10 Best Herbal Teas For Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Herbal teas for inflammatory bowel disease are natural remedies derived from plants, offering relief from symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.

These teas contain anti-inflammatory compounds that help soothe the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.

Examples include peppermint, chamomile, and turmeric teas, which have been shown to improve bowel function and overall quality of life for individuals with conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

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

1. Curcuma longa

Curcuma longa, also known as turmeric, teas helps with inflammatory bowel disease because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.

The active compound curcumin in turmeric tea has been shown to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the gut, thereby alleviating symptoms of IBD. This is attributed to its ability to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, which contribute to the inflammation and damage associated with IBD.

As a result, curcumin in turmeric tea may help to improve the quality of life for individuals suffering from IBD.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa teas that help with inflammatory bowel disease.

• Curcumin: A polyphenolic compound that helps reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, thereby alleviating symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease.
• Demethoxycurcumin: A polyphenolic compound that has anti-inflammatory properties, inhibiting the activity of NF-κB, a transcription factor involved in the inflammatory response, to help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the gut.
• Turmerones: A class of compounds that exhibit anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, which helps in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the gut, contributing to the management of inflammatory bowel disease.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make teas for inflammatory bowel disease.

• Rhyzomes: The main part of Curcuma longa used for its medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds like curcumin.
• Roots: Used to extract curcumin and other bioactive compounds that help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease.
• Leaves: Contain various compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help soothe and protect the digestive tract.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for inflammatory bowel disease.

1. Harvest 2 to 3 grams of curcuma longa rhizomes from the mature plants in the morning.
2. Wash the rhizomes thoroughly with filtered water to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Dry the cleaned curcuma longa rhizomes in a warm dry place for 2 to 3 days.
4. Grind the dried curcuma longa rhizomes into a fine powder using a spice grinder.
5. Steep 1 teaspoon of the powder in a cup of boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes.

2. Zingiber officinale

Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, teas helps with inflammatory bowel disease because of its anti-inflammatory properties.

The bioactive compounds present in ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols, have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which contribute to the chronic inflammation associated with inflammatory bowel disease. Additionally, ginger has been found to possess antioxidant properties, which help to reduce oxidative stress and promote healing in the gut lining.

This makes ginger tea a promising natural remedy for managing symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Gingerols: These compounds, particularly [6]-gingerol, have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with inflammatory bowel disease.
• Shogaols: Shogaols have been found to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, which contribute to the development and progression of inflammatory bowel disease.
• Zingiberene: This sesquiterpene has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help protect the gut lining from damage and reduce inflammation in inflammatory bowel disease.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make teas for inflammatory bowel disease.

• Roots: Used to make teas for inflammatory bowel disease, as the roots of Zingiber officinale contain compounds that help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
• Leaves: Also used to make teas for inflammatory bowel disease, as the leaves of the plant contain flavonoids and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for inflammatory bowel disease.

1. Harvest zingiber officinale rhizomes by gently digging up the roots after the foliage has begun to yellow.
2. Wash the harvested rhizomes under cold running water to remove dirt and debris thoroughly.
3. Grate 2-3 grams of the fresh rhizomes using a fine grater or a zester for better flavor release.
4. Steep the grated rhizomes in 200 milliliters of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to achieve optimal infusion.
5. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the solid particles completely.

3. Ulmus rubra

Ulmus rubra, also known as slippery elm, teas helps with inflammatory bowel disease because of its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to soothe the mucous membranes in the digestive tract.

The mucilages present in the tea help to form a protective barrier, reducing inflammation and irritation, while also promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.

This leads to a decrease in symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and constipation, making it a promising natural remedy for individuals suffering from inflammatory bowel disease.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ulmus rubra teas that help with inflammatory bowel disease.

• Flavonoids: These plant compounds help reduce inflammation and improve gut health by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and promoting the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds exhibit potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the gut, contributing to the relief of symptoms associated with inflammatory bowel disease.
• Tannins: These astringent compounds help reduce inflammation and protect the gut lining by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators and promoting the healing of damaged tissues.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of slippery elm used to make teas for inflammatory bowel disease.

• Leaves: Used due to their reported anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help reduce inflammation in the gut.
• Barks: Used due to their potential anti-inflammatory and astringent properties, which might help soothe and calm the digestive tract.
• Roots: Used due to their reported antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which may aid in reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy gut microbiome.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic slippery elm for inflammatory bowel disease.

1. Harvest 1/4 cup of fresh ulmus rubra leaves and twigs in early morning when they are at their most fragrant and potent.
2. Dry the harvested ulmus rubra leaves and twigs in a low-temperature oven at 100°f for 2 hours to preserve their properties.
3. Measure out 1 teaspoon of dried ulmus rubra leaves and twigs and place them in a heat-resistant glass tea infuser.
4. Steep the dried ulmus rubra leaves and twigs in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes to release their medicinal properties.
5. Strain the tea and let it cool before serving as a warm or cold beverage with a dosage of 1 cup per serving.

4. Althaea officinalis

Althaea officinalis, also known as marshmallow, teas helps with inflammatory bowel disease because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.

The tea's mucilaginous compounds soothe and protect the gut lining, reducing inflammation and promoting healing. This helps to alleviate symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and cramping associated with conditions like ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.

By reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy gut environment, Althaea officinalis tea may provide relief and support for individuals suffering from inflammatory bowel disease.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Mucilages: These complex polysaccharides help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and promoting healing in inflammatory bowel disease.
• Gallic acid: This phenolic compound has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation, oxidative stress, and cell damage in the gut, alleviating symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease.
• Althaea officinalis polysaccharides: These bioactive polysaccharides have been shown to have immunomodulatory effects, reducing inflammation and modulating the immune response to alleviate symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make teas for inflammatory bowel disease.

• Roots: They contain mucilages, which are gel-like substances that help soothe and protect the digestive tract.
• Leaves: They also contain mucilages, which provide similar benefits to the roots in reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
• Barks: They contain bioactive compounds that help reduce inflammation and protect the digestive system, making them a useful addition to teas for inflammatory bowel disease.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for inflammatory bowel disease.

1. Gather 2 teaspoons of dried althaea officinalis root and place it in a tea infuser.
2. Combine the althaea officinalis root in the tea infuser with 1 cup of boiling water.
3. Steep the mixture for 5 to 7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the root.
5. Serve the althaea officinalis tea hot or chilled after allowing it to cool completely.

5. Mentha x piperita

Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, teas helps with inflammatory bowel disease because of its anti-inflammatory properties.

The menthol and menthone in peppermint tea have been shown to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, reducing spasms and cramping associated with IBD. Additionally, peppermint tea has been found to reduce inflammation and improve bowel habits, making it a popular natural remedy for managing symptoms of IBD.

Its ability to soothe and calm the digestive system makes it a valuable addition to treatment plans.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the gut, which are common contributors to inflammatory bowel disease.
• Caryophyllene oxide: This terpene has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and prevent further damage to the gut lining in patients with inflammatory bowel disease.
• Menthol: This monoterpene has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help soothe the gut lining, reduce inflammation, and prevent the growth of harmful bacteria that can exacerbate inflammatory bowel disease.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make teas for inflammatory bowel disease.

• Leaves: Leaves are rich in menthol, menthone, and limonene, which have anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease.
• Stems: Stems contain menthol and other compounds that may help soothe digestive issues and reduce inflammation in the gut.
• Roots: Roots are known for their high concentration of menthol and other bioactive compounds that may help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for inflammatory bowel disease.

1. Harvest 25-30 grams of fresh mentha x piperita leaves and flowers for a standard tea portion size.
2. Wash the leaves and flowers in cold water to remove any dirt or debris thoroughly.
3. Steep the leaves and flowers in 250 milliliters of boiling water for 5-7 minutes carefully.
4. Strain the tea mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a separate container immediately.
5. Serve the tea hot or chilled sweetened with honey to taste as desired.

6. Matricaria chamomilla

Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, teas helps with inflammatory bowel disease because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.

The apigenin and luteolin present in chamomile have been shown to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the gut, promoting a healing environment. Additionally, chamomile's soothing effects on the digestive system can help alleviate symptoms such as cramping, diarrhea, and abdominal pain associated with inflammatory bowel disease, including conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

Its calming properties also help regulate bowel movements.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Apigenin: This flavonoid acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the gut, which is beneficial for patients with inflammatory bowel disease.
• Luteolin: This flavonoid exhibits potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to alleviate symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease by reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
• Α-bisabolol: This sesquiterpene lactone has anti-inflammatory and soothing effects, reducing inflammation and promoting healing in the gut, which can help manage symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make teas for inflammatory bowel disease.

• Flowers: They are the most commonly used part due to their high content of apigenin and luteolin, which have anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease.
• Seeds: Although less commonly used than flowers, seeds of Matricaria chamomilla contain flavonoids and terpenoids that may help reduce inflammation and improve digestive health.
• Leaves: Matricaria chamomilla leaves also contain flavonoids and terpenoids that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help soothe and protect the digestive system.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for inflammatory bowel disease.

1. Harvest 2 to 4 ounces of dried or fresh matricaria chamomilla flowers with stems intact from mature plants.
2. Rinse the harvested flowers gently with cool water to remove any impurities or dirt particles.
3. Steep 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers or 2 to 3 teaspoons of fresh flowers in 8 ounces of boiling water.
4. Allow the flowers to steep for 5 to 10 minutes to release the active compounds and flavor.
5. Strain the tea using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the flowers and retain the liquid.

7. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, teas helps with inflammatory bowel disease because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The flavonoids and saponins present in the licorice root tea have been shown to reduce inflammation in the gut, promote healing, and improve symptoms associated with inflammatory bowel disease. Additionally, the tea's ability to increase mucus production in the gut can help protect the mucosal lining, reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy gut environment.

This can lead to improved digestion and reduced symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Glycyrrhizin: Glycyrrhizin exhibits anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which contribute to the inflammation associated with inflammatory bowel disease.
• Licoricidin: Licoricidin has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which help to reduce the severity of inflammation and oxidative stress in the gut associated with inflammatory bowel disease.
• Isoliquiritigenin: Isoliquiritigenin has been found to exhibit anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which help to regulate the immune response and reduce inflammation in the gut, making it beneficial for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make teas for inflammatory bowel disease.

• Roots: Used due to their high glycyrrhizin content, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease.
• Leaves: Employed for their flavonoid and phenolic compound content, which exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, reducing inflammation in the digestive tract.
• Buds: Utilized for their rich content of glycosides and phenolic compounds, which help reduce inflammation, protect the mucous membrane, and promote healing in the digestive system.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for inflammatory bowel disease.

1. Harvest 20-30 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots and rinse them under cold water for 30 seconds.
2. Chop the roots into small pieces and steep 1 teaspoon of them in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
3. Strain the tea using a fine mesh sieve to remove the solids and discard the roots.
4. Add 1 tablespoon of honey to the tea to sweeten it and stir well to dissolve the honey completely.
5. Allow the tea to cool down to a comfortable drinking temperature before serving it to avoid burning your tongue.

8. Foeniculum vulgare

Foeniculum vulgare, also known as fennel, teas helps with inflammatory bowel disease because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The anethole content in fennel seeds has been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, reducing inflammation in the gut. Additionally, fennel's flavonoids and phenolic acids have antioxidant effects, protecting the intestinal mucosa from oxidative damage and promoting healing of the gut lining.

This may help alleviate symptoms of IBD, such as abdominal pain and diarrhea.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Anethole: Anethole has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, alleviating symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease.
• Ferulic acid: Ferulic acid, a phenolic compound found in Foeniculum vulgare, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that may help protect the gut from oxidative stress and inflammation associated with inflammatory bowel disease.
• Diacetoxyscirpenol: Diacetoxyscirpenol, a sesquiterpene compound in Foeniculum vulgare, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that may help reduce inflammation and microbial overgrowth in the gut, contributing to the management of inflammatory bowel disease.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make teas for inflammatory bowel disease.

• Seeds: They are used due to their high content of essential oils, particularly anethole, which has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Leaves: They are used for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help soothe and calm digestive issues.
• Fruits: They are used for their carminative and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for inflammatory bowel disease.

1. Harvest 2-3 tablespoons of fresh foeniculum vulgare leaves and stems or use 1 teaspoon of dried leaves.
2. Chop the harvested foeniculum vulgare into small pieces to release its natural oils and flavor.
3. Steep the chopped foeniculum vulgare in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to infuse.
4. Strain the tea mixture using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove foeniculum vulgare solids.
5. Serve the herbal foeniculum vulgare tea hot or chilled after it has cooled to room temperature.

9. Taraxacum officinale

Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, teas helps with inflammatory bowel disease because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The tea's high content of flavonoids, such as kaempferol and quercetin, have been shown to reduce inflammation and protect against oxidative stress in the gut. Additionally, dandelion tea's prebiotic properties help promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, improving the gut microbiome's balance and reducing symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease.

This leads to improved digestion, reduced inflammation, and overall better gut health.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Saponins: These compounds help reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, which contribute to the development of inflammatory bowel disease.
• Flavonoids: Quercetin, a flavonoid present in Taraxacum officinale, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
• Polyphenolic acids: Polyphenolic acids, such as gallic acid, in Taraxacum officinale have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help protect the gut against damage caused by inflammation and oxidative stress in inflammatory bowel disease.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make teas for inflammatory bowel disease.

• Leaves: Leaves are the most commonly used part of Taraxacum officinale for teas due to their high concentration of flavonoids and saponins, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Roots: Roots are also widely used for teas, as they contain inulin, a prebiotic that helps promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, alleviating symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease.
• Flowers: Flowers are another key component of teas made from Taraxacum officinale, as they contain flavonoids and terpenoids that exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for inflammatory bowel disease.

1. Harvest the dandelion roots and leaves in early morning when the plant is at its highest moisture content.
2. Clean the harvested dandelion roots and leaves thoroughly with cold water to remove dirt and debris.
3. Steep one teaspoon of dried dandelion roots and two teaspoons of dried dandelion leaves in boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a large cup to remove the solids.
5. Serve the taraxacum officinale tea hot or cold within 30 minutes of preparation to preserve its medicinal properties.

10. Hydrastis canadensis

Hydrastis canadensis, also known as goldenseal, teas helps with inflammatory bowel disease because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The berberine content in goldenseal has been shown to reduce inflammation and modulate the gut microbiome, which can help alleviate symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and weight loss.

Additionally, goldenseal's antimicrobial properties may help combat infections that can exacerbate the condition, promoting a healthier gut environment and reducing disease severity.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hydrastis canadensis teas that help with inflammatory bowel disease.

• Berberine: Berberine, an alkaloid constituent of Hydrastis canadensis, has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce inflammation and eliminate pathogenic bacteria in the gut, contributing to the management of inflammatory bowel disease.
• Hydrastine: Hydrastine, another alkaloid found in Hydrastis canadensis, possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the gut, thus alleviating symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease.
• Vasakine: Vasakine, a phenolic glycoside constituent of Hydrastis canadensis, has anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help regulate the immune response and reduce inflammation in the gut, providing relief from symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of goldenseal used to make teas for inflammatory bowel disease.

• Roots: The roots of Hydrastis canadensis are the most commonly used part for teas related to inflammatory bowel disease due to their high concentration of berberine, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties.
• Leaves: The leaves of Hydrastis canadensis are also used to make teas for inflammatory bowel disease, as they contain berberine and other compounds that may help soothe and calm the digestive system.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic goldenseal for inflammatory bowel disease.

1. Harvest 1-2 ounces of dried root of hydrastis canadensis for a single serving.
2. Crush the dried root into small pieces using a mortar and pestle for about 5 minutes.
3. Steep the crushed root in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth for about 2 minutes.
5. Allow the tea to cool to room temperature for 10-15 minutes before consuming.

What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for inflammatory bowel disease?

The best combination of herbal teas that help with inflammatory bowel disease is a blend of peppermint, chamomile, and licorice root tea.

Peppermint tea soothes the digestive tract and reduces inflammation, while chamomile tea calms the mind and body, reducing stress that can exacerbate symptoms. Licorice root tea, rich in antioxidants, protects the gut lining and promotes healing.

Drinking a combination of these teas may help alleviate symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease, such as bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.