What makes herbal teas beneficial?

Herbal teas are a good source of polyphenols. These are the chemicals that give them their unique flavor and aroma. They are also responsible for most of the health benefits, herbal teas offer.

What do polyphenols do?

Some of their main health-benefiting properties are:

• antioxidant effect – polyphenols help neutralise free radicals which are molecules that can damage your cells or your DNA if they are in excess
• anti-inflammatory effects – reduce inflammation which is often associated with abdominal pain
• act as prebiotic (food for gut bacteria) – this way they promote the growth of beneficial bacteria

1. Peppermint tea

Peppermint is a popular herb that can be found almost everywhere throughout Europe and North America. The tea made from peppermint may help prevent colon spasms, which are often associated with IBS. They are spontaneous contractions in the muscles of the colon that can lead to abdominal pain, gas, and bloating. This tea may also alleviate nausea, and heartburn, as well as inhibit the growth of harmful gut bacteria in some people.

2. Chamomile tea

Chamomile tea is known for its anti-inflammatory and calming properties. It contains an aromatic compound, chamazulene, which is traditionally used to treat skin problems. Studies have shown that this compound could also have gastroprotective effects. Since inflammation may be one of the culprits behind IBS pain, drinking chamomile tea might be a good way to diminish it.

3. Ginger tea

For centuries, ginger has been an important ingredient in traditional medicine all over the world. It is commonly used to treat digestive problems, such as nausea, vomiting, and stomach ache. Ginger is also anti-inflammatory and may prevent the growth of harmful bacteria in the gut. Ginger tea may just be the remedy you need to soothe your symptoms.

4. Green tea

Green tea contains several types of polyphenols from flavonoids to phenolic acids. This tea seems to have a positive effect on the gut microbiome. It can promote the growth of the ‘good’ bacteria and inhibit the growth of the harmful or ‘bad’ bacteria. This way it prevents the imbalance in the gut microbiome which is often associated with IBS. Green tea has also been found to have anti-inflammatory effects which can help manage gut-related pain.

5. Fennel tea

Fennel has been traditionally used to ease digestive issues. Anethole, a compound found in fennel, is chemically similar to the ‘pleasure hormone’ dopamine. It may help relax the muscles in the gastrointestinal tract and alleviate bloating and gas. Fennel tea may definitely be worth a try although be aware that some people may experience allergic reactions to fennel tea.

6. Turmeric tea

Turmeric has been long used in India and China as a herbal medicine for abdominal pain and bloating. This herb contains a compound called curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory effects. It works almost like a pain killer, reducing pain by calming down a key player in the body’s inflammatory response called NF-kB. When NF-kB is less active, it is easier to keep inflammation under control. Additionally, it could also help protect your body from cancer because of its antioxidant properties.

Summary

Herbal teas are known for their calming effects and they may help alleviate digestive symptoms for some people. Drinking 2-3 cups of tea a day may offer several benefits. It’s an easily accessible remedy that you can prepare at home. Be careful to not drink tea too hot so you don’t damage your esophagus and also be aware that in certain individuals, herbs may trigger allergic reactions, so only drink tea if you know it doesn’t cause you problems.