.
3. Myrrhis odorata
Sweet cicely tinctures helps with bloating because of its unique ability to soothe and calm digestive issues.
The tincture contains natural compounds that have a gentle anti-inflammatory effect on the digestive tract, reducing swelling and discomfort associated with bloating. Additionally, sweet cicely's bitter properties stimulate digestion and improve nutrient absorption, which can help alleviate symptoms of bloating such as gas and cramps.
By promoting healthy gut function, sweet cicely tinctures provide natural relief from bloating and promote overall digestive well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Myrrhis odorata tinctures that help with bloating.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds help with bloating by reducing inflammation and improving gut motility, allowing gas to pass through the digestive system more efficiently.
- Terpenoids: Terpenoids in Myrrhis odorata tinctures may help alleviate bloating by relaxing the muscles in the digestive tract and reducing spasms that can contribute to discomfort.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, including quercetin, have anti-inflammatory properties that may help soothe the digestive system, reduce inflammation, and alleviate symptoms of bloating.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of sweet cicely used to make tinctures for bloating.
- Roots: Roots: The primary part used to make tinctures for bloating due to its carminative and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: Leaves: Used for its carminative and antispasmodic effects to help alleviate bloating symptoms.
- Stems: Stems: Employed for its calming and relaxing properties to soothe digestive issues associated with bloating.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sweet cicely for bloating.
- Harvest 1 part of the aerial parts of myrrhis odorata in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
- Clean and dry the harvested plant material in a warm and well-ventilated area for 7 days.
- Pack 1 part of the dried plant material in a clean glass jar with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks, shaking the jar daily.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle, discarding the solids.
4. Mentha x piperita
Peppermint tinctures helps with bloating because they contain natural compounds that target the digestive system, relaxing the muscles in the abdominal area and reducing inflammation.
The menthol present in peppermint oil can help to slow down the movement of food through the digestive tract, allowing for better absorption of nutrients and reducing symptoms of bloating, such as discomfort and gas.
Additionally, peppermint's natural anti-inflammatory properties can soothe the gut lining, further alleviating discomfort and promoting a sense of calm digestion.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita tinctures that help with bloating.
- Menthol: Menthol helps alleviate bloating by relaxing the smooth muscle in the digestive tract, reducing spasms and cramps that can contribute to discomfort.
- Menthone: Menthone exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract and alleviate bloating caused by inflammation.
- Limonene: Limonene has been shown to have carminative properties, helping to eliminate trapped gas in the digestive system and alleviate bloating.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make tinctures for bloating.
- Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part of peppermint due to their high concentration of menthol and menthone, which helps to ease digestive discomfort and reduce bloating.
- Roots: The roots of peppermint contain a higher concentration of menthol and other bioactive compounds compared to the leaves, making them a popular choice for tinctures targeting digestive issues like bloating.
- Stems: The stems of peppermint contain a significant amount of menthol and menthone, making them a suitable choice for tinctures aimed at alleviating bloating and digestive discomfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for bloating.
- Harvest fresh mentha x piperita leaves in late morning when dew has evaporated and sun is not too intense.
- Chop 1 part of fresh harvested leaves into fine pieces and combine with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka.
- Transfer chopped plant material into a clean glass jar and add vodka to cover the leaves completely.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place and shake it gently every 2 days for 2 weeks.
- Strain the liquid through a coffee filter into another clean glass container and discard the plant material.
5. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion tinctures helps with bloating because they contain potent antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that soothe and calm digestive issues.
The root of the dandelion plant, in particular, has been shown to reduce inflammation in the gut, which can contribute to bloating and discomfort.
Additionally, dandelion's natural diuretic properties help to stimulate digestion and eliminate excess gas and water from the body, providing relief from bloated feelings and promoting a healthier digestive system.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale tinctures that help with bloating.
- Fatty acids: Fatty acids, particularly oleic acid, help to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, which can contribute to bloating.
- Taraxasterol: Taraxasterol is a triterpenoid saponin that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to alleviate bloating and discomfort associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
- Apigenin: Apigenin, a flavonoid phenolic compound, has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help to reduce inflammation and discomfort in the digestive system, potentially alleviating bloating.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for bloating.
- Leaves: Known for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce bloating and discomfort.
- Roots: Contain inulin, a prebiotic fiber that can help regulate gut bacteria and alleviate bloating.
- Seeds: Rich in fiber and antioxidants, which can help to soothe the digestive system and reduce bloating.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for bloating.
- Harvest the fresh taraxacum officinale roots and leaves in early spring or fall, ensuring a minimum of 50% root content.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a single layer at 40 degrees celsius for 2 to 3 hours or until brittle.
- Combine the dried plant material with 70% vodka in a 1:5 ratio by weight, ensuring all material is submerged.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks, shaking the container every 2 to 3 days.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter and discard the solids, transferring the liquid to glass bottles.
6. Matricaria chamomilla
Chamomile tinctures helps with bloating because it possesses natural anti-inflammatory properties that soothe digestive discomforts.
When consumed, chamomile's bioactive compounds interact with the body's gut flora, reducing inflammation and relaxing muscles in the digestive tract. This relaxation helps to ease spasms and cramps associated with bloating, allowing for smoother digestion and reduced gas retention.
As a result, herbal chamomile tinctures provide natural relief from bloating, promoting a sense of comfort and well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla tinctures that help with bloating.
- Apigenin: This flavonoid acts as a natural antispasmodic, helping to relax the muscles in the digestive tract and alleviate bloating symptoms.
- Luteolin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the digestive system, contributing to bloating relief.
- Chamazulene: This sesquiterpene lactone has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, helping to calm the digestive system and reduce discomfort associated with bloating.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make tinctures for bloating.
- Flowers: Rich in apigenin and other flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe digestive issues and alleviate bloating.
- Leaves: Contain flavonoids and terpenoids that may help regulate digestion and reduce inflammation, contributing to bloating relief.
- Seeds: May help with digestive issues due to their carminative properties, which can help reduce gas and alleviate bloating.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for bloating.
- Gather 100g of fresh or dried matricaria chamomilla flowers and chop them into smaller pieces for easier tincture making.
- Combine the chopped flowers with 500ml of 70% ethanol in a clean glass jar and seal it tightly.
- Place the jar in a cool dark place and let it steep for 4-6 weeks shaking it every week.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar and discard the solids.
- Transfer the tincture to smaller glass bottles and store them in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.
7. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice tinctures helps with bloating because it contains a compound called glycyrrhizin, which has natural anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and calm the digestive tract.
By reducing inflammation and irritation in the gut, herbal licorice tincture can alleviate symptoms of bloating, such as discomfort and gas. Additionally, licorice root has been shown to increase the production of stomach acid, which helps break down food properly and prevent bloating caused by undigested carbohydrates.
As a result, taking an herbal licorice tincture may provide relief from uncomfortable bloating symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with bloating.
- Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin helps with bloating by inhibiting the enzyme 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, which reduces the breakdown of cortisol, thereby reducing water retention in the body.
- Liquiritigenin: This isoflavone has anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate bloating by reducing inflammation in the digestive tract and promoting the relaxation of smooth muscle in the gut.
- Isoliquiritigenin: This isoflavone is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate bloating by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the digestive tract, thereby improving digestion and reducing gas.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for bloating.
- Roots: Used due to their high concentration of glycyrrhizin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that helps alleviate bloating and other digestive issues.
- Barks: Utilized for their similar glycyrrhizin content to roots, which aids in soothing digestive discomfort and reducing bloating.
- Leaves: Employed for their lower but still significant glycyrrhizin content, making them a more accessible option for some herbal remedies that target bloating and digestive issues.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for bloating.
- Harvest 10 to 15 pounds of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots from a reputable source in early fall.
- Chop the roots into small pieces to release their bioactive compounds and increase their surface area.
- Combine 1 part of the chopped roots with 2 parts of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 4 weeks to allow for extraction.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a separate container and discard the solids.
8. Althaea officinalis
Marshmallow tinctures helps with bloating because it soothes and calms the digestive system, reducing inflammation and irritation in the intestines.
The mucilages found in marshmallow root create a protective barrier that coats the gut lining, preventing toxins and irritants from passing through and causing discomfort.
Additionally, marshmallow's anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce swelling and alleviate bloating, making it an effective natural remedy for those suffering from digestive discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis tinctures that help with bloating.
- Mucilages: Mucilages help soothe and calm the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and discomfort that can contribute to bloating.
- Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and alleviate symptoms associated with bloating.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids have antioxidant properties, which can help protect the digestive system from oxidative stress and inflammation, potentially reducing bloating.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make tinctures for bloating.
- Roots: They are rich in mucilage, a soothing compound that helps to calm digestive issues and reduce bloating.
- Leaves: The leaves contain anti-inflammatory properties that may help to alleviate bloating and discomfort associated with digestive issues.
- Flowers: The flowers have a gentle, calming effect on the digestive system, which can help to reduce bloating and promote overall digestive health.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for bloating.
- Gather 1 part dried roots of althaea officinalis and 2 parts vegetable glycerin for the tincture.
- Combine the roots with 60 percent 95 percent ethanol in a 1:3 ratio by weight for the extraction.
- Steep the mixture for 2 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking every day.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container to remove the solids.
- Store the tincture in the refrigerator and allow it to mature for 2 weeks before use.
9. Urtica dioica
Stinging nettle tinctures helps with bloating because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling in the digestive tract and alleviate discomfort.
The tannins present in the extract also help to tighten the muscles of the gut, improving digestion and reducing gas and bloating. Additionally, stinging nettle's natural antimicrobial properties can help to rebalance the gut microbiome, further supporting a healthy digestive system and alleviating symptoms of bloating.
As a result, herbal stinging nettle tinctures offer a gentle yet effective way to manage bloating and promote overall digestive health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica tinctures that help with bloating.
- Saponins: Saponins, a type of triterpenoid saponin, may help reduce bloating by inhibiting the growth of gas-producing bacteria in the gut, thereby alleviating symptoms such as abdominal discomfort and bloating.
- Alkaloids: Alkaloids in Urtica dioica may have anti-spasmodic properties, which can help relax the muscles in the digestive tract, reducing cramping and discomfort associated with bloating.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly quercetin, possess anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate bloating by reducing inflammation in the digestive tract and improving gut barrier function.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make tinctures for bloating.
- Leaves: The leaves of Urtica dioica are the most commonly used part for tinctures due to their high concentration of iridoid glycosides, which have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that help alleviate bloating symptoms.
- Roots: The roots of the plant are also used for tinctures, as they contain a higher concentration of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds compared to the leaves, which can help reduce inflammation and discomfort associated with bloating.
- Stems: The stems of Urtica dioica are another part used for tinctures, as they contain similar compounds to the leaves and roots, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, which can help soothe digestive issues and alleviate bloating symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for bloating.
- Gather fresh urtica dioica leaves and stems in the morning after dew has evaporated.
- Cut 1 part of fresh plant material into small pieces and combine with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka.
- Store the mixture in a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid for 2-6 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another glass container discarding the solids.
- Transfer the herbal tincture to small glass bottles and store in the refrigerator to preserve the liquid for up to 2 years.
10. Rumex crispus
Curly dock tinctures helps with bloating because it contains saponins, which are natural compounds that have been shown to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.
The tincture also contains mucilage, a soothing substance that can help calm irritated bowel walls and ease digestion. Additionally, curly dock has been traditionally used to treat various digestive issues, including constipation, diarrhea, and indigestion, all of which can contribute to feelings of bloating.
By promoting healthy digestion and reducing inflammation, herbal curly dock tinctures may provide relief from uncomfortable bloating and discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rumex crispus tinctures that help with bloating.
- Flavonoids: These compounds help alleviate bloating by reducing inflammation and modulating the gut-brain axis, promoting a balanced gut microbiome.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Rumex crispus, such as ferulic acid, possess antioxidant properties that help neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, contributing to reduced bloating symptoms.
- Ascorbic acid: Ascorbic acid, a water-soluble vitamin found in Rumex crispus, helps alleviate bloating by regulating gut permeability, supporting the integrity of the gut lining, and promoting the elimination of gas and toxins.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of curly dock used to make tinctures for bloating.
- Leaves: The leaves of Rumex crispus are commonly used due to their high concentration of anthraquinones and other bioactive compounds that help relax the digestive system and reduce bloating.
- Roots: The roots of Rumex crispus are also used because they contain a high amount of fiber and anthraquinones, which can help regulate bowel movements and alleviate bloating symptoms.
- Stems: The stems of Rumex crispus are sometimes used due to their ability to provide a sustained release of anthraquinones and other bioactive compounds, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate bloating.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic curly dock for bloating.
- Harvest 1/2 cup of fresh rumex crispus roots and leaves in the early morning on a dry day.
- Dry the plant material in a warm oven at 150°f for 2 hours to reduce moisture content.
- Use a glass jar to make a 1:2 ratio tincture with 1/4 cup of dried rumex crispus and 1/2 cup of 80% ethanol.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks with occasional shaking to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the tincture through a coffee filter and store it in a dark glass bottle with a dropper lid.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for bloating?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with bloating is a blend of Peppermint, Ginger, and Fennel.
Peppermint helps to soothe the digestive system and reduce inflammation, while Ginger stimulates digestion and alleviates nausea. Fennel, rich in carminative properties, helps to release trapped gas and ease bloating. This combination can be taken in equal parts, 20-30 drops, 2-3 times a day, to promote digestive balance and alleviate symptoms of bloating.
Consult with a healthcare professional before using herbal tinctures.
What ailments similar to bloating are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to bloating/tinctures.html">bloating/tinctures.html">bloating that are treated with herbal tinctures are digestive issues such as indigestion, cramps, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Herbal tinctures like peppermint, ginger, and dandelion root help alleviate symptoms by soothing the stomach lining, reducing inflammation, and promoting regular bowel movements.
They can also help relieve symptoms of menstrual cramps, gas, and diarrhea.