Soothing Herbal Infusion for Digestion/IBS

Combine the typical diet prevalent in our society, add in all the loads of daily stress and you have a recipe for disaster when it comes to the digestive tract. Problems with this are on the rise and it seems like you hear about it everywhere you turn. Like so many other health issues, there are tons of expensive "treatments" on the market, and plenty of things that the doctor will offer. But what if you want to try something natural and inexpensive? (I hope I don't have to say that if you have a serious problem you should always consult your doctor first and heed their professional advice...) Many times the simplest answer to a problem is the best. I find that is the case with easing digestive upset such as IBS and stomach ailments.

I began making herbal infusions about a year and a half ago and have enjoyed mixing and trying them out, perfecting mine to my body's needs. I began with a simple mix and as I did more research, found a mixture that I don't think I could now live without. All of the ingredients are simple to find at most grocery stores/health food or bulk stores.

Ingredients:

•  1 T Chamomile
• 1 T Fennel Seeds
• 1 T Peppermint Leaves
• 1/4 - 1 Cinnamon Stick
• 1 t Rosemary

 Procedure:

1. Measure out all your herbs that you wish you use. This is your infusion and the measurements listed above are not set in stone. Experiment and see what fits your tastes and body's preference. 
2. Add your herbs to your mason jar, or another sealing container that can withstand boiling water. (If using glass, make sure that it is not cold when you pour in your water.)
3. Mix, then put the lid on and set on the counter for a few minutes to begin cooling. When it is not too hot to handle anymore, place it in the fridge at least overnight. You can use this within 10-15 minutes if needed, but it is much more potent if left to sit for a while. 
4. When ready to use, pour into a large bowl and rinse out your jar. Then, strain with a fine mesh strainer and/or cheesecloth back into your jar. If you don't like any specks in your infusion, I suggest the cheesecloth.
5. You can drink it cold, if you prefer, but it is best to drink it at least lukewarm. I like mine hot like tea. Remember, it is a strong brew and will taste a bit different than your usual tea. It may take some getting used to. The cinnamon makes it quite tasty, though. 

 

I've found that the mason jar is the best container to use. You can pick them up at grocery stores and places with kitchen equipment, like Bed Bath & Beyond. They are inexpensive and so handy.






What a great looking infusion!

 

Super Straining!

Remember to squeeze the herbal mixture. You want all that good stuff.










Herbs are generally very safe to use in moderate amounts, but because it is something you are putting in your body, the following should be considered:

Chamomile - A good relaxant. It is also good for reducing cramping and pain in the bowls. It can also help to relieve excessive gas and bloating in the intestines. It is good for relieving the symptoms of the stomach flu, such as nausea, and gastroenteritis.

If you have hay-fever, start with a small amount to see if you have a reaction. It varies depending on the person. For instance, I have pretty bad hay fever, but have never had a problem with chamomile.

Also, avoid using chamomile if you are pregnant. It can be dangerous to your baby.

If you are using a blood thinner, leave the chamomile out, as it also contains a blood thinning substance. (1)

Fennel - Used throughout history as a tonic for colicky babies, this herb is a great antispasmodic that soothes the lining of the intestine. It also helps to rid the intestine of painful gas. Besides all that, it is also good for easing stomach cramps, heartburn, and acid indigestion. (2)

Fennel may make you more sensitive to the sun, so be sure to use sunscreen when going out if you are light skinned. (Probably should be doing this anyway...)

Also, do not use if breastfeeding. Nothing has been established, but there have been a couple concerns for the health of the infant. It is better safe than sorry.

If you are allergic to celery, carrot, or mugwort, try a small amount at first to be sure that you don't have an allergic reaction to the fennel.  (3)

Peppermint - There have been quite a few studies that have shown that peppermint helps to soothe IBS symptoms. It has been found that it uses a specific anti-pain channel called TRPM8 to reduce pain sensing fibers. (4)

If you experience acid reflux, or "sour stomach", be careful with the peppermint. It can cause heartburn to flare up. If you have a tendency to experience heartburn, start with a small amount of peppermint, or leave it out.

Like any supplements, talk to your doctor before taking any of these herbs if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Cinnamon - A great antioxidant with numerous benefits. To name a few: cinnamon is an anti-inflammatory with antibiotic properties, a good source of manganese, iron, and calcium, helpful in normalizing blood sugar levels, lowering bad cholesterol levels, and improving memory. Wow, what a list! (5)

When first making your infusions, be sure to start with a smaller portion of cinnamon to be sure that it doesn't actually aggravate your problem. Cinnamon in large amounts can actually irritate the stomach and digestive tract. That being said, I've never had a problem using a whole stick. Remember, though, everyone is different and you want to do what makes your body happy.

Large amounts of cinnamon have been known to increase the heart rate, so do be careful if you have a heart condition.

Again, you don't want to take this if you are pregnant.

Do not use cinnamon if you are taking blood thinners. Also avoid large amounts if you are scheduled for surgery or experience heavy periods. It is thought to have anti-clotting properties and can cause excessive bleeding in these cases if you are on a blood thinner. Remember, moderation in everything!

Because cinnamon has antibiotic properties, check with your doctor if you need prescribed antibiotics. Also, it might be a good idea to ask your doctor about any interference with birth control, as antibiotics can be a problem for birth control.

Rosemary - The "memory herb". It is an antioxidant, antiseptic, antispasmodic, diuretic and fungicidal. It aids both the circulatory and digestive system. Rosemary helps with intestinal gas, bloating, and cramping. 


Like most things, rosemary should not be used in large amounts. It can have a negative impact on the kidneys. It shouldn't be used too much by women with heavy menstrual flows and shouldn't be used if you are pregnant. (6)



Remember, just as with everything else in life, the key to herbs is moderation. They are very good for you, but there is a such thing as too much of a good thing. You want to strive for balance in all things, and that includes your supplements. For most of these warnings, they the case when used in large amounts. Still, don't go overboard. When used accurately, the advantages can be great. Remember, know your body and be kind to it. If you are concerned about any of the ingredients, feel free to leave it out. It's all about safe experimentation and finding what works for you.