Tea For Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a functional bowel disease. Diet and stress management mainly treats it. Several types of tea have been found to help with IBS.

IBS

• IBS has many different symptoms, most of which are caused by the main problems, which are constipation and diarrhea. Cramping and bloating are common. Hemorrhoids and fatigue are sometimes caused as well.

Green Tea

• Green tea aids in proper digestion. This reduces bowel dysfunction, thereby reducing IBS symptoms. Drinking 1 cup with a meal is the best way to get this benefit.

Chamomile

• Chamomile tea has a calming effect on the nervous system. This reduces stress, which benefits people with IBS. Stress is a major trigger of IBS symptoms. For optimal results, drink this tea when you feel stressed or between meals.

Peppermint

• Peppermint tea contains menthol and methyl-salicylate, which both have mild pain-killing properties. They are also anti-spasmodic, which reduces cramping. You can drink this tea with meals or on an empty stomach.

Tannins

• Tea contains polyphenols called "tannins." They have anti-inflammatory and astringent properties. Tannins help with diarrhea and constipation.

Considerations

• Caffeine is known to trigger IBS symptoms, so you may want to drink decaffeinated tea only. Tannins have been found to trigger migraines, so be mindful of when you drink tea and if a migraine develops.