What Herbal Tea is Good for Constipation?
Constipation is the result of slow-moving bowels and can occur at various times and for a multitude of reasons. When you are searching for constipation relief, try a natural remedy such as an herbal tea. Not only will you boost your health, you will also relieve your discomfort. Try an herbal tea, after you speak with your doctor, if you are experiencing any signs of constipation. However, seek medical advice if you are experiencing symptoms such as:
- Severe pain
- Constipation lasting longer than three weeks
- Bloody stools
- If constipation is unusual for you
Natural Help
One of the best ways to eliminate constipation is to drink more water, according to the Cleveland Clinic, as dehydration can bind bowels and lead to constipation. Drinking two to four extra glasses of water a day will greatly reduce your constipation and a warm beverage such as an herbal tea also helps to relax you and your digestive system. If you struggle to consume an adequate amount of water, herbal teas can disguise your drink and make it more palatable. Plus, the herbs help to move bowels through your system.
Benefits
Herbal teas help to reduce constipation in a variety of ways. These include:
- Preventing dehydration which can contribute to constipation
- Relaxing smooth muscle tissue to promote bowel movement
- De-stressing you which can help to unclench muscles
- Stimulate movement with ingredients such as caffeine
Herbal Teas for Constipation
Caffeine, although it is a diuretic and may contribute to dehydration, can help move your bowels. Green tea, widely used in traditional Chinese medicine, contains caffeine and is a nice alternative to coffee. If you are suffering from constipation, sip on green tea between your meals to help reduce your discomfort. Green tea also contains L-theanine which is an amino acid to help reduce stress. Since stress can lead to constipation, green tea and other herbal teas designed to relax you will greatly benefit your uncomfortable bowels. If you are suffering from constipation due to a condition such as H. Pylori, teas and products such as matula may help to reduce your bloating and discomfort.
Many teas you can purchase in ready-to-make tea bags, but you can also prepare your own blends by combining different herbs into a tea ball or bag. Steep approximately 1 to 2 teaspoons of the herbs in one cup of boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes, depending on your tastes. Let the tea cool before you enjoy.
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea is widely known for its relaxation properties. Chamomile flowers resemble small daisies with yellow, cone centers. The flower, when ingested, helps to relax the smooth muscles, which include those of the intestines. When these muscles relax, your bowels pass freely and your constipation is reduced. It is also helpful to reduce any cramping that is a result of constipation.
Sage
Sage is another herb you can find it a tea that reduced digestive discomforts such as bloating, constipation and diarrhea. It helps to regulate your system and has limited side effects. It should not be used by pregnant women or those with blood pressure issues, diabetes, or seizures. Sage may also cause drowsiness since it helps to relax you, so use with caution early in the day and avoid drinking this while driving. Also, if you currently take medication to help with insomnia, sage may interact with your prescriptions.
Constipation Relief
Your body’s system can be thrown off and into constipation for a variety of reason such as dehydration, a lack of fiber, medications, pregnancy, surgery, travel or a lack of exercise. Even too many herbal supplements can change your system and the bacteria in your intestines which may slow down your bowel movement. Always check with your physician prior to beginning an herbal supplement program.