By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 04, 2024
10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Overeating
Herbal decoctions for overeating are natural remedies made by steeping herbs in hot water to create a soothing drink that helps alleviate symptoms associated with overindulgence.
These concoctions work by calming digestive discomfort, reducing bloating and cramps, and regulating appetite. Examples of effective herbal decoctions include peppermint, ginger, and dandelion root tea, which can ease nausea and flatulence.
By incorporating these teas into daily routines, individuals can improve digestion, boost energy levels, and regain control over their eating habits, leading to a more balanced and healthier lifestyle.
The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for overeating, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Gymnema sylvestre
- 2. Foeniculum vulgare
- 3. Silybum marianum
- 4. Taraxacum officinale
- 5. Baptisia tinctoria
- 6. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 7. Althaea officinalis
- 8. Mentha x piperita
- 9. Cinnamomum verum
- 10. Zingiber officinale
- What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for overeating?
- What ailments similar to overeating are treated with herbal decoctions?
1. Gymnema sylvestre
Guduchi decoctions helps with overeating because it has a natural ability to reduce cravings for unhealthy foods.
The herb's bitter taste triggers the release of digestive enzymes, which aids in efficient nutrient absorption and satiety. Additionally, guduchi is known to normalize blood sugar levels, reducing the likelihood of mid-day cravings.
As the body becomes more attuned to its natural hunger cues, individuals are less likely to overindulge in snacks or meals, promoting a balanced relationship with food and overall well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Gymnema sylvestre decoctions that help with overeating.
- Gymnemic acid: This triterpenoid saponin helps with overeating by inhibiting the absorption of glucose and reducing sweet taste perception, thereby reducing sugar cravings and appetite.
- Gymnenic acids and flavonoids: These compounds help by reducing inflammation and improving insulin sensitivity, which can contribute to overeating and weight gain.
- Alkaloids: These compounds help by reducing the release of ghrelin, a hormone that stimulates appetite, and increasing the release of cholecystokinin, a hormone that suppresses appetite, thereby reducing hunger and overeating.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of guduchi used to make decoctions for overeating.
- Leaves: Used due to their high concentration of gymnemic acid, which is believed to help reduce sugar cravings and regulate appetite.
- Roots: Utilized for their ability to balance blood sugar levels and potentially aid in weight management by reducing overeating.
- Seeds: Employed for their nutritional and medicinal properties, including potential weight management benefits due to the presence of various bioactive compounds.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic guduchi for overeating.
- Collect 30-60 grams of dried gymnema sylvestre leaves and stems from a reliable source.
- Crush the gymnema sylvestre leaves and stems into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Combine the powder with 1 liter of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer the decoction for 5-10 minutes to release active compounds.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
2. Foeniculum vulgare
Fennel decoctions helps with overeating because it aids in digestion, reducing bloating and discomfort that often follows overindulgence.
The natural oils in fennel seeds have a calming effect on the digestive system, easing symptoms of indigestion and discomfort caused by consuming large portions or rich foods.
This allows the body to break down nutrients more efficiently, alleviating feelings of fullness and sluggishness, making it easier to get back on track with healthy eating habits.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare decoctions that help with overeating.
- Foeniculin: Foeniculin, a sesquiterpene, is believed to have a regulatory effect on appetite and satiety, helping to curb overeating by reducing hunger pangs.
- Anethole: Anethole, a phenylpropene, has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce overeating by alleviating emotional eating triggered by stress and inflammation.
- Daucosterol: Daucosterol, a triterpene saponin, may aid in weight management by regulating lipid metabolism and reducing fat absorption, helping to prevent overeating and promote healthy weight loss.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make decoctions for overeating.
- Leaves: Dried Foeniculum vulgare leaves are used to make decoctions for overeating due to their carminative properties, helping to ease digestion and alleviate symptoms of indigestion.
- Seeds: The seeds of Foeniculum vulgare are used in decoctions for overeating as they contain oils with anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe the digestive system.
- Stems: The stems of Foeniculum vulgare are used to make decoctions for overeating due to their ability to aid in the relaxation of the digestive muscles, helping to prevent symptoms of indigestion.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for overeating.
- Gather 2-3 tablespoons of dried foeniculum vulgare and clean them thoroughly with a soft brush.
- Combine the dried foeniculum vulgare with 1 quart of cold water in a large saucepan.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat for 10-15 minutes or until it reaches a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer the mixture for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is reduced.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
3. Silybum marianum
Milk thistle decoctions helps with overeating because it stimulates the production of bile, which aids in digestion and absorption of nutrients.
This can help reduce feelings of bloating and discomfort that often accompany overindulgence, making it easier to stop overeating. Additionally, milk thistle has anti-inflammatory properties that may soothe digestive issues, such as cramps and nausea, associated with consuming large amounts of food.
By promoting a healthy digestive system, milk thistle decoctions can help individuals develop healthier eating habits and reduce the likelihood of overeating.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Silybum marianum decoctions that help with overeating.
- Flavonoids: These compounds, particularly silymarin, help alleviate symptoms of overeating by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the liver, supporting its overall health and function.
- Sesquiterpene lactones: These bioactive compounds, including dehydrocostus lactone, have been shown to inhibit the growth of microorganisms in the gut, helping to regulate digestion and prevent conditions that can lead to overeating.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds, including caffeic acid, have been found to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help mitigate the negative effects of overeating on the body, including reduced inflammation and oxidative stress.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of milk thistle used to make decoctions for overeating.
- Seeds: Used to make decoctions due to their milky sap, which is believed to aid in digestion and relieve symptoms of overeating.
- Leaves: Used for decoctions as they contain compounds that may help reduce inflammation and alleviate discomfort associated with overeating.
- Stems: Used in decoctions as they contain silymarin, a compound that may help protect the liver and aid in digestion after overeating.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic milk thistle for overeating.
- Harvest 1 to 2 cups of dried silybum marianum flowers and leaves in a clean environment.
- Combine the dried silybum marianum with 4 cups of water in a saucepan.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat for 10 to 15 minutes or until it reaches a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 to 30 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
4. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion decoctions helps with overeating because they promote digestion and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.
The plant's natural diuretic properties also help to alleviate water retention, which can contribute to feelings of bloating and discomfort after eating. Additionally, dandelion's bitter flavor stimulates saliva production, aiding in the breakdown of food and reducing cravings for unhealthy snacks.
By supporting healthy digestion and alleviating uncomfortable symptoms, herbal dandelion decoctions can help individuals develop a healthier relationship with food and reduce overeating habits.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale decoctions that help with overeating.
- Inulin: Inulin helps with overeating by acting as a prebiotic, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and improving digestion, reducing the likelihood of overeating due to poor gut health.
- Taraxasterol: Taraxasterol has been found to have appetite-suppressing properties, helping to reduce overeating by influencing the brain's appetite centers and improving satiety.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Dandelion decoctions may help with overeating by inhibiting the breakdown of carbohydrates into glucose, which can lead to overeating due to increased insulin resistance and subsequent cravings for more carbohydrates.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make decoctions for overeating.
- Roots: Roots are commonly used to make decoctions for overeating due to their diuretic properties, which help in flushing out excess fluids and toxins.
- Leaves: Leaves are used to make decoctions for overeating as they contain inulin, a natural fiber that helps in reducing bloating and promoting digestion.
- Seeds: Seeds are used to make decoctions for overeating as they contain inulin and other compounds that aid in reducing appetite and promoting weight loss.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for overeating.
- Gather 20-30 grams of dried taraxacum officinale roots and leaves from a trusted source.
- Weigh the dried plant material and add it to a medium-sized pot.
- Boil 1 liter of water for 10-15 minutes to create the base of the decoction.
- Combine the boiled water with the dried taraxacum officinale and steep for 30 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a fine-mesh sieve and discard the solids.
5. Baptisia tinctoria
Wild indigo decoctions helps with overeating because it targets the root cause of excessive food consumption - emotional eating.
The herb's calming properties soothe the nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety triggers that often drive people to overindulge in food.
Additionally, wild indigo's natural antispasmodic effects can help ease digestive discomfort, allowing individuals to better recognize their body's hunger and fullness cues, leading to healthier eating habits and reduced overeating.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Baptisia tinctoria decoctions that help with overeating.
- Isoquinoline alkaloids: These compounds may help with overeating by reducing appetite and improving digestion, potentially due to their ability to modulate the gut-brain axis and influence satiety signals.
- Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds may help with overeating by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which can contribute to overeating behaviors and metabolic dysregulation.
- Saponins: These glycosides may help with overeating by reducing calorie intake and improving lipid metabolism, potentially due to their ability to inhibit fat absorption and modulate gut microbiota.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of wild indigo used to make decoctions for overeating.
- Roots: Used due to their high concentration of alkaloids, which help in digestion and reducing symptoms of indigestion.
- Leaves: Utilized for their ability to stimulate digestive enzymes, aiding in the breakdown of food and alleviating discomfort.
- Seeds: Employed for their purported diuretic properties, which help in flushing out excess water and reducing bloating associated with overeating.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wild indigo for overeating.
- Gather 1 part dried baptisia tinctoria root and 2 parts fresh or dried leafy herb material in a clean environment.
- Combine the gathered herb material with 1 quart of water in a large pot to create a decoction.
- Boil the mixture for 10 to 30 minutes to extract the desired medicinal properties from the herb material.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove solids.
- Allow the decoction to cool to room temperature for 30 minutes before consumption or further use.
6. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice decoctions helps with overeating because it stimulates the stomach to produce more digestive enzymes, making it easier for the body to break down and absorb nutrients.
Additionally, licorice root has a soothing effect on the digestive system, reducing inflammation and discomfort that can often trigger overeating habits.
By supporting digestion and alleviating discomfort, herbal licorice decoctions can help individuals develop healthier eating habits and reduce their likelihood of overindulgence.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra decoctions that help with overeating.
- Glycyrrhizin: It helps with overeating by inhibiting the activity of 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, an enzyme that contributes to increased appetite and weight gain.
- Licene: It aids in reducing overeating by acting as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, which may help alleviate stress and anxiety-related eating behaviors.
- Flavonoids: They may help reduce overeating by modulating the gut microbiota and improving insulin sensitivity, leading to a reduction in appetite and body weight.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make decoctions for overeating.
- Roots: They are used to make decoctions as they contain glycyrrhizin, which helps to alleviate symptoms of overeating by reducing water retention and aiding digestion.
- Leaves: The leaves are used in decoctions due to their ability to help alleviate symptoms of indigestion and bloating associated with overeating.
- Barks: The barks are used to make decoctions as they contain compounds that help to reduce inflammation and soothe digestive issues caused by overeating.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for overeating.
- Gather 10-20 grams of dried roots of glycyrrhiza glabra and clean them thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
- Crush the roots into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle to increase their surface area.
- Combine 1-2 teaspoons of the powder with 1 liter of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
- Boil the mixture for 10-15 minutes then reduce the heat to a simmer for an additional 20-30 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove any remaining solids.
7. Althaea officinalis
Marshmallow decoctions helps with overeating because it soothes and calms the digestive system, reducing inflammation and discomfort that can lead to overindulgence.
The saponins in marshmallows have a gentle anti-inflammatory effect, easing digestion and eliminating bloating, while also providing a sense of fullness and satisfaction.
This natural remedy helps regulate appetite and portion control, allowing individuals to better manage their eating habits and achieve a healthier relationship with food.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis decoctions that help with overeating.
- Mucilages: Mucilages in Althaea officinalis decoctions help with overeating by soothing the digestive tract, reducing inflammation, and promoting a sense of fullness and satiety.
- Gallic acid: Gallic acid, a phenolic compound found in Althaea officinalis, may aid in reducing overeating by inhibiting the absorption of dietary fats and promoting weight loss.
- Althaea flavonoids: Althaea flavonoids, including quercetin and kaempferol, may help with overeating by reducing inflammation and modulating gut microbiota, leading to improved glucose metabolism and reduced appetite.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make decoctions for overeating.
- Roots: The roots of Althaea officinalis are commonly used as they contain high concentrations of mucilage, a soothing and demulcent substance that can help alleviate digestive issues.
- Stems: The stems of Althaea officinalis are also widely used for making decoctions, as they are rich in mucilage, which can help calm and protect the digestive tract.
- Leaves: The leaves of Althaea officinalis are sometimes used for decoctions, containing mucilage and other compounds that can help soothe and regulate digestive issues.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for overeating.
- Harvest 20 grams of althaea officinalis root and clean it thoroughly with cold running water.
- Dry the root in a low-temperature oven at 50 degrees celsius for 2 hours.
- Grind 5 grams of the dried root into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Combine the powder with 1 liter of boiling water and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth to remove the solids and discard the residue.
8. Mentha x piperita
Peppermint decoctions helps with overeating because it aids digestion, reducing bloating and discomfort associated with consuming large meals.
The menthol in peppermint helps to stimulate saliva production, breaking down food more efficiently and preventing the buildup of gas in the stomach. Additionally, peppermint's calming effects can help to reduce stress and anxiety, common triggers for overeating.
By soothing the digestive system and promoting relaxation, herbal peppermint decoctions can support healthy eating habits and alleviate symptoms of overindulgence.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita decoctions that help with overeating.
- Menthol: It acts as a peripheral vasodilator and anesthetic, helping to reduce hunger and improve digestion.
- Menthone: It possesses a calming effect on the stomach and intestines, potentially reducing excessive eating and alleviating symptoms of indigestion and nausea.
- Rosmarinic acid: It has been shown to have appetite-suppressing properties, likely due to its ability to reduce the release of ghrelin, a hormone that stimulates appetite.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make decoctions for overeating.
- Leaves: Leaves are commonly used for decoctions related to overeating due to their high concentration of menthol, which helps to alleviate digestive discomfort and nausea.
- Stems: Stems are used in decoctions for overeating as they contain menthol and other compounds that help to calm the stomach and relieve digestive issues.
- Roots: Roots of Mentha x piperita are also used in decoctions for overeating, as they contain a higher concentration of menthone, which helps to reduce nausea and alleviate digestive discomfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for overeating.
- Measure 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of dried m x piperita leaves into a clean glass container.
- Combine the measured m x piperita leaves with 8 ounces of boiling water in a heat-resistant cup.
- Steep the mixture for 5 to 7 minutes to allow the plant's properties to infuse into the water.
- Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into another container to remove the solids.
- Discard the solids and store the decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
9. Cinnamomum verum
Ceylon cinnamon decoctions helps with overeating because it stimulates digestion and regulates blood sugar levels.
The active compounds in Ceylon cinnamon, such as cinnamaldehyde, help to slow down gastric emptying, keeping you feeling fuller for longer. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties can reduce insulin resistance, making it easier to manage cravings and portion sizes.
As a natural appetite suppressant, Ceylon cinnamon decoctions promote a sense of fullness and satisfaction, ultimately helping individuals develop healthier eating habits.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cinnamomum verum decoctions that help with overeating.
- Cinnamaldehyde: Acts as a natural appetite suppressant by reducing food cravings and improving digestion, making it easier to manage overeating.
- Eugenol: Exhibits anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate digestive discomfort associated with overeating, promoting a healthier relationship with food.
- Cinnamomin: May aid in regulating blood sugar levels and improving insulin sensitivity, which can reduce cravings for high-carbohydrate or high-sugar foods that often contribute to overeating.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ceylon cinnamon used to make decoctions for overeating.
- Rhyzomes: Cinnamon rhyzomes are commonly used to make decoctions for overeating due to their ability to aid digestion and reduce bloating.
- Barks: Cinnamon barks are used to make decoctions for overeating as they have a warming effect on the digestive system, helping to ease indigestion and discomfort.
- Leaves: Cinnamon leaves are used to make decoctions for overeating due to their carminative properties, which help to reduce gas and alleviate symptoms of indigestion.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ceylon cinnamon for overeating.
- Harvest 2-3 pounds of cinnamomum verum bark from mature trees with thick brown outer layers.
- Clean the harvested bark by washing it with warm water to remove dirt and debris.
- Dry the cleaned cinnamomum verum bark in a well-ventilated area for 2-3 days or until it reaches 10% moisture content.
- Grind 1-2 teaspoons of dried cinnamomum verum bark into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of the ground cinnamomum verum powder in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to create the decoction.
10. Zingiber officinale
Ginger decoctions helps with overeating because it stimulates digestion, reducing feelings of bloating and discomfort that often accompany excessive food consumption.
The warming properties of ginger also increase saliva production, breaking down carbohydrates more efficiently, which can help reduce cravings for unhealthy snacks.
Additionally, the natural anti-inflammatory compounds in ginger may help regulate appetite hormones, promoting a sense of fullness and satisfaction, making it easier to stick to a balanced diet.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale decoctions that help with overeating.
- 6-gingerol: This compound helps with overeating by reducing inflammation and improving digestion, which in turn reduces the discomfort and bloating associated with overeating.
- Gingerols: The gingerols, particularly 6-gingerol, 8-gingerol, and 10-gingerol, have been shown to slow down gastric emptying, reducing the rate at which food is digested and absorbed, and helping to prevent overeating.
- Shogaols: Shogaols have been found to have a satiety-inducing effect, reducing appetite and food intake by activating certain receptors in the brain that signal fullness and satisfaction.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make decoctions for overeating.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are the most commonly used part of Zingiber officinale for decoctions as they contain the highest concentration of gingerols and shogaols, compounds known for their digestive benefits.
- Roots: Roots are another commonly used part, as they contain similar compounds to rhyzomes and are often used in traditional medicine to aid digestion and relieve nausea.
- Buds: Buds, which are the immature rhyzomes, are sometimes used in decoctions to help stimulate digestion and relieve symptoms of indigestion and bloating associated with overeating.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for overeating.
- Harvest 5-10 fresh zingiber officinale rhizomes with a sharp knife or trowel for medicinal use.
- Wash the harvested rhizomes gently under running water to remove any dirt or debris thoroughly.
- Slice the washed zingiber officinale rhizomes into thin pieces about 1-2 inches long.
- Boil 1 cup of water in a saucepan and add 1-2 teaspoons of sliced zingiber officinale pieces.
- Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes then strain it with a fine-mesh sieve to create a decoction.
What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for overeating?
The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with overeating is a blend of peppermint, ginger, and dandelion root.
Peppermint soothes digestive issues and calms the stomach, while ginger aids in digestion and reduces inflammation. Dandelion root supports liver function and promotes the elimination of toxins. This combination helps regulate appetite, reduces cravings for unhealthy foods, and promotes overall digestive health.
It can be consumed as a tea or added to a warm bath for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
What ailments similar to overeating are treated with herbal decoctions?
Ailments similar to overeating/decoctions.html">overeating/decoctions.html">overeating that are treated with herbal decoctions are digestive issues such as bloating, constipation, and indigestion.
Herbs like peppermint, ginger, and chamomile are commonly used in decoctions to soothe the stomach and alleviate discomfort.
Other ailments, including gas, acidity, and nausea, can also be treated with these herbal remedies, promoting overall digestive health and well-being.