Christmas also means exception to the rules for what concerns food and diet. How to remedy in case of binge eating, poor digestion and stomach pain? The gentian herbal tea, as proven by scientific research, supports the work of the liver, counteracts inflammation of the gastric mucosa, fights abdominal swelling and cramps and is a tonic for the digestive system (Mirzaee et al J Tradit Complement Med, 2017). Another beneficial remedy for digestion? Definitely anise, which is also carminative just like mint and cinnamon (Ghoshegir et al, J Res Med Sci, 2015). Ginger counteracts inflammation, swelling, indigestion and nausea (Bodagh et al, Food Sci Nutr, 2019). Finally, not to forget hibiscus, scientific name Hibiscus sabdariffa, from which an infusion rich in antioxidants is obtained, also helpful to keep blood sugar under control and to counteract the accumulation of fats (Ojulari et al, Molecules, 2019)!
Here are some ideas for digestive, anti-inflammatory herbal teas, useful for counteracting stomach swelling and pains.
Gentian herbal tea
Bring a cup of water to a boil along with a tablespoon of gentian root and half a stick of cinnamon. Let it simmer for a few minutes, then remove from the heat. Add a few mint leaves and the zest of a mandarin or orange. Let it sit for ten minutes. Then filter and drink.
Ginger tea
Bring a cup of water to a boil along with a teaspoon of anise. Let it simmer for a few minutes. Remove from the heat and add 1 inch of fresh, peeled ginger root and 2 slices of orange. Let it rest for a quarter of an hour, then filter and drink.
Christmas herbal tea
Bring a cup of water to a boil, remove from heat and add 1 piece of star anise, half a stick of cinnamon, 4 cloves, apple peels and a spoonful of hibiscus. Leave to infuse for ten minutes, then filter and drink.
