10 Best Herbal Teas For Constipation

Herbal teas for constipation are a natural remedy that helps alleviate digestive issues by promoting regular bowel movements and relieving symptoms of constipation.

These teas are made from herbs such as senna, dandelion root, and peppermint, which work to stimulate digestion, reduce inflammation, and ease abdominal discomfort.

For instance, senna tea increases bowel motility, while peppermint tea soothes the digestive tract, improving overall digestive health and quality of life for those suffering from constipation.

The following article describes in detail the most important teas for constipation, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Senna alexandrina

Senna alexandrina, also known as cassia, teas helps with constipation because of its natural laxative properties.

The active compounds, anthraquinones, particularly sennosides, stimulate the muscles in the intestines to contract and move food through the digestive system. This increased peristalsis helps to overcome constipation by promoting bowel movements and clearing out waste. Regular consumption of Senna alexandrina teas can help restore a regular bowel movement pattern, providing relief from constipation and promoting overall digestive health.

Its natural properties make it a popular remedy for constipation.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Senna alexandrina teas that help with constipation.

• Anthraquinones: These compounds help stimulate bowel movements and relieve constipation by increasing water and electrolyte secretion into the intestines, promoting muscle contractions, and enhancing the movement of food through the digestive tract.
• Astragalosides: These saponin glycosides act as natural laxatives by increasing the motility of the gastrointestinal tract, enhancing the absorption of water, and stimulating the contraction of intestinal muscles to help relieve constipation.
• Rhein glycosides: These compounds help stimulate the movement of the gastrointestinal tract, increase the secretion of water and electrolytes, and enhance the contractions of intestinal muscles to promote bowel movements and relieve constipation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of cassia used to make teas for constipation.

• Roots: They contain anthraquinone glycosides, which stimulate bowel movements and relieve constipation.
• Leaves: They have a similar composition to the roots and are used to make teas that help in regularizing bowel movements.
• Stems: Although less commonly used, stems of Senna alexandrina also contain anthraquinone glycosides and can be used to make teas for constipation relief.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic cassia for constipation.

1. Measure out 2-4 grams of dried senna alexandrina leaves and flowers for a standard dose.
2. Combine the measured senna alexandrina with 8 oz of boiling water in a heat-resistant cup.
3. Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the water.
4. Strain the tea using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the senna alexandrina solids.
5. Allow the tea to cool to a comfortable drinking temperature before serving it immediately.

2. Foeniculum vulgare

Foeniculum vulgare, also known as fennel, teas helps with constipation because of its natural carminative and laxative properties.

The essential oils present in fennel, such as anethole and fenchone, have a soothing effect on the digestive system, helping to ease bowel movements and relieve discomfort. Fennel tea also stimulates digestive enzymes and increases gut motility, allowing for a smoother and more regular bowel function.

This makes fennel an effective natural remedy for promoting digestive health and alleviating constipation.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Fenchone: This monoterpene helps with constipation by reducing intestinal spasms and promoting smooth muscle relaxation, allowing for easier bowel movements.
• Anethole: This phenolic compound acts as a carminative, helping to reduce gas and bloating, which can contribute to constipation, and also has a mild laxative effect.
• Pinene: This terpene has a mild stimulant effect on the digestive system, increasing the motility of the gut and promoting regular bowel movements, which helps to relieve constipation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make teas for constipation.

• Seeds: They are commonly used due to their high content of volatile oils, particularly anethole, which helps to relax the digestive muscles and alleviate constipation.
• Leaves: Leaves are often used to make teas because they contain a significant amount of fiber, which can help to soften and move stool through the digestive system.
• Stems: Stems are sometimes used in teas due to their ability to stimulate digestion and relieve constipation by increasing the movement of food through the digestive tract.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for constipation.

1. Gather 1-2 teaspoons of dried foeniculum vulgare flowers and leaves for the tea preparation.
2. Boil 8 ounces of water in a teapot for 5-7 minutes to reach the ideal temperature.
3. Steep the foeniculum vulgare mixture in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release flavors.
4. Strain the tea mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove solids completely.
5. Serve the herbal tea warm or chilled depending on personal preference immediately.

3. Aloe vera

Aloe vera, also known as aloe, teas helps with constipation because of its soothing and gentle effects on the digestive system.

The gel of the aloe vera plant contains mucilages, which are natural polysaccharides that help to soften and lubricate the intestinal tract. This allows for easier passage of stool and reduces inflammation in the digestive system. The anti-inflammatory properties of aloe vera also help to calm the muscles in the intestines, promoting regular bowel movements and relieving constipation.

It also helps to improve gut health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera teas that help with constipation.

• Polysaccharides: These complex carbohydrates help to soften and bulk up stool, making it easier to pass and alleviating constipation.
• Anthraquinones: These compounds stimulate intestinal motility, increase the secretion of water and electrolytes into the intestines, and help to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, all of which contribute to the relief of constipation.
• Glycoproteins: These mucilages form a protective barrier on the intestinal mucosa, reducing inflammation and irritation that can contribute to constipation, and also help to soothe and calm the digestive system.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make teas for constipation.

• Leaves: The leaves contain aloin, a natural laxative that helps stimulate bowel movements.
• Roots: The roots contain compounds like aloin and aloe-emodin, which have been shown to help regulate bowel movements and alleviate constipation.
• Seeds: The seeds contain aloe-emodin, a natural anthraquinone glycoside that helps stimulate bowel movements and relieve constipation.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for constipation.

1. Gather fresh aloe vera leaves and rinse them under cold running water for 3 minutes.
2. Chop 2-3 aloe vera leaves into small pieces and soak them in 1 liter of boiling water for 10 minutes.
3. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a bowl to remove pulp and fiber.
4. Add 1 tablespoon of honey and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to enhance flavor and nutritional value.
5. Store the herbal aloe vera tea in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

4. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, teas helps with constipation because it contains glycyrrhizin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory properties and helps to soothe the digestive system.

The tea may also stimulate bowel movements by increasing the secretion of digestive enzymes and improving gut motility. Additionally, licorice tea has been traditionally used to treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other gastrointestinal disorders, making it a popular natural remedy for constipation relief.

Regular consumption of licorice tea may help to regulate bowel movements and promote overall digestive health.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Glycyrrhizin: Glycyrrhizin helps with constipation by increasing water and electrolyte absorption in the intestines, softening stool, and stimulating bowel movements.
• Licoricidin: Licoricidin, a phenolic compound, exhibits laxative properties by increasing the motility of the gastrointestinal tract and stimulating the contractions of intestinal muscles to promote bowel movements.
• Licopyrone: Licopyrone, a phenolic glycoside, has been shown to have a gentle laxative effect by increasing the secretion of digestive enzymes and enhancing the permeability of the intestinal walls, facilitating the movement of food through the digestive system.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make teas for constipation.

• Roots: The roots are the most commonly used part, as they contain high levels of glycyrrhizin, a compound that helps stimulate bowel movements and relieve constipation.
• Leaves: The leaves are also used to make teas, as they contain smaller amounts of glycyrrhizin and other compounds that can help soothe digestive issues and promote bowel regularity.
• Barks: The barks of Glycyrrhiza glabra are occasionally used to make teas, as they may contain some glycyrrhizin and other compounds that can help alleviate constipation and digestive discomfort.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for constipation.

1. Gather 5-7 dried roots of glycyrrhiza glabra and rinse them with lukewarm water for 3 minutes.
2. Measure 1-2 teaspoons of the dried roots and add them to a teapot or infuser.
3. Boil fresh water in a kettle for 5-7 minutes and let it cool for 2 minutes.
4. Steep the roots in the boiling water for 5-10 minutes or until the desired strength is achieved.
5. Strain the tea into a cup and let it cool for 3-5 minutes before serving.

5. Rheum palmatum

Rheum palmatum, also known as Chinese rhubarb, teas helps with constipation because it acts as a gentle laxative, stimulating the digestive system and promoting regular bowel movements.

The anthraquinones present in the plant, particularly emodin and rhein, are responsible for its laxative properties.

These compounds help to increase the movement of the intestines and improve the absorption of water, resulting in softer and more easily passable stools, thereby alleviating constipation and promoting a healthy digestive system.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rheum palmatum teas that help with constipation.

• Anthraquinones: These compounds help stimulate bowel movements and relieve constipation by increasing the contractions of the intestinal muscles and improving gut motility.
• Rhein: A type of anthraquinone, rhein has a laxative effect by increasing the water and electrolyte content in the intestines, softening stool, and promoting regular bowel movements.
• Emodin: This anthraquinone derivative has anti-inflammatory and laxative properties, helping to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract and promote bowel movements by increasing the secretion of water and electrolytes in the intestines.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of chinese rhubarb used to make teas for constipation.

• Roots: They are used to make teas due to their high concentration of anthraquinone glycosides, which have a laxative effect.
• Leaves: Rheum palmatum leaves are also used to make teas for constipation relief, although to a lesser extent, as they contain smaller amounts of anthraquinone compounds compared to roots and rhizomes.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chinese rhubarb for constipation.

1. Harvest fresh or dried leaves and stems of rheum palmatum from a trusted source in early spring.
2. Dry the harvested material in a low-temperature oven at 150°f for 2 hours to remove moisture.
3. Measure out 1 teaspoon of dried rheum palmatum per 8 ounces of boiling water for a standard infusion.
4. Steep the dried rheum palmatum in boiling water for 5-7 minutes to allow flavors and nutrients to release.
5. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve and discard the solids to create a clear herbal infusion.

6. Taraxacum officinale

Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, teas helps with constipation because it acts as a natural laxative, stimulating bowel movements and promoting the elimination of waste.

The root of the dandelion plant is rich in inulin, a prebiotic that feeds the good bacteria in the gut, supporting a healthy gut microbiome.

Additionally, dandelion tea is high in fiber and water content, helping to soften stool and make it easier to pass, providing relief from constipation and promoting regular bowel movements.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale teas that help with constipation.

• Saponins: These compounds help relieve constipation by increasing the water content of stool and making it softer and easier to pass.
• Flavonoids: These compounds have a gentle laxative effect and can also reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, making it easier for stool to pass.
• Taraxasterol: This triterpene saponin has been shown to have a mild laxative effect and can also help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, contributing to relief from constipation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make teas for constipation.

• Leaves: They are used to make teas for constipation due to their high content of inulin, a prebiotic fiber that helps promote digestive health.
• Roots: They are used for their laxative properties, as they contain compounds that stimulate bowel movements and help relieve constipation.
• Flowers: They are used to add flavor and potentially aid digestion, but their primary use in constipation relief is often due to the presence of sesquiterpene lactones, which may help stimulate digestive enzymes.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for constipation.

1. Harvest the dandelion flowers and leaves by cutting them with scissors at the base of the stem.
2. Rinse the dandelion flowers and leaves with filtered water to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Combine 1 ounce of dandelion flowers and leaves with 1 quart of boiling water in a teapot.
4. Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly and the flavors have melded.
5. Strain the tea into cups using a tea strainer or cheesecloth to remove the solids.

7. Trigonella foenum graecum

Trigonella foenum graecum, also known as fenugreek, teas helps with constipation because of its natural laxative properties.

The herb contains saponins, which stimulate digestion and increase the movement of food through the digestive tract. Additionally, fenugreek tea has been found to increase the secretion of digestive enzymes, improve gut health, and soften stool, making it easier to pass.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to alleviate constipation and promote regular bowel movements, providing relief for those suffering from this uncomfortable condition.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Trigonella foenum graecum teas that help with constipation.

• Saponins: Saponins help with constipation by increasing the water content in the stool and improving gut motility, making bowel movements easier and more regular.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly kaempferol and quercetin, help with constipation by reducing inflammation in the gut and promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, which can improve digestion and bowel movement.
• Coumarins: Coumarins, such as scopoletin, help with constipation by relaxing the muscles in the digestive tract and improving gut motility, allowing for easier passage of stool and relief from constipation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of fenugreek used to make teas for constipation.

• Seeds: The seeds are commonly used to make teas for constipation because they contain a high concentration of saponins, which help stimulate bowel movements.
• Leaves: The leaves are used to make teas for constipation due to their laxative properties, which help to soften and move stool through the digestive system.
• Fruits: The fruits are used to make teas for constipation because they contain natural fiber and other compounds that help to regulate bowel movements and prevent constipation.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fenugreek for constipation.

1. Gather 1 teaspoon of dried trigonella foenum graecum seeds and 1 cup of boiling water.
2. Steep the trigonella foenum graecum seeds in the boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes.
3. Strain the tea mixture through a fine mesh to remove the seeds.
4. Add 1 tablespoon of honey to the tea mixture if desired for flavor.
5. Drink the trigonella foenum graecum tea immediately to reap its potential health benefits.

8. Zingiber officinale

Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, teas helps with constipation because of its warming and stimulating properties.

The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols, increase gut motility and help relax the muscles in the digestive tract. This facilitates the movement of food through the digestive system and promotes regular bowel movements.

Additionally, ginger has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract and alleviate symptoms of constipation, making it a natural and effective remedy for digestive issues.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Gingerols: These compounds, particularly 6-gingerol and 8-gingerol, exhibit laxative properties by increasing the movement of food through the digestive tract and relaxing the muscles in the intestines.
• Shogaols: Similar to gingerols, shogaols, such as 6-shogaol, also stimulate bowel movements and have a relaxing effect on the intestinal muscles, which can help alleviate constipation.
• Zingiberene: This terpene has been shown to have a laxative effect by increasing the secretion of bile and improving the movement of food through the digestive tract, which can help relieve constipation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make teas for constipation.

• Roots: The roots of Zingiber officinale are also used to make teas for constipation as they contain a high amount of shogaol, a compound that helps stimulate bowel movements.
• Buds: The buds of Zingiber officinale are used in teas for constipation as they contain a higher concentration of active compounds compared to mature rhizomes, which helps in effective digestion and relief from constipation symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for constipation.

1. Harvest 1-2 inches of fresh zingiber officinale roots with a sharp knife in early morning hours.
2. Wash the harvested roots thoroughly with cold water to remove dirt and debris.
3. Slice the washed roots into thin pieces weighing approximately 3-5 grams per serving.
4. Boil 1 liter of water in a saucepan and then reduce the heat to a simmer for 5-7 minutes.
5. Steep the sliced zingiber officinale roots in the simmering water for 5-7 minutes or according to taste.

9. Matricaria chamomilla

Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, teas helps with constipation because its soothing and calming properties can help to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, promoting a smoother bowel movement.

The tea's anti-inflammatory properties may also help to reduce inflammation in the colon, which can contribute to constipation.

Additionally, chamomile's ability to stimulate the digestive system and improve gut motility can help to alleviate constipation, providing relief for those experiencing infrequent or difficult bowel movements.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla teas that help with constipation.

• Apigenin: A flavonoid compound that helps with constipation by relaxing the muscles in the digestive tract and improving bowel function.
• Luteolin: A flavonoid compound that has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help to reduce inflammation and muscle spasms in the digestive tract, making bowel movements easier.
• Linalool: A terpene compound that has a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety that may contribute to constipation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make teas for constipation.

• Flowers: Used for their soothing and calming properties, which can help ease digestive discomfort and promote bowel movement.
• Leaves: Utilized for their bitter compounds, which can stimulate the digestive system and help relieve constipation.
• Stems: Employed for their fiber content, which can help regulate bowel movements and soften stool, making it easier to pass.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for constipation.

1. Gather 1 cup of fresh matricaria chamomilla flowers or 2 tablespoons of dried flowers.
2. Steep the matricaria chamomilla flowers in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes.
3. Strain the tea mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a cup.
4. Add honey to taste and stir well to dissolve the sweetness evenly.
5. Serve the tea immediately and enjoy the soothing effects within 30 minutes.

10. Urtica dioica

Urtica dioica, also known as stinging nettle, teas helps with constipation because of its natural laxative properties and ability to stimulate bowel movements.

The tea contains compounds like flavonoids and phenolic acids, which help to relax the muscles in the intestines and improve digestion. Additionally, stinging nettle tea has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe and calm the digestive tract, making it easier for the body to move waste through the system and promote regular bowel movements.

This helps to alleviate symptoms of constipation.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica teas that help with constipation.

• Flavonoids: These plant compounds help with constipation by improving gut motility, reducing inflammation, and increasing the production of digestive enzymes.
• Tannins: These polyphenolic compounds can help alleviate constipation by reducing inflammation in the gut, improving water absorption, and increasing the frequency of bowel movements.
• Saponins: These glycosides can help with constipation by stimulating the digestive system, improving gut motility, and increasing the production of digestive enzymes.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make teas for constipation.

• Leaves: The leaves of Urtica dioica are commonly used to make teas for constipation because they contain high levels of dietary fiber and antioxidants.
• Stems: The stems of Urtica dioica are also used to make teas for constipation as they have a similar composition to the leaves, with a high concentration of fiber and other beneficial compounds.
• Roots: The roots of Urtica dioica are used to make teas for constipation due to their rich content of mucilages, which can help soften and move stool through the digestive system.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for constipation.

1. Harvest the urtica dioica leaves and stems by cutting them when they are young and tender usually in the spring.
2. Rinse the harvested urtica dioica leaves and stems in cold water to remove any dirt or debris for 2 minutes.
3. Dry the urtica dioica leaves and stems using a food dehydrator at 95 degrees fahrenheit for 6 hours.
4. Measure out the dried urtica dioica and combine 1 teaspoon with 8 ounces of boiling water for the tea.
5. Steep the urtica dioica tea for 5-10 minutes then strain and serve warm or chilled as desired.

What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for constipation?

The best combination of herbal teas that help with constipation is a blend of senna, peppermint, and ginger.

Senna helps stimulate bowel movements, while peppermint soothes digestive issues and reduces inflammation. Ginger aids in digestion and reduces nausea, making it easier to pass bowel movements. Together, these teas work to relax the muscles, increase motility, and promote a healthy gut.

This combination can be brewed together or consumed separately, providing a natural and effective solution to alleviate constipation symptoms.

What ailments similar to constipation are treated with herbal teas?

Ailments similar to constipation/teas.html">constipation/teas.html">constipation that are treated with herbal teas are bloating, indigestion, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Herbal teas like peppermint, chamomile, and dandelion root have been traditionally used to soothe digestive issues, reduce inflammation, and promote regular bowel movements.

They may also help alleviate symptoms of menstrual cramps, diarrhea, and urinary tract infections due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.