The 7 Best Teas For Diarrhea Relief
Diarrhea is unpleasant and can cause symptoms that include dehydration, fatigue, and nutrient deficiencies. The problem can be caused by a host of actors ranging from bacteria and viruses to intestinal inflammation and irritable bowel syndrome. Whether you ate something bad or simply caught a bug, you can rest easy knowing that there are tasty natural remedies to feel better fast.
Tea is a go-to cure when it comes to immune health and battling the common cold or flu. We’ve gathered a list of the best herbal teas and true teas for diarrhea so you can get healthy and back to the important things in your life. Want to get your hands on tea to soothe your upset stomach?
The Top 7 Teas For Diarrhea
1. Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea is a delightful herbal tea made from infusing the chamomile blossoms in hot water. The tea is renowned for its calming and soothing effects, which can help quiet an upset stomach. The tea boasts antibacterial and antiviral properties that may help to eliminate parasites and harmful pathogens that cause diarrhea in the first place.
An animal study conducted in Ireland found that chamomile tea helped to reduce diarrhea symptoms in rats. The study also found that not only did chamomile tea soothe diarrhea symptoms, but it could also prevent them from occurring .
Another study found that a combination of myrrh, coffee charcoal, and chamomile helped to treat acute diarrhea caused by irritable bowel syndrome and inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. The study was conducted in 1062 patients and showed that the herbal remedy was as effective as conventional treatments .
2. Ginger Tea
Ginger tea is made from the rhizome of the ginger plant and boasts a slightly spicy flavor and tingling scent. The tea can help to soothe symptoms of diarrhea including abdominal pain and nausea. Ginger also offers a range of health benefits including improved digestion, decreased inflammation, and increased blood flow.
An animal study conducted by Chinese researchers found that ginger helps to treat diarrhea caused by bacteria such as E. coli. The researchers attributed the results to a ginger compound known as zingerone, which helps to decrease inflammation and supports the digestive system. Additional research shows that ginger can help treat nausea caused by motion sickness and diarrhea caused by spoiled food.
3. Green Tea
Green tea is one of the most well-researched beverages. Scientists have found evidence that green tea helps boost human health by improving cardiovascular health and preventing serious disease. Most research shows 3 to 5 cups of green tea as the most effective dosage for these benefits. This powerhouse tea may also help soothe digestive problems and treat symptoms including stomach pain and diarrhea.
A study published in BioMed Central examined the effects of green tea on treating digestive problems. Researchers found that green tea is effective in promoting healthy bowel movements and preventing stomach problems caused by bacteria. The study found green tea was particularly effective against Helicobacter pylori infections that cause diarrhea thanks to a high concentration of catechins . Drink green tea to help soothe stomach pain and to treat mild cases of diarrhea.
4. Peppermint Tea
Peppermint tea has long been used in traditional medicine to treat digestive issues. The tea is brewed by infusing a handful of peppermint leaves in a cup of hot water. It offers a refreshing flavor and pungent aroma that can help soothe nausea and move food more efficiently through the digestive tract.
Studies show that peppermint tea may help to treat diarrhea caused by irritable bowel syndrome. One study of 74 patients found that those who took peppermint oil three times daily for six weeks showed a significant decrease in cases of stomach ache .
Additional research published at the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center shows that peppermint can help with indigestion, flatulence, and bloating—symptoms that often accompany diarrhea. Research showed that mint compounds including menthol help to soothe mucous membranes and the lining of the stomach to decrease inflammation and irritation. The tea also boasts anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe intestinal inflammation that can cause diarrhea.
5. Black Tea
Black tea is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant and offers a bold flavor with earthy and woody notes. It also offers health benefits that are backed by scientific research when it comes to treating diarrhea.
One study published in the Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that black tea helps to treat nonbacterial diarrhea in children. The study consisted of 120 patients between the ages of 2 and 12. The patients were divided into two groups, one which received a black tea tablet and another that received a placebo. The group that consumed black tea had significant improvement of diarrhea symptoms including defecation frequency and a decrease of loose stools.
Black tea contains caffeine that can cause diarrhea to worsen. Keep black tea intake to one or two cups per day if you have a bout of diarrhea to avoid worsening the condition and other negative side effects. Alternate between a cup of black tea and herbal teas like Apple Spice Tea, clear broth, sports drinks, or apple juice to keep your fluid intake up and caffeine intake down.
6. Fennel Tea
Fennel tea is made by infusing fennel seeds in boiling water. It is frequently used in holistic healthcare to treat digestive issues as it offers anti-inflammatory properties that help to soothe stomach muscles and reduce cramps.
Research published in the European Journal of Pharmaceutical and Medical Research found that drinking fennel tea regularly can help prevent the onset of diarrhea. That’s because fennel tea helps to streamline digestion. Scientists also found that fennel tea boasts anti-ulcer benefits in addition to its anti-diarrheal benefits. Additional research shows fennel tea is effective in treating colic in infants .
7. Lemon Tea
Treat diarrhea at the source with a piping hot cup of lemon tea. Simply infuse the lemon in warm water and add a dash of honey if desired. The tea offers a citrus flavor with a touch of sweetness.
Research shows that lemons contain antioxidants and other chemical compounds that can fight off bacterial and viral infections. One study showed that among citrus fruits, lemon juice and lime juice had the highest concentration of bacteria-fighting compounds .
Scientists in Heidelberg also found that lemons can help fight off norovirus infections that can cause diarrhea. The lemon juice can also be used as a disinfectant to clean your home to prevent other family members contracting the disease .
Feel Better Fast
If you’re suffering from diarrhea, drinking tea can help you feel better faster. Herbal teas have long been a staple of home remedies for treating the common cold and flu. These teas contain compounds that help boost digestive health and can ease the symptoms of diarrhea.
Pair your cup of tea with a healthy diet to help your digestive system recover. Experts recommend sticking the to BRAT diet—bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. These foods help the gut reset while also reducing the amount of stool the body produces.
Armed with this handy list of teas that are backed by scientific research, you’ll know where to turn the next time you have diarrhea. Use these teas to treat an upset stomach and soothe symptoms such as pain and bloating. Sit back, get some rest, and sip to your health with these tasty teas.
