Birch Tea for Healthy Digestion

Few teas can claim to be so versatile as tea fashioned from birch. A decoction of the leaves, twigs, buds and bark of birch tree, birch tea may be one of the less common herbal teas, but it is widely respected by herbalists and herbal tea enthusiasts. Its flavor is described as being similar to wintergreen, generally regarded as an appealing taste, and it has a number of beneficial effects. Birch tea has a long history of use for easing joint ache, promoting immunity, and supporting healthy digestion.

The Importance of Healthy Digestive Function

Our digestive system is comprised of the collection of muscles and organs stretching from the esophagus and stomach to the bowel and rectum. The digestive system is responsible for the systematic breakdown of food, separation and absorption of nutrients, and expulsion of waste. Because this process is responsible with providing the body with its primary source of energy and the many micronutrients needed for other bodily functions, proper digestion is essential to overall health.

Many things can interfere with good digestive health, including various diseases, but for many people, digestive issues often come from external sources. Poor nutrition is one of the most obvious causes of digestive issues, especially in diets that rely on foods that are high in fats, oils and sugars, which are difficult for the body to digest and are often lacking in micronutrients. A sedentary lifestyle can also contribute to digestive upset, as well as insufficient sleep. Stress can have a significant effect on digestion, and may be responsible for numerous symptoms of indigestion. Some medications, both prescribed and over-the-counter, have side effects that may also cause poor digestion. Many of these causes are manageable, and may be moderated by shifting toward a healthier, less stressful lifestyle.

How Birch Tea May Help Digestion

Birch tea is well known for its ability to support and tone the digestive system. Its anti-inflammatory abilities are particularly beneficial for digestion, as they can help to calm several inflammatory digestive issues such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This can bring noticeable relief to unpleasant symptoms such as diarrhea and abdominal cramps, particularly when combined with its natural pain relieving compounds. Birch tea is also a natural laxative, a substance that helps to regulate bowel movements, another important factor in digestive function. Because of its antibacterial, antiviral and antiparasitic properties, birch tea is excellent for combatting infections of the digestive system and for eliminating intestinal parasites. Furthermore, unlike prescribed antibiotics, birch tea is not thought to harm the body’s population of beneficial gut flora, making it a highly valuable natural remedy.