Irritable Bowel Syndrome Message Boards

Hi - Peppermint is wonderful for IBS, which affects the lower GI tract, because it's a smooth muscle relaxant and painkiller. But, it can cause reflux and heartburn problems in folks who are susceptible. Peppermint itself is not acidic - but because it's such an effective muscle relaxant, it can relax the valve at the top of the stomach so it does not close the way it should. Normally, this valve, called the lower esophageal sphincter, or LES, relaxes and opens when you swallow food and then promptly closes to keep acid out of the esophagus. If the LES is weak or opens at the wrong time, stomach acid can reflux into the esophagus and cause heartburn.

In general, if you have upper GI problems, choose another herbal tea. And also avoid peppermint in other forms - Altoids, mint candies, spearmint, etc.

Do you break out in hives from just plain fennel tea? Or only a mix of chamomile and fenne? Chamomile can be an allergen for people, especially if they have hay fever or similar problems. Plain fennel shouldn't do this unless you're also allergic to it.

What about anise? You can buy anise seeds and brew them like the fennel. Or Indian chai, which you can buy with just the spices and no black tea. Or, make your own by blending equal parts crushed cinnamon sticks, fennel or anise, whole cloves, and cardamon seeds.

You could also just choose a commercial herbal tea that sounds good to you - in general, most herbal teas will be very soothing and not carry any GI side effects at all. So something like peach or mango or raspberry would be fine. Or just plain green tea, maybe with a little honey? I'd check all the tea brands at your grocery or health food store and just start experimenting with the varieties that sound tasty.

Best,
Heather

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Heather is the Administrator of the IBS Message Boards. She is the author of Eating for IBS and The First Year: IBS, and the CEO of Heather's Tummy Care. Join her IBS Newsletter. Meet Heather on Facebook!

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