Herbal teas for constipation: 7 options to improve digestion, one drink at a time
Herbal teas can relieve constipation because they contain many substances that have laxative properties. But it’s important to drink them correctly.
In addition to their relaxing and healing benefits, they can also help you control your bowels. Herbal teas can relieve constipation because they contain substances that have laxative properties. These can irritate your bowels and irritate your stools. This will make it easier for you to go through this process. However, herbal teas can relieve constipation and are also very effective because it is important to limit consumption. Also, although herbal teas can help relieve constipation, they are not a substitute for medication and you should consult a doctor if you experience constipation or symptoms of constipation (such as hemorrhoids or fissures).
What is constipation?
Constipation is the inability to digest food. It can reduce abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and stomach aches. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases in Japan says that if you are constipated, you may experience the following symptoms:
- Fewer bowel movements per week
- Hard, lumpy, and dry stools
- Painful stools
- Constantly feeling the need to defecate
Herbal tea to relieve constipation
Here are some herbs you can try as a home remedy for constipation:
1. Senna tea
Senna is a plant that grows in southern India. It is considered a natural laxative and one of the most promising treatments for constipation. Senna tea is made from the dried leaves and bark of the senna shrub and contains glycosides and compounds that support digestion. A study published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology confirmed that senna is an effective remedy against constipation. It is also said that senna tea is less effective than senna medicine and can be taken accordingly.
2. Slippery elm tea
Another remedy for constipation is elm tea. These herbs contain a gum-like fiber called mucilage, which can add bulk to your stool and make it easier to pass. This study, published in the journal Complementary Therapies in Medicine, notes that it also helps produce mucin, which is added to mucus in the intestines to increase bowel movements.
3. Fennel tea
Fennel tea helps relax stomach muscles and aids digestion. Fennel tea has many benefits, the biggest of which is that it helps your body cleanse itself and get rid of toxins. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine found that fennel and rose tea improved participants’ constipation within a month.
4. Ginger tea
Ginger tea is not only less strong, but it can also help with digestion, gas, and bloating. A study of people with multiple sclerosis (MS), published in the journal BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies, found that ginger helped reduce constipation in three weeks. However, more research is needed in this area. There are actually benefits to drinking ginger tea on an empty stomach.
5. Rhubarb tea
Rhubarb grows in the Himalayan region of India and is known for its laxative properties. A study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences found that rhubarb extract supplements helped adult women control their bowel movements within a month. It affects the intestinal system and helps eliminate symptoms of constipation.
6. Elderberry tea
Elderberry tea is one of the best herbs for relieving colds and flu, as well as constipation. A research article published by the Herbal Products Council (HMPC) states that elderberry tea and elderberry syrup are effective in treating constipation. However, more research is needed on this subject.
7. Peppermint tea
Peppermint tea is also good for constipation as it aids digestion. It has a calming effect on the digestive system and helps relax the intestinal muscles. The US Department of Health also states that peppermint oil can help relieve stomach pain. In fact, drinking peppermint tea is also good for indigestion and gas.
8. Green tea
Green tea is known to have many health benefits, constipation being one of them. The compounds in tea help support better digestion and also help with constipation. It helps the formation of healthy bacteria in the stomach and is also good for stomach discomfort.
How to drink herbal tea for constipation?
While we know that herbal teas can relieve constipation, it is important to drink them at the right time and in the right way. It has been found that drinking a cup of laxative tea before going to bed works best. But be sure to read the instructions before eating. As for dosage, one cup a day is enough for most herbal teas. However, if constipation occurs after a week, a doctor should be consulted.
Side effects of Drinking Herbal Tea to Treat Constipation
All home remedies for constipation are for short-term use only. If you use this remedy for too long, your body will get used to it. It can be difficult to have regular bowel movements without them. The same goes for herbal teas. Some herbal remedies can also interact with other medications, so be sure to consult your doctor before consuming them if you are taking medication or have the following conditions, such as diabetes or kidney disease.