By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Upset Stomach
Herbal tinctures for upset stomach are concentrated plant extracts that can provide quick relief from digestive discomfort.
These tinctures work by soothing the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and spasms, and promoting a healthy balance of gut bacteria. Examples include peppermint, ginger, and chamomile tinctures, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help calm nausea and alleviate bloating.
For individuals with chronic stomach issues, these tinctures can greatly improve their quality of life by allowing them to enjoy meals without discomfort and reducing the need for antacids or other medications.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for upset stomach, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Gentiana lutea
- 2. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 3. Zingiber officinale
- 4. Aloe vera
- 5. Trigonella foenum graecum
- 6. Matricaria chamomilla
- 7. Melissa officinalis
- 8. Petroselinum crispum
- 9. Carum carvi
- 10. Arctium lappa
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for upset stomach?
- What ailments similar to upset stomach are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Gentiana lutea
Yellow gentian tinctures helps with upset stomach because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm the digestive tract.
The tannins present in yellow gentian work to reduce inflammation and irritation in the stomach lining, alleviating symptoms such as bloating, cramps, and nausea. Additionally, yellow gentian's bitter compounds stimulate digestion, improving the movement of food through the digestive system and reducing discomfort.
As a result, herbal yellow gentian tinctures offer effective relief from upset stomachs and indigestion.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Gentiana lutea tinctures that help with upset stomach.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds, particularly gentiopicroside and swertiamarin, have anti-inflammatory and spasmolytic properties, which help to reduce inflammation and relax the smooth muscles in the stomach, alleviating nausea and abdominal cramps.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as gentisic acid and ferulic acid, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which help to protect the stomach lining from damage, reduce inflammation, and alleviate symptoms of nausea and stomach upset.
- Alkaloids: Specifically, gentianine and gentisin, have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce inflammation, kill off bacteria that may be contributing to stomach upset, and alleviate symptoms such as nausea and vomiting.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of yellow gentian used to make tinctures for upset stomach.
- Roots: They are the primary source of bioactive compounds, including gentiopicroside, which helps to reduce inflammation and soothe digestive issues.
- Leaves: They contain various bioactive compounds, including alkaloids and flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can aid in digestive health.
- Roots: Again, roots are mentioned as they are the most commonly used part for making tinctures due to their high gentiopicroside content, which is believed to have a positive effect on digestive issues.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yellow gentian for upset stomach.
- Harvest 1 part of dried gentiana lutea root in the late summer or early fall season.
- Chop the dried root into small pieces to increase its surface area for infusion.
- Combine 1 part of chopped gentiana lutea root with 2 parts of vodka in a glass container.
- Steep the mixture for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place shaking it every day.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.
2. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice tinctures helps with upset stomach because it contains compounds that soothe and calm the digestive system.
The flavonoids and glycyrrhizin present in licorice root have anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation and irritation in the stomach lining. This, in turn, relieves symptoms such as heartburn, acid reflux, and nausea. Additionally, licorice tinctures can stimulate digestion and absorption of nutrients, promoting a healthy gut microbiome and alleviating digestive discomfort.
By taking herbal licorice tinctures, individuals may experience rapid relief from stomach upset and discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with upset stomach.
- Glycyrrhizin: It helps with upset stomach by inhibiting the production of stomach acid and reducing inflammation in the digestive tract, thereby alleviating symptoms of heartburn and indigestion.
- Licopyranocoumarin: This phenolic compound helps soothe and calm the digestive system by exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties, which reduces irritation and discomfort in the stomach and intestines.
- 18α-glycyrrhetinic acid: It assists in calming the stomach and reducing inflammation by blocking the action of the hormone aldosterone, which helps in regulating fluid and electrolyte balance in the body, thereby alleviating symptoms of stomach upset.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for upset stomach.
- Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra contain glycyrrhizin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory properties and helps to soothe the stomach.
- Leaves: The leaves of Glycyrrhiza glabra have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to calm digestive issues and reduce inflammation in the stomach.
- Barks: The barks of Glycyrrhiza glabra contain flavonoids and saponins, which can help to calm digestive issues, reduce inflammation, and promote healing in the stomach.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for upset stomach.
- Harvest 1 part of the dried root of glycyrrhiza glabra by hand in the morning or evening.
- Clean the root material by gently brushing off dirt and debris with a small brush for 5 minutes.
- Chop the cleaned root into small pieces using a sharp knife or herb cutter for 10 minutes.
- Steep the chopped root material in 2 parts of 80 proof vodka or glycerin in a clean glass jar for 4 weeks.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
3. Zingiber officinale
Ginger tinctures helps with upset stomach because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the digestive tract.
The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, work to relax the muscles in the stomach and intestines, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with nausea and indigestion.
Additionally, ginger's warming properties help stimulate digestion and relieve cramps, making it an effective natural remedy for alleviating upset stomach symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale tinctures that help with upset stomach.
- Gingerol: A type of phenolic compound, gingerol helps with upset stomach by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that cause inflammation and pain in the digestive tract.
- Shogaol: A bioactive compound derived from ginger, shogaol has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to soothe the digestive system and reduce nausea and discomfort associated with an upset stomach.
- Zingiberene: A sesquiterpene, zingiberene has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that help to relax the digestive muscles and reduce inflammation in the stomach, thereby alleviating symptoms of upset stomach such as cramps and bloating.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make tinctures for upset stomach.
- Rhyzomes: They contain the highest concentration of active compounds, including gingerols and shogaols, which have anti-inflammatory and digestive properties.
- Roots: The roots are also a rich source of active compounds, including gingerols and shogaols, which help to soothe the stomach and alleviate nausea.
- Buds: The buds of the Zingiber officinale plant contain a high concentration of essential oils, including gingerol and shogaol, which have anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for upset stomach.
- Harvest a sufficient amount of fresh zingiber officinale rhizomes with approximately 100 grams for the recipe.
- Clean and slice the rhizomes into thin pieces using a sharp knife with a clean surface.
- Combine the sliced rhizomes with 500 milliliters of vodka in a clean glass jar with a 1:5 ratio.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar occasionally every week.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
4. Aloe vera
Aloe tinctures helps with upset stomach because of its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
The gel from the aloe plant contains mucilages, which are natural emollients that can help calm digestive irritation and reduce inflammation in the gut. When taken as a tincture, these compounds are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream and travel to the stomach where they can provide relief from symptoms such as nausea, bloating, and cramps.
This can help restore balance to the digestive system and promote overall digestive health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera tinctures that help with upset stomach.
- Anthraquinones: Anthraquinones, such as aloe-emodin, help with upset stomach by reducing inflammation in the digestive tract and promoting the movement of food through the digestive system.
- Polysaccharides: Polysaccharides, particularly acemannan, help with upset stomach by stimulating the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, reducing inflammation, and promoting healing of the gut lining.
- Saponins: Saponins, such as aloin, help with upset stomach by reducing inflammation, protecting the gut lining from damage, and preventing the growth of pathogenic bacteria in the digestive tract.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make tinctures for upset stomach.
- Leaves: The leaves of Aloe vera contain high amounts of gel, which is used to create soothing tinctures to calm stomach issues.
- Barks: The barks of Aloe vera contain compounds that help in reducing inflammation and promoting healing in the stomach lining.
- Roots: The roots of Aloe vera are known to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help in reducing stomach pain and discomfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for upset stomach.
- Harvest 10 to 20 aloe vera leaves with thick green skin and store them in a cool dark place for 2 days.
- Cut the aloe vera leaves into small pieces and dry them in a single layer at 105 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
- Combine the dried aloe vera pieces with 60 percent 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar in a 1:5 ratio.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place and shake it every day for 2 weeks to allow the extraction process to complete.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass bottle and discard the solids.
5. Trigonella foenum graecum
Fenugreek tinctures helps with upset stomach because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties.
The herb's compounds, such as saponins and flavonoids, help to soothe the digestive tract and reduce inflammation in the stomach lining. This can provide relief from symptoms like bloating, cramps, and diarrhea. Additionally, fenugreek has been shown to stimulate digestion and increase the production of gastric enzymes, which helps to break down food more efficiently and alleviate discomfort.
Overall, herbal fenugreek tinctures can offer a natural and effective solution for managing upset stomach issues.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Trigonella foenum graecum tinctures that help with upset stomach.
- Saponins: Saponins help alleviate upset stomach by reducing inflammation and soothing the digestive tract, thereby alleviating discomfort and pain.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, particularly ferulic acid and gallic acid, exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help protect the stomach lining and reduce inflammation associated with upset stomach.
- Trigonelline: Trigonelline, an alkaloid compound, has been shown to have a calming effect on the stomach and intestines, reducing spasms and alleviating symptoms of upset stomach, such as nausea and vomiting.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of fenugreek used to make tinctures for upset stomach.
- Seeds: The seeds are commonly used due to their high saponin content, which helps to soothe and calm the digestive system.
- Leaves: The leaves are used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract and alleviate stomach discomfort.
- Roots: The roots are used for their carminative properties, which can help to relieve gas, bloating, and other digestive issues associated with upset stomach.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fenugreek for upset stomach.
- Harvest 50g of trigonella foenum graecum flowers at the peak of blooming during the warmest part of the day.
- Clean the flowers thoroughly with a soft brush to remove any dirt or debris that may be present.
- Combine the clean flowers with 750ml of 70% ethanol in a clean glass jar and seal the container tightly.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 4 weeks, shaking the jar every 2 days to ensure even extraction.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle, discard the solids and label the tincture.
6. Matricaria chamomilla
Chamomile tinctures helps with upset stomach because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm digestive issues.
The flavonoids present in chamomile have been shown to reduce inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, alleviating symptoms such as bloating, cramps, and discomfort. Additionally, chamomile's calming effects on the muscles help relax the stomach, reducing spasms and allowing for easier digestion.
As a result, herbal chamomile tinctures provide fast and effective relief from upset stomachs, promoting overall digestive health and well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla tinctures that help with upset stomach.
- Apigenin: This flavonoid acts as an antispasmodic, helping to relax the muscles in the stomach and alleviate cramps, making it easier to manage upset stomach symptoms.
- Luteolin: A flavonoid with anti-inflammatory properties, luteolin helps reduce inflammation in the stomach, which can contribute to upset stomach, and also has a soothing effect on the digestive tract.
- Bisabolol: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, helping to calm the stomach and reduce inflammation, making it a key component in soothing upset stomach symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make tinctures for upset stomach.
- Flowers: The flowers of Matricaria chamomilla are commonly used to make tinctures for upset stomach due to their high concentration of chamazulene, an anti-inflammatory compound.
- Seeds: The seeds of Matricaria chamomilla contain apigenin, a flavonoid that may help soothe stomach upset and reduce inflammation.
- Leaves: The leaves of Matricaria chamomilla are also used to make tinctures, as they contain a range of bioactive compounds that may help calm digestive issues and reduce inflammation in the stomach.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for upset stomach.
- Harvest 100g of fresh matricaria chamomilla flowers in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
- Dry the flowers in a single layer on paper towels for at least 24 hours.
- Combine the dried flowers with 500ml of 95% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks with occasional shaking.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.
7. Melissa officinalis
Lemon balm tinctures helps with upset stomach because its calming properties help to soothe the digestive system, reducing inflammation and discomfort.
The herb's natural oils work to ease cramps, bloating, and gas, promoting a sense of relief from symptoms. Additionally, lemon balm's gentle anti-inflammatory effects help to calm the gut, allowing for proper digestion and absorption of nutrients.
As a result, herbal lemon balm tinctures can provide quick and effective relief from upset stomach symptoms, helping to restore overall digestive balance and comfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis tinctures that help with upset stomach.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of upset stomach.
- Linalool: This terpene has a calming effect on the digestive system, reducing spasms and cramps, and promoting relaxation, which can help soothe an upset stomach.
- Limonene: This terpene has antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help relax the muscles in the digestive tract, reduce inflammation, and alleviate symptoms of upset stomach.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make tinctures for upset stomach.
- Leaves: They are used to make tinctures due to their high concentration of rosmarinic acid, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the stomach.
- Stems: They are used to make tinctures because they contain a mixture of essential oils and flavonoids that aid in digestion and reduce stomach discomfort.
- Roots: They are used to make tinctures as they possess a higher concentration of bitter compounds that stimulate digestion and relieve stomach upset.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for upset stomach.
- Harvest 1 part of dried melissa officinalis flowers and leaves at the peak of their fragrance and potency.
- Combine the harvested melissa with 2 parts of high-proof vodka in a clean dark glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks shaking the jar every day.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
- Store the melissa tincture in a cool dark place for at least 2 weeks before using it for medicinal purposes.
8. Petroselinum crispum
Parsley tinctures helps with upset stomach because it contains compounds that stimulate digestion, reduce inflammation, and soothe the mucous membranes in the digestive tract.
The volatile oils present in parsley have been shown to relax the muscles in the stomach, reducing cramps and spasms associated with nausea and indigestion.
Additionally, parsley's carminative properties help to eliminate gas and bloating, providing relief from discomfort and promoting a sense of calm in the digestive system.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Petroselinum crispum tinctures that help with upset stomach.
- Apigenin: A flavonoid that has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, helping to soothe and calm the digestive system to alleviate stomach cramps and discomfort.
- Luteolin: A flavonoid that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help protect the stomach lining and reduce inflammation to alleviate symptoms of upset stomach.
- Eugenol: A phenolic compound with analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic properties, which can help alleviate stomach pain, reduce inflammation, and relax the digestive system.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of parsley used to make tinctures for upset stomach.
- Leaves: Leaves: The leaves of Petroselinum crispum are used to make tinctures for upset stomach due to their carminative and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Seeds: Seeds: The seeds of Petroselinum crispum are used to make tinctures for upset stomach due to their ability to aid digestion and reduce inflammation.
- Roots: Roots: The roots of Petroselinum crispum are used to make tinctures for upset stomach due to their anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that help soothe the digestive system.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic parsley for upset stomach.
- Harvest fresh petroselinum crispum leaves on a sunny morning after the dew has evaporated.
- Clean and chop the fresh petroselinum crispum leaves into small pieces weighing 200g.
- Steep the chopped leaves in 500ml of 80 proof neutral alcohol for 4 weeks in a glass jar.
- Strain the mixture through cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids and reserve the liquid.
- Store the tincture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks allowing the flavors to mature fully.
9. Carum carvi
Caraway tinctures helps with upset stomach because it contains compounds that have a natural anti-inflammatory effect, soothing the digestive tract and reducing inflammation.
The volatile oils in caraway, particularly carvone, also stimulate the secretion of digestive enzymes, improving digestion and relieving symptoms such as bloating, cramps, and gas.
Additionally, caraway tinctures can help calm the stomach lining, reducing irritation and discomfort caused by indigestion and acid reflux.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Carum carvi tinctures that help with upset stomach.
- Carvone: Carvone is a terpene that helps to relax the stomach muscles and reduce spasms, alleviating cramps and discomfort associated with upset stomach.
- Ligustilide: Ligustilide is a sesquiterpene that has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce inflammation in the stomach lining and alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as ferulic acid and sinapic acid, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that can help to protect the stomach lining from damage, reduce inflammation, and alleviate symptoms of upset stomach.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of caraway used to make tinctures for upset stomach.
- Seeds: They are used because caraway seeds contain carvone, a compound that helps in digestion and alleviates nausea and stomach discomfort.
- Roots: They are used because the roots of Carum carvi contain compounds that may help soothe the stomach and reduce inflammation.
- Leaves: They are used because the leaves of Carum carvi contain flavonoids and other compounds that may help in reducing stomach upset and inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic caraway for upset stomach.
- Harvest 100g of fresh or 50g of dried carum carvi root and leaves in the morning when dew is still present.
- Cut the harvested material into small pieces and combine with 250ml of 95% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture for 2-4 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container discarding the solids.
- Store the tincture in a cool dark place and use within 5 years after the date of preparation.
10. Arctium lappa
Burdock tinctures helps with upset stomach because of its unique combination of properties that soothe and calm the digestive system.
The root of the burdock plant contains inulin, a prebiotic fiber that feeds good bacteria in the gut, promoting a healthy balance of microflora. Additionally, burdock's anti-inflammatory compounds help reduce inflammation and irritation in the stomach lining, reducing symptoms of upset stomach such as bloating, cramps, and nausea.
By addressing these underlying issues, burdock tinctures can provide long-lasting relief from digestive discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Arctium lappa tinctures that help with upset stomach.
- Inulin: Inulin acts as a prebiotic, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and helping to regulate digestion, which can alleviate upset stomach symptoms.
- Arctiin: Arctiin has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe the digestive tract and reduce inflammation that may be contributing to an upset stomach.
- Lupel: Lupel is a triterpene saponin with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help protect the digestive tract from damage and promote healing, reducing the discomfort associated with an upset stomach.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of burdock used to make tinctures for upset stomach.
- Roots: Arctium lappa roots are used to make tinctures for upset stomach because they contain inulin, a prebiotic fiber that promotes gut health.
- Seeds: Arctium lappa seeds are used to make tinctures for upset stomach because they have anti-inflammatory properties and can help soothe digestive issues.
- Leaves: Arctium lappa leaves are used to make tinctures for upset stomach because they are rich in antioxidants and can help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic burdock for upset stomach.
- Harvest 250g of fresh arctium lappa roots in the summer months when the plant is in full bloom.
- Dry the roots in a single layer at 50c for 2 hours to remove excess moisture.
- Chop 150g of dried arctium lappa roots into small pieces to increase surface area.
- Steep 1 part of chopped roots in 2 parts of 50% ethanol solvent for 2 weeks to extract active compounds.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain the tincture.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for upset stomach?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with upset stomach is a blend of Peppermint, Ginger, and Chamomile.
Peppermint tincture soothes digestive issues and calms nausea, while Ginger helps to reduce inflammation and alleviate cramps. Chamomile, with its anti-inflammatory properties, promotes relaxation and eases digestion.
This combination can be taken in small doses, 2-3 times a day, mixed with water or a carrier oil, and may help to alleviate symptoms of an upset stomach and promote overall digestive health.
What ailments similar to upset stomach are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to upset stomach that are treated with herbal tinctures are digestive issues such as irritable bowel syndrome, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and bloating.
Herbal remedies like peppermint, ginger, chamomile, and licorice root tinctures can help soothe the digestive system, calm inflammation, and ease symptoms associated with these conditions.
These natural treatments are often gentle on the stomach and may be more effective than over-the-counter medications in some cases.