5 Herbal Teas to Keep in Your Pantry

By: Amber Klampferer, ND

Herbal tea is one of the simplest herbal preparations to benefit health. These five teas can be beneficial to have on hand for a variety of common conditions and/or to support overall health.

1) Chamomile (Matricaria recutita)

Chamomile has been used for centuries in a variety of preparations, including teas and salves. It is a carminative, meaning that it dispels gas, therefore it can be good for bloating and indigestion. It can be helpful to drink before bed, as it is a mild nervous system sedative and can be calming. (1)

2. Ginger (Zingiber officinalis)

Like chamomile, ginger is also a carminative. Additionally, it is antispasmodic and anti-emetic, meaning it can be helpful for gas, bloating, and cramping. It is generally warming, as it increases peripheral circulation. It also is a digestive stimulant, and specifically increases the flow of saliva. (2)

3. Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

Peppermint can be useful for headaches, due to its analgesic and antispasmodic actions. (3) Symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), including constipation and bloating, have been shown to be alleviated by ingestion of peppermint due to its carminative and antispasmodic actions. (4,5)

4. Raspberry Leaf (Rubus idaeus)

Raspberry leaf tea is nutritionally dense and is especially beneficial in the context of women’s health. It may help alleviate PMS symptoms, such as diarrhea, cramping, and nausea. (6,7) It is high in vitamin C and B vitamins, as well as magnesium, zinc, iron, phosphorus, and potassium. Additionally it contains antioxidants, which exert a variety of anti-inflammatory effects. (8)

5. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Licorice is a demulcent, which is a class of herbs that act to reduce inflammation in mucous membranes by providing a protective mucilaginous layer. Therefore it may be useful for sore throats and conditions like acid reflux. Additionally, it is an adrenal tonic and can be useful in states of chronic stress. (9)