By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Teas For Hiccups
Herbal teas for hiccups are a natural remedy made from various herbs that help soothe and calm the nervous system, thereby stopping hiccups.
These teas typically contain ingredients such as ginger, peppermint, and chamomile, which have anti-inflammatory and calming properties.
Drinking herbal teas for hiccups can improve lives by providing quick relief from this annoying and sometimes painful condition, allowing individuals to return to their daily activities with ease and comfort.
The following article describes in detail the most important teas for hiccups, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 2. Zingiber officinale
- 3. Piper methysticum
- 4. Matricaria chamomilla
- 5. Foeniculum vulgare
- 6. Cinnamomum verum
- 7. Rosa damascena
- 8. Taraxacum officinale
- 9. Melissa officinalis
- 10. Vaccinium macrocarpon
- What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for hiccups?
- What ailments similar to hiccups are treated with herbal teas?
1. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, teas helps with hiccups because it contains glycyrrhizin, a compound that soothes the stomach and digestive tract.
The anti-inflammatory properties of glycyrrhizin calm the irritation in the diaphragm and esophagus, which are often responsible for hiccups. Additionally, the tea's warm and comforting nature helps to relax the body and mind, reducing stress and anxiety that can trigger hiccups.
As a result, licorice tea can provide quick relief from hiccups and promote overall digestive well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra teas that help with hiccups.
- Saponins: These glycosides may help soothe an irritated stomach or digestive system, which can sometimes cause or exacerbate hiccups.
- Flavonoids: These compounds may help reduce inflammation and relax muscles, which could indirectly contribute to hiccup relief.
- Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin may help calm the stomach, reduce inflammation, and relax muscles, which could also indirectly contribute to hiccup relief.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make teas for hiccups.
- Roots: The roots are commonly used due to their high content of glycyrrhizin, a compound that helps soothe the stomach and relax the diaphragm.
- Leaves: The leaves are also used for their medicinal properties, including their ability to calm the digestive system and potentially alleviate hiccup symptoms.
- Barks: The barks are sometimes used for their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which may help to calm the stomach and reduce hiccup episodes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for hiccups.
- Gather 1 tablespoon of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots and 1 quart of boiling water for the tea base.
- Steep the glycyrrhiza glabra roots in boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes or until the tea turns brown.
- Strain the tea mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a large container to remove the solids.
- Add 1 tablespoon of honey to the tea to sweeten and enhance the flavor for a more palatable taste.
- Allow the tea to cool down for about 10 to 15 minutes before serving and consuming it.
2. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, teas helps with hiccups because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties and ability to stimulate digestive enzymes.
The warm, soothing properties of ginger tea can help to relax the diaphragm and stomach muscles, which are often involved in hiccup spasms.
Additionally, ginger's natural carminative properties help to release trapped gases in the digestive system, further contributing to its hiccup-relieving effects and promoting a sense of calm and relaxation.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale teas that help with hiccups.
- Gingerols: These compounds help alleviate hiccups by acting on the central nervous system to regulate breathing patterns and reduce spasmodic contractions in the diaphragm.
- Shogaols: Shogaols possess anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe irritation in the diaphragm and surrounding areas, thereby preventing spasms and hiccups.
- Zingerone: Zingerone has a relaxing effect on the muscles of the diaphragm, which helps to calm spasmodic contractions and promote normal breathing patterns, ultimately relieving hiccups.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make teas for hiccups.
- Rhyzomes: They are the most commonly used part for making teas as they contain the highest concentration of active compounds, including gingerols and shogaols, which help to soothe the stomach and relieve hiccups.
- Roots: Roots are another commonly used part as they are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, which help to calm the digestive system and prevent hiccups.
- Buds: Ginger buds, which are the young shoots of the plant, are also used to make teas as they are rich in volatile oils and have anti-inflammatory properties that help to soothe the stomach and relieve hiccups.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for hiccups.
- Harvest 1-2 inches of fresh roots from a healthy zingiber officinale plant for optimal flavor and potency.
- Chop the harvested roots into small pieces to increase their surface area for infusion.
- Combine 1 teaspoon of the chopped roots with 8 ounces of boiling water in a tea infuser or strainer.
- Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors and oils to infuse into the water.
- Strain the tea into a cup and serve immediately while the flavors are at their peak intensity.
3. Piper methysticum
Piper methysticum, also known as kava, teas helps with hiccups because of its natural relaxant properties.
The kavalactones present in kava tea have a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help to soothe spasmodic contractions that cause hiccups. By reducing muscle tension and promoting relaxation, kava tea can effectively stop hiccups.
Additionally, kava's anti-inflammatory properties may also contribute to its hiccup-relieving effects, making it a popular natural remedy for this common and annoying condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Piper methysticum teas that help with hiccups.
- Piperine: Piperine is the primary alkaloid found in Piper methysticum, and it may help alleviate hiccups by relaxing the diaphragm and reducing muscle spasms.
- Kavalactones: Kavalactones, a group of lactone compounds, may help soothe the nervous system and reduce anxiety, which can contribute to hiccups caused by stress or nervousness.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as ferulic acid, may help reduce inflammation and relax the muscles in the diaphragm, which can help alleviate hiccup spasms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kava used to make teas for hiccups.
- Leaves: The leaves are used to make teas for hiccups because they contain a high concentration of kavalactones, which are believed to have anti-spasmodic properties.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are used to make teas for hiccups because they contain a high concentration of kavalactones, which help to relax the diaphragm and stop hiccup spasms.
- Roots: Roots are used to make teas for hiccups because they contain kavalactones that help to calm the nervous system and stop hiccup spasms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kava for hiccups.
- Harvest fresh p m leaves or roots in the morning when the plant is at its most potent and fragrant.
- Dry the harvested p m leaves or roots in a warm dry place for 1-2 weeks to preserve them.
- Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried p m leaves or 5-10 grams of dried roots in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-10 minutes.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a cup to remove any remaining solids.
- Drink the tea immediately and enjoy the benefits of this natural adaptogenic plant within 15-30 minutes of consumption.
4. Matricaria chamomilla
Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, teas helps with hiccups because of its soothing and calming properties.
The tea's anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties help to relax the diaphragm and other muscles in the body that may be causing the hiccup spasms. Additionally, the tea's natural flavonoids and terpenoids may help to calm the nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety that can exacerbate hiccups.
By promoting relaxation and reducing muscle tension, chamomile tea can provide quick and effective relief from hiccups.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla teas that help with hiccups.
- Apigenin: Apigenin, a flavonoid phenolic compound, helps alleviate hiccup spasms by acting as a spasmolytic agent, relaxing the diaphragm and other smooth muscle tissues.
- Matricarin: Matricarin, a sesquiterpene lactone, has a sedative effect on the nervous system, which may help calm hiccup contractions by reducing nervous system excitability.
- Α-bisabolol: α-Bisabolol, a sesquiterpene alcohol, possesses anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which may help soothe and calm hiccup spasms by reducing inflammation and relaxing smooth muscle tissues.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make teas for hiccups.
- Flowers: They are commonly used to make teas due to their calming and soothing effects, which help to relieve hiccups and other digestive issues.
- Leaves: Leaves of Matricaria chamomilla are also used to make teas, as they possess similar properties to flowers, including anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects.
- Seeds: The seeds of the plant are used to make teas, which are known to have a sedative effect, helping to calm the nervous system and relieve hiccups.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for hiccups.
- Gather 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers from a trusted source.
- Measure 1 cup of boiling water to steep the flowers for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the flowers from the tea.
- Discard the solids and transfer the tea to a cup for consumption.
- Allow the tea to cool for 2 to 5 minutes before serving.
5. Foeniculum vulgare
Foeniculum vulgare, also known as fennel, teas helps with hiccups because of its natural carminative properties, which help to ease digestion and relieve spasms in the diaphragm.
The active compounds in fennel, such as anethole, have a soothing effect on the muscles and nerves, allowing the diaphragm to relax and return to its normal functioning state.
As a result, hiccups are often alleviated, providing quick relief from this annoying and temporary condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare teas that help with hiccups.
- Anethole: Anethole, a terpene, helps with hiccups by acting as a local anesthetic and antispasmodic agent, relaxing the diaphragm and abdominal muscles to stop hiccup spasms.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as ferulic acid, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation and irritation in the digestive tract and diaphragm, contributing to the alleviation of hiccups.
- Ferulic acid's ether analog, anisaldehyde: Anisaldehyde, a compound related to anethole, may also help alleviate hiccups by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation of the diaphragm and abdominal muscles.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make teas for hiccups.
- Seeds: Foeniculum vulgare seeds are commonly used to make teas for hiccups due to their carminative properties, which help relieve and calm the digestive system.
- Leaves: Foeniculum vulgare leaves are used to make teas for hiccups due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe the digestive system and relieve spasms.
- Stems: Foeniculum vulgare stems are also used to make teas for hiccups due to their ability to aid digestion and relieve cramps, which can contribute to hiccups.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for hiccups.
- Gather 1 tablespoon of dried foeniculum vulgare leaves and stems from a trusted herbal source.
- Boil 1 cup of water in a medium saucepan over high heat for 5 minutes.
- Combine the dried foeniculum vulgare leaves and stems with the boiling water for 5 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the solids immediately.
- Allow the tea to steep for an additional 5 minutes before serving.
6. Cinnamomum verum
Cinnamomum verum, also known as Ceylon cinnamon, teas helps with hiccups because of its natural anti-spasmodic properties.
The active compounds in Ceylon cinnamon, such as cinnamaldehyde, have been found to calm the diaphragm and abdominal muscles, thereby stopping the hiccup spasms. This traditional remedy has been used for centuries to soothe hiccups, and its effectiveness has been backed by some studies.
Drinking Ceylon cinnamon tea may help alleviate hiccup symptoms and provide quick relief.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cinnamomum verum teas that help with hiccups.
- Cinnamaldehyde: Cinnamaldehyde is a key compound that helps in reducing hiccup spasms by blocking the nerve signals that trigger hiccups.
- Eugenol: Eugenol is a phenolic compound that has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help in soothing the nerves and muscles involved in hiccup spasms.
- Cinnamomin: Cinnamomin is a lignan that has been found to have a sedative effect on the nervous system, helping to calm down the spasms that cause hiccups.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ceylon cinnamon used to make teas for hiccups.
- Leaves: Used to make teas for hiccups due to their aromatic and digestive properties that help soothe the stomach and relieve hiccups.
- Barks: Used to make teas for hiccups due to their warm and aromatic properties that help stimulate digestion and relieve hiccups.
- Stems: Used to make teas for hiccups due to their warm and aromatic properties that help stimulate digestion and relieve hiccups.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ceylon cinnamon for hiccups.
- Harvest 5-7 whole cinnamomum verum branches from the tree, cut them to 6-inch lengths for the best flavor.
- Dry the harvested branches in a single layer on a paper bag or tray in a warm oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours to remove excess moisture.
- Grind 2-3 teaspoons of the dried cinnamomum verum bark into fine powder using a spice grinder for easy infusion.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of the ground cinnamomum verum powder in a cup of boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes to release the oils.
- Strain the tea into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve and discard the solids to serve the tea hot or cold.
7. Rosa damascena
Rosa damascena, also known as damask rose, teas helps with hiccups because of its natural soothing properties.
The tea contains volatile oils and flavonoids that calm the nerves and relax the diaphragm, allowing it to function properly and preventing spasms that cause hiccups. The anti-inflammatory compounds in the tea may also help reduce irritation and inflammation in the stomach and esophagus, which can contribute to hiccup episodes.
Drinking Rosa damascena tea has been a traditional remedy for hiccups in various cultures.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosa damascena teas that help with hiccups.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Rosa damascena tea, such as quercetin, may help alleviate hiccup spasms by reducing inflammation and relaxing the diaphragm muscle.
- Rosa damascena flavonols: These flavonols can help to reduce spasms and smooth muscle activity, which may help to stop hiccup spasms.
- Terpenoids: Terpenoids in Rosa damascena tea may contribute to its anti-spasmodic effects, helping to relax the smooth muscle in the diaphragm and alleviate hiccup spasms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of damask rose used to make teas for hiccups.
- Flowers: They are used to make teas due to their pleasant fragrance and flavor.
- Leaves: They are used to make teas for their calming and soothing properties.
- Buds: They are used to make teas for their delicate flavor and fragrance.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic damask rose for hiccups.
- Harvest 20 grams of rosa damascena flowers at dawn when dew is still present on the petals.
- Dry the harvested flowers in a low-temperature oven at 40 degrees celsius for 2 hours.
- Grind 5 grams of the dried flowers into a fine powder using a spice grinder.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of the powder in 250 milliliters of boiling water for 5 minutes.
- Strain the tea immediately and serve warm or chilled depending on your preference.
8. Taraxacum officinale
Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, teas helps with hiccups because it contains inulin, a prebiotic that soothes the digestive system.
The tea's bitter compounds, such as taraxasterol and taraxol, stimulate the digestive tract and help to relax the diaphragm, which is often the cause of hiccups. Additionally, dandelion tea's anti-inflammatory properties may reduce irritation in the throat and esophagus, further contributing to hiccup relief.
Its natural properties make it a popular remedy for this common condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale teas that help with hiccups.
- Flavonoids: These plant-based compounds have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can help relax the diaphragm and other muscles involved in hiccup spasms.
- Chlorogenic acid: As a phenolic compound, chlorogenic acid has been shown to have antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help calm the nervous system and reduce hiccup frequency.
- Inulin: While not directly related to hiccup relief, inulin, a fructan found in Taraxacum officinale, can help soothe digestive issues and alleviate abdominal cramps, which may indirectly contribute to hiccup reduction by addressing underlying digestive discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make teas for hiccups.
- Leaves: The leaves of Taraxacum officinale are often used to make teas for hiccups due to their anti-inflammatory and calming properties.
- Roots: The roots of Taraxacum officinale are sometimes used to make teas for hiccups due to their sedative effects and ability to soothe the digestive system.
- Flowers: The flowers of Taraxacum officinale are commonly used to make teas for hiccups due to their calming and soothing effects, which can help to relax the diaphragm and alleviate hiccup spasms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for hiccups.
- Harvest approximately 25-30 flowers from taraxacum officinale plants in the early morning.
- Rinse the flowers gently with filtered water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Use a strainer to steep 1-2 teaspoons of taraxacum officinale flowers in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the tea mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a separate container to discard the solids.
- Allow the tea to cool to room temperature and then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before consumption.
9. Melissa officinalis
Melissa officinalis, also known as lemon balm, teas helps with hiccups because of its soothing properties and ability to calm the nervous system.
The tea's calming effects can help to relax the diaphragm and abdominal muscles, which are often involved in hiccup spasms. Additionally, the tea's antispasmodic properties may help to reduce muscle contractions that lead to hiccups. By promoting relaxation and reducing muscle spasms, Melissa officinalis tea can provide quick relief from hiccups.
This makes it a popular remedy for this common and often frustrating condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis teas that help with hiccups.
- Linalool: This terpene has a calming effect on the nervous system, which may help to relax the diaphragm and stop hiccup spasms.
- Rosmarinic acid: As a phenolic compound, rosmarinic acid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help to soothe the digestive tract and reduce irritation that can contribute to hiccups.
- Limonene: This terpene has been shown to have a relaxing effect on the muscles, which may help to calm the diaphragm and stop hiccup spasms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make teas for hiccups.
- Leaves: Used for their calming and soothing properties, which help to relax the diaphragm and stop hiccups.
- Flowers: Employed for their flavor and fragrance, which can help to distract the brain from hiccup spasms and promote relaxation.
- Buds: Utilized for their mild flavor and potential anxiolytic properties, which may aid in reducing stress that can trigger hiccups.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for hiccups.
- Harvest fresh melissa officinalis leaves from a well-maintained garden or purchase dried leaves in bulk stores.
- Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried melissa officinalis leaves in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the tea mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove loose leaves.
- Add honey or sugar to taste and stir well to dissolve the sweetener in the tea.
- Serve the melissa officinalis tea hot or iced and enjoy within 30 minutes of preparation.
10. Vaccinium macrocarpon
Vaccinium macrocarpon, also known as highbush cranberry, teas helps with hiccups because of its unique properties.
The tea's natural ingredients, including flavonoids and anthocyanins, help to soothe the nerves and muscles in the diaphragm, which is responsible for regulating breathing. This soothing effect can help to calm the sudden spasms that cause hiccups, providing quick relief and a return to normal breathing patterns.
Additionally, the tea's anti-inflammatory properties may also help to reduce irritation in the throat and chest.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vaccinium macrocarpon teas that help with hiccups.
- Anthocyanins: These powerful antioxidants may help alleviate hiccup spasms by reducing inflammation in the muscles and nervous system, thereby calming down the hiccup reflex.
- Flavonoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which may help to relax the diaphragm muscle and other areas of the body that are involved in hiccup spasms, thus stopping the hiccup.
- Quercetin: As a potent flavonoid, quercetin has anti-inflammatory properties that may help to reduce inflammation in the nervous system and diaphragm, which in turn may help to stop hiccup spasms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of highbush cranberry used to make teas for hiccups.
- Leaves: Used to make teas for hiccups due to their diuretic properties, which help stimulate digestion and relieve spasmodic hiccups.
- Fruits: Used to make teas for hiccups due to their soothing and calming effects, which help reduce nervous system activity and stop hiccups.
- Roots: Used to make teas for hiccups due to their anti-spasmodic properties, which help relax the diaphragm and stop hiccups.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic highbush cranberry for hiccups.
- Gather 2 tablespoons of dried vaccinium macrocarpon berries and 1 liter of boiling water for infusion.
- Steep the vaccinium macrocarpon berries in boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes to release their active compounds.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the berry solids.
- Combine the strained liquid with 1 tablespoon of honey to sweeten the tea and 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice.
- Allow the tea to cool and serve it chilled or at room temperature within 30 minutes.
What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for hiccups?
The best combination of herbal teas that help with hiccups is a blend of peppermint, ginger, and chamomile.
Peppermint tea calms the digestive system, while ginger tea soothes the stomach and reduces inflammation. Chamomile tea, rich in antioxidants, helps to relax the muscles and calm the nervous system. Drinking a combination of these teas can help to alleviate hiccup spasms and provide relief from discomfort.
This blend can be brewed together or consumed separately to find the most effective remedy.
What ailments similar to hiccups are treated with herbal teas?
Ailments similar to hiccups/teas.html">hiccups/teas.html">hiccups that are treated with herbal teas are those affecting digestion, such as indigestion, bloating, and cramps.
Herbs like chamomile, peppermint, and ginger have been traditionally used to soothe the digestive system and relieve discomfort.
These herbs can be consumed as teas or infusions to calm digestive issues, promoting a sense of relaxation and alleviating symptoms similar to those experienced with hiccups.