By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 10, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Upper Abdominal Pain
Herbal tinctures for upper abdominal pain are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants, used to alleviate discomfort and reduce inflammation in the upper abdomen.
These tinctures work by soothing the digestive system, relaxing the muscles, and reducing spasms that can cause upper abdominal pain. For example, peppermint tincture has natural analgesic properties that calm cramps and spasms, while ginger tincture helps to ease nausea and bloating.
By using these herbal remedies, individuals can find relief from chronic discomfort and enjoy improved digestion, reduced stress, and a better overall quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for upper abdominal pain, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Zingiber officinale
- 2. Curcuma longa
- 3. Mentha x piperita
- 4. Foeniculum vulgare
- 5. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 6. Taraxacum officinale
- 7. Salvia officinalis
- 8. Ginkgo biloba
- 9. Bupleurum falcatum
- 10. Angelica archangelica
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for upper abdominal pain?
- What ailments similar to upper abdominal pain are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Zingiber officinale
Ginger tinctures helps with upper abdominal pain because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties.
The active compounds, gingerols and shogaols, work to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, alleviating discomfort and cramping associated with conditions such as indigestion, bloating, and IBS. Additionally, ginger's warming properties help to stimulate digestion and relieve spasms in the muscles of the stomach, providing fast and effective relief from upper abdominal pain.
Regular use can also help to maintain a healthy digestive system and prevent future episodes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale tinctures that help with upper abdominal pain.
- Gingerol: A type of terpene, gingerol is a natural anti-inflammatory agent that helps reduce inflammation and alleviate upper abdominal pain.
- Shogaol: A phenolic compound derived from ginger, shogaol has been shown to have potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, helping to relieve pain and discomfort in the upper abdomen.
- 6-gingerol: A sesquiterpene, 6-gingerol has been found to have strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to reduce inflammation and alleviate upper abdominal pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make tinctures for upper abdominal pain.
- Roots: As they are closely related to rhizomes, roots are also rich in gingerols and shogaols, making them a popular choice for tincture production.
- Buds: The buds of the ginger plant are used in traditional medicine due to their high concentration of active compounds, which help to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in the upper abdominal region.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for upper abdominal pain.
- Harvest the zingiber officinale roots in early morning after the dew has dried completely.
- Wash the harvested roots thoroughly with distilled water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Chop the dried roots into small pieces using a sharp knife and measure out 500 grams of them.
- Combine the chopped roots with 70% ethanol in a 1:5 ratio and let it steep for 2 weeks in a glass jar.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth and discard the solids then transfer the tincture to dark glass bottles.
2. Curcuma longa
Turmeric tinctures helps with upper abdominal pain because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which effectively reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.
The curcumin present in turmeric tincture has potent antioxidant and analgesic effects that help alleviate symptoms such as cramps, bloating, and discomfort associated with upper abdominal pain.
Additionally, turmeric tincture's natural antimicrobial properties may also aid in soothing irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other digestive disorders that can cause stomachaches and discomfort in the upper abdomen.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa tinctures that help with upper abdominal pain.
- Curcumin: Curcumin is a polyphenolic compound that helps with upper abdominal pain by reducing inflammation and inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes that contribute to pain and discomfort.
- Demethoxycurcumin: DMC is a curcuminoid with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help alleviate upper abdominal pain by reducing oxidative stress and modulating the body's response to inflammation.
- Turmerone: Turmerone is a sesquiterpene that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, helping to reduce upper abdominal pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and promoting the healing of damaged tissues.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make tinctures for upper abdominal pain.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are the most commonly used part of Curcuma longa for making tinctures due to their high concentration of curcuminoids, which have potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
- Roots: Roots are another significant part used to make tinctures, as they contain a combination of curcuminoids and other bioactive compounds that help alleviate upper abdominal pain.
- Leaves: Leaves are sometimes used to make tinctures, particularly in traditional medicine, as they are believed to possess anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe upper abdominal discomfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for upper abdominal pain.
- Harvest 3-4 pounds of fresh curcuma longa rhizomes in late summer or early fall when the tops are dying back.
- Cut the rhizomes into small pieces and dry them in a single layer at 105 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
- Combine the dried rhizomes with 80 proof vodka at a ratio of 1:5 and allow the mixture to macerate for 2 weeks.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container discarding the solids and press on the solids to extract remaining liquid.
- Transfer the liquid to dark glass bottles and store them in a cool dark place for 6-8 weeks to mature.
3. Mentha x piperita
Peppermint tinctures helps with upper abdominal pain because it contains menthol, a natural anti-inflammatory compound that soothes the digestive tract.
When taken in tincture form, peppermint oil is absorbed quickly into the bloodstream and reaches the stomach, where it calms cramps, spasms, and inflammation associated with conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), acid reflux, and gastritis.
This fast-acting relief helps to reduce pain, discomfort, and digestive distress, promoting a sense of calm and well-being in individuals experiencing upper abdominal pain.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita tinctures that help with upper abdominal pain.
- Menthol: Helps with upper abdominal pain by reducing inflammation and relaxing the smooth muscle in the gastrointestinal tract, thus providing relief from cramps and spasms.
- Limonene: Acts as a natural antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory agent, helping to reduce muscle spasms and alleviate upper abdominal pain by modulating the gut-brain axis.
- Rosmarinic acid: Exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the gastrointestinal tract, thereby providing relief from upper abdominal pain and discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make tinctures for upper abdominal pain.
- Leaves: Leaves are the most commonly used part, as they contain the highest concentration of menthol, which helps to relax the muscles in the digestive tract and alleviate pain.
- Buds: Buds are also used, as they contain a high concentration of menthone, which has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation and relieve pain in the upper abdomen.
- Stems: Stems may also be used, as they contain a smaller amount of menthol and menthone than leaves and buds, but still have some analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help to alleviate upper abdominal pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for upper abdominal pain.
- Harvest 1 part fresh mentha x piperita leaves and flowers at peak potency in the morning.
- Chop 1 part fresh mentha x piperita leaves and flowers into small pieces using sharp tools.
- Combine 1 part fresh mentha x piperita leaves and flowers with 2 parts 95% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks with occasional shaking to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
4. Foeniculum vulgare
Fennel tinctures helps with upper abdominal pain because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and relax the digestive tract.
The volatile oils present in fennel, such as anethole, have a direct effect on the muscles lining the stomach and intestines, reducing spasms and cramping. Additionally, fennel's carminative properties help to expel gas and relieve bloating, which can contribute to upper abdominal discomfort.
By addressing these underlying issues, herbal fennel tinctures provide effective relief from persistent upper abdominal pain.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare tinctures that help with upper abdominal pain.
- Anethole: Anethole, a terpene found in Foeniculum vulgare, acts as a smooth muscle relaxant, which helps to alleviate upper abdominal pain by reducing spasms and cramping in the digestive tract.
- Feniculin: Feniculin, a phenolic compound in Foeniculum vulgare, has anti-inflammatory properties that may help to reduce inflammation and irritation in the upper abdominal region, contributing to pain relief.
- Limonene: Limonene, a terpene present in Foeniculum vulgare, exhibits carminative properties, which help to relieve upper abdominal pain by reducing gas and bloating in the digestive system.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make tinctures for upper abdominal pain.
- Seeds: The seeds are used due to their high concentration of volatile oils, particularly anethole, which has anti-inflammatory and carminative properties.
- Leaves: The leaves are used for their ability to ease digestion and reduce inflammation, making them effective in alleviating upper abdominal pain.
- Roots: The roots are used for their bitter properties, which can stimulate digestion and relieve symptoms of upper abdominal pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for upper abdominal pain.
- Gather 250 grams of foeniculum vulgare roots and 500ml of 95% ethanol for extraction.
- Chop the foeniculum vulgare roots into small pieces and combine them with ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 14 days to allow for extraction.
- Strain the liquid from the solids using a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container.
- Transfer the tincture to glass bottles and label them with the date and ingredients used for storage.
5. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice tinctures helps with upper abdominal pain because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which can soothe and calm the digestive system.
The bioactive compounds in licorice root, such as glycyrrhizin and flavonoids, have been shown to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and other upper abdominal discomforts.
By reducing inflammation and soothing the digestive tract, herbal licorice tinctures can provide quick and effective relief from upper abdominal pain.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with upper abdominal pain.
- Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to soothe and protect the stomach lining, reducing inflammation and pain associated with upper abdominal discomfort.
- Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects, which can help to relax the stomach muscles, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain and discomfort in the upper abdomen.
- Liquiritigenin: This isoflavone has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can help to reduce inflammation, relax the stomach muscles, and alleviate pain and discomfort in the upper abdomen.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for upper abdominal pain.
- Roots: Used due to their high content of glycyrrhizin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory properties and can help soothe digestive issues.
- Roots: Used due to their ability to calm the stomach and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.
- Roots: Used due to their adaptogenic properties, which can help the body cope with stress and alleviate upper abdominal pain caused by anxiety or stress.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for upper abdominal pain.
- Harvest fresh glycyrrhiza glabra roots in late summer or early fall when the plant is in full bloom.
- Clean and dry the harvested roots in a warm and well-ventilated area for 7 to 10 days.
- Chop the dried roots into small pieces and combine with 80 proof vodka in a 1:5 root-to-liquid ratio.
- Steep the chopped roots in the vodka mixture for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and store in a cool dark place.
6. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion tinctures helps with upper abdominal pain because it contains a rich source of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and bitter principles that stimulate digestive processes.
The bitter constituents in dandelion tincture increase bile production, which helps to emulsify fats, break down proteins, and facilitate the elimination of waste products from the body.
Additionally, dandelion's antispasmodic properties help to relax the muscles in the abdominal wall, reducing cramping and discomfort associated with upper abdominal pain.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale tinctures that help with upper abdominal pain.
- Taraxasterol: This triterpene ester helps with upper abdominal pain by reducing inflammation and modulating the immune response, which can contribute to pain relief.
- Luteolin: This flavonoid acts as an anti-inflammatory agent and can inhibit the production of pain-causing chemicals, such as prostaglandins, which contribute to upper abdominal pain.
- Inulin: Although inulin itself is not a pain-relieving compound, it can help to stimulate bowel movements and relieve constipation, which can be a contributing factor to upper abdominal pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for upper abdominal pain.
- Leaves: The leaves of Taraxacum officinale contain bitter compounds that stimulate digestion and relieve upper abdominal pain.
- Roots: The roots of Taraxacum officinale contain sesquiterpene lactones, which have anti-inflammatory and digestive-stimulating properties that help alleviate upper abdominal pain.
- Buds: The buds of Taraxacum officinale contain compounds that help soothe and calm the digestive system, reducing inflammation and alleviating upper abdominal pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for upper abdominal pain.
- Harvest 100g of fresh taraxacum officinale roots and leaves in the early morning with clean scissors.
- Dry the harvested taraxacum officinale in a single layer at 25°c for 7 to 10 days.
- Combine 100g of dried taraxacum officinale with 500ml of 95% ethanol in a glass container.
- Steep the mixture for 2 to 3 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain the tincture.
7. Salvia officinalis
Sage tinctures helps with upper abdominal pain because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.
The tincture's active compounds, such as rosmarinic acid and thymol, also exhibit analgesic and antispasmodic effects, providing relief from cramping and spasms that can contribute to upper abdominal discomfort.
Additionally, sage has been shown to improve digestion and reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which may also help alleviate upper abdominal pain.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis tinctures that help with upper abdominal pain.
- Rosmarinic acid: A polyphenolic compound that helps reduce inflammation and relax smooth muscles in the digestive tract, alleviating cramps and spasms that contribute to upper abdominal pain.
- Carnosic acid: A phenolic compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help soothe and protect the digestive system, reducing pain and discomfort in the upper abdomen.
- Carnosol: A phenolic compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation and promote the healing of the digestive tract, alleviating pain and discomfort in the upper abdomen.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make tinctures for upper abdominal pain.
- Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of essential oils, particularly thujone and rosmarinic acid, which have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Stems: The stems are also used, as they contain a significant amount of volatile oils, including camphor and borneol, which contribute to their pain-relieving and digestive-soothing effects.
- Roots: The roots of Salvia officinalis are sometimes used, although less frequently, as they contain a lower concentration of essential oils than leaves and stems, but still possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that may aid in reducing upper abdominal pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for upper abdominal pain.
- Gather 250g of fresh salvia officinalis leaves and flowers and 500ml of 80 proof ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Combine the plant material and ethanol in the jar and seal it tightly for 2 weeks.
- Shake the jar vigorously twice daily for 2 weeks to ensure proper extraction of the plant's properties.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.
- Store the tincture in a cool dark place for 4 weeks to allow the flavors to mature before use.
8. Ginkgo biloba
Maidenhair tree tinctures helps with upper abdominal pain because of its natural anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.
The tannins present in the plant help to reduce inflammation and relax the muscles, providing relief from cramps and spasms that can cause upper abdominal pain.
Additionally, the saponins in maidenhair tree have been shown to have a soothing effect on the digestive tract, helping to calm irritations and reduce discomfort in the abdominal area.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba tinctures that help with upper abdominal pain.
- Bilobalide: This triterpene sesterterpene derivative has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate upper abdominal pain by reducing inflammation and discomfort in the digestive tract.
- Quercetin: As a flavonoid, quercetin has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation in the upper abdominal region, leading to pain relief.
- Icariin: This flavonoid glycoside has anti-inflammatory and vasodilatory properties, which can help improve blood flow and reduce inflammation in the upper abdominal region, contributing to pain relief and relaxation of the digestive tract.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make tinctures for upper abdominal pain.
- Leaves: Ginkgo biloba leaves are commonly used due to their high flavonoid and terpenoid content, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help alleviate upper abdominal pain.
- Seeds: Ginkgo biloba seeds are used in tinctures due to their high content of ginkgotoxin, a compound that may help reduce inflammation and relieve upper abdominal pain.
- Barks: Ginkgo biloba barks are sometimes used in tinctures due to their potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help soothe and calm the upper abdominal region.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for upper abdominal pain.
- Harvest ginkgo biloba leaves in late summer or early fall when they are fully ripe for best flavor and potency.
- Dry the leaves in a warm oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours to remove excess moisture completely.
- Combine 1 part dried ginkgo biloba leaves with 2 parts 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks to allow the infusion to mature fully.
- Strain the tincture through a coffee filter or cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids completely.
9. Bupleurum falcatum
Chinese thoroughwort tinctures helps with upper abdominal pain because of its ability to calm digestive inflammation and relax smooth muscle spasms.
The herb contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and discomfort in the abdominal region. Additionally, Chinese thoroughwort has a sedative effect on the muscles, allowing it to ease cramping and tension that often accompanies upper abdominal pain.
This natural remedy can provide fast relief for individuals experiencing frequent or severe stomach discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Bupleurum falcatum tinctures that help with upper abdominal pain.
- Saponins: These triterpenoid compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate upper abdominal pain by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the digestive tract.
- Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which can help mitigate upper abdominal pain by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the digestive tract, as well as modulating the gut microbiome.
- Buplurin: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help alleviate upper abdominal pain by reducing inflammation and pain in the digestive tract, as well as modulating the gut-brain axis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chinese thoroughwort used to make tinctures for upper abdominal pain.
- Roots: The roots of Bupleurum falcatum contain a high concentration of bitter compounds, which are believed to aid in digestion and relieve upper abdominal pain.
- Leaves: The leaves of Bupleurum falcatum contain flavonoids and alkaloids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help alleviate upper abdominal pain and discomfort.
- Stems: The stems of Bupleurum falcatum contain sesquiterpenes and alkaloids, which have been traditionally used to treat digestive issues, including upper abdominal pain, by promoting relaxation and reducing inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chinese thoroughwort for upper abdominal pain.
- Harvest fresh bupleurum falcatum roots and clean them thoroughly with water to remove dirt and debris.
- Chop 1 part of the cleaned roots and combine with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 4-6 weeks to allow the roots to infuse into the vodka.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
- Label the bottle and store it in a cool dark place for at least 2 weeks before using the tincture.
10. Angelica archangelica
Angelica tinctures helps with upper abdominal pain because it has natural anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.
The angelica plant, also known as wild celery, contains compounds that help to soothe and relax the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and spasms in the stomach and intestines.
This can provide relief from cramps, bloating, and discomfort associated with upper abdominal pain, allowing for a faster recovery and improved overall digestive health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Angelica archangelica tinctures that help with upper abdominal pain.
- Bergapten: A furanocoumarin found in Angelica archangelica, bergapten has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce inflammation and alleviate upper abdominal pain.
- Angelica acid: An isobutyrate-based phenolic acid found in the herb, angelica acid has been demonstrated to exhibit analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, providing relief from upper abdominal pain.
- Bornyl acetate: A terpene found in the essential oil of Angelica archangelica, bornyl acetate has been shown to have antispasmodic effects, helping to relax the muscles in the upper abdominal region and reduce pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of angelica used to make tinctures for upper abdominal pain.
- Roots: Used for their carminative and anti-inflammatory properties to soothe abdominal discomfort.
- Leaves: Used for their antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effects to ease cramps and pain in the upper abdomen.
- Stems: Used for their expectorant properties, which can help relieve digestive discomfort and gas.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic angelica for upper abdominal pain.
- Harvest angelica archangelica roots and rhizomes in late summer or early fall when they are mature and dry.
- Dry the harvested roots and rhizomes in a warm place with good air circulation for 2-4 weeks.
- Chop the dried roots and rhizomes into small pieces and combine them with 80-proof vodka in a ratio of 1 part plant material to 2 parts vodka.
- Steep the mixture in a glass jar for 4-6 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another glass container and discard the solids.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for upper abdominal pain?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with upper abdominal pain is a blend of peppermint, ginger, and chamomile.
Peppermint helps to relax the muscles and reduce inflammation, while ginger soothes the digestive system and eases nausea. Chamomile calms the mind and body, reducing anxiety and stress that can exacerbate abdominal pain.
This trio can be taken individually or combined in a ratio of 2 parts peppermint to 1 part ginger to 1 part chamomile, under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
What ailments similar to upper abdominal pain are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to upper abdominal pain that are treated with herbal tinctures are digestive issues such as bloating, cramps, and diarrhea.
Herbal remedies like peppermint, ginger, and dandelion root tinctures can soothe the stomach and alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Additionally, herbs like chamomile and lemon balm can calm stress-induced abdominal discomfort and promote relaxation.
These natural solutions offer a safe and effective alternative to pharmaceuticals for many individuals.