By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Teas For Indigestion
Herbal teas for indigestion are a natural remedy that helps alleviate discomfort and pain caused by digestive issues.
These teas are made from herbs that have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which calm the stomach and reduce inflammation. Examples include peppermint, chamomile, and ginger teas, which can ease bloating and nausea.
Drinking these teas can improve lives by providing relief from indigestion symptoms, allowing individuals to enjoy meals and maintain a healthy lifestyle without discomfort.
The following article describes in detail the most important teas for indigestion, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Gentiana lutea
- 2. Angelica archangelica
- 3. Althaea officinalis
- 4. Carum carvi
- 5. Matricaria chamomilla
- 6. Hydrastis canadensis
- 7. Foeniculum vulgare
- 8. Plantago major
- 9. Coriandrum sativum
- 10. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for indigestion?
- What ailments similar to indigestion are treated with herbal teas?
1. Gentiana lutea
Gentiana lutea, also known as yellow gentian, teas helps with indigestion because of its bitter compounds, which stimulate digestive enzymes and enhance gut motility.
The tea's bitter properties also increase bile production, aiding in the breakdown and absorption of fats. Additionally, Gentiana lutea has anti-inflammatory properties that may help soothe the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with indigestion.
This makes it a popular herbal remedy for digestive issues.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Gentiana lutea teas that help with indigestion.
- Triterpenoid saponins: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe irritated stomach linings and reduce inflammation that may contribute to indigestion symptoms.
- Iridoid glycosides: Gentiana lutea teas contain iridoid glycosides that have been shown to have anti-spasmodic properties, which can help relax the muscles in the digestive tract and reduce cramping and discomfort associated with indigestion.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Gentiana lutea teas have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help protect the stomach lining from damage and reduce oxidative stress that may contribute to indigestion.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of yellow gentian used to make teas for indigestion.
- Roots: The roots of Gentiana lutea are commonly used to make teas for indigestion because they contain the highest concentration of bioactive compounds.
- Leaves: The leaves are used in teas for indigestion due to their ability to aid in digestion and reduce inflammation.
- Roots: The roots are also used for their carminative properties, helping to relieve bloating and gas associated with indigestion.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yellow gentian for indigestion.
- Harvest 1-2 ounces of dried gentiana lutea roots from a trusted supplier or forage responsibly in the wild.
- Dry the harvested roots in a single layer at 150-200 degrees fahrenheit for 1-2 hours to reduce moisture.
- Grind the dried roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or spice mill for 2-3 minutes.
- Combine 1 teaspoon of the ground root powder with 8 ounces of boiling water to make the tea.
- Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes and strain the tea before serving to enjoy its earthy flavor.
2. Angelica archangelica
Angelica archangelica, also known as angelica, teas helps with indigestion because of its carminative properties.
The volatile oils present in the plant, such as angelic acid and ligustilide, have a soothing effect on the digestive system. These compounds help to reduce inflammation and relax the muscles in the digestive tract, allowing for smoother digestion and relieving symptoms of indigestion, including bloating and cramps.
Regular consumption of angelica tea may also stimulate digestive enzymes and improve overall gut health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Angelica archangelica teas that help with indigestion.
- Coumarins: These compounds help alleviate indigestion by reducing inflammation and relaxing smooth muscle in the digestive tract, allowing for more efficient digestion.
- Phenolic acids: These antioxidants help protect the digestive tract from oxidative stress, reduce inflammation, and improve gut health, all of which contribute to alleviating indigestion symptoms.
- Apiol: This terpene has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, reducing cramps and discomfort associated with indigestion.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of angelica used to make teas for indigestion.
- Roots: The roots are the most commonly used part for making teas for indigestion as they contain a high concentration of angelic root extract, which has carminative and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: The leaves are used to make teas for indigestion due to their ability to ease stomach discomfort and reduce inflammation.
- Stems: The stems are also used to make teas for indigestion as they have a similar composition to the roots and can help soothe digestive issues.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic angelica for indigestion.
- Harvest angelica roots and rhizomes in late autumn or early spring when they are at their peak potency.
- Wash the harvested roots and rhizomes with cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Chop the cleaned roots and rhizomes into small pieces and dry them immediately using a food dehydrator at 95 degrees fahrenheit for 8 hours.
- Steep one teaspoon of dried angelica root and rhizome in boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Strain the tea and discard the solids before serving in hot or iced form.
3. Althaea officinalis
Althaea officinalis, also known as marshmallow, teas helps with indigestion because of its soothing properties and mucilaginous compounds.
The mucilage in marshmallow root coats and protects the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and irritation that can cause indigestion. Additionally, the antispasmodic properties of Althaea officinalis help to calm muscle spasms in the digestive tract, allowing food to pass through more smoothly and reducing discomfort.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to alleviate indigestion and promote digestive health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis teas that help with indigestion.
- Polysaccharides: These complex carbohydrates help soothe the digestive tract, reduce inflammation, and promote the healing of mucous membranes, alleviating indigestion symptoms.
- Flavonoids and phenolic acids: These compounds possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, alleviate pain, and promote a healthy gut environment.
- Mucilages: These water-soluble compounds form a protective barrier on the mucous membranes, reducing irritation and inflammation in the digestive tract, and providing relief from indigestion and heartburn.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make teas for indigestion.
- Roots: They are used due to their high mucilage content, which helps to soothe digestive issues and reduce inflammation in the stomach and intestines.
- Leaves: They are used because they contain a range of bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can aid in relieving digestive discomfort.
- Stems: They are used for similar reasons as the roots and leaves, as they also contain mucilages that can help to calm digestive issues and promote a sense of comfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for indigestion.
- Harvest 1-2 ounces of dried althaea roots or 4-6 grams of fresh althaea roots.
- Rinse the harvested althaea roots with filtered water to remove impurities.
- Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried althaea roots or 1-2 tablespoons of fresh althaea roots.
- Infuse the althaea roots in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-10 minutes.
- Strain the herbal tea and discard the solids to enjoy a soothing cup.
4. Carum carvi
Carum carvi, also known as caraway, teas helps with indigestion because of its carvone and limonene compounds that stimulate digestive enzymes and improve gut health.
It has been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of indigestion, such as bloating and stomach discomfort, by reducing inflammation and enhancing digestion. Additionally, the tea's anti-spasmodic properties help to calm the muscles in the digestive tract, promoting a smoother and more efficient digestive process.
This leads to faster relief from indigestion and other digestive issues.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Carum carvi teas that help with indigestion.
- Carvone: Carvone, a monoterpene ketone, helps with indigestion by reducing inflammation and spasms in the digestive tract, promoting smooth muscle relaxation and alleviating symptoms of indigestion.
- Limonene: Limonene, a terpene, aids in indigestion relief by enhancing digestion, reducing inflammation, and alleviating symptoms of nausea and vomiting.
- Coumarin: Coumarin, a phenolic compound, helps with indigestion by reducing inflammation and promoting the relaxation of smooth muscles in the digestive tract, which can ease symptoms of indigestion and digestive discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of caraway used to make teas for indigestion.
- Seeds: They are used for their carminative properties, which help to ease digestion and relieve indigestion.
- Roots: They are used for their warming and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe digestive discomfort and reduce indigestion.
- Rhyzomes: They are used for their carminative and anti-spasmodic properties, which help to relieve gas, bloating, and other digestive issues associated with indigestion.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic caraway for indigestion.
- Gather carum carvi seeds and dry them in a low-temperature oven at 150°f for 1 hour.
- Grind 2 teaspoons of dried carum carvi seeds into a fine powder using a spice grinder.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of powdered carum carvi in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Strain the tea through a cheesecloth into a cup to remove the solids from the liquid.
- Serve the tea immediately and enjoy its warm aroma and herbal flavor.
5. Matricaria chamomilla
Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, teas helps with indigestion because of its soothing and calming properties.
The tea's anti-inflammatory compounds help to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, alleviating symptoms of indigestion such as bloating and discomfort. Additionally, chamomile's natural relaxant properties can help to calm the muscles in the stomach and reduce spasms, allowing the digestive system to function more efficiently and effectively.
This leads to a reduction in symptoms of indigestion, promoting a sense of comfort and relief.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla teas that help with indigestion.
- Apigenin: This flavonoid helps alleviate indigestion by reducing inflammation and relaxing the muscles in the digestive tract, thereby promoting smooth digestion.
- Alpha-bisabolol: This sesquiterpene acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, reducing stomach irritation and soothing digestive discomfort caused by indigestion.
- Matricine: This sesquiterpene lactone exhibits anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help ease digestive spasms and alleviate the symptoms of indigestion.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make teas for indigestion.
- Flowers: They are used due to their high content of apigenin and luteolin, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe digestive issues.
- Leaves: They are utilized for their bitter compounds that aid in stimulating digestion and relieving indigestion symptoms.
- Seeds: They are used due to their ability to aid in digestion and relieve indigestion symptoms, although they are less commonly used than flowers.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for indigestion.
- Harvest fresh matricaria chamomilla flowers in the morning after the dew has evaporated allowing the flowers to retain their potency.
- Rinse 1-2 teaspoons of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers with cold water to remove any impurities.
- Steep the dried flowers in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release their medicinal properties.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the solids.
- Allow the tea to cool to a comfortable temperature before consumption taking about 5 minutes.
6. Hydrastis canadensis
Hydrastis canadensis, also known as goldenseal, teas helps with indigestion because of its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to soothe the digestive system.
The berberine content in goldenseal has been shown to have a calming effect on the stomach, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with indigestion. Additionally, goldenseal's natural antimicrobial properties may help to eliminate harmful bacteria that can contribute to digestive issues, promoting a balanced gut environment and alleviating symptoms of indigestion.
This herbal remedy can provide relief and promote overall digestive health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hydrastis canadensis teas that help with indigestion.
- Hydrastine alkaloid: This alkaloid has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help reduce inflammation and infection in the digestive tract, alleviating indigestion symptoms.
- Berberine alkaloid: Berberine has been shown to have spasmolytic and anti-inflammatory effects, which help relax the muscles in the digestive tract and reduce inflammation, providing relief from indigestion.
- Pentandrose phenolic glycoside: This phenolic glycoside has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help protect the digestive tract from oxidative stress and inflammation, reducing the risk of indigestion.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of goldenseal used to make teas for indigestion.
- Roots: The roots of Hydrastis canadensis are the primary part used to make teas for indigestion due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds.
- Leaves: The leaves of the plant are also used to make teas, as they contain similar bioactive compounds to the roots, which help alleviate indigestion.
- Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes of Hydrastis canadensis are utilized to make teas, as they are rich in glycosides and other compounds that aid in digestion and relieve indigestion symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic goldenseal for indigestion.
- Gather fresh or dried roots of hydrastis canadensis in quantities of one teaspoon per cup.
- Combine the roots with boiling water in a ratio of 1:8 to 1:10.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer and steep for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a cup.
- Allow the tea to cool before serving and consuming immediately.
7. Foeniculum vulgare
Foeniculum vulgare, also known as fennel, teas helps with indigestion because of its carminative properties.
The essential oils present in fennel, such as anethole and fenchone, have a soothing effect on the digestive system. They help to relax the muscles in the stomach and intestines, reducing spasms and cramps that can cause discomfort and indigestion.
Additionally, fennel tea's anti-inflammatory properties may also help to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, promoting a sense of calm and relief from indigestion symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare teas that help with indigestion.
- Fenchone: Fenchone is a monoterpene ketone that helps with indigestion by reducing inflammation and relaxing the smooth muscles in the digestive tract, allowing for easier digestion and relieving symptoms of indigestion.
- Anethole: Anethole is an aromatic terpene that helps with indigestion by inhibiting the contraction of smooth muscles in the digestive tract and reducing inflammation, which in turn can help alleviate symptoms of indigestion and discomfort.
- Phenolic compounds: Phenolic compounds, such as myristicin, found in Foeniculum vulgare teas help with indigestion by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the digestive tract, ultimately alleviating indigestion symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make teas for indigestion.
- Seeds: Used due to their high concentration of volatile oils, particularly anethole, which provides a calming effect on the digestive system.
- Leaves: Utilized because they contain a mixture of essential oils and flavonoids that help soothe digestive issues and promote relaxation.
- Fruits (or fennel pollen): Employed due to their rich content of flavonoids, which can aid in alleviating indigestion and inflammation in the digestive tract.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for indigestion.
- Gather dried foeniculum vulgare flowers and leaves in a quantity of 1-2 teaspoons per 8 oz of water.
- Heat the water to a temperature of 212 degrees fahrenheit in a glass teapot for 5 minutes.
- Steep the foeniculum vulgare mixture in the hot water for 5-7 minutes to allow flavors to infuse.
- Strain the tea through a fine mesh sieve to remove foeniculum vulgare solids and discard the solids.
- Allow the tea to cool to a comfortable drinking temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.
8. Plantago major
Plantago major, also known as plantain, teas helps with indigestion because of its anti-inflammatory properties and soothing effect on the digestive system.
The plant's leaves contain mucilages, which form a protective barrier in the stomach and intestines, reducing irritation and discomfort. The tea's calming action also helps to ease digestive spasms and relieve symptoms associated with indigestion, such as bloating and cramps.
This natural remedy can provide relief and promote a sense of comfort and well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Plantago major teas that help with indigestion.
- Aucubin: Aucubin is a phenolic glycoside that helps to alleviate indigestion by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, thereby reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the digestive tract.
- Aegeline: Aegeline is an alkaloid that assists in alleviating indigestion by relaxing smooth muscle and reducing spasms in the gastrointestinal tract, thereby promoting smooth digestion and relieving symptoms of indigestion.
- Quercetin: Quercetin is a flavonoid that helps to alleviate indigestion by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, thereby reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the digestive tract, as well as inhibiting the production of digestive enzymes that can exacerbate indigestion.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of plantain used to make teas for indigestion.
- Leaves: The leaves of Plantago major are used to make teas for indigestion due to their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Roots: The roots of Plantago major are used to make teas for indigestion due to their ability to calm digestive issues and reduce inflammation.
- Seeds: The seeds of Plantago major are used to make teas for indigestion due to their carminative properties, which help alleviate gas and bloating.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic plantain for indigestion.
- Gather 1 ounce of dried plantago major leaves and flowers for a standard tea batch.
- Combine 1 teaspoon of dried herbs with 8 ounces of boiling water in a heat-resistant cup.
- Steep the mixture for 5 to 7 minutes or until the tea reaches your desired strength.
- Strain the tea using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the solids.
- Allow the tea to cool before serving and storing it in a sealed container for up to 3 days.
9. Coriandrum sativum
Coriandrum sativum, also known as coriander, teas helps with indigestion because it has natural carminative properties.
The essential oils present in coriander seeds stimulate digestion and relieve symptoms such as bloating and cramps. The tea also contains anti-inflammatory compounds that soothe the digestive tract and reduce inflammation. Additionally, coriander tea has been traditionally used to alleviate nausea and improve appetite, making it a popular natural remedy for indigestion and other digestive issues.
Regular consumption may promote overall digestive health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Coriandrum sativum teas that help with indigestion.
- Linalool: This terpene helps with indigestion by reducing inflammation and relaxing the muscles in the digestive tract, thereby easing symptoms of indigestion and discomfort.
- Apigenin: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce inflammation and protect the digestive system from damage, alleviating indigestion symptoms.
- Ligustilide: This terpene has a carminative effect, helping to relieve gas and bloating associated with indigestion, and also exhibits anti-inflammatory properties to soothe the digestive tract.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of coriander used to make teas for indigestion.
- Leaves: They are used for their carminative and anti-inflammatory properties to soothe digestive issues.
- Seeds: They contain compounds like linalool and geraniol, which help alleviate indigestion and other stomach issues.
- Roots: The roots of Coriandrum sativum are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help in relieving indigestion and related symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic coriander for indigestion.
- Harvest coriandrum sativum leaves and stems in the morning to ensure optimal flavor and aroma.
- Dry the harvested coriandrum sativum leaves and stems in a warm place for 2-3 days.
- Measure out 1 teaspoon of dried coriandum sativum leaves for every 8 ounces of boiling water.
- Steep the dried coriandum sativum leaves in boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release the flavor.
- Strain the tea and serve immediately to enjoy the herbal coriandrum sativum tea.
10. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, teas helps with indigestion because of its anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the digestive tract.
The roots of the plant contain glycyrrhizin, a compound that has been shown to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of indigestion, such as bloating and heartburn.
Additionally, licorice root teas have been traditionally used to calm the stomach and promote the healing of digestive ulcers, making it a popular remedy for digestive issues.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra teas that help with indigestion.
- Glycyrrhizin: Glycyrrhizin has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, alleviating symptoms of indigestion such as bloating and discomfort.
- Saponins: Saponins in Glycyrrhiza glabra teas have a soothing effect on the digestive system, reducing inflammation and irritation in the stomach and intestines, which can contribute to indigestion.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Glycyrrhiza glabra teas have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help protect the stomach lining from damage, reducing the risk of indigestion and other digestive issues.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make teas for indigestion.
- Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make teas for indigestion as they contain glycyrrhizin, a compound with anti-inflammatory and digestive properties.
- Leaves: The leaves are used to make teas for indigestion as they also contain glycyrrhizin and other beneficial compounds that soothe digestive issues.
- Roots: The roots are also used to make teas for indigestion as they contain other compounds like flavonoids and saponins, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that aid digestion.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for indigestion.
- Harvest 4-6 dried roots of glycyrrhiza glabra in late summer or early fall.
- Rinse the roots in cool water to remove any impurities or debris.
- Chop the dried roots into small pieces using a sharp knife or a root cutter.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of the chopped roots in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the solids.
What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for indigestion?
The best combination of herbal teas that help with indigestion is a blend of peppermint, ginger, and chamomile.
Peppermint tea aids in digestion and relaxes the muscles in the stomach, while ginger tea helps to reduce inflammation and soothe nausea. Chamomile tea calms the mind and body, reducing stress and promoting relaxation, which can exacerbate indigestion.
Together, these teas provide a soothing and effective solution for alleviating indigestion and promoting overall digestive health.
What ailments similar to indigestion are treated with herbal teas?
Ailments similar to indigestion/teas.html">indigestion/teas.html">indigestion that are treated with herbal teas are heartburn, bloating, and acid reflux.
Ginger tea, in particular, is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe the stomach and alleviate these symptoms.
Other herbs like peppermint, chamomile, and licorice root also have calming effects on the digestive system, making them effective natural remedies for these discomforts.