DIY Lavender-Mint Tea

Caffeine can be a symptom trigger for people with IBS, not just because it's frequently packaged in products that aren't health-supporting, are rich in sugar, or that are high in FODMAPs (such as coffee and colas) but also because it can make us jittery and anxious and speed up digestion. Many (though not all) herbal teas can have the opposite effect: they can soothe and calm the digestive tract and make us feel more relaxed.

---

Peppermint (and the tea that's made from it) is a time-honored traditional remedy that's valued for its refreshing taste and ability to soothe the lining and smooth muscle of the colon and naturally relieve bloating, gas, and nausea. It has the unique properties of being simultaneously invigorating and calming.

Although peppermint herb is widely available as a tea, if you have access to fresh peppermint that you can dry at home or even dried peppermint purchased in bulk (from an herb store or natural food market), you can enjoy crafting your own signature herbal tea blends and have fun with all the interesting accouterments used in the process (such as special teapots, kettles, and infusers, as well as beautiful or whimsical tea cups).

This article describes how to blend and prepare your own Lavender-Mint Tea, which is a great combination, especially at bedtime, because it calms the mind and soothes digestion concurrently. Take time to treat yourself to a special herbal brew. Your body, mind, spirit, and especially your digestive tract, will be grateful that you did.

*****
I love hearing from you! Please post your thoughts in the comment section below.