How To

How to Brew a Laxative Tea

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(22 Ratings)

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

Difficulty: Easy
Instructions

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

    Licorice Root Laxative Tea

  1. Step 1

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

  2. Step 2

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

  3. Step 3

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

  4. Step 4

    Drink 1 cup in the morning and 1 at night.

  5. Barley Brew Laxative Tea

  6. Step 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.

  7. Step 2

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

  8. Step 3

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

  9. Buckthorn Bark Laxative Tea

  10. Step 1

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

  11. Step 2

    Remove from heat.

  12. Step 3

    Cover and let stand for 30 minutes.

  13. Step 4

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

  14. Step 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.

Comments  

kohuether said

Flag This Comment

on 5/21/2009 Be careful with all these ingredients. Not everything is for everybody. For example, licorice shouldn't be taken if you have high blood pressure or a tendency to retain water.

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