By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 10, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Stomach Discomfort
Herbal tinctures for stomach discomfort are concentrated liquid extracts derived from plants, used to alleviate symptoms such as bloating, cramps, and digestive issues.
These natural remedies help soothe the stomach by calming inflammation, regulating digestion, and relaxing the muscles. Examples of herbal tinctures that help with stomach discomfort include Peppermint, Ginger, and Fennel, which can provide quick relief from nausea and indigestion.
By using these tinctures, individuals can enjoy improved digestion, reduced discomfort, and a better overall quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for stomach discomfort, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Zingiber officinale
- 2. Mentha x piperita
- 3. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 4. Taraxacum officinale
- 5. Curcuma longa
- 6. Ginkgo biloba
- 7. Foeniculum vulgare
- 8. Althaea officinalis
- 9. Matricaria chamomilla
- 10. Ulmus rubra
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for stomach discomfort?
- What ailments similar to stomach discomfort are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Zingiber officinale
Ginger tinctures helps with stomach discomfort because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe the digestive system and reduce inflammation in the stomach lining.
The bioactive compounds in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, work to calm stomach upset, alleviate nausea, and ease cramps, making it a popular natural remedy for indigestion, bloating, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale tinctures that help with stomach discomfort.
- Gingerols: These sesquiterpene compounds help reduce stomach discomfort by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and chemicals, thereby alleviating inflammation and pain in the digestive tract.
- Shogaols: Similar to gingerols, shogaols are also sesquiterpene compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce stomach discomfort by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and chemicals.
- Curcumenol: A phenolic compound, curcumenol has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help alleviate stomach discomfort by reducing inflammation, pain, and oxidative stress in the digestive tract.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make tinctures for stomach discomfort.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are the most commonly used part of Zingiber officinale due to their high concentration of gingerols and shogaols, compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties and aid in digestion.
- Roots: The roots of Zingiber officinale are also used to make tinctures for stomach discomfort as they contain a similar profile of bioactive compounds to the rhyzomes, including gingerols and shogaols.
- Buds: Ginger buds are used in some tinctures for stomach discomfort due to their potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, although they may be less potent than the rhyzomes or roots.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for stomach discomfort.
- Harvest 1-2 pounds of fresh zingiber officinale roots with thick skin intact.
- Clean the roots by gently scrubbing with a soft brush under cold running water.
- Chop the cleaned roots into small pieces about 1/4 inch in size weighing 1/2 pound.
- Steep the chopped roots in 2 cups of 80 proof vodka for 2-3 weeks shaking daily.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
2. Mentha x piperita
Peppermint tinctures helps with stomach discomfort because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe the digestive system.
The menthol in peppermint relaxes the muscles in the stomach and intestines, reducing cramps and spasms that can cause discomfort. Additionally, peppermint's antimicrobial effects help to reduce inflammation and irritation in the gut, allowing for smoother digestion and relief from symptoms such as bloating, gas, and indigestion.
This natural remedy provides quick and effective relief for those experiencing stomach upset.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita tinctures that help with stomach discomfort.
- Menthol: A terpene that helps relax the muscles in the stomach and reduce inflammation, providing relief from cramps and spasms associated with stomach discomfort.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that helps protect the stomach lining from damage, reduce inflammation, and alleviate symptoms of stomach discomfort.
- Carvone: A monoterpene that has a relaxing effect on the digestive system, reducing muscle spasms and cramps, and promoting a sense of calm to alleviate stomach discomfort and indigestion.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make tinctures for stomach discomfort.
- Leaves: Used for their anti-inflammatory and carminative properties to soothe stomach discomfort and indigestion.
- Stems: Utilized for their digestive benefits, including reducing nausea and promoting digestion.
- Roots: Employed for their analgesic and antispasmodic properties to alleviate stomach cramps and discomfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for stomach discomfort.
- Harvest 1 cup of fresh mentha x piperita leaves and flowers on a sunny day when they are in full bloom.
- Chop the fresh plant material into small pieces and combine it with 2 cups of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks, shaking it every day to ensure proper extraction.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container, discarding the solids.
- Store the resulting tincture in a cool dark place and use 20 to 30 drops as needed, diluted in water.
3. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice tinctures helps with stomach discomfort because of its unique ability to soothe and calm the digestive system.
The herb glycyrrhizin, present in licorice root, has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and irritation in the stomach lining, alleviating symptoms such as heartburn, bloating, and cramps.
Additionally, licorice tincture can also increase mucus production, which helps protect and heal the stomach lining, promoting a healthy gut environment and reducing discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with stomach discomfort.
- Glycyrrhizin: Glycyrrhizin helps with stomach discomfort by reducing inflammation and protecting the mucous membranes in the stomach and intestines.
- Liquiritigenin: Liquiritigenin, a flavonoid, helps with stomach discomfort by inhibiting the production of stomach acid and reducing inflammation in the digestive tract.
- 18α-glycyrrhetinic acid: 18α-GA, a triterpenoid saponin, helps with stomach discomfort by inhibiting the production of stomach acid and reducing inflammation in the digestive tract.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for stomach discomfort.
- Roots: The roots are the most commonly used part, as they contain high levels of glycyrrhizin, a compound that helps to soothe and protect the stomach lining.
- Leaves: The leaves also contain glycyrrhizin, although in smaller amounts than the roots, making them a secondary option for stomach discomfort relief.
- Barks: The barks of Glycyrrhiza glabra contain some glycyrrhizin and other compounds that may help to calm stomach issues, although their effectiveness is generally less than that of the roots.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for stomach discomfort.
- Harvest 1 part of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots in late summer or early fall when they are fully mature.
- Chop the dried roots into small pieces to increase their surface area for efficient solvent extraction.
- Mix 1 part of the chopped roots with 2 parts of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks to allow for maximum solvent extraction.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth into another clean glass container discarding the solids.
4. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion tinctures helps with stomach discomfort because it contains bioactive compounds that have natural anti-inflammatory and antacid properties.
The tincture's bitter molecules stimulate digestive enzymes, improving digestion and absorption of nutrients, which can alleviate symptoms such as bloating, cramps, and diarrhea.
Additionally, dandelion's bitters also help to soothe the stomach lining, reducing inflammation and irritation caused by acidic or spicy foods, and promoting a healthy gut microbiome.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale tinctures that help with stomach discomfort.
- Taraxasterol: This triterpenoid saponin helps with stomach discomfort by reducing inflammation and modulating the gut microbiome, which in turn alleviates symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other gastrointestinal issues.
- Taraxasterol acetate: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the stomach lining, reduce acid production, and alleviate symptoms of heartburn and acid reflux.
- Chlorogenic acid: This phenolic compound helps with stomach discomfort by slowing down the absorption of glucose, which can help regulate blood sugar levels and alleviate symptoms of digestive disorders like IBS.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for stomach discomfort.
- Leaves: The leaves of Taraxacum officinale are used to make tinctures for stomach discomfort because they contain flavonoids and terpenes that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Flowers: The flowers are used because they contain flavonoids and sesquiterpenes that have anti-inflammatory and soothing effects on the stomach.
- Roots: The roots are used because they contain inulin, a prebiotic that can help regulate gut bacteria and alleviate stomach discomfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for stomach discomfort.
- Harvest 1 part of fresh taraxacum officinale roots and 2 parts of fresh taraxacum officinale leaves.
- Chop the harvested taraxacum officinale roots into small pieces with a sharp knife.
- Combine the chopped taraxacum officinale roots with 2 parts of vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the taraxacum officinale mixture in the dark for 4 to 6 weeks shaking daily.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
5. Curcuma longa
Turmeric tinctures helps with stomach discomfort because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.
The active compound curcumin in turmeric has been shown to soothe and calm irritated stomach lining, alleviating symptoms of indigestion, bloating, and gas. Additionally, turmeric's natural antimicrobial properties help to eliminate harmful bacteria and yeast that can cause discomfort and imbalance in the gut.
By promoting a healthy digestive environment, turmeric tinctures can provide fast and effective relief from stomach upset.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa tinctures that help with stomach discomfort.
- Curcumin: This polyphenolic compound has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of stomach discomfort such as bloating and cramping.
- Demethoxycurcumin: DMC has been shown to have gastroprotective effects by reducing the production of stomach acid and inhibiting the activity of enzymes that break down the stomach lining.
- Tumerone: This sesquiterpene has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of stomach discomfort, such as diarrhea, nausea, and stomach pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make tinctures for stomach discomfort.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are the most commonly used part of Curcuma longa for tinctures due to their high concentration of curcumin, a compound with potent anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits.
- Roots: Roots are another key component used in tinctures, as they contain curcumin and other bioactive compounds that help alleviate stomach discomfort and promote digestive health.
- Seeds: While not as commonly used as rhyzomes or roots, seeds are occasionally used to make tinctures due to their reported ability to soothe digestive issues and reduce inflammation in the stomach.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for stomach discomfort.
- Harvest 1-2 kg of fresh curcuma longa roots in the morning after the dew has dried.
- Wash the roots with cool water and cut them into small pieces to release their active compounds.
- Combine the cut roots with 70% ethanol in a 1:5 ratio by weight and place the mixture in a clean glass container.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks shaking the container every day to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discard the solids and label the tincture.
6. Ginkgo biloba
Maidenhair tree tinctures helps with stomach discomfort because it contains a unique combination of compounds that work together to soothe and calm the digestive system.
The tannins present in the extract help to reduce inflammation and irritation, while the flavonoids promote relaxation and ease cramps.
Additionally, the Maidenhair tree's ability to absorb and eliminate toxins from the body can also contribute to its beneficial effects on stomach discomfort, allowing for a sense of calm and relief from digestive issues.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba tinctures that help with stomach discomfort.
- Flavonoids: These compounds, particularly quercetin and kaempferol, help reduce inflammation and alleviate stomach discomfort by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and mediators.
- Bilobalide: A triterpene compound, bilobalide exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help protect the stomach lining from damage and reduce symptoms of stomach discomfort.
- Isorhapontigenin: A lignan, isorhapontigenin has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help soothe the stomach and alleviate symptoms of stomach discomfort, such as nausea and bloating.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make tinctures for stomach discomfort.
- Leaves: Used to make tinctures for stomach discomfort due to their ability to aid digestion and reduce inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.
- Roots: Utilized in tinctures to address stomach issues due to their purported anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Barks: Incorporated into tinctures for stomach relief due to their potential to soothe and calm digestive issues.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for stomach discomfort.
- Harvest 1 part of dried ginkgo biloba leaves and 2 parts of ginkgo biloba seeds in late summer or early fall.
- Dry the harvested ginkgo biloba leaves and seeds in a warm and dry place for 2 to 3 weeks.
- Use a glass jar with a lid to combine the dried ginkgo biloba leaves and seeds with 80 proof vodka in a 1:3 ratio.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks, shaking the jar every day or two.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle, discard the solids and store the tincture in a cool dark place.
7. Foeniculum vulgare
Fennel tinctures helps with stomach discomfort because of its natural ability to soothe and calm digestive issues.
The active compounds in fennel, such as anethole and flavonoids, work to reduce inflammation and relax the muscles in the stomach, easing symptoms like bloating, cramps, and diarrhea. Additionally, fennel tinctures help stimulate digestion and relieve gas, leading to a sense of comfort and relief for individuals experiencing stomach upset.
This natural remedy is a gentle yet effective way to promote digestive health and alleviate discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare tinctures that help with stomach discomfort.
- Fenchone: Fenchone is a terpene that helps reduce stomach discomfort by inhibiting the production of stomach acid and relaxing the muscles in the digestive tract, alleviating symptoms of nausea and cramps.
- Anethole: Anethole is an aromatic compound that has anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe and calm the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and pain associated with stomach discomfort.
- Pinene: Pinene is a terpene that has antispasmodic and carminative effects, helping to relax the muscles in the digestive tract and reduce gas and bloating, providing relief from stomach discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make tinctures for stomach discomfort.
- Seeds: The seeds are the most commonly used part for tinctures due to their high concentration of carminative compounds, which help to ease digestive discomfort.
- Leaves: The leaves are another popular choice for tinctures, as they contain volatile oils and flavonoids that help to soothe and calm the stomach.
- Stems: The stems of Fennel contain a mixture of essential oils, flavonoids, and other compounds that aid in digestion and relieve stomach discomfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for stomach discomfort.
- Harvest foeniculum vulgare leaves and stems in early morning after the dew has evaporated for best flavor and potency.
- Dry the harvested foeniculum vulgare in a warm area with good air circulation for 1-2 weeks.
- Combine 1 part dried foeniculum vulgare with 2 parts 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar for tincture.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks shaking the jar daily to extract the herbal properties.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and store in a cool dark place.
8. Althaea officinalis
Marshmallow tinctures helps with stomach discomfort because of its soothing and protective properties.
The mucilages in marshmallow root create a coating on the stomach lining, reducing inflammation and irritation caused by acid reflux, digestive disorders, and other gut issues. This coating also helps to neutralize digestive acids and relieve heartburn symptoms.
Additionally, marshmallow tinctures can help to relax and calm the stomach muscles, easing spasms and cramps associated with stomach discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis tinctures that help with stomach discomfort.
- Mucilages: Mucilages help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the stomach, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with stomach ulcers, acid reflux, and other gastrointestinal issues.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly kaempferol and quercetin, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the stomach, alleviating symptoms of stomach discomfort and promoting healing.
- Glycosides: Glycosides in Althaea officinalis, such as glucose and rhamnose, have a soothing and protective effect on the stomach mucosa, reducing inflammation and irritation, and promoting the healing of gastric ulcers and other gastrointestinal injuries.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make tinctures for stomach discomfort.
- Roots: The roots of Althaea officinalis are used due to their high mucilage content, which helps soothe and protect the stomach lining.
- Leaves: The leaves are used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the stomach and alleviate discomfort.
- Stems: The stems are used for their antimicrobial properties, which can help combat bacterial infections that may be contributing to stomach discomfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for stomach discomfort.
- Harvest approximately 1 pound of fresh roots of althaea officinalis in the early morning.
- Wash the harvested roots thoroughly with cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Chop the cleaned roots into small pieces using a sharp knife or a herb chopper for 10 minutes.
- Combine the chopped roots with 80 percent vodka and 20 percent glycerin in a clean glass jar in a 1:2 ratio.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-4 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
9. Matricaria chamomilla
Chamomile tinctures helps with stomach discomfort because it contains apigenin, an antioxidant that soothes the digestive tract and reduces inflammation.
The herb's anti-inflammatory properties help to calm cramps, bloating, and gas, while its calming effects on the nervous system ease anxiety and stress-related digestive issues.
Additionally, chamomile's natural antimicrobial properties help to eliminate harmful bacteria and yeast that can contribute to stomach discomfort, promoting a healthy gut environment.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla tinctures that help with stomach discomfort.
- Apigenin: A flavonoid compound, apigenin has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, helping to reduce inflammation and ease muscle spasms in the stomach, thereby alleviating discomfort.
- Chamazulene: A sesquiterpene lactone, chamazulene has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to soothe the stomach, reduce inflammation, and protect the stomach lining from damage.
- Luteolin: A flavonoid compound, luteolin has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help to reduce inflammation and ease muscle spasms in the stomach, thereby alleviating discomfort and promoting relaxation of the digestive tract.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make tinctures for stomach discomfort.
- Flowers: The flowers are the most used part due to their high concentration of apigenin and luteolin, which have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.
- Leaves: The leaves are used to create a tincture that can help soothe stomach cramps and digestive issues due to their content of flavonoids and terpenoids.
- Stems: The stems are also used in tincture production as they contain compounds that can help relax the muscles and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for stomach discomfort.
- Gather 1 cup of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers and add them to a clean glass jar.
- Combine the dried flowers with 2 cups of 80 proof vodka and seal the jar tightly.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks shaking the jar every day.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass bottle.
- Discard the solids and add a small amount of glycerin to the tincture to preserve it for storage.
10. Ulmus rubra
Slippery elm tinctures helps with stomach discomfort because it soothes and protects the mucous membranes lining the digestive tract.
The tannins in slippery elm create a protective barrier that cushions and calms irritated tissues, reducing inflammation and discomfort. This natural anti-inflammatory action also helps to alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), such as cramps, bloating, and diarrhea.
By promoting a healthy gut environment, slippery elm tinctures can provide relief from stomach discomfort and promote overall digestive well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ulmus rubra tinctures that help with stomach discomfort.
- Tannins: Tannins help with stomach discomfort by reducing inflammation and preventing the growth of bacteria and other pathogens in the stomach, which can contribute to conditions like gastritis and ulcers.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, specifically quercetin, found in Ulmus rubra help alleviate stomach discomfort by reducing inflammation, inhibiting the production of stomach acid, and preventing the breakdown of the stomach lining.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as ellagic acid, found in Ulmus rubra help with stomach discomfort by exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties, protecting the stomach lining from damage, and reducing oxidative stress in the stomach.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of slippery elm used to make tinctures for stomach discomfort.
- Barks: Ulmus rubra barks are commonly used to make tinctures due to their astringent properties, which help soothe stomach discomfort and reduce inflammation.
- Leaves: Ulmus rubra leaves are utilized to make tinctures because of their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which aid in alleviating stomach discomfort and promoting digestive health.
- Roots: Ulmus rubra roots are used to make tinctures due to their ability to stimulate digestive enzymes and soothe stomach discomfort, making them a popular choice for natural remedies.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic slippery elm for stomach discomfort.
- Harvest 1 part of ulmus rubra roots and 2 parts of its bark at dawn when the plant is dry.
- Dry the harvested material in a warm shaded area for 2 to 3 weeks to reduce moisture.
- Chop the dried material into small pieces to increase the surface area for extraction.
- Steep 1 part of the chopped material in 2 parts of 80% ethanol for 2 weeks in a glass container.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and discard the solids then store the liquid in a dark glass bottle.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for stomach discomfort?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with stomach discomfort is a blend of Peppermint, Ginger, and Licorice root.
Peppermint tincture soothes the digestive tract and reduces inflammation. Ginger tincture aids in digestion, reduces nausea, and alleviates bloating. Licorice root tincture calms the stomach lining and protects against acid reflux.
This synergistic blend promotes relaxation, reduces stomach cramps, and provides long-lasting relief from discomfort, making it an effective natural remedy for stomach issues.
What ailments similar to stomach discomfort are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to stomach discomfort that are treated with herbal tinctures are digestive issues such as bloating, cramps, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Additionally, herbal tinctures may also help alleviate menstrual cramps, anxiety, and insomnia, which can all be exacerbated by poor digestion.
Certain herbs like peppermint, ginger, and chamomile have anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe the digestive tract and promote relaxation.