Wouldn’t it be wonderful if a simple cup of herbal tea could solve all of your gastrointestinal troubles – gas, abdominal pain, nausea and even mild indigestion? If you know how to make a cup of fennel tea, then you do have access to an enjoyable natural remedy for an upset stomach and an unpleasant reaction to those rich and heavy meals. There are so many benefits of fennel tea for digestive problems that it is well worth it to keep some dried fennel seeds in your kitchen cupboard.
Fennel and Your Stomach
What are the properties of this aromatic herb that make it so useful for common digestive issues? Fennel is a carminative, an anti-spasmodic, an anti-emetic and a hepatic herb. This is a powerful combination for digestive well-being. Carminative herbs support digestion and reduce gas. As an anti-spasmodic, drinking a cup of fennel tea will benefit any abdominal cramping. Anti-emetic herbs reduce the sensation of nausea. With hepatic properties fennel even supports the liver by increasing the flow of bile. Aside from the specific health benefits of fennel tea for your digestive tract, enjoying a cup before or after meals will also supply the body with many different antioxidants and nutrients including quercetin, iron and B vitamins.
How to Make a Cup of Fennel Tea
To prepare a stomach-soothing herbal infusion you will need two teaspoons of dried fennel seeds and one cup of boiling water. Crush the seeds slightly with the back of a spoon or a mortar and pestle. Infuse in the water for ten minutes. Cover while steeping. Strain out the fennel seeds and enjoy. Drink before meals to prevent gas. A cup of tea also makes a great after dinner tea, especially after eating rich foods.
Fennel tea tastes great with a little honey. For an upset stomach this herb blends very well with aniseed. Drink up to three cups a day to relieve gastrointestinal problems. If symptoms are severe or persistent, be sure to see your doctor.
Sources:
Balch, Phyllis A. “Prescription for Nutritional Healing.” Fourth Edition (Penguin Books, 2006).
Hoffmann, David. “The Complete Illustrated Holistic Herbal: A Safe and Practical Guide to Making and Using Herbal Remedies.” (Element Books, 1996).