Tea helpful for endometriosis?

Tea bei Endometriose

Even if it may sound a little clichéd, there is almost nothing a lovely cup of tea cannot help with. It is therefore no surprise that, across cultures and throughout history, teas have been used to ease menstrual symptoms. Many people with endometriosis also swear by this hot beverage. Tea primarily serves as an adjunct to other therapies and is considered part of natural and complementary medicine. Pouring hot water over the plant releases its valuable constituents. Their effects are diverse and can be both analgesic and antispasmodic. Teas may also help slow the growth of endometriotic lesions and help prevent inflammation. You can use each tea for a different purpose, so feel free to try a variety. The list of helpful teas is long, and there is something for every taste.

First up is the all-rounder, green tea. Among many other concerns, you can use it to inhibit the growth of your lesions. Even existing endometriotic lesions could be reduced through regular consumption of green tea. However, the often delicate flavor of this tea variety takes a bit of practice, and many only come to appreciate its subtle aroma over time. The more robust matcha can be a good starting point. When abdominal discomfort occurs, many naturally think first of herbal teas. Chamomile tea is at the forefront and is often used for bloating. The so-called stinking chamomile was studied scientifically; its extract was shown to slow the growth of endometriotic lesions. The same applies to nettle tea.

A number of foods that can be used both as spices and, when brewed, as teas are considerably more potent: turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, and ginseng. What they share is a strong anti-inflammatory effect that only fully comes into play when the ingredients are fresh and of good quality. A herb found particularly often in tea blends tailored to women is lady’s mantle. In experiments, lesions and cysts could be noticeably reduced with its use. If you prefer a fresh, fruity note, sea buckthorn tea is a good choice. The small berries are rich in vitamin C, and their seeds are full of anti-inflammatory oils.

If you like to experiment, you can of course mix the different herbs, spices, and berries as you wish. In summer, a homemade Endo iced tea can also be a great alternative to sugary sodas.

Further sources:

• Kong, S. et al. 2014. „Effects and Mechanisms of Complementary and Alternative Medicine during the Reproductive Process.“ Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
• Shirvani, M.A. et al. 2015. „The effect of mefenamic acid and ginger on pain relief in primary dysmenorrhea: a randomized clinical trial.“ Generel Gynecology 291: 1277-1281.