10 Best Herbal Teas For Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Herbal teas for irritable bowel syndrome are natural remedies that help alleviate symptoms of IBS, such as abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel movements.

These teas work by reducing inflammation, soothing the digestive tract, and improving gut health. Examples include peppermint tea, which eases cramps and nausea, and chamomile tea, which calms the mind and body.

By drinking these teas, people with IBS can experience relief from symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.

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

1. Glycyrrhiza glabra

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

The tea's active compound, glycyrrhizin, has been shown to reduce inflammation in the gut, which is often a contributing factor to IBS symptoms such as bloating and abdominal pain. Additionally, the tea's calming effects on the muscles in the digestive tract can help to regulate bowel movements and reduce symptoms of IBS.

This makes licorice tea a popular natural remedy for IBS sufferers.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Glycyrrhizic acid: It helps reduce inflammation and soothe the digestive tract, alleviating symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome such as abdominal pain and bloating.
• Liquiritigenin: It exhibits anti-spasmodic properties, which help relax the intestinal muscles and reduce cramps and spasms associated with irritable bowel syndrome.
• Isoliquiritigenin: It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the gut, contributing to the management of irritable bowel syndrome symptoms.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: They are rich in glycyrrhizin, which has anti-inflammatory properties and helps to soothe the digestive system.
• Leaves: They have a sweet flavor and contain compounds that may help to relax the muscles in the digestive tract and reduce inflammation.
• Flowers: They have a calming effect and may help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can contribute to irritable bowel syndrome symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for irritable bowel syndrome.

1. Harvest 1-2 tablespoons of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots and rinse them under cold running water for 5 minutes.
2. Crush the roots into fine powder using a mortar and pestle or a coffee grinder for 2 minutes.
3. Steep 1 teaspoon of the powder in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release the active ingredients.
4. Strain the tea using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any remaining solids for 2 minutes.
5. Discard the solids and let the tea cool to room temperature before serving and consuming the tea.

2. Foeniculum vulgare

Foeniculum vulgare, also known as fennel, teas helps with irritable bowel syndrome because it contains compounds that may help to soothe and calm the digestive system.

The seeds of the fennel plant have been traditionally used to ease bloating and flatulence associated with IBS. The tea's anti-inflammatory properties may also help to reduce inflammation and discomfort in the digestive tract, promoting a sense of relief and comfort.

Additionally, fennel tea may help to regulate bowel movements and reduce symptoms of abdominal pain and cramping.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Fenchone: Fenchone has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help in reducing inflammation and spasms in the digestive tract, providing relief from IBS symptoms.
• Anethole: Anethone has carminative properties, which help in reducing gas and bloating associated with IBS, and its antispasmodic properties also help in relaxing the muscles in the digestive tract.
• Foeniculin: Foeniculin has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help in protecting the digestive tract from oxidative stress and inflammation, reducing the severity of IBS symptoms.

Parts Used

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

• Seeds: They are used to make teas due to their carminative and anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate digestive issues associated with IBS.
• Leaves: They are used in teas to provide a soothing effect on the digestive system, reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation.
• Roots: They are used in teas for their anti-inflammatory and carminative properties, helping to ease digestive discomfort and spasms associated with IBS.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for irritable bowel syndrome.

1. Gather 20g of dried foeniculum vulgare roots and flowers for a standard serving size.
2. Boil 250ml of fresh water in a teapot for 5 minutes before use.
3. Steep 5g of the dried herbal mixture in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup or teapot.
5. Let the tea cool down to a drinkable temperature within 5-10 minutes.

3. Mentha x piperita

Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, teas helps with irritable bowel syndrome because of its relaxing effects on the digestive system.

The menthol content in peppermint tea helps to reduce inflammation and spasms in the intestines, allowing for improved digestion and bowel movements. Additionally, peppermint's natural antispasmodic properties help to soothe and calm the muscles in the stomach and intestines, reducing symptoms of IBS such as bloating, cramps, and abdominal pain.

This makes peppermint tea a popular natural remedy for IBS sufferers.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Menthol: Menthol helps with irritable bowel syndrome by reducing inflammation and soothing the digestive tract, providing relief from cramps, bloating, and discomfort.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the gut, alleviating symptoms of IBS such as abdominal pain and diarrhea.
• Limonene: Limonene has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and gastroprotective effects, which may help reduce inflammation and protect the gut lining from damage, providing relief from IBS symptoms such as abdominal pain and nausea.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: Peppermint leaves are commonly used to make teas for irritable bowel syndrome due to their high concentration of menthol and menthone, which have anti-inflammatory and carminative properties.
• Rhyzomes: Peppermint rhyzomes, also known as the root-like stem, contain menthol and menthone, which can help relax the muscles in the digestive tract and reduce inflammation.
• Buds: Peppermint buds, which are the immature leaves, contain a higher concentration of menthol and menthone than the mature leaves, making them a popular choice for teas aimed at soothing digestive issues.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for irritable bowel syndrome.

1. Harvest fresh mentha x piperita leaves when they are at their peak flavor and aroma by hand.
2. Dry the freshly harvested leaves in a single layer at 50 degrees celsius for 30 minutes.
3. Measure out one teaspoon of dried mentha x piperita leaves for every 8 ounces of water.
4. Steep the dried leaves in boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes to release their active compounds.
5. Strain the tea mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a cup and discard the solids.

4. Matricaria chamomilla

Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, teas helps with irritable bowel syndrome because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

The apigenin and luteolin present in chamomile teas have been shown to calm the digestive system, reducing inflammation and spasms that can exacerbate IBS symptoms. Additionally, chamomile's ability to relax the muscles in the digestive tract can help to improve bowel movements and reduce abdominal pain, providing relief for those suffering from IBS.

This natural remedy may offer a valuable alternative for managing IBS symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Apigenin: This flavonoid helps with IBS by reducing inflammation and modulating the gut-brain axis, alleviating symptoms such as abdominal pain and discomfort.
• Luteolin: This flavonoid possesses anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce inflammation in the gut and alleviate symptoms of IBS, such as bloating and cramps.
• Alpha-bisabolol: This sesquiterpene lactone has anti-inflammatory and spasmolytic effects, helping to reduce muscle spasms in the intestines and alleviate symptoms of IBS, such as abdominal cramps and diarrhea.

Parts Used

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

• Flowers: The flowers are used to make teas for irritable bowel syndrome due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which help calm digestive issues.
• Leaves: The leaves are used to make teas for irritable bowel syndrome because they contain flavonoids and other compounds that aid in reducing inflammation and promoting digestive health.
• Roots: The roots are used to make teas for irritable bowel syndrome due to their antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, which help soothe digestive issues and promote a healthy gut.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for irritable bowel syndrome.

1. Harvest 20-30 fresh matricaria chamomilla flowers on a dry sunny morning just before they open.
2. Rinse the flowers gently with cold water to remove any dirt or debris quickly.
3. Dry the flowers in a single layer on a paper bag or a clean cloth for 1 week.
4. Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
5. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a cup to serve immediately.

5. Lavandula angustifolia

Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, teas helps with irritable bowel syndrome because of its calming and soothing properties.

The essential oils present in the plant, such as linalool and linalyl acetate, have been shown to reduce inflammation and improve digestion. By reducing muscle spasms and promoting relaxation, lavender tea can help alleviate symptoms of IBS, including abdominal pain and bloating.

Additionally, lavender's anxiolytic properties can help manage stress, which is often a trigger for IBS symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia teas that help with irritable bowel syndrome.

• Linalool: This terpene helps with IBS by reducing inflammation and spasms in the gastrointestinal tract, which can alleviate symptoms of abdominal pain and cramping.
• Linalyl acetate: This terpene has been shown to have a calming effect on the gut, reducing anxiety and stress-related symptoms of IBS, such as changes in bowel movements and bloating.
• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the gut, leading to improved digestion and reduced IBS symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make teas for irritable bowel syndrome.

• Leaves: They are used for their calming and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe digestive issues associated with IBS.
• Flowers: They are used for their relaxing and anti-anxiety effects, which can help reduce stress and alleviate symptoms of IBS.
• Buds: They are used for their similar properties to the flowers, providing a calming and soothing effect to aid in IBS management.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for irritable bowel syndrome.

1. Harvest dried lavandula angustifolia flowers in late morning when the dew has evaporated and petals are fully open.
2. Measure out 1 teaspoon of dried flowers for every 8 ounces of water for a standard brew.
3. Steep the dried flowers in boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes to release the essential oils and flavors.
4. Strain the tea mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a cup to remove the solids.
5. Allow the tea to cool for 2 to 3 minutes before serving to ensure a comfortable drinking temperature.

6. Ursinia anthemoides

Ursinia anthemoides, also known as silver daisy, teas helps with irritable bowel syndrome because it has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the digestive tract and reduce inflammation.

The tea's flavonoids and saponins may also help regulate bowel movements and alleviate symptoms such as bloating and abdominal pain. Additionally, the tea's antimicrobial properties may help combat digestive infections that can exacerbate IBS symptoms.

By promoting a healthy balance of gut bacteria and reducing inflammation, Ursinia anthemoides tea may provide relief for individuals suffering from irritable bowel syndrome.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ursinia anthemoides teas that help with irritable bowel syndrome.

• Flavonoids: These compounds help alleviate irritable bowel syndrome by reducing inflammation and modulating gut motility, which can ease symptoms of abdominal pain and diarrhea.
• Sesquiterpene lactones: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe the gut lining, reduce inflammation, and alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome such as bloating and abdominal pain.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds may help regulate gut bacteria, reduce inflammation, and improve gut motility, which can contribute to the alleviation of symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of silver daisy used to make teas for irritable bowel syndrome.

• Roots: Used for their potential to soothe digestive issues due to their anti-inflammatory properties.
• Leaves: Used for their potential to ease digestive discomfort and reduce inflammation in the gut.
• Flowers: Used for their potential to calm digestive issues and reduce stress due to their mild sedative properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic silver daisy for irritable bowel syndrome.

1. Harvest fresh ursinia anthemoides flowers in the morning after the dew has evaporated for maximum potency.
2. Dry the ursinia anthemoides flowers using a dehydrator at 95°f for 8 hours to preserve their properties.
3. Steep 1 teaspoon of dried ursinia anthemoides flowers in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release their compounds.
4. Strain the tea mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a separate container to remove solids.
5. Store the ursinia anthemoides tea in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before consumption to retain its flavor.

7. Lycium barbarum

Lycium barbarum, also known as goji berry, teas helps with irritable bowel syndrome because of its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to regulate bowel movements.

The antioxidants present in goji berry tea may help to soothe the digestive tract and reduce inflammation, which can contribute to IBS symptoms.

Additionally, the prebiotic properties of goji berry may help to promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, improving digestive health and reducing symptoms of IBS, such as bloating and abdominal pain.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lycium barbarum teas that help with irritable bowel syndrome.

• Polysaccharides: These complex sugars help to soothe and calm the digestive system, reducing inflammation and alleviating symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome such as bloating and abdominal pain.
• Lycium barbarum polysaccharides: LBP has been shown to have a protective effect on the gut, increasing the production of mucus to protect the intestinal lining and reducing inflammation, which can contribute to IBS symptoms.
• Anthocyanins: These powerful antioxidants have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the gut, leading to improved digestion and reduced symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of goji berry used to make teas for irritable bowel syndrome.

• Fruits: Rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which can help soothe digestive issues and reduce inflammation associated with IBS.
• Leaves: Contain compounds that may help alleviate symptoms of IBS by reducing inflammation and improving gut health.
• Seeds: May help in regulating bowel movements and providing relief from IBS symptoms due to their high content of flavonoids and other bioactive compounds.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic goji berry for irritable bowel syndrome.

1. Gather lycium barbarum dried berries 30 grams and boiling water 250 milliliters.
2. Heat the water to 95 degrees celsius for 5 minutes in a kettle.
3. Measure 30 grams of dried berries and place them in a 500-milliliter teapot.
4. Steep the berries in the hot water for 10 to 15 minutes in the teapot.
5. Strain the mixture and discard the solids before serving the tea.

8. Tilia platyphyllos

Tilia platyphyllos, also known as broad-leaved lime, teas helps with irritable bowel syndrome because it contains flavonoids and terpenes that exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

These compounds may help soothe the digestive tract, reduce inflammation, and regulate bowel movements. Additionally, the tea's calming effects on the nervous system may also alleviate stress and anxiety, which can contribute to IBS symptoms.

The tea's potential to regulate gut motility and reduce spasms may also help alleviate abdominal pain and discomfort associated with IBS.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Tilia platyphyllos teas that help with irritable bowel syndrome.

• Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Tilia platyphyllos tea may help alleviate IBS symptoms by reducing inflammation and improving gut motility, which can help regulate bowel movements and alleviate abdominal pain.
• Terpenes: Terpenes, particularly sesquiterpenes, in Tilia platyphyllos tea may exhibit anti-inflammatory and spasmolytic properties, helping to calm the gut and reduce the frequency and severity of IBS symptoms.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Tilia platyphyllos tea may possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the gut, potentially alleviating IBS symptoms such as abdominal pain and bowel irregularity.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of broad-leaved lime used to make teas for irritable bowel syndrome.

• Leaves: Tilia platyphyllos leaves are used to make teas due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that help alleviate digestive issues associated with IBS.
• Buds: Tilia platyphyllos buds are used in teas for their calming and anti-spasmodic effects, which can help relieve abdominal cramps and discomfort associated with IBS.
• Leaves: The leaves are also used due to their antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract and alleviate symptoms of IBS.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic broad-leaved lime for irritable bowel syndrome.

1. Gather 1 part dried tilia platyphyllos leaves and flowers for a standard 1 cup tea.
2. Steep 1 teaspoon of the dried mixture in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 minutes.
3. Strain the liquid through a fine mesh sieve to remove all the plant material.
4. Discard the solids and let the tea cool to a comfortable drinking temperature in 5 minutes.
5. Drink the herbal tea 2 to 3 times a day for optimal relaxation effects.

9. Sideritis syriaca

Sideritis syriaca, also known as ironwort, teas helps with irritable bowel syndrome because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which can soothe the digestive tract and alleviate symptoms of IBS such as abdominal pain and cramping.

Its flavonoid and phenolic compounds may also help to regulate bowel movements, reduce inflammation, and enhance the gut's natural barrier function.

Additionally, Sideritis syriaca tea's antimicrobial properties can help to eliminate gut pathogens and promote a healthier gut microbiome, contributing to overall digestive comfort and well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sideritis syriaca teas that help with irritable bowel syndrome.

• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract and alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
• Caryophyllene: A sesquiterpene with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, caryophyllene may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the gut, contributing to the relief of IBS symptoms.
• Oleanolic acid: A triterpenoid with anti-inflammatory and protective effects on the gastrointestinal tract, oleanolic acid may help soothe and protect the gut lining, reducing symptoms of IBS such as abdominal pain and diarrhea.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ironwort used to make teas for irritable bowel syndrome.

• Leaves: The leaves are used to make teas for irritable bowel syndrome due to their anti-inflammatory properties.
• Flowers: The flowers are used to make teas for irritable bowel syndrome due to their soothing and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Roots: The roots are used to make teas for irritable bowel syndrome due to their anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ironwort for irritable bowel syndrome.

1. Gather 20-30 grams of dried sideritis syriaca flowers and leaves from a reputable herbal source.
2. Measure 1 teaspoon of the dried flowers and leaves into a tea infuser or strainer.
3. Steep the herbs in 250ml of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release the active compounds.
4. Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the solids.
5. Enjoy the tea immediately as the flavors and benefits will be most potent when consumed fresh.

10. Taraxacum officinale

Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, teas helps with irritable bowel syndrome because it possesses anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the digestive tract.

The tea's prebiotic fibers promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, improving digestion and reducing symptoms such as bloating and abdominal pain. Additionally, dandelion tea's diuretic properties help to flush out toxins and excess fluids from the body, further alleviating IBS symptoms and promoting overall digestive health.

This natural remedy provides a gentle, non-invasive approach to managing IBS.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Taraxasterol: A triterpenoid saponin that helps with IBS by modulating the gut microbiota, reducing inflammation, and improving the integrity of the gut barrier.
• Flavonoids: A class of polyphenolic compounds that help with IBS by exerting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, reducing oxidative stress, and protecting against gastrointestinal damage.
• Inulin: A type of fructan that helps with IBS by promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, improving the balance of the gut microbiota, and modulating the immune response, which can contribute to IBS symptoms.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: Rich in anti-inflammatory compounds, they help soothe digestive issues associated with IBS.
• Roots: Containing inulin, a prebiotic fiber, they aid in promoting gut health and regulating bowel movements.
• Flowers: With anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, they help reduce inflammation and alleviate IBS symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for irritable bowel syndrome.

1. Gather 2-3 cups of fresh taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers to use for tea.
2. Chop the taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers into small pieces for better infusion.
3. Steep 1 teaspoon of the chopped taraxacum officinale in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-10 minutes.
4. Strain the taraxacum officinale tea through a fine mesh sieve to remove all solid particles.
5. Serve the taraxacum officinale tea hot or iced within 30 minutes of preparation.

What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for irritable bowel syndrome?

The best combination of herbal teas that help with irritable bowel syndrome is a blend of peppermint, ginger, and chamomile.

Peppermint tea soothes the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and cramps, while ginger tea helps alleviate nausea and improves digestion. Chamomile tea calms the mind and body, reducing stress and anxiety that can exacerbate IBS symptoms. Drinking this combination regularly may help alleviate symptoms, improve gut health, and promote overall well-being.

It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet or supplement routine.

What ailments similar to irritable bowel syndrome are treated with herbal teas?

Ailments similar to irritable bowel syndrome that are treated with herbal teas are conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, diverticulitis, and gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Herbal teas like peppermint, chamomile, and licorice root have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe digestive issues, reduce inflammation, and alleviate symptoms of these conditions.

Additionally, herbs like ginger and turmeric are used to treat nausea and stomach pain associated with these ailments.