I’ve been having a really upset stomach recently, due to a reaction to a second lot of antibiotics and steroids in two weeks, so I’ve made this infusion to help settle my tummy.
Here’s what I used:
Barberry (five teaspoons)
Barberry (Berberis vulgaris) is a bush native to Europe, North Africa and in many regions of North America.
The medicinal use of barberry dates back over two and half thousand millennia and has been widely used as a folk medicine to treat diarrhea, reduce fever, improve appetite and relieve upset stomachs, in addition to promoting vigor and to bring about a sense of well being.
There have even been studies conducted that have shown that barberries have numerous other health benefits, including anti-inflammatory ones, and has the potential to treat a variety of other disorders, such as diabetes, liver disease, gallbladder pain, digestive, urinary tract diseases and gallstones.
It was also used topically (directly onto the skin), to treat skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, acne and minor wounds.
It is thought that the active compound in barberry is a phytochemical (alkaloid) called berberine.
Hibiscus (generous pinch)
There are several hundred species of hibiscus worldwide that vary by the location and climate they grow in. However, Hibiscus sabdariffa is most commonly used to make hibiscus tea.
Hibiscus tea is made by steeping parts of the hibiscus plant in boiling water, which producer a tart flavor, similar to that of cranberries.
Research has uncovered a range of health benefits linked to drinking hibiscus tea, showing that it may lower blood pressure, fight bacteria and even aid weight loss.
Hibiscus tea has also been used traditionally to treat bacterial infections, coughing and poor appetite. It has also been used for its antibacterial and antifungal properties. In addition, drinking hibiscus tea may help with digestive orders, such as an upset stomach, as it can help relax the smooth muscle of the intestine.
Ginger Root (half teaspoon)
Ginger is a flowering plant whose rhizome (ginger root or ginger) is widely used as a spice and in folk medicine. It is a herbaceous perennial which grows annual pseudostems, about one meter tall, with narrow leaf blades.
Ginger is in the same family as turmeric and cardamom and has been proven to be effective at treating nausea, vomiting and upset stomachs. It has also been known to treat morning sickness, muscle pain and menstrual pain.
Studies have also shown that ginger can be a very effective treatment for some kinds of stomach upset. A natural anti-inflammatory, ginger is available in many forms, all of which can help.
Method
I used my French-press for this one, as I wanted it to steep and to be able to squeeze those lovely juices out of the barberries!
I just placed all the ingredients in the press container and filled it with just boiled water. I let it steep for 10-15 minutes, then plunged the press right to the bottom and gave it a couple of repetitive squishes at the bottom to push every last bit of goodness out. Sweeten to taste and enjoy!
Sources:
https://www.verywellhealth.com/barberry-berberis-vulgaris-what-you-need-to-know-89546
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/hibiscus-tea-benefits
https://www.healthline.com/health/digestive-health/natural-upset-stomach-remedies
Melusina The Green Witch 