Numerous types of tea, such as ginger tea (adrak chai), have been found to effectively alleviate symptoms associated with an upset stomach, addressing ailments like nausea, diarrhea, bloating, and vomiting. When experiencing stomach discomfort, enjoying a warm cup of tea can be a straightforward and comforting remedy. However, it’s important to note that the specific variety of tea you choose can significantly influence its effectiveness. Indeed, certain teas are particularly well-suited for tackling issues like nausea and diarrhea.

Below are nine delightful teas that can help soothe an upset stomach.

1. Green Tea

Green tea has undergone extensive research due to its numerous potential health advantages. Historically, it has been utilized as a natural remedy for ailments such as diarrhea and infections stemming from typhoid, a foodborne illness that leads to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Beyond these uses, it may also alleviate various other gastrointestinal issues. For instance, research has indicated that green tea extract can significantly enhance recovery from diarrhea and shorten the length of hospital stays for children suffering from viral gastroenteritis, commonly known as stomach flu.

In studies involving animals, green tea and its active compounds have demonstrated effectiveness in treating stomach ulcers, which can result in discomfort such as pain, gas, and indigestion. However, it is important to note that some individuals report experiencing discomfort after consuming strongly brewed green tea on an empty stomach. To mitigate this, it’s advisable to adhere to the suggested brewing time and enjoy your tea alongside a light snack.

In moderation, green tea may support the healing of stomach ulcers and assist in managing issues like diarrhea.

2. Ginger Tea

Ginger tea is prepared by boiling the roots of ginger (adrak) in water, creating a soothing and aromatic beverage. This versatile root has been recognized for its potential health benefits, particularly when it comes to alleviating digestive troubles such as nausea and vomiting.

Research indicates that ginger can be highly effective in mitigating morning sickness in pregnant individuals, as well as nausea and vomiting that may occur as a result of chemotherapy treatments. Additionally, studies have shown that ginger can significantly reduce symptoms like gas, bloating, cramps, and indigestion while aiding in maintaining bowel regularity.

While many of these findings are based on high-dose ginger supplements, it’s important to note that ginger tea can offer many of the same advantages, making it a delightful and healthful choice. To prepare ginger tea, simply grate a piece of peeled ginger root and steep it in boiling water for about 10 to 20 minutes. Once ready, strain the mixture and savor it as is or enhance its flavor with a splash of lemon, a drizzle of honey, or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

3. Peppermint Tea

Peppermint tea is widely regarded as a go-to remedy for various stomach issues, providing comfort when digestive troubles arise. Research indicates that peppermint oil can effectively relax intestinal muscles, leading to a reduction in pain.

Furthermore, a comprehensive review of 14 studies involving 1,927 participants highlighted that peppermint oil significantly decreased the duration, frequency, and intensity of stomach pain, especially in children. Additionally, this oil has been noted to alleviate nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy, making it a valuable asset in supportive care.

Interestingly, some findings suggest that merely inhaling peppermint oil can be beneficial in preventing feelings of nausea and vomiting. While these studies primarily focus on the oil, it is reasonable to assume that peppermint tea may offer similar soothing effects. You can easily find this delightful tea in grocery stores, or you can prepare it at home by steeping crushed peppermint leaves (pudina) in hot water for about 7 to 12 minutes.

4. Black Tea

Black tea, known for its array of health benefits, shares similarities with green tea, particularly in its ability to soothe an upset stomach. This aromatic beverage is often effective in alleviating diarrhea, making it a popular choice for those seeking digestive relief.

In a study involving 120 children, participants who consumed a black tea tablet experienced significant improvements in the volume, frequency, and consistency of their bowel movements. Such findings underline the potential of black tea as a natural remedy for digestive disturbances.

Furthermore, historical research has indicated that administering black tea extract to piglets afflicted with E. coli—a bacterium known to induce gastrointestinal issues—led to a remarkable 20% decrease in the occurrence of diarrhea. These results suggest promising implications for using black tea in managing digestive health.

However, it is essential to note that further studies involving human subjects are required to validate these findings. Like its green counterpart, consuming black tea in moderation may offer benefits in reducing diarrhea and promoting overall digestive wellness.

5. Fennel Tea

Fennel (Saunf) is a delightful herb from the carrot family, renowned for its distinct licorice-like flavor that can elevate any beverage. This aromatic plant is not just a culinary favorite but also a therapeutic powerhouse.

Tea derived from fennel is widely embraced for its medicinal benefits, helping alleviate a myriad of issues such as stomach discomfort, constipation, gas buildup, and diarrhea. Research involving 80 participants demonstrated that taking a fennel supplement for several days before and during menstruation significantly reduced symptoms like nausea.

Additionally, a study highlighted that fennel extract effectively inhibited the growth of various bacteria, including the harmful strain E. coli. In another investigation with 159 individuals, it was found that fennel tea not only enhanced digestive regularity but also supported gut recovery post-surgery.

Creating fennel tea at home is quite simple. Just pour 1 cup (approximately 237 milliliters) of hot water over 1 teaspoon (around 2 grams) of dried fennel seeds. Alternatively, you can steep the roots or leaves of the fennel plant in hot water for 5 to 10 minutes before straining. This soothing beverage not only possesses antibacterial properties but also shows promise in mitigating nausea, alleviating menstrual discomfort, and ensuring bowel regularity.

6. Licorice Tea

Licorice (Mulethi) is renowned for its unique sweet flavor paired with a subtle bitterness. This legume has been a staple in various traditional medicinal practices, particularly for alleviating digestive issues.

Historical studies suggest that licorice may aid in the healing of stomach ulcers, which can lead to uncomfortable symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, and indigestion—commonly characterized by discomfort and heartburn. For instance, a study involving 54 participants indicated that a dosage of 75 milligrams (mg) of licorice extract taken twice daily resulted in a significant reduction in indigestion symptoms. However, it is essential to note that further research focusing specifically on licorice tea is necessary.

This herbal tea is widely available in supermarkets and online, frequently blended with other ingredients to enhance its flavor and benefits. It is crucial to remember that excessive consumption of licorice root can lead to various side effects and may pose health risks. Therefore, it is advisable to limit your intake to just 1 cup (237 mL) of licorice tea daily, and to consult a healthcare professional if you have any pre-existing health conditions.

7. Chamomile Tea

Chamomile tea, known for its delicate flavor and soothing qualities, is often celebrated as one of the most calming varieties of tea available. This herbal infusion is frequently utilized to relax digestive muscles and address various gastrointestinal concerns such as gas, indigestion, motion sickness, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

In a study involving 65 participants, the administration of 500 mg of chamomile extract twice daily significantly decreased the frequency of chemotherapy-induced vomiting compared to those in the control group. Additionally, research conducted on rats demonstrated that chamomile extract effectively prevented instances of diarrhea. Although these investigations focused on high concentrations of chamomile extract, the tea brewed from these charming daisy-like flowers is also likely to alleviate stomach-related issues.

To prepare chamomile tea, simply steep a pre-packaged tea bag or 1 tablespoon (approximately 2 g) of dried chamomile leaves in 1 cup (237 mL) of hot water for about 5 minutes. Overall, chamomile tea may serve as a natural remedy to help prevent vomiting and diarrhea, along with several other digestive disturbances.

8. Holy Basil Tea

Commonly referred to as tulsi, holy basil is a remarkable herb that has been cherished for centuries due to its numerous medicinal benefits. This unique tea, while not as widely consumed as other types, serves as an excellent remedy for alleviating an upset stomach.

Research has demonstrated that holy basil possesses protective qualities against stomach ulcers, which can lead to a variety of uncomfortable symptoms such as abdominal pain, heartburn, and nausea. In fact, studies conducted in India revealed that holy basil significantly reduced the occurrence of stomach ulcers while promoting the healing process of pre-existing ones within a span of just 20 days of treatment.

Nevertheless, further research is essential to fully understand its potential. Holy basil tea bags are readily available at numerous health food stores and can also be purchased online for convenience. Alternatively, you can create a refreshing cup of tea using dried holy basil powder. Additionally, animal studies have indicated that holy basil may offer protective benefits against stomach ulcers, alleviating distressing symptoms like abdominal discomfort, heartburn, and nausea.

9. Spearmint Tea

Similar to peppermint, spearmint (pudina) is known for its potential to alleviate digestive issues. This refreshing herb contains a compound that effectively decreases muscle contractions within the digestive system, enhancing comfort. In a previous study, 32 participants suffering from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) were administered a formulation that included spearmint, coriander, and lemon balm, in conjunction with medications for diarrhea or constipation. Remarkably, those who consumed the spearmint blend reported significantly less stomach pain, discomfort, and bloating compared to the control group.

It’s important to note, however, that the supplement comprised multiple ingredients, not solely spearmint. Additionally, research has indicated that this particular mint may inhibit the growth of various strains of bacteria associated with foodborne illnesses and gastrointestinal disturbances.

Despite these promising findings, further human studies are warranted to fully understand its effects. Making spearmint tea at home is quite simple: just bring 1 cup (237 mL) of water to a boil, remove it from heat, and add a handful of fresh spearmint leaves. Allow it to steep for approximately 5 minutes, then strain and enjoy.

The Conclusion

Numerous studies indicate that tea offers a wide array of health benefits. In particular, various kinds of tea are effective in soothing an uneasy stomach. Whether you're dealing with nausea, indigestion, bloating, or cramps, preparing one of these delightful drinks is an easy and enjoyable way to restore your well-being.