10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Stomach Cramps

Herbal decoctions for stomach cramps are a traditional remedy used to alleviate digestive discomfort.

By infusing herbs in hot water, these decoctions create a soothing liquid that can ease stomach cramps caused by digestive issues such as indigestion, bloating, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Examples of effective herbal decoctions include peppermint, chamomile, and ginger, which have anti-inflammatory properties that calm the gut lining.

For instance, peppermint tea has been shown to reduce IBS symptoms and improve quality of life by alleviating cramps and bloating.

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

1. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice decoctions helps with stomach cramps because it possesses anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and discomfort.

The licorice root contains compounds like glycyrrhizin and flavonoids, which work to relax smooth muscles and calm the stomach lining.

This natural remedy also helps to normalize gut function, regulating digestion and absorption of nutrients, which can alleviate cramps and discomfort associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other digestive issues.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra decoctions that help with stomach cramps.

• Saponins: These triterpenoid glycosides help reduce stomach cramps by inhibiting the production of gastric acid and soothing the mucous membranes in the digestive tract.
• Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds, specifically quercetin, help alleviate stomach cramps by reducing inflammation and modulating the immune response, thereby providing relief from discomfort.
• Glycyrrhetinic acid: This triterpenoid acid helps alleviate stomach cramps by inhibiting the action of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that can cause muscle contractions and pain in the digestive tract.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make decoctions for stomach cramps.

• Roots: They are rich in glycyrrhizin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which help alleviate stomach cramps.
• Leaves: The leaves contain flavonoids and saponins, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making them effective in relieving stomach discomfort.
• Barks: The barks of Glycyrrhiza glabra contain glycosides and phenolic compounds, which have anti-inflammatory and soothing effects, helping to calm stomach cramps.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest glycyrrhiza glabra roots in late summer or early fall when the plant is in full maturity stage.
2. Clean the harvested roots thoroughly under cold running water to remove dirt and debris.
3. Dry the roots in a warm dry place for 7 to 10 days to reduce moisture content.
4. Grind 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried roots into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
5. Steep 1 teaspoon of the powder in 1 cup of boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes to make decoction.

2. Matricaria chamomilla

Chamomile decoctions helps with stomach cramps because of its soothing properties, which calm the digestive system and reduce inflammation.

The anti-inflammatory compounds in chamomile, such as apigenin and luteolin, work to ease muscle spasms in the stomach and intestines, providing quick relief from crampy discomfort. Additionally, chamomile's natural relaxant effects can help alleviate stress and anxiety, which are often triggers for stomach cramps.

By promoting a sense of calm and reducing digestive irritability, chamomile decoctions provide effective relief from stomach cramps.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla decoctions that help with stomach cramps.

• Apigenin: A flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which helps relax smooth muscle and reduce inflammation in the stomach, alleviating cramps.
• Bisabolol: A sesquiterpene that acts as a natural anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic agent, helping to soothe stomach cramps and reduce inflammation.
• Matricaria chamomilla flavonoids: These compounds have a synergistic effect in reducing inflammation and relaxing smooth muscle in the stomach, providing relief from cramps.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make decoctions for stomach cramps.

• Flowers: They are used due to their high concentration of apigenin and other flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and soothing effects on the digestive system.
• Leaves: Leaves are used for their ability to calm digestive issues and ease stomach cramps due to their high content of flavonoids and other bioactive compounds.
• Seeds: Seeds are used for their carminative properties, which help to relieve gas and bloating, and ease stomach discomfort.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers and rinse them in cold water.
2. Combine the dried flowers with 1 cup of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
3. Steep the mixture for 5 to 7 minutes then strain it through a fine-mesh sieve.
4. Discard the solids and let the decoction cool to a comfortable temperature for consumption.
5. Store the cooled decoction in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

3. Aloe vera

Aloe decoctions helps with stomach cramps because of its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

The gel from the aloe plant contains compounds that help to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, which can alleviate cramping sensations. Additionally, aloe's mucilages coat and protect the lining of the intestines, reducing irritation and discomfort.

By calming the digestive system, aloe decoctions can provide quick relief from stomach cramps, allowing for a more comfortable and peaceful experience.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera decoctions that help with stomach cramps.

• Anthraquinones: These compounds, particularly aloe-emodin, have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate stomach cramps by reducing inflammation in the digestive tract.
• Phenolic acids: Aloe vera contains various phenolic acids, such as ferulic acid, that exhibit anti-spasmodic and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to relax the muscles in the stomach and alleviate cramps.
• Saponins: The saponins present in Aloe vera, particularly aloin, have a soothing effect on the digestive system, helping to calm stomach cramps and reduce inflammation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make decoctions for stomach cramps.

• Leaves: Aloe vera leaves contain gel and latex, which help to soothe and calm stomach muscles, reducing cramping and inflammation.
• Gel (from leaves): The gel from aloe vera leaves is rich in anti-inflammatory compounds, which help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with stomach cramps.
• Latex (from leaves): Aloe vera latex contains anthraquinones, which help to relax the muscles in the stomach and intestines, providing quick relief from stomach cramps.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for stomach cramps.

1. Harvest the aloe vera leaves from mature plants to ensure their potency and effectiveness.
2. Clean and dry the aloe vera leaves to prevent contamination and improve infusion.
3. Chop the aloe vera leaves into small pieces and measure out 30 grams for a decoction.
4. Boil 1 liter of water and add the chopped aloe vera pieces to the boiling water.
5. Simmer the mixture for 30 minutes to extract the active ingredients and then strain the decoction.

4. Zingiber officinale

Ginger decoctions helps with stomach cramps because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce muscle spasms in the digestive tract.

The warming properties of ginger also aid in increasing blood flow and circulation to the affected area, helping to relieve cramping sensations.

Additionally, ginger's carminative properties help to ease digestion, reducing discomfort and alleviating symptoms associated with stomach cramps such as bloating and gas.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale decoctions that help with stomach cramps.

• Gingerols: These sesquiterpenoid compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with stomach cramps.
• Shogaols: These ginger compounds have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which help to alleviate stomach cramps by blocking the production of pain-causing chemicals.
• 6-gingerol: This compound has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the stomach, thereby alleviating stomach cramps.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make decoctions for stomach cramps.

• Roots: Roots are used as they contain a higher concentration of gingerols and shogaols compared to other parts, making them effective in relieving stomach cramps.
• Buds: Buds are used due to their high content of volatile oils that help to relax the muscles and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Choose 1-2 teaspoons of dried zingiber officinale root with 5-10 grams of root material in total.
2. Crush the root material into smaller pieces using a mortar and pestle for 2 minutes.
3. Combine the crushed root with 250-500 milliliters of boiling water in a saucepan.
4. Allow the mixture to steep for 5-7 minutes to release active compounds.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a cup.

5. Cinnamomum cassia

Cassia decoctions helps with stomach cramps because of its unique blend of bioactive compounds that provide anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties.

The decoction's active ingredients, such as cinnamic acid and flavonoids, help to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, reducing muscle spasms and cramping.

Additionally, Cassia's bitter principles stimulate digestive enzymes, promoting healthy gut function and digestion, which can also alleviate stomach discomfort and cramps.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cinnamomum cassia decoctions that help with stomach cramps.

• Cinnamaldehyde: This compound is a key component of Cinnamomum cassia decoctions and acts as an anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic agent, helping to alleviate stomach cramps by reducing muscle contractions and inflammation in the digestive tract.
• Coumarin: A phenolic compound found in Cinnamomum cassia, coumarin has a sedative effect on the smooth muscles of the digestive tract, providing relief from stomach cramps and spasms.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Cinnamomum cassia decoctions, such as cinnamic acid, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to soothe the digestive tract, reduce inflammation, and alleviate stomach cramps.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of cassia used to make decoctions for stomach cramps.

• Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes of Cinnamomum cassia are commonly used to make decoctions for stomach cramps due to their ability to warm the digestive system and relieve cramping.
• Barks: The barks of Cinnamomum cassia are used to make decoctions for stomach cramps because they have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the digestive tract.
• Leaves: The leaves of Cinnamomum cassia are sometimes used to make decoctions for stomach cramps due to their carminative properties, which help to ease digestive discomfort.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic cassia for stomach cramps.

1. Gather 4-6 dried cinnamomum cassia sticks weighing about 10 grams each for the decoction.
2. Grind the sticks into fine powder using a spice grinder to increase the surface area.
3. Combine the ground powder with 1 liter of boiling water in a saucepan to create the decoction.
4. Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the active compounds to extract.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove the solids.

6. Curcuma longa

Turmeric decoctions helps with stomach cramps because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.

The curcumin present in turmeric decoctions also has natural pain-relieving and antispasmodic effects, which can help to ease muscle contractions and spasms that cause stomach cramps. Additionally, turmeric's antioxidant properties help to protect the stomach lining from damage and promote healing, further reducing the occurrence of stomach cramps.

This natural remedy can provide quick relief from stomach discomfort and promote overall digestive health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa decoctions that help with stomach cramps.

• Curcumin: Curcumin has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation and ease pain associated with stomach cramps.
• Demethoxycurcumin: DMC has been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory molecules that contribute to stomach cramps, making it an effective constituent in alleviating digestive discomfort.
• Volatile oil: Turmerone, a sesquiterpene compound, has been found to have a relaxing effect on the gastrointestinal tract, which can help reduce muscle spasms and alleviate stomach cramps.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make decoctions for stomach cramps.

• Roots: The roots of Curcuma longa contain a significant amount of curcumin, which has been traditionally used to treat various digestive issues, including stomach cramps, due to its ability to reduce inflammation and relax muscles.
• Stems: The stems of Curcuma longa are also used in decoctions to relieve stomach cramps, as they contain compounds that help reduce inflammation and calm the digestive system, thereby providing relief from cramps and discomfort.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for stomach cramps.

1. Dry the long turmeric roots to a moisture level of 10% to prevent spoilage.
2. Grind 1-2 grams of the dried root into a fine powder to enhance solubility.
3. Boil 500 milliliters of water in a saucepan over medium heat for 10 minutes.
4. Add the ground turmeric powder to the boiling water and stir counterclockwise for 2 minutes.
5. Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes or until the liquid is reduced to 100 milliliters.

7. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint decoctions helps with stomach cramps because its natural oils, such as menthol and menthone, have a calming effect on the digestive system.

When consumed as a warm liquid, these oils help to relax the muscles in the stomach and intestines, reducing spasms and cramping. Additionally, peppermint's anti-inflammatory properties may also help to reduce inflammation and irritation in the gut, further alleviating cramp-related discomfort.

As a result, peppermint decoctions can provide fast and effective relief from stomach cramps.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita decoctions that help with stomach cramps.

• Menthol: Menthol helps with stomach cramps by relaxing the smooth muscle in the digestive tract, thereby reducing spasms and relieving pain.
• Linalool: Linalool helps with stomach cramps by acting as a smooth muscle relaxant and anti-inflammatory, which helps to reduce inflammation and ease cramping in the digestive tract.
• Royleanone: Royleanone helps with stomach cramps by acting as an antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory, which helps to relax the smooth muscle in the digestive tract and reduce inflammation, thereby relieving cramping.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make decoctions for stomach cramps.

• Leaves: The leaves of Mentha x piperita are used due to their high concentration of menthol, which has natural anti-inflammatory and digestive properties.
• Stems: The stems of Mentha x piperita are utilized for their ability to release menthol when heated, providing relief from stomach cramps and discomfort.
• Roots: The roots of Mentha x piperita are employed for their earthy, grounding properties, which can help to calm the stomach and alleviate cramps.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 2 tablespoons of fresh mentha x piperita leaves or 1 teaspoon of dried leaves for decoction.
2. Combine the gathered leaves with 8 ounces of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
3. Steep the mixture for 5 to 10 minutes or until the liquid reaches your desired strength.
4. Strain the liquid using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a cup or container.
5. Drink the decoction immediately or store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

8. Foeniculum vulgare

Fennel decoctions helps with stomach cramps because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe the digestive tract and ease muscle spasms.

The herb's essential oils, including anethole and fenchone, work to relax the smooth muscles in the intestinal walls, reducing contractions that can cause cramping. Additionally, fennel's carminative properties help eliminate gas and bloating, further alleviating discomfort.

As a natural remedy, fennel decoctions provide quick relief from stomach cramps, promoting digestive health and comfort.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare decoctions that help with stomach cramps.

• Fenchone: A terpene, Fenchone exhibits anti-inflammatory and spasmolytic properties, which help to relax the smooth muscles in the stomach and alleviate cramps.
• Anethole: A phenylpropene, Anethole has a calming effect on the stomach muscles, reducing spasms and cramps by blocking the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that stimulates muscle contraction.
• Apiol: A phenolic compound, Apiol has antispasmodic properties that help to relax the smooth muscles in the stomach and alleviate cramps by reducing the excitability of the gastrointestinal tract.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make decoctions for stomach cramps.

• Leaves: The leaves of Foeniculum vulgare are primarily used for decoctions to treat stomach cramps due to their carminative and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Seeds: The seeds of Foeniculum vulgare are used to make decoctions to treat stomach cramps because they contain compounds like anethole, which has a soothing effect on the digestive system.
• Roots: The roots of Foeniculum vulgare are used to make decoctions to treat stomach cramps due to their ability to relax the muscles and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest foeniculum vulgare seeds in late summer and dry them thoroughly for later use.
2. Grind dried foeniculum vulgare seeds into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
3. Steep 1 to 2 teaspoons of powdered foeniculum vulgare in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes.
4. Strain the liquid mixture using a cheesecloth or a coffee filter to remove solids.
5. Bottle the clear liquid and store it in a cool dark place for up to 1 year.

9. Crataegus monogyna

Hawthorn decoctions helps with stomach cramps because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The flavonoids present in hawthorn work to reduce inflammation and spasms in the digestive tract, providing relief from crampy discomfort. Additionally, hawthorn's ability to relax the smooth muscle lining of the intestines helps to ease constipation, a common contributor to stomach cramps.

As the decoction soothes and calms the digestive system, it can help alleviate symptoms and promote overall gut health and well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Crataegus monogyna decoctions that help with stomach cramps.

• Flavonoids: These compounds help to relax the smooth muscles in the gastrointestinal tract, thereby reducing spasms and cramps.
• Phenolic acids: They possess anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to reduce inflammation and irritation in the stomach, alleviating cramps and discomfort.
• Triterpenoids: These constituents have been shown to have a soothing effect on the digestive system, potentially reducing spasms and cramps by modulating the nervous system's response to stomach contractions.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of hawthorn used to make decoctions for stomach cramps.

• Fruits: The fruits, also known as hawthorn berries, are used to alleviate stomach cramps due to their astringent and antispasmodic properties.
• Leaves: The leaves are used to treat stomach cramps due to their ability to reduce inflammation and relax the muscles.
• Buds: The buds are used to treat stomach cramps due to their antispasmodic properties, which help to relax the muscles and reduce pain.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic hawthorn for stomach cramps.

1. Gather 30g of dried hawthorn berries and store them in an airtight container for later use.
2. Boil 1 litre of water in a saucepan and add the dried hawthorn berries for 5 minutes.
3. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the mixture steep for 10 minutes.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
5. Store the herbal decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for later use.

10. Althaea officinalis

Marshmallow decoctions helps with stomach cramps because its soothing mucilage coats the digestive tract, providing a protective barrier against inflammation and irritation.

The anti-inflammatory properties of marshmallow root also help to reduce spasms and ease abdominal discomfort.

Additionally, marshmallow's ability to stimulate digestion and improve gut motility can help alleviate cramping by reducing the likelihood of food stagnation and promoting healthy bowel function.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis decoctions that help with stomach cramps.

• Mucilages: These complex carbohydrates help to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with stomach cramps.
• Iridoids: These compounds, such as althaea root iridoid, have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that can help to relax the smooth muscles in the digestive tract and alleviate cramping and discomfort.
• Phenolic acids: These antioxidants have anti-inflammatory and spasmolytic effects, which can help to reduce inflammation and relax the muscles in the digestive tract, providing relief from stomach cramps.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make decoctions for stomach cramps.

• Roots: The roots of Althaea officinalis are primarily used due to their high mucilage content, which helps soothe stomach cramps and inflammation.
• Leaves: The leaves are utilized for their medicinal properties, including their ability to reduce inflammation and provide relief from stomach cramps.
• Barks: The barks are used for their astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate stomach cramps and discomfort.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 30-60g of althaea officinalis roots in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
2. Wash the harvested roots in cold water to remove dirt and debris.
3. Chop the cleaned roots into small pieces to increase surface area for infusion.
4. Combine the chopped roots with 500ml of boiling water in a saucepan.
5. Simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes then strain it to create a decoction.

What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for stomach cramps?

The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with stomach cramps is a blend of peppermint, ginger, and fennel.

Peppermint soothes the digestive tract and calms the muscles, while ginger reduces inflammation and warms the abdomen. Fennel eases bloating and cramps, and its antispasmodic properties help to relax the muscles. When combined, these herbs create a powerful and natural remedy for stomach cramps, promoting relaxation, digestion, and overall well-being.

They can be consumed as a tea, decoction, or added to warm water for relief.

What ailments similar to stomach cramps are treated with herbal decoctions?

Ailments similar to stomach cramps that are treated with herbal decoctions are gastrointestinal disorders such as diarrhea, constipation, and indigestion.

Herbal remedies like peppermint, chamomile, and ginger have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe the digestive system, reducing cramping and discomfort.

Decoctions made from these herbs can also alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), nausea, and vomiting.