The Best Tea for Upset Stomach

An upset stomach can leave you in considerable pain and significantly disrupt your quality of life. 

Natural herbal teas can be a great way to soothe the gastrointestinal (GI) tract while improving digestion. 

In this article, we’ll discuss supportive herbs and herbal teas that can help ease stomach discomfort. 

Best Tea for Upset Stomach 

Below is a list of the best herbs to use in tea for upset stomach. These natural GI teas have been used for centuries to improve GI complaints.

1. Peppermint 

One of the most effective and gentle herbs for upset stomachs. Peppermint tea is well known for being high in volatile oils as well as having a fresh, clean flavor profile.

In a research review looking at peppermint, researchers discovered that peppermint oil has multiple actions on the GI tract. Peppermint oil was found to relax the muscles of the GI tract. It was also found to reduce inflammation, indigestion, and alleviate nausea.  

In another review, peppermint oil was effective in providing pain relief for those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The oil helped relieve stomach discomfort and minimize the frequency of other symptoms. 

In a clinical trial involving patients with IBS, researchers found that peppermint oil reduced the severity and discomfort of IBS flare-ups. The oil was also found to ease abdominal pain.

Peppermint is part of the mint family and has an invigorating, fresh scent and flavor. Drinking peppermint tea benefits the gut by helping to relax the muscles of the bowel wall. This can reduce cramps, bloating, and flatulence.

2. Chamomile  

Chamomile is one of the most popular herbs globally, often used to release body tension and encourage digestion due to its mild bitter qualities. It is in the Asteraceae, or daisy, family and has a gentle green apple scent. 

In a review of chamomile, researchers observed that a chamomile extract effectively relieved diarrhea. The researchers noted that chamomile’s volatile oils were responsible for this effect. 

Another review mentions that chamomile is effective in easing stomach spasms, promoting digestion, and protecting the stomach lining. Researchers also noted that chamomile may be able to prevent ulcer formation.

A clinical trial observing patients undergoing GI surgery found that chamomile reduced the frequency of flatulence. The drops were effective up to 2 hours after the surgery.  

In a clinical trial involving women undergoing chemotherapy, researchers discovered that chamomile and ginger effectively reduced how often the women vomited. They were given 500mg of chamomile extract 2x/day. 

AHG registered herbalist David Hoffmann recommends chamomile for indigestion, gastric ulcers, diarrhea, and colic. 

Chamomile tea has a light floral scent and a slightly bitter flavor. It blends well with many other herbs and is a great base herb when using other herbs that do not taste great. Drinking chamomile tea can help to settle the gut and  improve digestion, and, as a bonus, can improve sleep quality.

3. Licorice

Licorice root is a popular herb for its sweet flavor and numerous therapeutic qualities. It is commonly used to ease inflammation, specifically in the gastrointestinal tract. 

In a review of licorice, researchers discovered that licorice significantly increased the healing time of gastric and small intestine ulcers. Patients who received licorice experienced relief within 5-7 days of the first dose. 

Another review states that licorice root may support those with Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis due to its ability to decrease inflammation in the GI tract. 

A clinical trial observing subjects with peptic ulcers discovered that licorice significantly increased the recovery rate. There were also no adverse side effects, like edemas or high blood pressure, which happen with other ulcer treatments. 

The American Botanical Council suggests li