10 Best Herbal Teas For Diarrhea

Herbal teas for diarrhea are natural remedies that help alleviate symptoms of loose, watery stools.

They work by soothing the digestive system, reducing inflammation, and promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Examples of herbal teas that help with diarrhea include peppermint, chamomile, and ginger.

These teas can improve lives by providing relief from discomfort, reducing the frequency of bowel movements, and promoting a sense of well-being, allowing individuals to go about their daily activities with ease and confidence.

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

1. Taraxacum officinale

Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, teas helps with diarrhea because of its unique properties that aid in digestive health.

The roots of the plant contain inulin, a prebiotic fiber that feeds beneficial gut bacteria, promoting a balanced gut microbiome. The leaves, on the other hand, are rich in bitter compounds that stimulate digestion and increase the absorption of nutrients, reducing the frequency and urgency of bowel movements.

This dual-action approach makes dandelion tea an effective natural remedy for alleviating diarrhea.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Taraxasterol: This triterpenoid saponin helps with diarrhea by reducing inflammation in the gut and improving the integrity of the intestinal lining, thereby reducing fluid loss and diarrhea symptoms.
• Taraxanthin: This xanthophyll carotenoid has anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate diarrhea by reducing inflammation in the gut and promoting the healing of damaged intestinal tissues.
• Inulin: This fructan has a prebiotic effect, which helps to promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, thereby improving gut health and reducing diarrhea symptoms by improving nutrient absorption and reducing inflammation.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: The leaves of Taraxacum officinale are used to make teas for diarrhea due to their high concentration of taraxasterol and other compounds with anti-inflammatory and astringent properties.
• Roots: The roots of Taraxacum officinale are used to make teas for diarrhea because they contain inulin, a prebiotic that can help regulate bowel movements.
• Flowers: The flowers of Taraxacum officinale are used to make teas for diarrhea due to their ability to soothe the gastrointestinal tract and reduce inflammation.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh leaves and roots of taraxacum officinale plant from a clean and safe environment.
2. Dry the harvested leaves and roots in a low heat oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
3. Measure one teaspoon of dried taraxacum officinale per cup of boiling water and steep for 5 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into a cup using a fine mesh sieve to remove any solid particles.
5. Serve the taraxacum officinale tea warm or at room temperature immediately after preparation.

2. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, teas helps with diarrhea because of its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to soothe the digestive system.

The roots of the licorice plant contain compounds that can help to calm irritated intestinal tissues and reduce inflammation, thereby alleviating symptoms of diarrhea. Additionally, licorice tea has been traditionally used to treat stomach upset and irritable bowel syndrome, making it a popular natural remedy for digestive issues.

Its soothing effects can help to restore balance to the digestive system.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Saponins: Saponins help alleviate diarrhea by forming a protective barrier on the intestinal mucosa, reducing inflammation and preventing the excessive loss of water and electrolytes.
• Glycyrrhizin: Glycyrrhizin, a triterpenoid saponin, helps with diarrhea by inhibiting the activity of intestinal enzymes that contribute to the breakdown of gut mucosa, thereby reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly quercetin and kaempferol, in Glycyrrhiza glabra teas help with diarrhea by exerting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the gut, leading to a decrease in diarrhea symptoms.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: Used for their anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties to soothe and calm the digestive system.
• Leaves: Utilized for their emollient and demulcent properties to protect and coat the mucous membranes in the digestive tract.
• Roots: Also used for their glycyrrhizin content, which helps to slow down the movement of the gut and reduce diarrhea symptoms.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 20-30 dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots and rinse them thoroughly with cold water for 2 minutes.
2. Cut the roots into small pieces and dry them further in a low-temperature oven at 150°f for 2 hours.
3. Measure out 1-2 teaspoons of the dried root pieces and steep them in 8 oz of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into a cup and discard the solids after the steeping time has passed completely.
5. Allow the tea to cool down to room temperature before consuming it within the next 24 hours.

3. Matricaria chamomilla

Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, teas helps with diarrhea because of its anti-inflammatory properties and soothing effects on the digestive system.

The tea contains apigenin, an antioxidant that can help reduce inflammation in the intestines and calm the muscles, slowing down bowel movements and reducing the frequency of diarrhea.

Additionally, chamomile tea has a gentle, calming effect on the nervous system, which can help alleviate stress and anxiety that may contribute to digestive issues.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Apigenin: This flavonoid acts as an anti-inflammatory and astringent, helping to reduce inflammation and tighten the gut lining to alleviate diarrhea symptoms.
• Matricaria esters: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help to calm the gastrointestinal tract and reduce spasms that can contribute to diarrhea.
• Apigenin-7-glucoside: This flavonoid glycoside has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, helping to reduce inflammation and prevent infections that can cause diarrhea.

Parts Used

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

• Flowers: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that help calm digestive issues.
• Leaves: They are used because they contain compounds that have antispasmodic effects, which help reduce intestinal cramping and spasms.
• Seeds: They are used for their carminative properties that help ease digestive discomfort and reduce flatulence associated with diarrhea.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1-2 cups of fresh matricaria chamomilla flowers or 2-4 teaspoons of dried flowers.
2. Rinse the flowers with cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Steep 1 teaspoon of dried flowers or 1-2 tablespoons of fresh flowers in 8 ounces of boiling water.
4. Allow the mixture to steep for 5-10 minutes or until the tea reaches your desired strength.
5. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the flowers and enjoy.

4. Zingiber officinale

Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, teas helps with diarrhea because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe the digestive tract and reduce inflammation.

Ginger's active compounds, such as gingerol and shogaol, have natural antibacterial and antiviral properties that help combat underlying infections causing diarrhea. The tea also stimulates digestion, regulating bowel movements and reducing the frequency and severity of diarrhea episodes.

This makes ginger tea a popular remedy for alleviating digestive discomfort and promoting a faster recovery.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Gingerols: These iridoid compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce gut inflammation and alleviate diarrhea symptoms.
• Shogaols: Similar to gingerols, shogaols also possess anti-inflammatory properties and have been shown to slow gut motility, reducing the frequency and urgency of bowel movements.
• 6-gingerol: As a potent antioxidant, 6-gingerol helps protect the gut lining from damage and inflammation, thereby alleviating diarrhea symptoms and promoting a healthy gut environment.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots contain compounds like gingerol and shogaol, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate diarrhea.
• Rhyzomes: The rhizomes, being the underground stems of ginger, contain the highest concentration of active compounds, including gingerols and shogaols, which help to soothe the digestive system.
• Stems: The stems, although less commonly used than roots and rhizomes, also contain gingerols and shogaols, which contribute to their anti-diarrheal properties.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1-2 inches of fresh zingiber officinale rhizomes for immediate use or store in a cool dry place.
2. Wash the harvested rhizomes under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris thoroughly.
3. Peel the rhizomes using a vegetable peeler to expose the inner flesh and then slice thinly.
4. Steep 1 teaspoon of sliced zingiber officinale rhizomes in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes carefully.
5. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the solids completely afterwards.

5. Althaea officinalis

Althaea officinalis, also known as marshmallow, teas helps with diarrhea because of its soothing and protective properties on the mucous membranes of the digestive tract.

The mucilages present in the plant form a protective barrier that helps to calm irritated tissues and reduce inflammation, thereby alleviating symptoms of diarrhea.

Additionally, Althaea officinalis teas can help to regulate bowel movements and support the natural healing process of the digestive system, promoting a balanced and healthy gut.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis teas that help with diarrhea.

• Mucilages: Mucilages are complex carbohydrates that help protect and soothe the lining of the gut, reducing irritation and inflammation that can contribute to diarrhea.
• Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids have anti-inflammatory and astringent properties that help to reduce gut inflammation, slow down gut contractions, and reduce stool frequency.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the gut, thereby alleviating diarrhea symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make teas for diarrhea.

• Roots: They are the primary source of mucilage, a thick and protective substance that helps soothe and calm the digestive system.
• Leaves: They also contain mucilage and other compounds that can help to alleviate diarrhea symptoms and promote healthy gut function.
• Stems: Similar to roots and leaves, stems of Althaea officinalis are used for their mucilaginous properties to help soothe and calm the digestive system.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for diarrhea.

1. Measure 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried roots of althaea officinalis for a standard serving size.
2. Steep the measured roots in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes.
3. Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the solids.
4. Add honey to taste if desired to sweeten the tea.
5. Drink the tea immediately or store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

6. Plantago major

Plantago major, also known as plantain, teas helps with diarrhea because of its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

The tea is rich in mucilages, which helps to protect and calm the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and irritation that can cause diarrhea. Additionally, plantain tea has been found to have astringent properties, which can help to constrict and tighten the intestinal walls, reducing the frequency and urgency of bowel movements.

This makes it an effective natural remedy for managing diarrhea.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Plantago major teas that help with diarrhea.

• Apolypodin: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the gut and alleviate diarrhea symptoms.
• Plantaginin: This flavonoid glycoside has a protective effect on the intestinal mucosa, which may help repair and maintain the integrity of the gut lining, reducing the frequency and severity of diarrhea.
• Aucubin: This iridoid glycoside has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which may help reduce inflammation and eliminate bacterial overgrowth in the gut that can contribute to diarrhea.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of plantain used to make teas for diarrhea.

• Leaves: They contain mucilage, a soothing and protective substance that helps to calm the digestive system and reduce diarrhea.
• Seeds: The seeds are rich in fiber, which can help to bulk up stool and slow down bowel movements, reducing the frequency of diarrhea.
• Stems: The stems of Plantago major are used to make teas that help to regulate bowel movements and ease digestive discomfort associated with diarrhea.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic plantain for diarrhea.

1. Harvest 1/4 cup of fresh plantago major leaves and flowers by gently plucking them from the stem.
2. Dry the harvested plantago major leaves and flowers for 30 minutes in a single layer on paper towels.
3. Grind 1 teaspoon of dried plantago major leaves and flowers into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
4. Steep 1 teaspoon of the ground plantago major powder in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-10 minutes.
5. Strain the plantago major tea through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a cup and serve.

7. Foeniculum vulgare

Foeniculum vulgare, also known as fennel, teas helps with diarrhea because of its carminative properties, which aid in relieving gas and bloating.

The active compounds anethole and limonene in fennel seeds have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, helping to soothe the digestive tract and reduce inflammation.

Additionally, fennel seeds stimulate digestive enzymes and improve gut motility, promoting a regular bowel movement and reducing the frequency of diarrhea episodes, providing relief from its symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Fenchone: It acts as an antispasmodic agent, helping to reduce intestinal contractions and alleviate diarrhea symptoms.
• Anethole: It has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe the gastrointestinal tract and reduce inflammation that may contribute to diarrhea.
• Foeniculin: It has been shown to have a mild laxative effect, which can help regulate bowel movements and alleviate diarrhea symptoms, while also having a protective effect on the mucous membranes in the digestive tract.

Parts Used

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

• Seeds: They are used to make teas due to their carminative properties, which help to reduce flatulence and alleviate diarrhea symptoms.
• Leaves: They are used to make teas because of their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to soothe the digestive system and prevent infections.
• Stems: They are used to make teas due to their ability to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, which helps to reduce spasms and alleviate diarrhea symptoms.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 1-2 teaspoons of dried foeniculum vulgare flowers and leaves for tea preparation.
2. Heat 8 ounces of water to a boil in a medium-sized pot over high heat.
3. Steep the foeniculum vulgare flowers and leaves in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup or teapot to remove solids.
5. Allow the tea to cool to a comfortable drinking temperature before serving immediately.

8. Mentha x piperita

Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, teas helps with diarrhea because of its calming effect on the digestive system.

The menthol content in peppermint helps to relax the muscles in the intestines and reduce inflammation, allowing for a smoother passage of stool. Additionally, peppermint tea has natural anti-spasmodic properties that help to soothe the stomach and reduce cramping, providing relief from diarrhea symptoms.

This makes peppermint tea a popular natural remedy for digestive issues.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Menthol: Menthol helps to slow down gut movement, reducing the frequency and urgency of bowel movements, and providing relief from diarrhea symptoms.
• Limonene: Limonene has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the gut, which can contribute to diarrhea, and also has antimicrobial properties that can help combat underlying infections.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help protect the gut lining from damage and reduce inflammation, which can contribute to diarrhea symptoms, and also has antimicrobial properties that can help combat underlying infections.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make teas for diarrhea.

• Leaves: Leaves of Mentha x piperita are used to make teas for diarrhea because of their high content of menthol and menthone, which have antispasmodic and carminative properties.
• Stems: Stems of Mentha x piperita are used to make teas for diarrhea because they contain essential oils that help to reduce inflammation and ease digestive issues.
• Roots: Roots of Mentha x piperita are used to make teas for diarrhea because of their high concentration of menthol and other compounds that help to stimulate digestion and relieve symptoms of diarrhea.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for diarrhea.

1. Gather fresh or dried mentha x piperita leaves in quantities of 1 to 2 teaspoons per cup of water.
2. Boil fresh water in a kettle or on the stovetop for 5 to 10 minutes at 212 degrees fahrenheit.
3. Steep the mentha x piperita leaves in the boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes to release their oils.
4. Strain the tea mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the leaves.
5. Serve the tea hot or chilled depending on your preference and add honey or lemon to taste.

9. Carum carvi

Carum carvi, also known as caraway, teas helps with diarrhea because of its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

The tea is rich in carvone, a compound that helps to calm the digestive system and reduce inflammation in the intestines. This can help to slow down the movement of food through the digestive system, giving the body a chance to absorb the necessary nutrients.

As a result, the frequency and urgency of diarrhea episodes may decrease, providing relief for individuals experiencing this uncomfortable and potentially debilitating condition.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Carum carvi teas that help with diarrhea.

• Carvone: Acts as an antispasmodic agent, helping to relieve spasms in the intestinal tract and reduce symptoms of diarrhea.
• Limonene: Exhibits anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help to reduce inflammation and infection in the gut, leading to a decrease in diarrhea symptoms.
• Pinene: Possesses anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can help to relax the intestinal muscles, reduce inflammation, and alleviate diarrhea symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of caraway used to make teas for diarrhea.

• Seeds: They are commonly used to make teas for diarrhea due to their carvone content, which has been traditionally used to treat digestive issues.
• Roots: They are also used to make teas for diarrhea, possibly due to their antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe digestive problems.
• Leaves: Leaves of Carum carvi can be used to make teas for diarrhea, likely due to their ability to aid digestion and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic caraway for diarrhea.

1. Harvest fresh carum carvi leaves and roots at the peak of their fragrance for optimal flavor.
2. Dry the harvested carum carvi in a warm oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
3. Combine 1 teaspoon of dried carum carvi with 1 cup of boiling water for a standard tea.
4. Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes allowing the flavors to infuse and release their properties.
5. Strain the tea and serve immediately as the flavors may fade quickly after preparation.

10. Symphytum officinale

Symphytum officinale, also known as comfrey, teas helps with diarrhea because of its soothing and protective properties on the mucous membranes in the digestive tract.

The tea's anti-inflammatory compounds reduce inflammation and irritation, allowing the gut to heal and recover more efficiently.

Additionally, comfrey's high content of mucilages, such as polysaccharides and glycosides, helps to form a protective barrier on the gut lining, preventing further irritation and promoting a more balanced digestive system.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Symphytum officinale teas that help with diarrhea.

• Alkaloids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and astringent properties that help to reduce the frequency and looseness of bowel movements, alleviating diarrhea symptoms.
• Saponins: Saponins in Symphytum officinale have been shown to have a soothing effect on the gut, reducing inflammation and promoting the healing of the intestinal lining, which can help to alleviate diarrhea.
• Polysaccharides: Polysaccharides, such as arabinogalactan, in Symphytum officinale have prebiotic properties that help to promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, improving the balance of the gut microbiome and reducing the risk of diarrhea.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of comfrey used to make teas for diarrhea.

• Leaves: The leaves are commonly used to make teas for diarrhea due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
• Roots: The roots are also used to make teas for diarrhea, as they are believed to have anti-inflammatory and astringent properties that help to reduce diarrhea.
• Stems: The stems are sometimes used to make teas for diarrhea, as they are thought to have similar properties to the roots and leaves, although less research is available on their specific uses.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic comfrey for diarrhea.

1. Harvest fresh symphytum officinale leaves and flowers at the peak of their potency for maximum benefits.
2. Dry the harvested symphytum officinale leaves and flowers in a warm place for at least 24 hours.
3. Crush 2-3 grams of dried symphytum officinale leaves and flowers into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
4. Steep 1 teaspoon of the crushed symphytum officinale powder in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
5. Strain the tea and discard the solids to enjoy the herbal infusion of symphytum officinale.

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

The best combination of herbal teas that help with diarrhea is a blend of peppermint, ginger, and licorice root.

Peppermint tea helps to soothe the digestive system and calm stomach cramps, while ginger tea aids in digestion and reduces inflammation. Licorice root tea provides anti-inflammatory properties and helps to repair the gut lining. Drinking a mixture of these teas can help to alleviate diarrhea symptoms and promote overall digestive health.

This combination can be consumed hot or iced, depending on personal preference.

What ailments similar to diarrhea are treated with herbal teas?

Ailments similar to diarrhea/teas.html">diarrhea/teas.html">diarrhea that are treated with herbal teas are irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), constipation, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Herbs such as peppermint, chamomile, and slippery elm have been traditionally used to soothe digestive issues. Peppermint tea can help ease IBS symptoms by relaxing the muscles in the intestines, while chamomile tea has anti-inflammatory properties that may reduce inflammation in the gut.

Slippery elm tea can also help soothe the mucous membranes in the digestive tract and calm irritated bowels.