Constipation is a common digestive issue that affects millions of people worldwide. While several remedies are available, many individuals use natural solutions, such as herbal teas, to alleviate their discomfort. Not only do these teas provide relief from the uncomfortable symptoms of constipation, but they also offer a gentle and natural approach to promoting healthy digestion. In this article, we will explore some of the best teas for constipation and delve into the science behind their effectiveness. Whether you’re a tea lover or someone seeking alternative remedies, this comprehensive guide will help you find the perfect brew to ease your constipation woes.
How tea aids constipation:
But with so many medications and supplements available to ease your upset belly, why use a natural remedy such as tea? That’s exactly what we asked ourselves, so we decided to dig a little deeper, and we found numerous benefits to swapping out those over-the-counter meds for a tasty tea.
- Hydration: Drinking tea can help increase your fluid intake, which is crucial for softening stool and promoting regular bowel movements.
- Stimulants: Some teas, like green tea, contain caffeine, which can stimulate muscle contractions in the digestive system, aiding in bowel movement.
- Laxative properties: Certain herbs and spices used in tea blends, such as senna and ginger, have natural laxative effects, promoting bowel movement.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Teas with anti-inflammatory properties, such as chamomile and peppermint, may help soothe an irritated digestive system and improve bowel function.
- Relaxation: Enjoying a warm cup of tea can promote relaxation and reduce stress, which can indirectly assist with constipation as stress can worsen digestive issues.
While tea can be a helpful natural remedy for constipation, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional if constipation persists or worsens, as they can help identify any underlying medical conditions and recommend the best course of treatment! Of course, if you’re looking for a quick and easy fix, today’s list may be the thing for you. As always, we at StudyFinds have researched across multiple expert sources to bring you today’s ranking of the top seven best teas for constipation you can try today! Don’t agree with our list or feel we missed out on a good suggestion? No worries. We would love to hear from you in the comments below. Now, onto the list!
The List: Best Teas for Constipation, According to Experts
1. Senna
Senna tea is an herbal infusion that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. This magical tea shines as a common weapon in the fight against constipation, according to several sources. Its secret lies in the dried leaves and pods of the senna alexandrina shrub, packed with compounds called glycosides. These glycosides, as described by Medical News Today, act as powerful laxatives by stimulating digestive system movement.
But senna’s benefits extend beyond mere bowel relief. Well Being Nutrition suggests it may also help regulate sodium and potassium levels, contributing to a balanced internal fluid environment. However, they rightly advise consuming it in moderation due to its potent nature.
Green Matters reminds us that senna’s potency comes with a caveat: its active compounds can irritate the colon lining, leading to contractions and softer stools. This effectiveness, however, comes with a crucial limitation – senna tea should only be used temporarily (up to one week) to alleviate symptoms, as prolonged use can disrupt your digestive system.
So, while senna tea can be a powerful ally in battling constipation, remember to wield it wisely and within a limited timeframe.
2. Dandelion Root
Made from the dried roots of the dandelion plant, this tea is known for its earthy flavor and numerous medicinal properties. Whether you’re looking to improve digestion, support liver health, or simply enjoy a soothing cup of tea, dandelion root tea offers a natural and refreshing option.
Don’t let the cheerful yellow flowers fool you, dandelion tea packs a serious punch when it comes to digestive wellness. Green Matters calls dandelion a champion diuretic, helping your body flush out excess water and say goodbye to annoying puffiness.
Stuck? Medical News Today and Nutratea sing dandelion’s praises here. Its secret weapon? Inulin, a type of fiber that bulks up your stool and sends things moving smoothly. Plus, dandelion’s natural laxative powers give your gut a gentle nudge in the right direction.
Nutratea reveals another hidden gem – inulin is also a prebiotic, which feeds the good bacteria in your gut. This boosts your inner ecosystem, strengthening your defenses against future digestive woes.
While dandelion tea is a natural wonder, remember moderation is key. Before brewing a pot, have a chat with your doctor, especially if you have any existing health conditions or are taking medications. But with a little caution and a lot of dandelion, you might just unlock the key to a happier, healthier digestive life.
3. Peppermint
Peppermint tea is a refreshing and aromatic herbal infusion that has been enjoyed for centuries. With its invigorating scent and cooling taste, peppermint tea is a popular choice for those seeking a soothing and revitalizing beverage.
Feeling the sluggish blues? Constipation can be a drag, but a steaming cup of peppermint tea might be just the ticket to get things moving. This readily available herbal ally, as Portfolio Coffee notes, can be easily brewed at home or snagged at your local coffee shop.
Why peppermint? TeaTox Life dives into its magic: the menthol in this minty marvel offers a soothing caress to your stomach, easing tension and gently nudging stools along their intestinal journey. No wonder peppermint extract finds its way into many digestive medicines!
For those battling Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Nutratea sings peppermint’s praises even louder. According to the NHS, this tea’s active ingredients act like muscle relaxers for your bowel wall, relieving the uncomfortable trio of bloating, gas, and constipation. So, if IBS has thrown your digestion into a tizzy, peppermint tea might be your new best friend.
The next time constipation rears its unwelcome head, remember the power of a simple cup of peppermint tea. Brew your own or grab a ready-made mug, and let this natural remedy work its soothing magic on your digestive woes.
4. Ginger
Ginger tea is a popular beverage that has been enjoyed for years due to its numerous health benefits and unique flavor. Made from the roots of the ginger plant, this aromatic and invigorating tea is a staple in many cultures around the world.
Feeling sluggish and backed up? Ginger, that pungent root beloved for centuries, might be your gut’s new best friend. Medical News Today reports that ginger, in both root and tea form, can aid digestion and keep things moving smoothly. Green Matters chimes in, extolling ginger’s anti-inflammatory properties as an added bonus for overall well-being.
Ginger, a beloved spice and tea ingredient, is gaining recognition for its digestive prowess beyond just soothing nausea. Research, like a recent study on people with multiple sclerosis that Medical News Today references, suggests its potential in easing constipation. Its benefits stem from a powerful combo: anti-inflammatory compounds like gingerol that calm an irritated gut, and natural painkilling properties that offer relief from constipation discomfort.
In fact, Nutratea praises ginger tea as a “warming” concoction that promotes overall digestive health, helping prevent future issues. So, whether you’re struggling with constipation or simply want to boost your gut’s wellbeing, consider incorporating ginger into your diet, be it through a spicy stir-fry, a comforting tea, or even a homemade digestive tonic. Remember, ginger’s not just for nausea anymore!
5. Chamomile
Derived from the chamomile plant, this tea is known for its delicate floral aroma and mild, slightly sweet taste. With its numerous health benefits and gentle nature, chamomile tea has become a staple in many households, providing a comforting and natural remedy for various ailments.
Chamomile tea, renowned for its sleep-inducing magic, offers a hidden talent: constipation relief. Tea And Coffee praises its relaxant nature, which helps soothe the digestive system and combat constipation. Sencha Tea Bar delves deeper, explaining how chamomile’s calming properties relax stomach muscles, reduce inflammation, and even ease cramping, allowing digestion to flow smoothly.
Nutratea adds another layer, highlighting the mind-gut connection: stress can wreak havoc on digestion, and chamomile’s ability to calm both the mind and muscles makes it a powerful ally against constipation. So, whether you’re seeking peaceful slumber or digestive harmony, consider brewing a cup of chamomile tea. It might just become your new favorite nighttime (or anytime) ritual!
6. Green
Green tea is a type of tea that is made from the leaves of the camellia sinensis plant. It originated in China and has been consumed widely across the world for its numerous benefits.
When that uncomfortable feeling of incomplete elimination sets in, don’t despair! According to Portfolio Coffee, a hot cup of green tea, readily available even at most Asian restaurants, might be your savior. Nutratea delves into the science, explaining how green tea’s natural caffeine and another compound called strictinin act as mild laxatives, stimulating movement and relieving blockage.
The benefits don’t stop there! Green tea’s anti-inflammatory properties further aid digestion. Tea And Coffee echoes this sentiment, attributing green tea’s effectiveness to caffeine’s ability to boost bile production and increase bowel movement. So, the next time constipation casts a shadow over your day, brew yourself a comforting cup of green tea – it might just be the magic potion your gut needs!
7. Licorice Root
Made from the dried roots of the licorice plant, this tea is known for its natural sweetness and earthy undertones. With a rich history, licorice root tea has become a staple in many cultures around the world.
Feeling bloated? Licorice root tea might be your new best friend! Sencha Tea Bar praises its anti-inflammatory powers that soothe digestion and combat medication-induced constipation. Nutratea gets technical, explaining how licorice root’s anti-inflammatory magic fuels peristalsis, the muscular waves that push food through your gut, alleviating indigestion, cramps, and even constipation.
A daily cup after dinner, as recommended by Well Being Nutrition, might be all you need to boost digestion and stimulate bowel movements. Just remember, like any powerful ingredient, moderation is key. Consult your doctor before making licorice root tea a regular part of your routine, and then sip your way to a happier gut!
You might be interested in:
- Best Tea for an Upset Stomach
- Best Black Tea
- Best Teas for Acne
- Best Teas for Sore Throats
- Best Teas for Stress
Sources:
- Well Being Nutrition
- Medical News Today
- Tea And Coffee
- Green Matters
- Nutratea
- Portfolio Coffee
- Sencha Tea Bar
- TeaTox Life
Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations. This article may contain affiliate links in which we receive a commission if you make a purchase.
Regular black breakfast tea and green tea loosen me up.