How to Brew a Laxative Tea

Laxative teas are a simple, natural way to aid your normal bowel function. Here are a few to try at home.

Things You'll Need

• Fruit juices
• Organic figs
• Apple juices
• Buckthorn bark
• Organic pearl barley
• Castor oil
• Plantains
• Organic raisins
• Peppermints leaves
• Oregon graperoots
• Nettles
• Grape juices
• Licorice roots

Instructions

Licorice Root Laxative Tea

1. Add 1 tbsp. broken licorice root (a good mild laxative) per each cup boiling water.

2. Boil uncovered for 1 hour and then remove from heat, cool and strain.

3. Add apple, grape or other fruit juice to dilute tea if it is too strong.

4. Drink 1 cup in the morning and 1 at night.

Barley Brew Laxative Tea

1. Combine 1/4 cup organic pearl barley, 1/4 cup organic figs, 2 tbsp. licorice root, 1/4 cup organic raisins and 10 cups water in a non-aluminum pot.

2. Cover and simmer until liquid is reduced by half (this takes about 8 hours).

3. Strain and drink 1/2 cup in the morning or at night.

Buckthorn Bark Laxative Tea

1. Add 2 tbsp. each of nettles, Oregon graperoot and plantain, followed by 1 tbsp. peppermint leaves to 6 cups of boiling water.

2. Remove from heat.

3. Cover and let stand for 30 minutes.

4. Add 2 tbsp. buckthorn bark, cover and let stand for an hour or 2.

5. Strain and drink in moderation. The tea may be reheated, but do not boil.

Tips & Warnings

• Clean the figs and barley well and crush the licorice root before you put them into the pot of water.

• Herbal laxatives deplete your body's energy and therefore should not be overused.

• If you have any questions or concerns, contact a physician or other health-care professional before engaging in any activity related to health and diet. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish