10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Upset Stomach
Herbal decoctions for upset stomach are a natural remedy that can provide relief from digestive discomfort, nausea, and bloating.
These decoctions are made by steeping herbs in hot water to release their active compounds, which then help soothe the stomach lining and reduce inflammation. Examples of herbal decoctions that can aid in alleviating upset stomach include peppermint tea, ginger infusion, and chamomile broth.
By sipping on these soothing concoctions, individuals can find relief from symptoms and improve their overall quality of life, allowing them to enjoy daily activities without discomfort or distraction.
The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for upset stomach, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
1. Gentiana lutea
Yellow gentian decoctions helps with upset stomach because of its natural ability to stimulate digestion and alleviate symptoms of indigestion.
The herb's bitter properties help to increase saliva production, which aids in breaking down food more efficiently. Additionally, yellow gentian decoctions can help to soothe the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and discomfort caused by upset stomachs.
As a result, this herbal remedy can provide fast relief from bloating, cramps, and nausea associated with indigestion and other gastrointestinal issues.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Gentiana lutea decoctions that help with upset stomach.
- Amarogentin: Amarogentin, an iridoid glycoside, has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to soothe and calm the stomach, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with upset stomach.
- Lutein: Lutein, a carotenoid pigment, has antioxidant properties that help protect the stomach lining from damage caused by free radicals, reducing inflammation and promoting healing of the stomach mucosa, thus alleviating symptoms of upset stomach.
- Gentianine: Gentianine, an iridoid glycoside, has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help to relax the stomach muscles, reduce spasms, and alleviate cramping, making it easier to manage symptoms of upset stomach.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of yellow gentian used to make decoctions for upset stomach.
- Roots: Roots are the primary part used due to their high content of bitter compounds and alkaloids, which have a soothing effect on the stomach.
- Leaves: Leaves are another part used, as they contain similar compounds to the roots, providing relief from stomach upset and indigestion.
- Buds: Buds are used in decoctions for their mild bitter properties, which help to stimulate digestion and alleviate stomach discomfort.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yellow gentian for upset stomach.
- Harvest 1-2 cups of dried gentiana lutea roots in the fall season when the plant is mature.
- Chop the dried gentiana lutea roots into small pieces to increase their surface area for infusion.
- Steep 1 tablespoon of chopped gentiana lutea roots in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release their bioactive compounds.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to separate the solids from the liquid.
- Store the cooled decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for later use.
2. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice decoctions helps with upset stomach because it contains compounds that soothe and calm the digestive system.
The glycyrrhizin present in licorice root has anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce inflammation and irritation in the stomach and intestines. Additionally, licorice flavonoids have been shown to stimulate the production of mucin, a thick protective lining in the gut that helps to prevent damage from digestive acids and enzymes.
This results in a calming effect on the stomach, reducing symptoms such as bloating, cramps, and heartburn associated with upset stomach.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra decoctions that help with upset stomach.
- Glycyrrhizin: Helps to soothe and calm the stomach lining by reducing inflammation and inhibiting the production of stomach acid, thereby alleviating symptoms of upset stomach.
- Flavonoids: Contribute to the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of Glycyrrhiza glabra, helping to protect the stomach lining from damage and promote healing of ulcers and other gastrointestinal issues.
- Triterpenoids: Have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, helping to reduce inflammation and irritation in the stomach and intestines, and may also help to regulate the body's response to stress, which can contribute to upset stomach.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make decoctions for upset stomach.
- Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are the most used part for upset stomach as they contain a high concentration of glycyrrhizin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory properties and helps to soothe the stomach.
- Leaves: The leaves of the plant are also used for upset stomach as they are believed to have a calming effect on the digestive system.
- Barks: The barks of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used for upset stomach as they contain a compound called glycyrrhizin, which helps to reduce inflammation and alleviate digestive issues.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for upset stomach.
- Harvest 2-4 parts of dried roots in late summer or early fall for optimal quality.
- Chop the dried roots into smaller pieces using a sharp knife or mortar and pestle.
- Combine 1-2 teaspoons of the chopped roots with 1 cup of water in a saucepan.
- Boil the mixture for 5-10 minutes or simmer for 15-20 minutes for a stronger decoction.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
3. Zingiber officinale
Ginger decoctions helps with upset stomach because it stimulates digestion, reducing inflammation and spasms in the gastrointestinal tract.
The anti-inflammatory properties of ginger also help to soothe the stomach lining, alleviating symptoms such as bloating and discomfort. Additionally, ginger's natural antimicrobial effects can help to eliminate harmful bacteria and other microorganisms that may be contributing to an upset stomach.
By promoting a healthy gut environment, herbal ginger decoctions can provide fast and effective relief for digestive issues.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale decoctions that help with upset stomach.
- Gingerols: These compounds help alleviate nausea and vomiting by inhibiting the vomiting center in the brain and reducing inflammation in the digestive tract.
- Shogaols: Similar to gingerols, shogaols have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, thus relieving symptoms of upset stomach, such as nausea and vomiting.
- Zingibain: This proteolytic enzyme has anti-inflammatory properties and helps break down proteins that can cause digestive discomfort, making it easier for the body to digest food and alleviate symptoms of upset stomach.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make decoctions for upset stomach.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are used to make decoctions for an upset stomach because they contain compounds like gingerols and shogaols, which have anti-inflammatory and digestive properties.
- Roots: Roots are used to make decoctions for an upset stomach because they contain similar compounds to rhyzomes, which help to soothe the digestive system and reduce nausea.
- Barks: Barks are used to make decoctions for an upset stomach because they contain bioactive compounds that can help to calm the digestive system and reduce inflammation.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for upset stomach.
- Select a sufficient quantity of fresh or dried zingiber officinale rhizomes weighing approximately 30 grams.
- Rinse the rhizomes under running water and pat them dry with a clean cloth for 2 minutes.
- Combine the rinsed zingiber officinale rhizomes with 1.5 liters of boiling distilled water in a saucepan.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the mixture infuse for 10 to 30 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container and discard the solids.
4. Aloe vera
Aloe decoctions helps with upset stomach because they possess anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and discomfort.
The gel of the aloe leaf contains compounds like aloin and aloe-emodin, which have been shown to relax the muscles in the gut, alleviate cramps, and ease spasms.
Additionally, aloe decoctions can help restore the natural balance of gut flora, promoting a healthy digestive environment and alleviating symptoms of upset stomach such as bloating, nausea, and diarrhea.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera decoctions that help with upset stomach.
- Polysaccharides: Help soothe and calm the stomach lining by promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and reducing inflammation.
- Aloin: Act as a natural laxative to help regulate bowel movements and alleviate constipation, which can contribute to upset stomach.
- Anthraquinones: Have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce irritation and inflammation in the digestive tract, which can alleviate symptoms of upset stomach such as bloating and cramping.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make decoctions for upset stomach.
- Leaves: Their gel-like interior is used to make decoctions due to its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties that can calm stomach discomfort.
- Rhyzomes: The rhizome's extract is used in decoctions as it has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that can help alleviate stomach cramps and discomfort.
- Roots: Aloe vera's roots are used in decoctions for their potential to aid digestion and reduce stomach inflammation.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for upset stomach.
- Gather 100-200 grams of aloe vera leaves and 500 milliliters of distilled water for the decoction.
- Wash the aloe vera leaves thoroughly with cold water to remove any dirt or impurities.
- Slice the aloe vera leaves into thin pieces and add them to a heat-resistant container.
- Heat the distilled water to a temperature of 95-100 degrees celsius in 10-15 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the aloe vera solids.
5. Trigonella foenum graecum
Fenugreek decoctions helps with upset stomach because of its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
The herb's mucilages help to calm irritated linings in the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and discomfort. Additionally, fenugreek's fiber content can help to regulate bowel movements and prevent diarrhea or constipation.
As a result, drinking fenugreek decoctions can provide relief from symptoms of indigestion, nausea, and stomach cramps, allowing for a smoother digestion process and overall sense of well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Trigonella foenum graecum decoctions that help with upset stomach.
- Trigonelline: It helps to reduce inflammation in the stomach lining, thereby alleviating symptoms of upset stomach such as pain and discomfort.
- 4-hydroxyisoleucine: This compound has been shown to slow down gastric emptying, which can help to reduce symptoms of acid reflux and other upset stomach issues.
- Saponins: Saponins in fenugreek decoctions have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to soothe and calm the stomach lining, reducing irritation and discomfort associated with upset stomach.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of fenugreek used to make decoctions for upset stomach.
- Seeds: They contain mucilages, which help soothe and calm the digestive system.
- Leaves: They are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties that aid in reducing stomach inflammation and discomfort.
- Roots: They contain fiber and other compounds that help regulate digestion and alleviate upset stomach symptoms.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fenugreek for upset stomach.
- Harvest 10-20 grams of dried trigonella foenum graecum leaves and flowers in the morning.
- Crush the harvested trigonella foenum graecum into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Boil 1 liter of water in a pot and then add the crushed trigonella foenum graecum powder.
- Reduce the heat and simmer the mixture for 5-10 minutes to extract the active compounds.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain a liquid extract.
6. Matricaria chamomilla
Chamomile decoctions helps with upset stomach because its soothing properties calm the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and spasms.
The anti-inflammatory compounds in chamomile, such as apigenin and luteolin, gently ease cramping and discomfort, while its antibacterial properties help eliminate any underlying infections that may be contributing to the issue.
As a natural relaxant, chamomile also reduces stress and anxiety, which can exacerbate stomach upset, promoting a sense of calm and relaxation that benefits digestion.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla decoctions that help with upset stomach.
- Apigenin: This flavonoid helps with upset stomach by reducing inflammation and spasms in the gastrointestinal tract, promoting relaxation and ease of digestion.
- Matricaria chamomilla flavonoids: These phenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe the stomach lining and reduce irritation, thereby alleviating symptoms of upset stomach.
- Α-bisabolol: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory and soothing effects, which help calm the stomach and reduce inflammation, making it easier to manage upset stomach symptoms.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make decoctions for upset stomach.
- Flowers: Used due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that can help calm digestive issues.
- Leaves: Used for their ability to provide relief from digestive discomfort and inflammation.
- Seeds: Used for their carminative properties, which can help reduce gas and alleviate stomach discomfort.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for upset stomach.
- Gather 2-3 teaspoons of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers and sift them to remove any lumps.
- Combine the sifted flowers with 1 cup of boiling water and let it steep for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a cup.
- Discard the solids and add honey to taste if desired to sweeten the decoction.
- Store the cooled decoction in a glass container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
7. Melissa officinalis
Lemon balm decoctions helps with upset stomach because of its soothing and calming properties.
The volatile oils present in lemon balm, such as citral and geraniol, have a gentle relaxing effect on the digestive system, reducing spasms and inflammation that can cause discomfort and pain. Additionally, lemon balm's antispasmodic properties help to ease cramps and contractions in the stomach, promoting a sense of calm and relaxation.
As a result, lemon balm decoctions can provide relief from symptoms such as bloating, indigestion, and nausea associated with upset stomach.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis decoctions that help with upset stomach.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic acid, rosmarinic acid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help soothe and calm the stomach, reducing inflammation and discomfort.
- Menthol: A terpene, menthol has a calming effect on the stomach muscles, reducing spasms and cramps associated with upset stomach.
- Luteolin: A flavonoid, luteolin has anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties that help reduce inflammation and cramping in the stomach, promoting relaxation and ease.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make decoctions for upset stomach.
- Leaves: They are the primary part used due to their high concentration of essential oils, particularly citral, which has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
- Stems: They are sometimes used, as they contain a similar composition to leaves and can provide a similar effect when made into decoctions.
- Roots: They can be used, although less commonly, as they are believed to have a more sedative effect compared to the leaves and stems.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for upset stomach.
- Harvest melissa officinalis leaves and flowers in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
- Combine melissa officinalis leaves and flowers with water in a saucepan.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and let the mixture steep for 5-10 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve.
- Store the decoction in the refrigerator and use it within 24 hours.
8. Petroselinum crispum
Parsley decoctions helps with upset stomach because it contains a unique combination of flavonoids, volatile oils, and other bioactive compounds that work together to soothe and calm the digestive tract.
The anti-inflammatory properties of parsley help reduce inflammation in the gut, while its carminative effects relieve gas and bloating.
Additionally, parsley's ability to stimulate digestion and improve bowel function helps to restore balance to the digestive system, providing rapid relief from symptoms such as cramps, diarrhea, and nausea associated with upset stomach.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Petroselinum crispum decoctions that help with upset stomach.
- Apigenin: A flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that helps soothe digestive issues and reduce inflammation in the stomach.
- Ligustilide: A sesquiterpene lactone that has anti-inflammatory and carminative properties, helping to reduce bloating, cramps, and gas in the stomach.
- Carvone: A monoterpene that has carminative and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to alleviate nausea, vomiting, and stomach discomfort.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of parsley used to make decoctions for upset stomach.
- Leaves: The leaves are commonly used due to their carminative properties, which help relieve gas, bloating, and cramps associated with an upset stomach.
- Stems: The stems are often used because they contain compounds that can help soothe digestive issues and reduce inflammation in the stomach.
- Roots: The roots are sometimes used in decoctions to provide relief from digestive issues, such as nausea and indigestion, due to their antispasmodic properties.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic parsley for upset stomach.
- Harvest fresh petroselinum crispum leaves in the morning for maximum potency and minimal moisture content.
- Rinse the leaves with cold water to remove dirt and debris for 2 minutes.
- Chop the leaves into small pieces using a sharp knife for 5 minutes to increase surface area.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of chopped petroselinum crispum in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the decoction using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove solids immediately.
9. Carum carvi
Caraway decoctions helps with upset stomach because of its soothing properties, which calm inflammation in the digestive tract.
The decoction's caraway seeds contain a unique compound called cuminaldehyde, which has natural anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects. This combination helps to ease symptoms such as bloating, cramps, and discomfort associated with an upset stomach.
By reducing inflammation and relaxing the muscles, herbal caraway decoctions promote a sense of relief and aid in the recovery from digestive distress.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Carum carvi decoctions that help with upset stomach.
- Carvone: A terpene with carminative properties, helping to alleviate stomach discomfort by reducing gas and inflammation in the digestive tract.
- Ligustilide: A sesquiterpene lactone with anti-inflammatory and spasmolytic effects, which help to soothe stomach muscles and reduce nausea and cramping.
- Flavonoids: A class of phenolic compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to protect the stomach lining from damage, reduce inflammation, and alleviate symptoms of upset stomach.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of caraway used to make decoctions for upset stomach.
- Seeds: The seeds of Carum carvi are commonly used to make decoctions due to their carvone content, which has a calming effect on the digestive system.
- Roots: The roots of Carum carvi are used in decoctions to help alleviate stomach pain and discomfort, as they contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: The leaves of Carum carvi are used to make decoctions that aid in digestion and relieve stomach upset, possibly due to their content of carminative compounds that help ease gas and bloating.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic caraway for upset stomach.
- Harvest carum carvi seeds from mature plants by cutting them when they are completely dry.
- Measure 1 teaspoon of carum carvi seeds to use as the decoction ingredient.
- Combine the measured carum carvi seeds with 1 cup of boiling water and let it steep for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Strain the decoction to remove the seeds by pouring it through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
- Allow the decoction to cool down before serving or storing it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
10. Arctium lappa
Burdock decoctions helps with upset stomach because of its soothing properties that calm digestive issues.
The roots of the burdock plant contain inulin, a prebiotic fiber that feeds good bacteria in the gut, promoting a balanced gut microbiome. This leads to reduced inflammation and improved digestion, alleviating symptoms such as bloating, cramps, and diarrhea.
Additionally, burdock's anti-inflammatory compounds help to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, reducing spasms and discomfort associated with an upset stomach.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Arctium lappa decoctions that help with upset stomach.
- Inulin: Inulin is a type of fructan that acts as a prebiotic, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, which helps alleviate digestive issues and soothe an upset stomach.
- Saponins: Saponins in Arctium lappa have anti-inflammatory properties, reducing inflammation in the digestive tract and relieving symptoms of upset stomach, such as bloating and discomfort.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Arctium lappa decoctions have antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, protecting the gut lining from damage and infection, which helps to calm an upset stomach and promote digestive health.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of burdock used to make decoctions for upset stomach.
- Roots: The roots of Arctium lappa are used to make decoctions as they contain inulin, a prebiotic that can help soothe and calm the digestive system.
- Stems: The stems of Arctium lappa are used to make decoctions as they contain mucilage, a thick, protective substance that can help coat the stomach and reduce inflammation.
- Leaves: The leaves of Arctium lappa are used to make decoctions as they contain antioxidants and other compounds that can help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the digestive tract.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic burdock for upset stomach.
- Gather 2-3 teaspoons of dried arctium lappa root and 4 cups of water in a saucepan.
- Bring the water to a boil then reduce heat to a simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Add 1 teaspoon of dried arctium lappa root to the cooled liquid and let it steep for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
- Store the cooled and strained decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for upset stomach?
The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with upset stomach is a blend of peppermint, ginger, and chamomile.
Peppermint soothes the digestive system and calms nausea, while ginger reduces inflammation and eases cramping. Chamomile promotes relaxation and calms the mind, reducing stress that can exacerbate stomach issues.
This trio works together to provide quick relief from stomach discomfort, indigestion, and bloating, making it an effective remedy for upset stomach and promoting overall digestive health.