General Carminative Tea
A carminative is an agent capable of dispelling gas and bloating from the stomach and intestines. This category includes various mints, chamomile, and the Apiaceae family seeds, such as fennel, anise, and caraway. Whole seeds can be used in herbal teas but they will make the strongest medicine if crushed in a mortar and pestle prior to infusing. In patients with gas and bloating due to poor circulation or insufficient secretions, ginger and some of the hot culinary spices can have a carminative action, but can cause gas and bloating in those with sensitive stomachs or IBS. Simply ask people how they tolerate spicy food when considering if cinnamon or ginger may make them better or worse. Any of these can be effective as “a simple,” but several are combined here. Foeniculum vulgare powder or freshly crushed seeds 2 ounces (60 g) Mentha piperita 2 ounces (60 g) Matricaria chamomilla 2 ounces (60 g) Steep 1 tablespoon of the herb mixture per cup of hot water. Drink 3 cups in a row to treat uncomfortable gas.