By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Stomach Cramps
Herbal tinctures for stomach cramps are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants, used to alleviate digestive discomfort.
They work by soothing the lining of the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and spasms that cause cramping. Tinctures like peppermint, ginger, and chamomile have anti-inflammatory properties that help calm the stomach, while others like dill and caraway seeds aid digestion and reduce bloating.
For example, a woman who suffers from menstrual cramps can find relief with a combination of peppermint and ginger tincture, allowing her to enjoy her daily activities without discomfort, improving her overall quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for stomach cramps, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 2. Matricaria chamomilla
- 3. Aloe vera
- 4. Zingiber officinale
- 5. Cinnamomum cassia
- 6. Curcuma longa
- 7. Mentha x piperita
- 8. Foeniculum vulgare
- 9. Crataegus monogyna
- 10. Althaea officinalis
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for stomach cramps?
- What ailments similar to stomach cramps are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice tinctures helps with stomach cramps because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm the digestive tract.
The tincture's glycyrrhizin content also works to reduce inflammation and irritation in the gut, providing relief from cramping and discomfort. Additionally, licorice tincture has been shown to relax the smooth muscle lining of the stomach and intestines, reducing spasms and easing cramps.
This natural remedy provides a safe and effective way to alleviate stomach cramps and promote overall digestive health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with stomach cramps.
- Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin helps with stomach cramps by inhibiting the production of stomach acid and reducing inflammation in the digestive tract.
- Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to soothe and calm the stomach muscles, reducing cramp-like spasms.
- Coumarins: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and spasmolytic activities, which help to relax the stomach muscles and reduce cramping sensations, while also protecting the stomach lining from damage.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for stomach cramps.
- Roots: They are used due to their high concentration of glycyrrhizin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe stomach cramps.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for stomach cramps.
- Harvest 100g of dried roots of glycyrrhiza glabra from a reputable source in the morning.
- Chop the roots into small pieces and combine with 500ml of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks, shaking the jar daily for 5 minutes.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container, discarding the solids.
- Store the tincture in a cool dark place for at least 4 weeks before use, shaking the container daily for 5 minutes.
2. Matricaria chamomilla
Chamomile tinctures helps with stomach cramps because it contains apigenin, an antioxidant that binds to GABA receptors in the brain, promoting relaxation and calming effects.
This soothing quality can help ease muscle spasms and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, providing relief from abdominal cramping and discomfort.
Additionally, chamomile's anti-inflammatory properties can also help to reduce pain and swelling associated with stomach cramps, making it a natural and effective remedy for this common condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla tinctures that help with stomach cramps.
- Apigenin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, helping to relax muscles and reduce spasms in the stomach.
- Bisabolol: This sesquiterpene lactone has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, reducing inflammation and discomfort in the stomach and intestines.
- Matricarin: This sesquiterpene lactone has spasmolytic and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to relax muscles and reduce spasms in the stomach, providing relief from cramps and discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make tinctures for stomach cramps.
- Flowers: They are the primary part used due to their high concentration of apigenin and luteolin, which have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that help soothe stomach cramps.
- Seeds: They contain essential oils and flavonoids that help calm the digestive system and reduce inflammation, making them a useful addition to stomach cramp tinctures.
- Leaves: Although less commonly used than flowers or seeds, leaves also contain flavonoids and essential oils that contribute to the antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effects of Matricaria chamomilla tinctures.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for stomach cramps.
- Gather 1 part of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers and 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Combine the dried flowers and vodka in the jar then seal it tightly to prevent contamination.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks to allow the tincture to steep.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar discarding the solids.
- Transfer the clear liquid tincture to small dark glass bottles and store them in a cool dark place.
3. Aloe vera
Aloe tinctures helps with stomach cramps because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe and calm the digestive tract.
The gel-like substance within aloe vera has been shown to reduce inflammation in the gut, alleviating symptoms such as abdominal pain and discomfort. Additionally, aloe's antioxidant properties help to neutralize free radicals that can contribute to digestive issues, promoting a healthier gut environment and reducing cramping.
This natural remedy provides relief from stomach cramps without harsh chemicals or medications.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera tinctures that help with stomach cramps.
- Anthraquinones: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and laxative properties, which can help soothe stomach cramps by reducing inflammation and promoting bowel movements to relieve constipation.
- Saponins: Saponins in Aloe vera have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can help relax the muscles in the digestive tract and reduce spasms that cause stomach cramps.
- Glycoproteins: Glycoproteins in Aloe vera have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which can help calm the digestive tract and reduce inflammation that contributes to stomach cramps.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make tinctures for stomach cramps.
- Leaves: The most commonly used part, aloe vera leaves contain aloin and aloe-emodin, which have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that help relieve stomach cramps.
- Rhyzomes: Aloe vera rhyzomes contain aloe-emodin and other compounds that help reduce inflammation and ease stomach discomfort.
- Stems: Aloe vera stems contain aloin, aloe-emodin, and other compounds that help soothe the digestive tract and relieve stomach cramps.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for stomach cramps.
- Harvest fresh aloe vera leaves weighing about 500 grams and cut them into small pieces to ensure even extraction.
- Combine the aloe vera pieces with 750 milliliters of 95 percent ethanol in a clean glass container.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks to allow for maximum extraction of active compounds.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into another container and discard the solids after 2 days.
- Transfer the extracted aloe vera tincture to dark glass bottles and store them in the refrigerator to preserve the potency.
4. Zingiber officinale
Ginger tinctures helps with stomach cramps because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which work to reduce muscle contractions in the digestive tract.
The bioactive compounds in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, have a direct relaxing effect on the smooth muscles, allowing for a more gentle and regular movement of food through the digestive system.
This relief from cramping can be especially helpful during menstruation, motion sickness, or when experiencing gastrointestinal distress caused by other factors.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale tinctures that help with stomach cramps.
- Gingerols: Gingerols, particularly 6-gingerol and 8-gingerol, are major bioactive compounds found in Zingiber officinale tinctures. They help alleviate stomach cramps by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that cause smooth muscle contractions in the digestive tract.
- Shogaols: Shogaols, similar to gingerols, are also present in Zingiber officinale tinctures. They aid in soothing stomach cramps by blocking the action of pain-causing chemicals in the body and reducing inflammation in the digestive tract.
- Volatile oils: The volatile oils present in Zingiber officinale tinctures, including zingiberene and bisabolol, contribute to their anti-inflammatory properties. These oils help to calm stomach cramps by reducing inflammation and relaxing the smooth muscle contractions in the digestive tract.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make tinctures for stomach cramps.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are the most commonly used part of ginger for tinctures due to their high concentration of active compounds, such as gingerol and shogaol, which have anti-inflammatory and digestive properties.
- Buds: Ginger buds are used in tinctures for their high volatile oil content, which provides relief from nausea and stomach cramps.
- Leaves: Ginger leaves are also used in tinctures, particularly for their antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce inflammation and alleviate stomach cramps.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for stomach cramps.
- Harvest 1 cup of fresh zingiber officinale roots and clean them thoroughly with water.
- Chop the roots into small pieces to release their active compounds and increase surface area.
- Combine the chopped roots with 2 cups of 80-proof ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks to allow extraction to occur.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter and discard the solids.
5. Cinnamomum cassia
Cassia tinctures helps with stomach cramps because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.
The tannins present in cassia bark also help to soothe and calm the stomach lining, reducing spasms and discomfort. Additionally, cassia's antimicrobial properties help to eliminate harmful bacteria that can cause gut imbalances, leading to cramping.
By promoting a healthy gut environment, cassia tinctures can provide quick relief from stomach cramps and promote overall digestive wellness.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cinnamomum cassia tinctures that help with stomach cramps.
- Cinnamaldehyde: This terpene helps alleviate stomach cramps by reducing inflammation and spasms in the digestive tract, providing relief from pain and discomfort.
- Coumarin: This phenolic compound helps to relax the muscles in the stomach and intestines, reducing spasms and cramps associated with digestive issues.
- Cinnamomin: This phenolic compound has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with stomach cramps.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of cassia used to make tinctures for stomach cramps.
- Rhyzomes: They are commonly used due to their high concentration of cinnamaldehyde, which has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
- Barks: They are used for their ability to reduce inflammation and relax smooth muscles, which can help alleviate stomach cramps.
- Seeds: They are used due to their oil content, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, helping to relieve stomach cramps.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic cassia for stomach cramps.
- Gather 250g of cinnamomum cassia bark and chop it into small pieces to increase surface area for extraction.
- Combine the chopped bark with 750ml of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar to create the tincture base.
- Seal the jar and store it in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks to allow for solvent extraction.
- Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container to remove the solids.
- Store the tincture in a dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid at room temperature to preserve its potency.
6. Curcuma longa
Turmeric tinctures helps with stomach cramps because it contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound that reduces inflammation in the digestive tract.
When ingested, curcumin binds to opioid receptors in the gut, modulating pain and relaxing muscles to alleviate cramping and discomfort. Additionally, turmeric's antispasmodic properties help to soothe and calm the stomach lining, reducing spasms and cramps caused by irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), food intolerance, or other digestive issues.
By targeting these underlying causes, herbal turmeric tinctures provide fast and effective relief from stomach cramps.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa tinctures that help with stomach cramps.
- Curcumin: A polyphenolic compound with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to reduce inflammation and soothe stomach cramps by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Demethoxycurcumin: A curcuminoid with strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, contributing to the relief of stomach cramps by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the digestive tract.
- Tumerone: A sesquiterpene with carminative and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to alleviate stomach cramps by reducing spasms, inflammation, and gas in the digestive system.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make tinctures for stomach cramps.
- Rhyzomes: They contain compounds like curcumin, which has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help soothe stomach cramps.
- Roots: Similar to rhyzomes, the roots of Curcuma longa contain curcumin and other bioactive compounds that can help reduce inflammation and alleviate stomach cramps.
- Barks: The barks of Curcuma longa are also used to make tinctures, as they contain compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help ease stomach cramps and other digestive issues.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for stomach cramps.
- Harvest 50-100 grams of dried curcuma longa root and clean it thoroughly with a soft brush.
- Combine 50 grams of the dried root with 500 milliliters of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture for 2-4 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a separate container discarding the solids.
- Store the tincture in a dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid to preserve potency.
7. Mentha x piperita
Peppermint tinctures helps with stomach cramps because of its natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
The menthol content in peppermint oil has been shown to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, providing relief from cramping and spasms. Additionally, peppermint's ability to soothe the mucous membranes in the gut can reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms such as bloating, gas, and discomfort associated with stomach cramps.
This natural remedy can provide quick and effective relief for individuals experiencing stomach discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita tinctures that help with stomach cramps.
- Menthone: Menthone helps with stomach cramps by reducing spasms and inflammation in the digestive tract, providing relief from cramping and discomfort.
- Menthol: Menthol helps with stomach cramps by reducing pain and inflammation, as well as relaxing the muscles in the digestive tract, which can help ease cramping and discomfort.
- Limonene: Limonene helps with stomach cramps by reducing spasms and inflammation in the digestive tract, and also by having a relaxing effect on the muscles, which can help alleviate cramping and discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make tinctures for stomach cramps.
- Leaves: Essential oils within the leaves of Mentha x piperita, specifically menthol and menthone, help to relax the stomach muscles and reduce cramping.
- Stems: The stems of Mentha x piperita contain menthol and menthone, which contribute to their anti-spasmodic properties and ability to relieve stomach cramps.
- Buds: The buds of Mentha x piperita contain menthol and menthone, which help to ease stomach cramping by relaxing the stomach muscles and reducing inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for stomach cramps.
- Harvest fresh m x piperita leaves and flowers in the morning after dew has evaporated for best potency.
- Clean the harvested leaves and flowers thoroughly with water to remove dirt and debris for tincture quality.
- Combine the cleaned m x piperita leaves and flowers with 80 proof vodka in a 1:2 ratio by weight for tincture strength.
- Steep the m x piperita and vodka mixture in a glass jar for 2-6 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the tincture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter and discard the solids for a clear liquid tincture.
8. Foeniculum vulgare
Fennel tinctures helps with stomach cramps because of its natural ability to relax the muscles in the digestive tract.
The active compounds present in fennel, such as anethole and limonene, have a soothing effect on the stomach lining, reducing inflammation and spasms that can cause cramping. Additionally, fennel's carminative properties help to ease flatulence and bloating, further alleviating discomfort and pain associated with stomach cramps.
By promoting digestive harmony, fennel tinctures can provide effective relief from stomach cramps and related discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare tinctures that help with stomach cramps.
- Fenchone: A terpene in Foeniculum vulgare, fenchone helps with stomach cramps due to its spasmolytic properties, which aid in relaxing the smooth muscle in the gastrointestinal tract.
- Anethole: A phenolic compound, anethole helps with stomach cramps by its action as an antispasmodic and anxiolytic, thereby reducing muscle spasms and anxiety that can exacerbate stomach discomfort.
- Beta-pinene: A terpene in Foeniculum vulgare, beta-pinene contributes to its anti-inflammatory and spasmolytic effects, which can help alleviate stomach cramps by reducing inflammation and relaxing the smooth muscle in the gastrointestinal tract.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make tinctures for stomach cramps.
- Seeds: They are the most commonly used part due to their high oil content, which has anti-inflammatory and carminative properties that help alleviate stomach cramps.
- Leaves: They are used for their antispasmodic properties, which help to relax the muscles in the stomach and relieve cramps.
- Roots: They are used for their antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe the stomach and alleviate cramps.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for stomach cramps.
- Harvest 1 cup of fresh foeniculum vulgare leaves and stems in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
- Chop the harvested foeniculum vulgare into small pieces to increase the surface area for extraction.
- Combine the chopped foeniculum vulgare with 2 cups of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks with occasional shaking to aid extraction.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
9. Crataegus monogyna
Hawthorn tinctures helps with stomach cramps because its flavonoids and oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs) have a soothing effect on the digestive system.
These compounds help to relax the muscles in the abdomen, reducing spasms and cramping. Additionally, hawthorn's anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, further alleviating discomfort.
As a result, herbal hawthorn tinctures can provide quick relief from stomach cramps, helping to calm digestive issues and promote overall gut health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Crataegus monogyna tinctures that help with stomach cramps.
- Flavonoids: These compounds help alleviate stomach cramps by reducing inflammation and improving blood vessel function, thus relieving spasms in the gastrointestinal tract.
- Triterpenes: Triterpenes have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which contribute to their ability to soothe stomach cramps by reducing irritation and promoting the healing of gastrointestinal tissue.
- Quercetin: A type of flavonoid, quercetin has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, helping to reduce pain and inflammation associated with stomach cramps, and promoting relaxation of the gastrointestinal muscles.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of hawthorn used to make tinctures for stomach cramps.
- Leaves: They contain flavonoids and other compounds that help to reduce inflammation and alleviate stomach cramps.
- Fruits: The fruits of Crataegus monogyna, also known as hawthorn berries, have been traditionally used to treat digestive issues and alleviate stomach cramps.
- Barks: The bark of the tree contains flavonoids and other compounds that help to reduce inflammation and alleviate stomach cramps.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic hawthorn for stomach cramps.
- Harvest 50g of fresh crataegus monogyna leaves and berries in late summer when they are fully ripe.
- Clean and chop the crataegus monogyna leaves and berries then dry them in a dark room.
- Combine the dried crataegus monogyna leaves and berries with 500ml of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture for 2-3 weeks shaking the jar every day to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.
10. Althaea officinalis
Marshmallow tinctures helps with stomach cramps because they provide a soothing, protective barrier to the mucous membranes of the digestive tract.
The anti-inflammatory properties in marshmallow root help to reduce inflammation and irritation in the stomach lining, which can cause cramping and discomfort. Additionally, marshmallow's gel-like substance forms a protective coating on the stomach lining, shielding it from further irritation and allowing the body to heal naturally.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to calm digestive issues and promote overall gut health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis tinctures that help with stomach cramps.
- Althein: Althein is a flavonoid glycoside that helps alleviate stomach cramps by reducing inflammation and relaxing smooth muscle in the digestive tract.
- Irridoid glycosides: Irridoid glycosides in Althaea officinalis tinctures help soothe stomach cramps by reducing spasms and inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, promoting a calming effect.
- Mucilages: Mucilages in Althaea officinalis tinctures help to protect and soothe the mucous membranes in the digestive tract, reducing irritation and inflammation that can cause stomach cramps.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make tinctures for stomach cramps.
- Roots: The roots are primarily used for their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which help to relieve stomach cramps.
- Leaves: The leaves are used due to their calming effects on the digestive system, which can help to alleviate stomach cramp symptoms.
- Buds: The buds are used for their potential anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to reduce inflammation and alleviate stomach cramp discomfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for stomach cramps.
- Harvest the roots of althaea officinalis in autumn when the plant is fully mature and dry.
- Clean and chop the roots into small pieces to release their medicinal properties.
- Steep 1 part of the chopped roots in 2 parts of 95% ethanol for 2 to 4 weeks.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container to remove the solids.
- Label and store the tincture in a cool dark place for up to 5 years to preserve its potency.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for stomach cramps?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with stomach cramps is a blend of Peppermint, Ginger, and Chamomile.
Peppermint helps to relax the muscles and soothe the digestive tract, while Ginger calms inflammation and reduces nausea. Chamomile, with its anti-spasmodic properties, further eases cramps and promotes relaxation. This combination works synergistically to provide quick relief from stomach cramps, making it an effective natural remedy for digestive discomfort.
It can be taken individually or mixed in equal parts to alleviate symptoms.
What ailments similar to stomach cramps are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to stomach cramps that are treated with herbal tinctures are menstrual cramps, PMS symptoms, and digestive issues such as bloating and gas.
Herbal tinctures like ginger, peppermint, and chamomile can help alleviate these discomforts by reducing inflammation, relaxing muscles, and soothing the digestive system.