Best Teas for Upset Stomach: A Guide to Soothing Choices
Tea can be a comforting and effective way to soothe upset stomach. (Is there anything worse than an upset stomach?) With anti-inflammatory properties and a soothing effect on the gastrointestinal tract, tea can help alleviate discomfort and aid digestion.
Of course, the best tea for your upset stomach largely depends on your specific symptoms. You should always consult with a medical professional if your symptoms persist or get worse.
But assuming you’ve got a garden-variety, run-of-the-mill upset stomach, this guide will help you choose the right tea for you and your tummy.
Tea isn’t just a delightful beverage; it’s a powerful digestive aid. It can soothe your stomach after a heavy meal, help with digestion, and alleviate a variety of ailments. This guide will introduce you to several teas that have been proven to be helpful for stomach issues.
Teas have been cherished for centuries for their carminative properties. What does ‘carminative’ ‘mean, you ask?

Certain teas can help relieve gas, bloating, and other discomfort. Green tea, in particular, has been widely studied and praised for its digestive benefits. Let’s take a closer look at the healing powers of tea and how it can contribute to digestive health.
Understanding the Healing Powers of Tea
Tea, particularly green tea, has been recognized for its potential health benefits. Many cultures believe that tea has incredible healing powers. Historically, tea was used as a natural remedy for various ailments, including diarrhea and infection from typhoid.
It’s believed that green tea extract can help relieve stomach issues due to its healing properties. For instance, one study found that green tea extract significantly improved diarrhea and decreased the duration of hospitalization in children with viral gastroenteritis.
Not only do several teas exhibit stomach-soothing properties, but some have the potential to treat stomach ulcers, which can cause issues like pain, gas, and indigestion. However, be careful not to drink strongly brewed green tea on an empty stomach as it can induce nausea.
When making tea, stick to the recommended brewing time. And try to accompany your tea with a small snack to prevent any adverse effects. Remember, moderation is key when it comes to deriving the health benefits of tea.
The Role of Tea in Digestive Health
There are a variety of teas that can effectively soothe symptoms of nausea, pain, and excess gas. Some of these teas can also help with diseases like acid reflux and chronic gastritis. Whether you’re looking to quickly alleviate nausea, treat a stomach ulcer, or simply enjoy a soothing beverage after a big meal, there’s definitely a tea for you.
Understanding the properties of different teas can guide you in choosing the right brew for your digestive health.
Tea can act as a digestive aid by helping your body process food more efficiently and by reducing discomfort. By knowing which one to choose for your specific ailment, you can tea as a natural remedy for your upset stomach.
The 8 Best Teas for an Upset Stomach
When it comes to soothing an upset stomach, there are eight teas that stand out for their healing properties. These include:
- Peppermint tea
- Green tea
- Ginger tea
- Licorice tea
- Holy Basil tea
- Fennel tea
- Chamomile tea
- Spearmint tea
Each of these teas offers unique benefits. Ginger tea, for example, has been scientifically proven to reduce gas and alleviate indigestion; while Chamomile tea has been show to have calming effects that help with nausea and vomiting. Clinical trials have also shown the positive impact of these teas on bowel regularity.
So, choose the tea that best suits your specific needs and enjoy the soothing effects of a natural remedy.
1. Peppermint Tea: A Minty Solution
When tummy troubles start to strike, peppermint tea can come to the rescue. Peppermint tea is no doubt one of the best teas for an upset stomach, and is a common choice to relieve digestive discomfort. It has been studied for its potential to relieve pain.
Studies have shown that peppermint oil, a key component in peppermint tea, has the power to reduce the duration, frequency, and severity of abdominal pain. These benefits aren’t just limited to stomach aches, but also extend to menstrual cramps.
Benefits of Peppermint Tea
The benefits of peppermint tea go beyond pain relief. Its active ingredient (peppermint oil) can also mitigate nausea and vomiting, which makes it an ideal choice if you’re suffering from these symptoms.
Studies have suggested that peppermint oil reduces not only the intensity but also the duration of nausea, providing a quick and natural solution.
Furthermore, peppermint tea can calm your tummy troubles without causing any negative side effects. This makes it safe for both children and adults. So, the next time your stomach is swirling, consider brewing up a cup of peppermint tea.
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2. Green Tea: Packed with Antioxidants
Green tea is packed with antioxidants and, for centuries, it has been used as a natural remedy for various stomach issues.
Green tea has proven particularly useful in treating gastrointestinal disorders like diarrhea and stomach flu, thanks to its potent tea extract. One study found that green tea significantly reduced the duration of viral gastroenteritis. However, remember to enjoy this tea with a small snack, as drinking green tea on an empty stomach may cause nausea.
Why Choose Green Tea
But why choose green tea over other options? Well, again, Green tea is rich in antioxidants, which are known for their health-promoting effects. Additionally, the Green tea extract has been shown to effectively treat stomach ulcers, providing relief from pain, gas, and indigestion.
A cornerstone of Chinese medicine, Green tea has historically been used to treat a host of ailments. Its ability to ease symptoms of viral gastroenteritis is just one reason to keep it on your shelf. Whether it’s for general wellness, heart health, or stomach pain relief, Green tea is just what the doctor ordered.
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3. Ginger Tea: Nature’s Stomach Soother
If your stomach is upset, a cup of ginger tea could be just what you need. Ginger is a popular herbal remedy for nausea, and its fresh, spicy flavor can help soothe your stomach and ease digestion. So, the next time you’re feeling under the weather, consider brewing a comforting cup of Ginger tea, one of the best teas for an upset stomach.
The Power of Ginger Tea
A cup of Ginger tea, brewed with fresh ginger, can act as a powerful remedy for an upset stomach. This is because Ginger root has natural properties that can help soothe a troubled digestive system. Its unique flavor is comforting, and its health benefits are extensive.
Ginger tea is effective because of its ability to stimulate the production of digestive juices, thus speeding up digestion and alleviating discomfort. So, next time your tummy is in turmoil, consider brewing a cup of ginger tea for a natural remedy.
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4. Licorice Tea: Sweet Relief
For centuries, traditional medicine turned to Licorice tea as a remedy for various ailments, particularly stomach problems. Often found in herbal tea blends, its root has properties that can soothe your stomach and relieve pain, nausea, and indigestion.
Like anything, though, it’s important to consume Licorice tea in moderation and consult a healthcare professional if you have any persistent medical conditions. Still, a cup of Licorice tea can provide sweet relief for your upset stomach.
The Unique Properties of Licorice Tea
The unique properties of Licorice tea extend beyond its sweet, slightly bitter flavor. Licorice tea is believed to have soothing effects on the digestive tract, making it a popular choice for those with digestive issues. Moreover, Licorice tea is often included in herbal tea blends, enhancing not only the flavor but also the health benefits of such concoctions.
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5. Holy Basil Tea: A Godsend
Known for its medicinal properties, Holy Basil helps neutralize stomach acid, providing relief from discomfort. So, if you’re looking for a less common but highly effective remedy for stomach discomfort, consider brewing a fresh cup of Holy Basil tea. Holy Basil also offers a range of other health benefits.
Reasons to Drink Holy Basil Tea
Indeed, one of the main reasons to drink Holy Basil tea is its ability to soothe an upset stomach. By neutralizing stomach acid, it can help alleviate symptoms such as heartburn, nausea, and stomach pain. Moreover, it has no known side effects when consumed in moderation.
In addition to its stomach-soothing properties, Holy Basil tea is a rich source of antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. So, next time you’re feeling under the weather, reach for a tea bag and brew yourself a cockle-warming cup of Holy Basil tea.
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6. Fennel Tea: An Herbaceous Antidote
You’ve undoubtedly seen Fennel at the supermarket. With its white bulb and green stalks, Fennel is a flowering plant from the carrot family. But you probably didn’t know that this perennial herb has long been used to treat stomach issues. In fact, Fennel is used to relieve things like nausea, gas, and constipation.
In addition to having stomach-soothing properties, Fennel has an anise or licorice-like flavor that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
The Fantastic Features of Fennel Tea
Fennel tea has some fantastic features that make it a powerful remedy for stomach ailments. As a member of the carrot family, Fennel is chock full of compounds that can help soothe your digestive system. In fact, it has been proven to promote digestive regularity and aid in gut recovery after surgery.
Furthermore, a 2014 study showed that taking a fennel supplement for several days before and during menstruation decreased nausea and other symptoms. As such, Fennel tea could be a soothing solution not just for common stomach ailments, but also for those experienced during menstruation.
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7. Chamomile Tea: Calm in a Cup
Chamomile tea, arguably the most soothing tea, is another solid choice for stomach relief. It’s flavorful profile makes it a pleasure to sip, and its benefits for digestive problems are quite impressive. Chamomile tea is known for its ability to relax your digestive muscles, helping to alleviate issues like gas, indigestion, and even motion sickness.
Why Chamomile Tea Works
Chamomile tea works wonders for an upset stomach due to its unique properties. One study revealed that taking 500 mg of chamomile extract twice daily reduced the frequency of vomiting. This makes it an effective remedy not just for nausea, but also for motion sickness.
Chamomile tea also has antibacterial properties that can help fight off infections, further aiding in digestion. So, the next time you’re dealing with a circus in your stomach, consider brewing up a cup of comforting Chamomile tea.
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8. Spearmint Tea: The Milder Minty Option
If you’re looking for something a little less minty than Peppermint, you may want to opt for Spearmint. . Much like its minty-er cousin, Spearmint can help with digestive distress.
One study found that those taking something with Spearmint, along with other ingredients like lemon balm, reported significantly less stomach pain, discomfort, and bloating. So, if you’re battling bowel movements that are less than ideal, a cup of Spearmint tea might be the solution.
What’s so Special ’bout Spearmint Tea?
Spearmint tea offers a gentle alternative for soothing an upset stomach. Though not as profound as Peppermint, it has a refreshing flavor and an invigorating aroma, as well as calming properties that can surely soothe your stomach.
If you’ve been suffering from food poisoning, Spearmint tea can provide relief by calming your digestive system. You can also enhance its healing properties by adding lemon balm, another herb known for its soothing effect on the stomach.
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How to Make the Perfect Cup of Herbal Tea
Making the perfect cup of herbal tea is probably as much an art as it is a science. It all starts with selecting high-quality tea leaves or tea bags.
The next step is to let it steep. The steeping time varies depending on the type of tea, but a good rule of thumb is to steep for 5 to 7 minutes. This allows the tea to release its full flavor and beneficial compounds.
You can then add a sweetener of your choice or enjoy it in its natural state.
Finally, you can sip and enjoy your perfect cup of herbal tea.
Brewing Techniques for Optimal Benefits
Start your day with a cup of stimulating tea like Green tea. Before meals, a cup of digestive tea such as Fennel or Chamomile can prepare your stomach for digestion. At the end of the day, unwind with a cup of caffeine-free herbal tea. Following these steps can help enhance your digestive health and overall well-being.
Of course, to maximize the benefits of your herbal tea, it’s important to follow proper brewing techniques.
Dos and Don’ts of Tea Preparation
While making herbal tea may seem straightforward, there are definitely some specific dos and don’ts to keep in mind:
Do always start with fresh, cold water. The quality of the water can significantly affect the taste of your tea.
And do let your tea steep for the recommended amount of time. Over-steeping can make your tea bitter and under-steeping can result in a weak cup.
On the flip side, don’t ever squeeze the tea bag or leaves. This can release bitter tannins that can affect the flavor of your tea. And don’t reuse tea bags or leaves. Doing so can lead to a less flavorful cup. Always use fresh tea for the best taste and benefits.
Potential Side Effects of Excessive Tea Consumption
While herbal teas are packed with health benefits, it’s essential to remember that too much of anything can have side effects. Drinking excessive amounts of tea, especially on an empty stomach, can lead to discomfort and irritation. Some teas also contain caffeine, which, when consumed in large quantities, can cause jitteriness, sleep problems, and other health issues.
To avoid these potential side effects, consume tea in moderation. Go for light teas and use dried leaves, tea bags, or tea drops. Avoid using freshly picked leaves, as these are stronger.
Remember, while herbal teas can support your health, they are not a substitute for a balanced diet and regular medical check-ups. Research shows that too much of anything can lead to undesirable consequences, and tea is no exception.
When to Limit Your Tea Intake
Knowing when to limit your tea intake is more important than you may think. As a rule of thumb, restricting heavily caffeinated teas to the morning hours can help avoid potential sleep disturbances. Also, having certain teas like ginger or peppermint before bedtime can ensure a peaceful night’s sleep while treating diarrhea and other digestive issues.
Remember: Tea is not a miracle cure. If your symptoms persist, seek medical advice.
Reading the Tea Leaves: How to Choose the Right Tea for Your Tummy Troubles
Yes, tea can be a simple and effective solution for tummy troubles. However, it’s important to choose the right tea for your specific issues.
Whether it’s the calming effects of Chamomile tea or the great and undeniable powers of Green tea, there’s definitely something out there that can help alleviate your discomfort. The key is to understand your body’s needs and choose a tea that can best meet them.
Again, tea may provide temporary relief, but it doesn’t replace proper medical treatment for persistent or severe symptoms. If your stomach issues soldier on, seek medical attention. After all, your health is your wealth.
Making the Best Choice for Your Health
When it comes to settling an upset stomach, herbal medicine like tea can play a significant role. The right tea can help soothe nausea and vomiting, and aid in digestion. Just make sure your choice of tea is tailored to your specific situation.
For instance, if you’re dealing with nausea and vomiting, a cold glass of Ginger tea can calm the stomach lining and ease symptoms. On the other hand, if you’re looking to simply relax and unwind at the end of the day, a cup of Chamomile tea may be the better option.
Remember, the best choice for your health is one that considers your overall wellbeing and lifestyle.