Your gut is like a bustling metropolis, full of trillions of tiny microorganisms working day and night. When your gut is happy, you’re happy—it’s the cornerstone of overall health. Herbs have been used for centuries to heal, soothe, and support the digestive system. Ready to give your gut a little herbal TLC? Here are the 15 top herbs for healing the gut and how they can help.
1. Slippery Elm: Nature’s Gut Coater
When your gut feels inflamed or irritated, slippery elm swoops in to save the day. This herb contains mucilage, a gel-like substance that forms a soothing barrier along the gut lining. It helps calm irritation, reduce inflammation, and support repair in the digestive tract.
How to use it: Mix 1 teaspoon of slippery elm powder into a glass of warm water. Stir well and drink before meals for the best results.
2. Marshmallow Root: The Ultimate Gut Soother
Marshmallow root isn’t just for s’mores—it’s a gut-healing powerhouse. Its mucilage content acts as a soothing balm for the digestive tract, easing inflammation and protecting the gut lining. Perfect for people dealing with heartburn, leaky gut, or general digestive discomfort.
How to use it: Brew 1 tablespoon of marshmallow root in hot water to create a calming tea, or use as a supplement in capsule form.
3. Licorice Root (DGL): The Digestive Defender
Licorice root, specifically in its deglycyrrhizinated form (DGL), is a champion for reducing acid reflux and protecting the stomach lining. It stimulates the production of mucus, creating a protective shield that helps repair and prevent further damage.
How to use it: Chew on DGL tablets about 20 minutes before meals to relieve symptoms of acid reflux or gastritis.
4. Chamomile: The Calming Herb
Chamomile isn’t just a sleepytime tea ingredient—it’s a natural anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic for the gut. It can help reduce bloating, soothe cramping, and calm irritated stomach tissues.
How to use it: Drink chamomile tea after meals to ease digestion and relax your gut.
5. Peppermint: The IBS Reliever
Peppermint is famous for its ability to relax the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract, making it especially helpful for managing irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It can reduce bloating, cramping, and gas, bringing much-needed relief to your gut.
How to use it: Sip peppermint tea or take enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules to prevent irritation in the stomach.
6. Ginger: The Digestion Dynamo
Ginger is a go-to herb for everything from nausea to indigestion. Its active compounds, like gingerol, stimulate digestive enzymes, reduce inflammation, and improve gut motility.
How to use it: Brew fresh ginger tea by steeping slices in hot water, or add grated ginger to your meals for a zesty gut-healing boost.
7. Turmeric: The Anti-Inflammatory Hero
Known for its vibrant color and powerful healing properties, turmeric reduces gut inflammation and supports the gut lining. Curcumin, its active ingredient, has been studied for its ability to improve gut health and prevent digestive disorders.
How to use it: Add turmeric to soups, smoothies, or make golden milk by combining it with warm milk and honey.
8. Aloe Vera: The Cooling Gut Healer
Aloe vera is more than a sunburn remedy—it’s a gut soother! It helps calm inflammation, improve digestion, and promote a healthy gut lining.
How to use it: Drink aloe vera juice, but ensure it’s free of aloin, which can act as a harsh laxative.
9. Fennel: The Bloating Buster
Fennel seeds are a natural remedy for bloating, gas, and indigestion. This herb promotes better digestion by relaxing the gut muscles and reducing fermentation in the digestive tract.
How to use it: Chew fennel seeds after meals or brew them into a tea to combat digestive discomfort.
10. Cinnamon: The Sweet Digestive Booster
Cinnamon isn’t just a flavorful spice—it’s also great for gut health. It helps balance gut bacteria, reduces inflammation, and stimulates digestive enzymes.
How to use it: Sprinkle cinnamon on oatmeal, mix it into warm drinks, or add it to your favorite dishes for a warm, gut-friendly touch.
11. Dandelion Root: The Detoxifier
Dandelion root is a gentle liver cleanser that supports bile production, aiding digestion and fat breakdown. A healthy liver is essential for maintaining overall gut health.
How to use it: Brew dandelion root tea or take it as a supplement to keep your digestive system running smoothly.
12. Thyme: The Antimicrobial Ally
Thyme is rich in compounds like thymol, which have natural antimicrobial properties. It helps maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria and fights off harmful pathogens.
How to use it: Add fresh or dried thyme to soups, stews, or teas for a gut-friendly flavor boost.
13. Coriander: The Digestive Aid
Coriander seeds are an age-old remedy for indigestion, gas, and bloating. This herb works by relaxing the digestive muscles and stimulating enzymes to improve digestion.
How to use it: Brew a coriander seed tea or add the seeds to your meals for a gentle digestive boost.
14. Oregano: The Gut Microbiome Balancer
Oregano is a potent antimicrobial herb that helps balance the gut microbiome by fighting harmful bacteria and promoting the growth of beneficial ones.
How to use it: Use oregano oil (diluted with a carrier oil) or sprinkle dried oregano on your meals for gut support.
15. Parsley: The Digestive Detoxer
Parsley isn’t just a garnish—it’s packed with gut-friendly nutrients. It helps reduce bloating, stimulates digestion, and supports detoxification.
How to use it: Add fresh parsley to your salads, smoothies, or soups to give your gut a fresh start.
A Happier Gut, Naturally
Your gut is the gateway to better health, and these herbs for healing the gut are here to support you on that journey. Incorporating them into your daily routine doesn’t just improve digestion—it promotes a healthier, more balanced you.
Start small, experiment with different herbs, and let your gut guide you to what works best.
