peppermint tea for GERD

Peppermint tea for GERD (gastro-oesophageal reflux disease) is a commonly-tried method of symptom management. However, it is in fact strongly contra-indicated for this condition.

GERD, as it most commonly known, is a condition where contents from the stomach, notably acid, protrude up into the oesophagus. The mots noticeable symptoms are heartburn and acid regurgitation. There may also be damage to teeth through acid exposure, bad breath, chest pain, and even vomiting and breathing difficulties.

We all know that healthcare starts with ourselves, and the choices we make can have powerful impact upon some chronic and acute health conditions. However, there is a popular misconception about the supposed benefits of peppermint tea for GERD.

Peppermint has traditionally been used to aid digestion due to its antispasmodic properties and its ability to reduce build up of gas in the digestive system. This means that is has been used for thousands of years to address constipation, bloating, cramps, and diarrhoea.

Peppermint tea for GERD? Not such a good idea for this gastro-intestinal problem

However when it comes to drinking peppermint tea for GERD, as opposed to some other digestive issues, there is a problem. GERD occurs when the sphincter that separates the oesophagus from the stomach allows regurgitation of acid. Normally, substances flow in one direction only from the oesophagus into the stomach, but with GERD acid flows back up into the oesophagus. Peppermint tea is effective at relaxing the stomach muscles and thus aiding digestion, but it also relaxes the oesophageal sphincter, enabling further acid back up into the oesophagus. So it is, in fact, one of the worst things you can drink if you do suffer from GERD.

An alternative would be to try drinking chamomile mixed with meadowsweet. This is another traditional tea that has used been used for digestive issues. This combination has anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties and can help to relieve a wide variety of digestive issues. (While not strictly contra-indicated, some herbalists do caution against excessive use of chamomile in pregnancy. Meadowsweet certainly must be avoided during pregnancy and breast-feeding. As with all medicinal herbs, there may be other contra-indications that might apply to you, so it important to do a little research or to speak to a fully-trained herbalist before regular consumption. However, in the vast majority of cases, there should be no complication and hopefully great benefits.)

There are known risk factors associated with GERD, such as obesity, pregnancy, stress, smoking, and excessive consumption of alcohol or fat. So if you cannot look to peppermint tea for GERD symptom relief, as you might have hoped, you can try to address lifestyle matters, such as reducing stress levels, stopping smoking, cutting down on alcohol and fatty foods, and reducing weight if you are overweight.

Another very important tip is to avoid lying down within three hours of eating. This should help to reduce symptoms.

To find out more about GERD, please go to:

https://www.webmd.boots.com/heartburn-gord/guide/gastro-oesophageal-reflux-gord

If you think you suffer from digestive symptoms that may have a strong emotional component, you can find out more about acupuncture treatment and stress/anxiety at:

Stress & Anxiety

Risk factors for gastroesophageal reflux disease: the role of diet

Prz Gastroenterol. 2014; 9(5): 297–301.

National Food and Nutrition Institute, Warsaw, Poland

Corresponding author.Address for correspondence: Prof. Mirosław Jarosz PhD, National Food and Nutrition Institute, 61/63 Powsińska St, 02-903 Warsaw, Poland. phone: +48 22 550 96 77. e-mail: lp.waw.zzi@zsoraj

Received 2014 Jan 20; Revised 2014 Mar 21; Accepted 2014 May 1.

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial 3. 0 Unported License, permitting all non-commercial use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

This article has been cited by other articles in PMC.

Abstract

Introduction

Nutrition can contribute to the development of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The relevant studies often provide contradictory results.

Aim

To determine GERD risk factors associated with dietary habits.

Material and methods

A total of 513 subjects were included. The study group consisted of adults with a recent clinically confirmed diagnosis of GERD, and the control group were healthy adults. The research tool was a proprietary questionnaire. Risk factors were evaluated by logistic regression models.

Results

An association was found between the severity of typical GERD symptoms and a certain diet (p < 0.001). The symptoms were experienced more often after fatty, fried, sour, or spicy food and sweets. The univariate logistic regression analysis showed the following risk factors: eating 1–2 meals per day (OR = 3.50, 95% CI: 1.75–6.98), everyday consumption of peppermint tea (OR = 2.00, 95% CI: 1.14–3.50), and eating one, big meal in the evening instead of dinner and supper (OR = 1.80, 95% CI: 1.05–3.11). The multivariate analysis confirmed that frequent peppermint tea consumption was a risk factor (OR = 2.00, 95% CI: 1.08–3.70).

Conclusions

Taking into consideration the results of this study, it seems that patients should be recommended to eat more than three meals a day and eat dinner and supper at appropriate times instead of one, big meal in the evening. The role of frequent peppermint tea consumption in GERD development requires further studies.

Keywords: gastroesophageal reflux disease, dietary habits, risk factors

Introduction

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic gastrointestinal disease that significantly reduces quality of life and, in some patients, leads to serious complications, such as oesophageal stricture, gastrointestinal bleeding, or Barrett’s oesophagus. According to various sources, the typical symptoms of this disease (heartburn, discomfort in the upper abdomen, acid eructation) are experienced daily by 4–10%, and weekly by 10–30% of the adult population in Western countries [1, 2]. In Poland, GERD is diagnosed in 36% of patients visiting the doctor for abdominal complaints [3]. It is estimated that this disease will become more and more common. There are many factors that can contribute to the development of this disease, including lifestyle and nutrition, but relevant studies often provide contradictory results [4–6].

Aim

The aim of this study was to determine the risk factors for GERD associated with dietary habits.

Material and methods

The study was carried out in the years 2006–2011 and included patients referred for gastroscopy to the Mazowiecki Bródnowski Hospital, Warsaw. The study group (GERD group) were patients aged 18–65 years with symptoms of GERD (heartburn, acid eructation, sour–bitter taste in the mouth, pain in the upper abdomen and epigastric fullness after a meal, the sensation of a “lump in the throat”, chest pain, recurrent cough, and hoarse voice), with gastroscopically confirmed non-erosive disease or oesophagitis (graded according to Los Angeles classification). The control group were healthy adults up to 65 years of age with no GERD symptoms or experiencing GERD symptoms very rarely, i.e. once a month or less. Excluded were patients outside the age range, with active peptic ulcer or neoplasms, pregnant women, and patients with incomplete inquiry information on dietary habits. A total of 513 subjects were enrolled. Data on the patients’ usual diet were obtained with the use of a proprietary questionnaire form developed on the basis of literature sources and own observations. The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of the Food and Nutrition Institute.

Statistical analysis

Statistical analysis of the obtained data was performed using Statistica 10 software (StatSoft). For inter-group comparisons of distribution of variables the Pearson’s χ² test or Fisher’s exact test was used. The threshold for significance was set at p ≤ 0.05. The strength of relation between each variable and risk of GERD was evaluated by univariate and multivariate logistic regression model. Variables with odds ratio (OR) > 1 and p ≤ 0.05 were considered significant risk factors for GERD.

Results

The GERD group included 189 females (67%) and 93 males (33%). The average age of the subjects was 45.7 ±13.1 years. Non-erosive disease was diagnosed in 215 patients (76.2%) and oesophagitis was diagnosed in 67 patients (23.8%). The average body mass index (BMI) in this group was 25.4 kg/m². The control group included 153 females (66.2%) and 78 males (33.8%). The average age of the subjects was 43.8 ±14.7 years. The average BMI in this group was 24.4 kg/m².

The GERD patients reported a relationship between the severity of typical disease symptoms and eating certain foods, significantly more often than the control group (p < 0.001). In the GERD group, the symptoms appeared more after consumption of products that are high in fat (p = 0.004), fried (p = 0.022), sour (p = 0.003), or spicy (p = 0. 014), and after fruits (p = 0.001) and sweets (p = 0.011).

Patients in both groups usually had three meals a day. However, it was determined that in the study group the patients had only two meals a day significantly more often (p < 0.001), and four meals a day significantly less often (p < 0.001). Patients in both groups usually had breakfast, dinner, and supper. The GERD patients had lunch as an additional meal significantly less often (p < 0.001), and significantly more often (p = 0.03) they ate one big meal instead of dinner and supper. Patients in this group significantly more often (p < 0.001) had at least one big meal. The big meal was more often in the evening (p < 0.021), and less often at breakfast time (p = 0.003). The study groups could not be differentiated by regularity of meals, speed of eating, or eating between meals. Instead, the groups differed in frequency of having products/dishes described in the sources as refluxogenic, i. e. products/dishes high in fat, tomatoes and tomato products, alliums, chocolate products, hot spices, citrus fruits and juices, peppermint tea, coffee, carbonated beverages, and alcohol. Patients in the study group significantly more often had tomatoes and tomato products, chocolate and chocolate products, citrus fruits and juices (p < 0.001), as well as peppermint infusion (p = 0.015). In case of alliums and coffee, GERD patients more often admitted that they consumed these products once a week or did not consume them at all (p < 0.001 and p = 0.007, respectively). As compared to the control group, alcohol was consumed by GERD patients significantly less often (p < 0.001), and carbonated beverages were not consumed at all.

Univariate logistic regression analysis showed that risk factors for GERD are as follows: eating 1–2 meals a day, drinking peppermint tea everyday, and eating one large meal in the evening. Multivariate logistic regression analysis confirmed that drinking peppermint tea everyday constituted a risk factor. The results of both analyses can be found in .

Table I

Results of univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis of risk factors for GERD

Factor	OR	(–)95% CI	(+)95% CI	Value of p
Univariate logistic regression analysis:
Eating 1–2 meals a day	3.50	1.75	6.98	< 0.001
Eating fatty products	3. 33	0.57	19.51	0.181
Eating sweets	3.28	0.39	27.65	0.273
Eating spicy products	3.14	0.48	20.62	0.231
Eating fried products	2.59	0.82	8.13	0. 103
Drinking peppermint infusion	2.00	1.14	3.50	0.015
Eating one big meal in the evening	1.80	1.05	3.11	0.034
Drinking fruit juices	1.27	0.48	3.40	0.629
Eating sour products	1. 10	0.48	2.54	0.813
Eating fruits	1.04	0.44	2.44	0.930
Drinking alcohol	0.83	0.34	1.98	0.669
Multivariate logistic regression analysis:
Eating 1–2 meals a day	2.01	0.86	4. 67	0.104
Drinking peppermint infusion	2.00	1.08	3.70	0.027
Eating one big meal in the evening	1.59	0.79	3.20	0.195

Discussion

Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a chronic disease of multifactorial aetiology, where both environmental and genetic factors may play a role. Worldwide studies on various populations show that risk factors for GERD include age, excessive body mass, lifestyle factors (such as smoking, physical activity), and diet [4–6]. The role of diet as a risk factor for GERD has not been clarified yet and study results are contradictory.

It is commonly believed that certain eating habits, such as eating quickly and irregularly, eating big meals, eating between meals, or eating directly before sleep, may contribute to the appearance of the symptoms of this disease. However, several studies failed to confirm the influence of these habits on the occurrence/aggravation of the disease symptoms [7–10]. The present study showed no influence of regularity and speed of eating meals or eating between meals on the occurrence of GERD symptoms. However, an association was found between the low number of meals, i.e. 1–2 meals a day, and having the symptoms. Because there are no literature data on the number of meals a day eaten by the patients, we cannot compare this observation with other study results. However, according to general dietary principles, eating rarely is not a healthy habit and therefore it should be recommended, also to GERD patients, to eat more meals each day – minimum 3, and, optimally, 4 or 5 meals a day. It can be assumed that with 1–2 meals a day, each meal is larger. In this present study patients often had one large meal instead of dinner and supper, which could increase the occurrence of symptoms. This observation is in line with the biomechanical theory, according to which excessive (lasting many years) stretching of the stomach walls, e.g. due to big meals and air accumulating in the fundus of the stomach during eating, leads to weakening the mechanisms regulating the functions of lower oesophageal sphincter (LES) [11]. The association between large meals and heartburn has also been shown in papers by other authors [8, 12].

Literature sources most often list the following products as refluxogenic: products/dishes high in fat, spicy or sour, citrus fruits and juices, alliums, tomatoes and tomato juice, chocolate, coffee, beverages and products containing peppermint, carbonated beverages, and alcohol. These products cause or aggravate GERD symptoms by various mechanisms, e.g. decreasing tension of the LES, delaying stomach evacuation, stimulating sensory receptors in the oesophagus, or increasing gastric juice secretion [13–16]. In the present study, patients reported symptoms most often after consumption of the following products/dishes: fatty, fried, sour, or spicy food, fruits and sweets (mostly chocolate). Moreover, patients with GERD, more often than healthy subjects, ate tomatoes and tomato products, citrus fruits and juices, chocolate and chocolate products, and peppermint tea. Some of these products may have contributed to their complaints. Apparently, not only eating certain products, but also the frequency of eating them may play a role in causing/aggravating disease symptoms. This issue requires further research. The negative influence of some of the above-mentioned products was confirmed in a Korean study, where products such as alcohol, bakery products, carbonated beverages, and caffeine-containing products were also enumerated as refluxogenic [7]. A positive correlation between high fat intake and GERD symptoms was confirmed by the research of other authors [17, 18]. Fatty products/dishes decrease LES tension and delay stomach evacuation, which contributes to GERD symptoms [7, 8, 19–21]. Several studies failed to confirm the role of a diet high in fat in triggering the disease symptoms [15, 22–24]. Zheng et al., contrary to our study, did not confirm the influence of eating fried dishes and fruits on the occurrence and severity of GERD symptoms [5]. Sour or spicy food and sweets were denoted as causing the disease symptoms in a study by Śmiechowska and Cugowska [25]. These results were also confirmed by our study. Sour products, fruits and fruit juices – due to low pH – and spicy products/dishes – due to the presence of irritant alkaloids, such as capsaicin – stimulate mechanoreceptors in the oesophagus, which may cause unpleasant symptoms, especially if inflammatory lesions of the mucous membrane are present in the oesophagus [14, 16, 26]. Dore et al., in turn, did not confirm the association between chocolate products and the disease symptoms [9]. The present study showed that drinking peppermint infusion constitutes a risk factor for GERD. It seems, however, that this result should be interpreted with caution, because the fact that the patients had peppermint tea significantly more often might have been caused by their intent to alleviate stomach complaints and a lack of awareness that peppermint infusion may cause/intensify heartburn. Literature sources suggest that peppermint decreases LES tension; moreover, peppermint oil (studied in animal models) relaxes the smooth muscles of the alimentary tract [27, 28]. Oliveria et al. found that 8% of heartburn patients reported complaints after consuming peppermint [18]. In contrast, Terry et al. and Bulat et al. did not observe any effect of consuming products and beverages with peppermint on reflux episodes [26, 29]. This issue requires further research.

Conclusions

Taking into consideration the results of the present study pertaining to prevention of and diet therapy for GERD, it seems that patients should be recommended to eat at least 3 meals a day, preferably 4–5 meals a day, and eat dinner and supper at appropriate times instead of one, big meal in the evening. The role of frequent peppermint tea consumption in GERD development requires further studies. Nevertheless, it is advisable to inform the patients that peppermint infusion is not always a recommended method of soothing stomach complaints.

Taking into consideration the fact that study results regarding the influence of various dietary factors on the presence of the disease symptoms are often contradictory, it seems justified to develop individualised dietary recommendations for GERD patients to improve the effectiveness of diet therapy.

Acknowledgments

Financing of the study: statutory activity of the National Food and Nutrition Institute

References

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What Tea is Good for Acid Reflux?

Nothing ruins a nice meal quite like acid reflux. This common ailment – also known as heartburn – is the bane of many a life, showing up at the least opportune moments and often causing severe discomfort.

There are several treatments out there. But you want to know what Tea is good for acid reflux. Ask and you shall receive. Please keep reading the following article to find out more.

Since our founding in 1982, The Kent and Sussex Tea and Coffee Company has delivered more than Loose Tea and Fresh Coffee. We specialise in information, too, especially around the reported health benefits of Tea. B

ut most important, of course, is that once you know the facts, the infusion you desire will be available online or in-store at our Kent-based factory shop.

What is Acid Reflux?

Allow us to start at the beginning with what causes acid reflux. In other words, what does acid reflux feel like? It is best characterised as a burning pain in the lower chest area when acid in the stomach flows back up into the food pipe (oesophagus).

Certain foods and drinks can lead to it, including – unfortunately – Coffee, tomatoes, alcohol, chocolate and fatty or spicy consumables.

However, should such a feeling happen more than twice a week, it might be a sign of Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

GERD, unlike the average bout of heartburn every now and again, is a chronic condition. Between 15% and 30% of the US population currently live with it. Which prompts the question: What can you do to combat acid reflux and GERD?

How to Get Rid of Acid Reflux

When it comes to how to treat acid reflux, there are numerous factors worth considering. For starters, while eating, try going slowly and perhaps think about avoiding foods that cause you heartburn.

It is best not to go to bed on a full stomach, either, nor will drinking carbonated beverages do you much good. Losing weight and quitting smoking could also have a considerable influence.

If the problem persists, it could be time to seek medical consultation. You might find that particular prescriptions such as antidepressants and anti-inflammatory painkillers exacerbate symptoms of acid reflux.

Doctors and other health professionals are best equipped to recommend lifestyle changes, so be sure to listen to them first and foremost. But if all else fails, there is one more option.

What to Drink for Acid Reflux

Frequently consuming Tea, often regardless of the type, has a close association with improved heart health, boosted immunity, lower dementia risks and promoted weight loss.

From fighting insomnia to treating allergies, your morning cuppa can be a remarkable thing. However, you’re reading our blog because you want to know what Tea is good for acid reflux. Let’s get to it.

Is Green Tea Good for Acid Reflux?

This infusion comes from the Camellia sinensis (Tea) plant, similar to Black, White and Oolong, and has become increasingly popular due to its well-documented health benefits.

Your most pressing question right now, though, is, “Can I drink Green Tea with acid reflux?” It’s complicated. The reason is its caffeine content, which could make matters worse instead of better.

Caffeine is a stimulating chemical compound that so many of us need to start our days the right way. The more processed the Tea is, the more caffeine it contains.

While Green Tea is the second least processed variety and, therefore, has only a small amount of caffeine, it could still be enough to trigger heartburn symptoms. The bottom line is that you’d do well to seek out Herbal Tea alternatives.

Is Ginger Tea Good for Acid Reflux?

One such Herbal Tea that is bound to aid digestion is Ginger Root. Once recommended by the great Confucius, modern science has since established that its phenolic compounds relieve gastrointestinal irritation through their anti-inflammatory properties.

Should you want to know how to make Ginger Tea for acid reflux, all you’ll need are the root pieces with a Tea Infuser or Filter.

Is Camomile Tea Good for Acid Reflux?

Camomile Tea, a floral delight from start to finish, is another excellent choice of Herbal Tea for acid reflux. Despite being most famous for improving sleeping patterns, it likewise has calmative properties capable of soothing digestion.

Like Ginger Tea, it eases inflammation in the gastrointestinal system. This is in addition to it potentially combating flatulence, diarrhoea, nausea and vomiting.

Is Peppermint Tea Good for Acid Reflux?

Can Peppermint Tea help acid reflux? Sadly, it appears to be one of those rare exceptions to the Herbal Tea rule. Preliminary evidence indicates that it could trigger heartburn rather than relieve it.

There is a bright side, however, as what it lacks in this department, it makes up for elsewhere. Correlations exist between drinking Peppermint Tea and reduced bloating, anxiety and acne breakouts.

Is Fennel Tea Good for Acid Reflux?

Finally, we shall look into Fennel Tea for acid reflux. Best known for its aniseed flavour, it is low in acid and might (emphasis on “might”) treat mild heartburn. But it could also be a mixed bag.

This is because, according to research, Fennel Tea promotes acid secretion in the body, which could then have the opposite effect. Maybe consume it instead for bloating, IBS, or coughs and colds?

Summary to What Tea is Good for Acid Reflux

Green Tea and its caffeinated counterparts could hinder rather than help in the fight against acid reflux. The same is true of Peppermint Tea, while Fennel Tea is a hit-or-miss affair.

That leaves Ginger Root and Camomile Tea as your best options. These you can buy and try with The Kent and Sussex Tea and Coffee Company, where everything is packed fresh to order.

3 Caffeine-Free Teas to Ease Symptoms

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If you are living with acid reflux, you may be avoiding caffeinated beverages such as coffee and tea to avoid reflux symptoms. While some people attribute worsening acid reflux symptoms to caffeine consumption, research has been unable to definitively link drinking coffee and tea to causing acid reflux. In fact, according to a study of public health survey data involving more than 40,000 people in Norway published in Gut, researchers found that drinking tea does not affect the risk of acid reflux. HealthCentral compiled this list of three caffeine-free teas to enjoy that may even help ease your reflux symptoms.

1. Chamomile tea

Chamomile is the common name for several daisy-like plants. It has been used for centuries as a medicinal herb. Some research has found that products containing certain herbal combinations that include chamomile may be beneficial for an upset stomach and may decrease stomach acidity. Those who are allergic to ragweed and daisies, however, may want to avoid or carefully introduce chamomile tea into their diet.

2. Licorice tea

Licorice tea may also prove helpful for acid reflux. For years, the herb licorice has been credited with easing stomach pain. Licorice may help in the treatment of indigestion and ulcers, according to a 2016 study in the Brazilian Journal of Infectious Diseases. Licorice tea is one way to ingest licorice, but it is important to note whether the tea is just licorice flavored or made from the actual licorice root. While there may be great benefits to licorice, check with your doctor if you are pregnant or are taking prescription medication, as licorice can cause health problems for some people.

3. Ginger tea

Ginger has long been used to treat nausea and other stomach disorders. Ginger tea can be made simply by pouring boiling water over 1 teaspoon of grated ginger root, then straining out the ginger before drinking. A teaspoon of maple syrup can be added if the ginger is too strong of a taste. Ginger has been considered to be a safe herbal medicine with few side effects, according to a research review published in the Journal of Food and Chemical Toxicology.

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5 health benefits of peppermint tea

What is peppermint tea?

Peppermint tea is made by infusing peppermint leaves in hot water. You can also make spearmint tea using spearmint leaves.

Peppermint leaves contain several essential oils that are released when steeped in hot water, including menthol, menthone and limonene. Collectively, these give peppermint tea its refreshing, cooling, minty taste.

Peppermint tea can be made using fresh leaves, dried loose leaves, or teabags.  In teabags, peppermint may be mixed with other flavours, such as liquorice or fruit. It’s naturally caffeine-free, so you can drink it as often as you like.

Discover our full range of health benefit guides and get some more healthy tea inspiration. If you love mint, why not try our fresh mint tea?

Does peppermint tea have any nutritional value?

There is no nutritional value in terms of macronutrients in peppermint tea, and it only has around two calories per 100ml. Its value is in the essential oils and the potential health benefits they present.

What are the 5 main health benefits of peppermint tea?

1. May ease bloating and indigestion

Peppermint tea is well-known for its digestive effects as some people, anecdotally, find it can help relieve symptoms such as gas and bloating. As yet, there isn’t a lot of human research on the efficacy of peppermint tea, but some animal studies do show that it can have a relaxing effective on the digestive system.

Most research has been on peppermint oil, which is more concentrated than tea, with some evidence that it may offer some short-term relief for IBS sufferers. If you’re considering using peppermint oil or tea to manage IBS symptoms, speak to your GP first to ensure that it is suitable for you.

2. Caffeine-free

Pure peppermint tea is caffeine-free. If you are buying a blend of peppermint tea with either black or green tea, then this will contain caffeine.

3. Sleep-friendly

There is no research that supports claims that peppermint tea can help with sleep, but as it is caffeine-free it is completely fine to drink before bed and may help you relax.

4. May support fresher breath

Peppermint is widely used in chewing gum, mints and toothpaste to freshen breath, and thanks to its natural antibacterial properties it may help to prevent bad breath.

5. May help with a blocked nose

While drinking peppermint tea won’t get rid of the cold itself, the menthol smell of the mint together with the steam from the tea may help improve nasal airflow if you have a blocked nose.

Are there any side effects to drinking peppermint tea?

There is some evidence that peppermint tea may not be suitable for those who have GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) as it may in fact exacerbate symptoms rather than offer relief. If you struggle with heartburn, or have a hiatus hernia or kidney stones, it may be prudent to avoid peppermint tea too, as while no adverse reactions have been found, it may, in some, make symptoms worse.

Some people are allergic to mint. The leaves themselves may cause irritation of the skin or eyes, such as itching and hives. If peppermint tea is consumed, then symptoms of a reaction usually occur within minutes, and may include an itchy tongue or throat, wheezing or a cough. In rare cases, this reaction can be severe and is a medical emergency.

Visit the NHS website to read more about allergies.

Can you drink too much peppermint tea?

Not really. The only side effect that you may experience would be the need for more frequent trips to the bathroom from the increased water intake.

How to buy the best peppermint tea

If you’d like to make peppermint tea using fresh leaves, you can buy a peppermint plant for your garden and cut off the fresh leaves, or buy packets of fresh leaves from a supermarket, and add to hot water. Alternatively, you can buy loose-leaf tea or teabags, which will be dried peppermint.

Check the labels to make sure it’s 100% peppermint, and ideally if you’re buying teabags, make sure the bags are plastic-free and where possible, biodegradable.

Keep all dried tea in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.

Enjoyed this? Now read…

The health benefits of green tea
The health benefits of kombucha
The health benefits of lemon water
The health benefits of kefir

This article was published on 29 April 2020.

Nicola Shubrook is a nutritional therapist and works with both private clients and the corporate sector. She is an accredited member of the British Association for Nutrition and Lifestyle Medicine (BANT) and the Complementary & Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC). Find out more at urbanwellness.co.uk.

All health content on bbcgoodfood.com is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other healthcare professional. If you have any concerns about your general health, you should contact your local healthcare provider. See our website terms and conditions for more information.

Herbal Tea for Acid Reflux

Cup of chamomile tea

Image Credit: VikkiePix/iStock/Getty Images

When chronic acid reflux becomes a problem, switching from traditional tea or coffee to caffeine-free herbal teas may help reduce heartburn and other symptoms. Tea made from the Camellia sinensis leaves – which includes “black” and green tea – and coffee both contain caffeine and other substances that can aggravate acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. Herbal teas may offer more than just a neutral alternative. Some have properties that might actually help soothe acid reflux symptoms.

Chamomile Tea

Perhaps one of the best-known natural remedies for digestive trouble, chamomile has a centuries-old history as a versatile medicinal herb. A member of the daisy family, it has also been used for a variety of gastrointestinal conditions and is thought to be effective for calming the stomach, dispelling gas and soothing other conditions likely to accompany acid reflux. There are preliminary indications that chamomile could have antiinflammatory properties similar to certain nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs. That, combined with its long-trusted use in easing indigestion, makes it a good bet for acid reflux. A small percentage of people may have allergic reactions to chamomile.

Licorice Tea

The medicinal or folk use of licorice root is also ancient. Many curative properties are attributed to the root. Historically it has been administered as a cough medicine, laxative, sedative and even an antibiotic. In Europe, one of its more popular historic folk uses has been to promote healing of gastric ulcers. Licorice has also been shown to reduce stomach acid and is known for its antiinflammatory effect of stimulating the production of cortisol, the body’s own natural antiinflammatory steroid. In an animal study, licorice was shown to be as effective as famotidine (Pepcid) in protecting against ulcers and as effective as a certain nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug in reducing inflammation. Prolonged use of licorice root can cause fluid retention and high blood pressure. However, a special preparation called deglycyrrhizinated licorice, called DGL, is free from these side effects.

Ginger Tea

Sometimes people with acid reflux or indigestion have some nausea along with their other symptoms. Ginger has properties that may be helpful for nausea, leading to its use for morning sickness and nausea associated with chemotherapy and some types of surgery. Ginger’s anti-nausea effects aren’t completely understood, but compounds in ginger may work through serotonin receptors, perhaps acting directly on the gastrointestinal system and the central nervous system. Another theory about ginger’s activity relates to what’s known as gastric emptying. Slow gastric emptying can worsen acid reflux in some people. The longer it takes food to empty from the stomach into the intestines, the more opportunity lingering stomach contents have to cause problems such as acid reflux. Some evidence supports the idea that ginger may help the stomach to empty in a more timely fashion, but it’s unknown for sure whether ginger tea has this effect.

Teas to Avoid

Although mint tea has many properties that aid digestion, mint also has properties that can loosen the lower esophageal sphincter, which is the muscular valve that closes to keep stomach contents from leaking into the esophagus. That’s bad for acid reflux. The same goes for yerba mate, which also contains caffeine.

Considerations

When it comes to dietary intake and acid reflux symptoms, people tend to be highly individual in terms of what helps and what hinders. There is increasing scientific interest in herbal medicine; however, the lack of standardization of herbal ingredients limits the conclusions that can be drawn about particular preparations. Many herbs have always been valued for their medicinal properties. On the other hand, many herbs are unknown quantities to modern science, having potential for drug interactions and other untoward effects. Herbal tea is not a magic cure for acid reflux, but swapping out the coffee or caffeinated beverages for a soothing herbal tea is something you can try easily, and it may even help ease your symptoms.

Medical advisor: Jonathan E. Aviv, M.D., FACS

Brew a cup of peppermint tea to beat indigestion

Did you try peppermint tea to relieve indigestion? If not, try now!

Written by Tania Tarafdar | Updated : October 8, 2015 6:44 PM IST

You may have tried having saunf or fennel seeds for better digestion. But if indigestion and heartburn are keeping you up all night, you should consider drinking the very mild and refreshing peppermint tea. The herbal tea is well known for its properties to soothe the stomach and promote digestion. The tea is very useful in reducing flatulence and indigestion.

Here s how it helps:

• The herbal tea improves the flow of bile and calms the muscles in your stomach, allowing the food to pass quickly through the stomach[1]. The volatile oils in peppermint tea stimulate the gall bladder to release bile that your body needs to digest fats.
• The tea can also help flush out the toxins from your digestive system and seems to have a detoxifying effect on the liver[2]. A well-functioning liver is vital to your digestive health.
• According to a study published in the Maryland Medical centre, peppermint tea has calming properties that can relieve discomfort in the stomach resulting from indigestion, flatulence and gas.
• Further, it also has antispasmodic properties that can help relieve cramps in the gastrointestinal tract[3].

Here s how you can brew this herbal tea:

• Put two tablespoons of dried peppermint leaves in boiling water.
• Allow it to steep for 15-20 minutes before you strain.
• To enhance its taste, you can add some lemon juice and enjoy your hot cup of tea.
• Word of caution:
• It may not be a good idea to drink peppermint tea if you suffer from acid reflux.
• Always consult your doctor before you start drinking this herbal tea.

You may also like to read:

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For more articles on diet, visit our diet section. For daily free health tips, sign up for our newsletter. For health related queries visit our Q&A section.

References:

[1] McKay DL, Blumberg JB. A review of the bioactivity and potential health benefits of peppermint tea (Mentha piperita L. ). Phytother Res. 2006 Aug;20(8):619-33. Review. PubMed PMID: 16767798.
[2] Kessenich CR, Higgs D. Herbal tea components and liver function. Nurse Pract. 2010 Aug;35(8):10-1. doi: 10.1097/01.NPR.0000383952.94594.56. PubMed PMID:20644443.
[3] Riachi LG, Abi-Zaid IE, Moreira RF, De Maria CA. Volatile composition ofpeppermint (Mentha piperita L.) commercial teas through solid phase extraction.Arch Latinoam Nutr. 2012 Dec;62(4):389-92. Erratum in: Arch Latinoam Nutr. 2013 Mar;63(1):98. PubMed PMID: 24020260.

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90,000 What tea helps with what?

Fifteen years ago, everyone drank mainly black tea, well, sometimes green tea could be found, and that was all. And now in stores there is such a variety of teas and tea drinks that their eyes run wide.

Photo: Rudy and Peter Skitterians / Pixabay

But tea is not just a drink, it is a very useful remedy for various health problems. In addition, tea is a natural stimulant as it contains caffeine.

What tea helps with what? Let’s figure it out.

Chamomile tea – for restful sleep

Chamomile tea has a calming effect, does not contain caffeine and is rich in the bioflavonoid apigenin, which reduces stress and promotes restful sleep.

Mint tea – for digestion

If you suffer from irritable bowel symptoms – abdominal pain, bloating, flatulence and other “joys” – peppermint tea can help you. It is effective against any intestinal disturbance, but should not be taken on an ongoing basis as it can worsen acid reflux – heartburn.

Ginger tea – for nausea and heartburn

Warm ginger tea is a real salvation on the road if you are constantly sick. Pregnant women suffering from toxicosis can also take it to relieve the condition. And just for nausea and / or heartburn – drink ginger tea, you can even with honey.

Matcha green tea – anti aging

This trendy powdered tea contains a huge amount of powerful antioxidant substances that scavenge free radicals. What free radicals are and why they cause a range of health problems, from premature aging to cancer, we wrote here, be sure to read. The amount of antioxidants in matcha is about a hundred times higher than in other green teas. But like all green teas, it contains caffeine, so be careful about taking it at night.

Black tea – for bone health

The most popular drink in the world of tea, known to everyone from an early age, turns out to be great for strengthening bones, especially in the elderly, whose bones become thinner with age.Experts attribute this effect to certain flavonoids in black tea.

Green tea – for energy

If you do not like coffee, but need an extra burst of energy on a working noon, drink green tea. It doesn’t have as much caffeine as coffee, but significantly more than black tea. By opting for green tea instead of coffee, which irritates the intestinal walls, you fuel your body with antioxidant substances that prolong youth and reduce bad blood cholesterol levels. Isn’t that wonderful?

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See also: Is it possible to brew tea in twice boiled water?

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All facts from the section “Food”

90,000 What types of herbs are there for acid reflux?

As of 2011, there is a trend towards more natural supplements and solutions to everyday health problems, including acid reflux.Sometimes called heartburn, acid reflux occurs when stomach acid rises up the esophagus, creating a burning sensation in the throat and chest. Certain factors, such as diet, weight, or pregnancy, usually increase the likelihood of acid reflux. There are many different types of acid reflux herbs that help in alleviating and ameliorating various symptoms. Popular dishes include fennel, aloe vera, ginger, and mint.

Fennel helps to calm and relax the muscles of the stomach and esophagus.This helps to reduce the likelihood of muscle twitching, which can lead to acid reversal. It is commonly used as a food additive, in the form of tea, or even in tablet form. The herb is becoming increasingly popular for treating acid reflux.

Aloe Vera is one of the acid reflux herbs that many consider to be the most effective. In fact, several people claim that this is the traditional use of aloe vera. Calms the entire digestive system and helps prevent irritation and inflammation.This herb can be taken in gel or juice form. Approximately 2 tablespoons of the gel form is recommended every day for better reflux prevention.

The properties of ginger make it one of the desirable herbs for acid reflux as it soothes the stomach and absorbs some of the acid in the stomach, greatly reducing the chances of getting acid reflux. It is also anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial, making it a widely used herb. However, there is some controversy over its use because it is easy to consume too much ginger, which can worsen acid reflux symptoms.

Another popular, but controversial, herb for acid reflux is mint. It improves the flow of bile into the intestines and soothes the stomach muscles, which makes digestion easier and reduces the likelihood of reflux. Many doctors warn that if a person has a chronic acid reflex or gastrointestinal reflux disease (GERD), then peppermint should not be used. This is because peppermint also relaxes the sphincter, which increases the likelihood of acid entering the esophagus.

While taking herbs for acid reflux may seem like a safe and natural way to treat discomfort, there are a few caveats to take into account. Herbs can interact with each other or with over-the-counter and prescribed drugs, rendering them ineffective or even fatal. They can also cause unwanted side effects. It is recommended that you discuss this with your healthcare professional before taking any herbal remedy.

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90,000 Benefits of Tea for Cancer | addon.life

Highlights

Tea has strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and has many health benefits. Several laboratory studies have also suggested possible benefits of various types of tea, including green tea, black tea, ginger tea, and hibiscus tea, for cancer prevention. Many of these studies need to be done in humans to confirm these benefits.While green tea has been found to reduce breast cancer recurrence, laboratory research has also shown that epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a key compound found in green tea, may reduce the effectiveness of radiation therapy on prostate cancer cells. Hence, a personalized meal plan is needed to help find the right foods and supplements that complement, rather than interfere with, a particular cancer treatment.

Tea is one of the most popular drinks all over the world.It has various health benefits with various medicinal and preventive properties. Hence, drinking a cup of tea daily is considered healthy. The different types of teas can be divided into 2 categories:

1. Non-herbal tea
2. Herbal tea

Non-herbal tea

Non-herbal tea is made from leaves Camellia Sinensis plant. There are three common types of non-herbal tea, depending on the degree of processing or fermentation of the tea leaves:

• Green Tea
• Black Tea and
• Oolong Tea

Various drying and fermentation processes determine the chemical composition of these teas. All three forms of non-herbal tea contain antioxidants and caffeine in varying concentrations.

Green tea is made from young fresh tea leaves and is not fermented. It is usually steamed or fried in a pan. Frying the pan is done to prevent the tea leaves from fermenting by natural enzymes.

Black tea is made by letting the tea leaves ferment for several hours before being exposed to smoke, fire, or steaming.It is obtained by oxidizing tea leaves in air. During oxidation, the leaves turn dark brown and the flavor intensifies. These leaves are then left as such or heated, dried and crushed.

Oolong tea is obtained by partial oxidation of the leaves. Produced primarily in the Chinese province of Fujian. In terms of oxidation state, it is between green and black tea.

Herbal tea

Herbal teas are generally made from herbs, berries / fruits, seeds, flowers, leaves or roots of various plant species soaked in hot water.Depending on the plant used to make the tea, the chemical composition of herbal teas also varies. Herbal teas have a lower concentration of antioxidants than green, black, and oolong teas. They usually do not contain caffeine. Here are some examples of herbal tea:

• Ginger Tea
• Chamomile Tea
• Hibiscus Tea
• Mint Tea
• Lemon Balm Tea

Food Ingredients and Health Benefits

Let’s now take a closer look at the active food ingredients and health benefits of some of these herbal and non-herbal teas!

Green tea

Drinking green tea regularly is believed to help cope with numerous health problems.The various chemical constituents present in green tea include polyphenols, alkaloids, amino acids, proteins, volatiles, vitamins, minerals, and trace elements.

Green tea contains polyphenols called catechins. The main active constituents of green tea are catechins. A cup of green tea usually contains 30–42% catechins and 3–6% caffeine.

There are four types of catechins, which include:

• Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG)
• Epigallocatechin (EGC)
• Epicatechin-3-gallate (ECG) and
• Epicatechin (EC)

Among the catechins listed above, epigallocatechin-3-gallate is also known as EGC , is one of the most abundant polyphenols found in green tea, as well as oolong tea and black tea. The anti-cancer properties of green tea can be attributed to EGCG. Most of the research on the possible use of tea for cancer prevention has focused on this active ingredient. EGCG also has strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Green tea also contains flavonols such as:

• Quercetin
• Kempferol
• Miricitin

General Health Benefits of Green Tea

Green tea is rich in antioxidants and has many health benefits.Some of the common health benefits of drinking green tea are listed below:

• Helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease
• Helps improve brain function
• Helps reduce the risk of neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
• Helps with weight loss
• Helps reduce tooth decay and tooth decay
• Helps in burning fat and reducing obesity.
• Helps Reduce Diabetes Risk

Since green tea is rich in EGCG, many observational studies have been conducted to evaluate the effect of green tea consumption on cancer prevention. Some of the studies that have examined the role of green tea or its constituent EGCG in cancer control or cancer prevention are summarized below.

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Benefits of green tea in the prevention / treatment of cancer

Green tea consumption and relapse rate / incidence of breast cancer

Is green tea good for breast cancer? Proven Individual Eating Methods

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A study by medical scientists from the University of Perugia in Italy based on data from 163,810 2018 people showed that increased consumption of green tea significantly reduces the risk of breast cancer recurrence.However, its impact on reducing breast cancer incidence was inconclusive. (Gianfredi V. et al., Nutrients., XNUMX)

In a similar study, researchers from Mashhad University of Health Sciences in Iran analyzed data from 14 studies that included 9 case-control studies, 4 cohort studies and 1 clinical trial. They found that in case-control studies, women who received the highest levels of green tea had a 19% reduction in breast cancer risk compared with those who received the lowest levels of green tea.However, data from clinical trials showed that green tea consumption did not affect mammographic / breast density compared to controls. Therefore, the overall conclusion of this group about the possibility of reducing the risk of breast cancer with green tea was inconclusive. (Najaf Najafi M. et al., Phytother Res., 2018)

In another study by scientists from China, researchers analyzed data from 14,058 2019 breast cancer patients and found that green tea consumption could reduce the risk of cancer.However, researchers have proposed more well-designed trials to clarify the protective link between green tea consumption and breast cancer incidence (Yu S et al, Medicine (Baltimore), XNUMX).

In short, some observational studies suggest that green tea consumption may be associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer recurrence. However, more sophisticated clinical studies are needed to confirm a protective link between green tea consumption and breast cancer incidence.

Green tea consumption and risk of prostate cancer

Researchers analyzed personal data from the JPHC study (a prospective study at the Japan Public Health Center) of 49,920 40 men aged 69–2008 and found that green tea consumption was not associated with localized prostate cancer. However, green tea consumption has been associated with a dose-dependent reduction in the risk of advanced prostate cancer. (Kurahashi N.et al., Am J Epidemiol., XNUMX g.)

Thus, the results indicate that green tea consumption may be associated with a reduced risk of advanced prostate cancer.

At the same time, laboratory research has shown that green tea extract (epigallocatechin-3-gallate – EGCG) may reduce the effectiveness of radiation therapy on prostate cancer cells. (Francis Thomas et al., Urology., 2011) Therefore, you should consult your oncologist before taking EGCG supplements during radiation therapy for prostate cancer.

Green tea consumption and the risk of colorectal cancer

In a recent study, researchers performed a meta-analysis of data from 29 literatures extracted from Pubmed and Embase databases, involving a total of 1,642,007 2017 subjects and found that green tea consumption may have a protective effect in women and colorectal cancer patients … (Chen Y et al., Oncotarget., XNUMX)

In another study, researchers conducted a meta-analysis of six prospective cohort studies with 352,275 1 participants and found that an increase in consumption of green tea by 2012 cups per day did not affect the incidence of colorectal cancer.(Wang Zhu et al, Nutr Cancer., XNUMX)

The researchers concluded that the available data from prospective cohort studies are insufficient to conclude that green tea may protect against colorectal cancer.

Green tea consumption and ovarian cancer risk

A recent study using data from a comprehensive literature search up to May 14, 2017 using electronic databases such as PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science and Scopus found that green tea consumption may be associated with a reduced risk of ovarian cancer. (Zhang D. et al., Carcinogenesis., 2018)

In short, unlike black tea, the consumption of green tea can reduce the risk of ovarian cancer. However, more well-designed clinical trials are required to confirm this.

Green tea consumption and the risk of liver cancer

A recent meta-analysis used data from 10 studies, including 6 cohort and 4 case-control studies, based on literature searches in PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Database, and Chinese databases, including the China Biomedicine Database and the China National Knowledge Infrastructure Database (CNKI ) until April.29, 2015. Study found that those who consume more green tea ((≥5 cups per day) had a 38% lower risk of liver cancer (preventive effect) compared to non-drinkers (Ni CX et al., Nutr Cancer ., 2017)

EGCG supplement for radiation esophagitis / difficulty swallowing

In a Phase II clinical study conducted by the Shandong Cancer Hospital and Shandong Institute in China, an analysis of data from a total of 51 patients showed that EGCG supplementation reduced esophagitis / swallowing difficulties in patients with esophageal cancer without adversely affecting the efficacy of radiation therapy.(Xiaoling Li et al, Journal of Medicinal Food, 2019).

Thus, consumption of green tea may have a protective association against several specific types of cancer, but more research is needed to confirm the same. Research also confirms that it may help reduce some of the side effects of specific cancer treatments.

Black tea

Black tea is the most widespread tea in the world. According to statistics from the United States Tea Association, in 2019, about 84% of the tea consumed in the United States was black tea, 15% was green tea, and only a small amount was oolong tea.Black tea has a high caffeine content compared to other teas and therefore can be used as an alternative coffee drink.

Key active ingredients of black tea:

• Thearubigins
• Theaflavins
• Flavonols and
• Catechins

During the fermentation of fresh tea leaves, some catechins are oxidized to theaflavins, including theaflavin, theaflavin-3-gallate, theaflavin-3′-gallate and theaflavin-3-3 ‘ -digallate and thearubigins.They impart a bitter taste to black tea. The thearubigins and theaflavins also obtain the dark color of black tea.

Now let’s take a look at the nutritional and health benefits of black tea.

Overall health benefits of black tea

Like green tea, black tea also contains antioxidants and has similar health benefits. Some of the health benefits of black tea are listed below:

• Helps reduce the risk of stroke
• Helps reduce inflammation in the body
• Helps improve cardiovascular / heart health
• Helps improve gum and dental health
• Helps lower blood pressure
• Helps reduce diabetes / lower blood sugar

Unlike green tea, a limited number of human studies have been conducted on regular consumption of black tea to demonstrate its anti-cancer / chemopreventive potential.Some of these studies are summarized below.

Benefits of consuming black tea in the prevention / treatment of cancer

Black tea consumption and breast cancer risk

A recent analysis used data from the Sister Study, a prospective cohort study sponsored by the National Institute of Environmental Health (NIEHS) that enrolled 45,744 35 women aged 74 to 2003 in the United States and Puerto Rico from 2009 to 2019. A study found that drinking about five cups of green or black tea per week may be associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer.(Zhang D. et al., Int J Cancer., XNUMX)

Due to inconsistencies in the analysis of various observational studies, more clinical studies are needed to confirm a protective link between black tea consumption and breast cancer risk.

Drinking black tea and the risk of ovarian cancer

A recent study used comprehensive literature search data up to May 14, 2017 using electronic databases such as PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Scopus and found that black tea consumption did not have a significant effect on ovarian cancer risk.(Zhang D. et al., Carcinogenesis., 2018)

Black tea consumption and esophageal cancer

In a recent analysis, researchers conducted a population-based case-control study in a high-risk area for squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus in China and used the data from the questionnaire for analysis and found that drinking very hot tea> 65 ° C was significant. are associated with an increased risk of squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus compared with abstainers. The study also found that regardless of the frequency, intensity, and amount of tea leaves, consumption of black tea was significantly associated with a higher risk of esophageal cancer.(Lin S. et al., Eur J Cancer Prev., 2020)

Black tea consumption and risk of colorectal cancer

There are various studies and evidence from in vitro and animal models that suggest black tea is a potential chemopreventive agent against rectal cancer. However, the results of 20 separate observational studies are inconsistent. Hence, the link between black tea consumption and the risk of colorectal cancer is inconclusive.(Kang-Lan San et al., Carcinogenesis, 2006)

Thus, human studies conducted to date have not shown any significant evidence to support a protective association / benefit of black tea consumption for cancer prevention, although in vitro and in vivo studies have suggested possible anti-cancer effects / benefits of black tea. More research is needed to establish the cancer prevention benefits of black tea.

Ginger tea

Ginger is one of the most popular spices used in Asian countries.Ginger tea is an herbal tea that is prepared by boiling aromatic ginger root in water for at least 10 minutes. Ginger has many health benefits due to its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-cancer properties. The health benefits of ginger tea are mainly related to its polyphenols.

Key polyphenols of ginger tea include:

• Gingerols
• Shogaols and
• Catechins

Gingerols are the main polyphenols in fresh ginger.Examples: 6-gingerol, 8-gingerol, and 10-gingerol.

Gingerols are converted into shogaols during long-term storage or heat treatment.

After hydrogenation, shogaols turn into paradols.

Other phenolic compounds found in ginger are quercetin, zingerone, gingerenone-A, and 6-dehydroingerdione.

The terpene components found in ginger include:

• β-bisabolic
• α-curcumen
• Zingiberene
• α-farnesene
• beta-sesquifellandrene

Ginger also contains polysaccharides, lipids, organic acids and raw fibers.

Overall Health Benefits of Ginger Tea

Ginger tea is known to have many health benefits due to its strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Some of the common health benefits associated with ginger tea include:

• Antioxidant activity
• Antiemetic effect – helps to reduce nausea and vomiting, as well as motion sickness.
• Anti-inflammatory – helps with pain and inflammation
• Gastroprotective effect – helps to reduce the risk of stomach ulcers, helps relieve stomach pain, helps to reduce gas and bloating.
• Antidiabetic activity – may help lower blood sugar
• Helps reduce osteoarthritis pain
• Helps with digestion
• Helps improve blood circulation
• Antimicrobial activity against gum bacteria
• Helps treat colds or flu

Benefits of ginger tea in the prevention and treatment of cancer

Consumption of ginger tea and nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy in cancer patients

A systematic review was conducted in 2019 that analyzed a total of 18 articles to assess any potential benefit of ginger for adults undergoing chemotherapy for vomiting and nausea.Although the researchers were unable to find the ideal dose of ginger to be given to patients due to clinical heterogeneity between all trials, they concluded that adding ginger in combination with standard antiemetics may be beneficial for chemotherapy-induced and chemotherapy-induced vomiting. caused by the consequences of nausea and vomiting. (Crichton M. et al., J Acad Nutr Diet. 2019)

Consumption of ginger tea and cancer prevention / treatment

Many in vitro, in vivo, and several clinical studies indicate that ginger has potential for the prevention and treatment of various types of gastrointestinal cancers, including stomach cancer, pancreatic cancer, liver cancer, colorectal cancer, and cholangiocarcinoma.(Prasad S et al, Gastroenterol Res Pract., 2015)

Thus, ginger tea is beneficial because of its many health benefits. These health benefits can be attributed to the polyphenols present in ginger tea. However, drinking too much ginger tea can cause stomach upset and lead to loose stools. When taking anticoagulants and antiplatelet agents, ginger tea should be avoided as it can slow blood clotting. Ginger tea should also be avoided if we have heartburn and acid reflux.

Hibiscus tea

Hibiscus tea is another herbal tea made from Hibiscus sabdariffa plant. This is usually done by soaking flowers and other parts of the hibiscus in boiling water. Key active ingredients of hibiscus / tea extract include:

• Anthocyanins such as delphinidin-3-glucoside, sambubioside and cyanidin-3-sambubioside.
• Sterols such as β-sitoesterol and ergoesterol.
• Flavonoids such as gossipetine, hibiscetin and their corresponding glycosides; Protocatechuic acid, eugenol

Delphinidin-3-sambubioside is the main source of the antioxidant properties of hibiscus extract.Leaves Hibiscus sabdariffa Plants are a good source of various nutrients such as protein, fat, carbohydrates, phosphorus, iron, β-carotene, riboflavin and ascorbic acid. They contain high levels of polyphenolic compounds such as chlorogenic acid, quercetin, and kaempferol glycosides, which also contribute to antioxidant capacity and anti-inflammatory activity.

Overall health benefits of hibiscus tea

Various studies have shown that hibiscus tea has many health benefits.Some of the benefits of drinking hibiscus tea are listed below:

• Helps lower blood pressure
• Helps fight bacteria
• Helps in weight loss

Some in vitro and in vivo studies suggest antimicrobial effects of hibiscus tea, but there is no human study to establish these health benefits.

Benefits of hibiscus tea in the prevention and treatment of cancer

Various in vitro and in vivo studies have evaluated the potential benefits of hibiscus tea for cancer and their results indicate that hibiscus extracts can inhibit the growth of cancer cells in cancers including breast cancer, leukemia, and melanoma / skin cancer.Recent research has also shown that hibiscus polyphenols can inhibit the growth and vitality of melanoma cells. (Goldberg K.H. et al., J Tradit Complement Med. 2016)

However, while these results look promising, further well-designed human trials are needed to establish any possible benefits of hibiscus tea in cancer prevention / treatment.

Conclusion

Thus, tea has many health benefits, and drinking a cup of tea daily is considered beneficial for health.Several in vitro and in vivo studies also suggest possible benefits of taking different types of tea, including green tea, black tea, ginger tea, and hibiscus tea, in preventing cancer or reducing the side effects of cancer treatments. However, many of these results and benefits, especially for black tea, ginger tea, and hibiscus tea, have yet to be confirmed in human trials.

What food you eat and what supplements you take is your decision. Your decision should include consideration of cancer gene mutations, type of cancer, ongoing treatments and supplements, any allergies, lifestyle information, weight, height, and habits.

Nutrition planning for cancer from the add-on is not based on Internet searches. It automates the molecular science decision making process implemented by our scientists and software developers. Whether you want to understand the underlying biochemical molecular pathways or not, this understanding is essential for cancer nutrition planning.

Get started NOW with meal planning by answering questions about cancer name, genetic mutations, current treatments and supplements, any allergies, habits, lifestyle, age group and gender.

Foods to Eat After Cancer Diagnosis!

No two cancers are the same. Go beyond general dietary guidelines for everyone and make individual decisions about food and supplements with confidence.

Cancer patients often have to deal with various side effects of chemotherapy that affect their quality of life and are looking for alternative cancer treatments. Proper nutrition and scientific supplementation (avoiding guesswork and random selection) is the best natural remedy for cancer and treatment-related side effects.

How to Use Peppermint Essential Oil to Fight Headaches

Peppermint essential oil has earned its fame primarily for its fabulous refreshing scent used in chewing gum, candles and toothpaste. And yet, peppermint oil also has a number of medicinal properties. Mint affects the body as a sedative and provides mental relief, therefore it is often used to treat depression, anxiety, stress, various neuroses and, finally, headaches.

You will need :
– natural mint tea,
– mint essential oil,
– extra virgin olive oil (cold pressed).

1. Take a mint tea break. And while the healing effect of this tea is mainly on the internal, physical source of the problem, simply inhaling the healing scent while drinking a cup of hot tea will help ease the headache in a slightly different way. Soak a bag of natural mint tea in boiling water for 10-15 minutes, keeping the mug closed, then sweeten the tea as desired.An analogue is, of course, washed fresh or properly dried mint leaves (just do not hold simple black tea for 10 minutes in this case – it will naturally turn out too strong).

2. Make your own healing peppermint massage oil, which you can then apply topically to relieve headaches. Mix equal parts peppermint essential oil and extra virgin olive oil, then massage gently into temples, cheekbones and the back of your neck.Do not wipe off leftover oil with a tissue when finished: let it soak completely into your skin.

3. Use the mint steam treatment, especially if the headache is caused by increased sinus pressure. Boil water in a small ladle or saucepan, remove from heat, add 10 drops of peppermint essential oil. Place a towel over your head, the edges of which should evenly cover the bucket, bend over the steam and inhale deeply for 10 minutes. Expansion of blood vessels from heat will also help get rid of the problem.ATTENTION: steam baths are prohibited with rosace.

4. The most pleasant way is to relax in a warm (! Not hot) bath with mint oil: this will relieve muscle tension and, of course, you will again inhale the healing mint vapors, thus significantly relieving headaches. Add 10-15 drops of essential oil to the bath, then soak for 15-20 minutes.

Additions and Warnings :

1. Remember that peppermint oil, commonly used in cooking, and essential peppermint oil are two completely different products.For treatment, always buy only the second and keep it in a cool, dark place.

2. If you are diagnosed or suspected of hiatal hernia, acid reflux, gallbladder problems, or you are pregnant or breastfeeding, peppermint oil should not be taken internally!

8 Natural Remedies for Heartburn and Acid Reflux | Cooks

Portrait of a senior African American couple outdoors, showing their affection in the bright sunlight.The man is sitting in a wheelchair, in the warm embrace of his devoted wife. Their eyes are closed.

In this iherb.com article:

• Baking soda

• Aloe Vera Juice

• Apple Cider Vinegar

• Ginger root

• Mustard

• Almond

• Chamomile Tea

• Chewing gum

Natural remedies can help people with heartburn and acid reflux.

Acid reflux occurs when acid from the stomach is pumped into the esophagus, which usually causes a burning sensation in the heart region. This symptom of acid reflux is called heartburn and can be quite unpleasant and painful. While there are many over-the-counter and prescription medications available to treat heartburn and acid reflux, there are many natural remedies available for occasional heartburn.

Baking soda

Baking soda is an ingredient found in almost every household and used in cooking to deodorize. Heartburn is caused by acid in the esophagus, and getting an alkaline substance into the esophagus can help. Baking soda or sodium bicarbonate has a pH of 7.0, which makes it alkaline. A high pH level neutralizes stomach acid in the esophagus, which causes heartburn.

Ingredients:

• 0.5-1 h.l. baking soda
• glass of drinking water

Instructions:

Mix water and baking soda until dissolved. This mixture can be consumed up to seven times a day as needed. It should not be used for more than a week due to its high salt content, which can cause swelling and nausea.

Aloe Vera Juice

Most people are familiar with the use of this plant for the treatment of minor burns, including sunburn.Aloe reduces inflammation and can be used to treat acid reflux symptoms, as heartburn occurs when the lining of the stomach and esophagus is irritated and inflamed.

Aloe vera juice can reduce inflammation and heartburn. It may have a laxative effect, so it is important to purchase aloe juice that has removed the laxative component. Aloe juice should be drunk cold or at room temperature before meals.

Apple cider vinegar

This may sound counterintuitive, but acid reflux is often caused by too little acid in the stomach.Usually, the presence of acid in the stomach is a signal for the lower esophagus to close tightly. When there is not enough acid in the stomach, the esophagus does not close and the acid is thrown into the throat. In this case, injecting more acid into the stomach can prevent reflux. The acidic composition of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar can prevent this type of reflux.

Ingredients:

• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
• 180-240 ml drinking water

Instructions:

Mix apple cider vinegar with water and take before meals two to three times a day and before bed.If this does not relieve or make your heartburn worse, stop taking this remedy as it is likely to promote heartburn rather than relieve it.

Ginger root

Research shows that not only does ginger root relieve nausea and soothe the stomach, but it can act as an acid buffer and reduce symptoms of heartburn. The tea can be made from fresh ginger root or purchased in pre-made ginger tea bags. This tea is most effective when consumed before meals.

Ingredients:

• 3 pieces of fresh ginger root
• 2 glasses of water

Instructions:

Add the ginger root to a saucepan of boiling water. Simmer for 30 minutes. Drink the tea 20 minutes before meals to help soothe your stomach.

Mustard

Mustard is a spice that can be found in almost every home.Although commonly consumed with foods that cause heartburn, such as hot dogs, it is actually an alkaline food. Since mustard is alkaline in its own right, it can be helpful in relieving heartburn symptoms. It is known that taking mustard before meals can help prevent heartburn attacks.

Just eat 1 tsp. mustard directly from the package. No need to mix with anything. Medication for heartburn and acid reflux is not much more difficult.

Almond

Almonds are an alkaline nut that can help reduce acid reflux.Despite the lack of specific studies that explain its ability to reduce heartburn, long-term unsystematic observations support the antacid properties of almonds. At the very least, almonds are part of a low-acid diet, which by itself can help prevent bouts of heartburn.

Eating 3-4 almonds immediately after a meal or snack has been observed to relieve acid reflux symptoms. Thanks to their protein and healthy fat content, almonds are also a healthy food.

Chamomile tea

Chamomile tea is widely known for its soothing effects. Reducing stress can help reduce acid reflux. Chamomile tea also helps with stomach inflammation. Perhaps tea helps balance acidity levels.

Ingredients:

• 1 h. L. chamomile tea
• 1 cup boiling water
• Honey or lemon to taste

Instructions:

Prepare chamomile tea by bringing water to a boil.Then reduce heat and add chamomile flower petals. Boil the tea for 45 seconds, then remove from heat and let it brew for another minute or two. Pour the tea into a cup. Add honey or lemon to taste.

Chewing gum

Sugar-free chewing gum has been shown to help with heartburn and acid reflux. Chewing sugar-free gum after a meal stimulates the salivary glands located in the mouth. Excess saliva dilutes and eliminates acid that is released into the esophagus.Research shows that this process reduces symptoms in patients with chronic acid reflux and helps people who have episodic heartburn and reflux attacks.

What else to look for

When reflux symptoms occur, natural remedies such as baking soda, apple cider vinegar, chamomile and ginger root tea can be effective remedies. In addition to using natural remedies, it is important to eliminate certain eating habits and pay attention to the food you eat in order to combat reflux symptoms.

Typically, heartburn and acid reflux occur at night while lying down. This is due to the force of gravity, which allows acid from the stomach to enter the esophagus. To reduce the symptoms of acid reflux at night, you can raise the head of the bed with extra pillows or place bars under the mattress. In addition, nighttime heartburn can be reduced by stopping meals and snacks no later than three to four hours before bedtime.

In order to reduce heartburn, you need to be attentive to food intake.Small bites are easier to digest than larger ones, and longer meals can reduce stress. Avoiding certain foods that are highly acidic, such as tomatoes and citrus fruits, will also reduce the incidence of acid reflux.