Tea lovers often talk about the health benefits of drinking tea, but the topic of whether tea harms or nourishes the stomach inevitably comes up. So, does black tea nourish or harm the stomach? Many people say green tea harms the stomach while black tea nourishes it. Next, I'll explain whether black tea nourishes or harms the stomach.
Does Black Tea Nourish or Harm the Stomach?
1. The saying that "green tea harms the stomach, while black tea nourishes it," and that people with stomach problems should drink more black tea, lacks scientific basis.
2. Although black tea is considered "warming," it cannot be simply equated with nourishing the stomach. While tea polyphenols are beneficial, they can also be irritating to the stomach, especially on an empty stomach. Although black tea is fermented and roasted, during which the tea polyphenols undergo oxidation and their content decreases, it is merely less irritating to the stomach than green tea.
3. Even if black tea is warming, which aligns with the spleen and stomach's preference for warmth, it is not suitable for everyone. People with stomach problems should still be cautious when drinking black tea. An overly strong black tea, for instance, contains a large amount of caffeine which can also irritate the stomach. Therefore, while there is some truth to black tea being warming, it is a different matter from nourishing the stomach.
What Tea to Drink to Nourish the Stomach?
1. Clove Tea
Clove tea might seem like a new trend in stomach-nourishing teas, and many are not familiar with its benefits. However, a little research reveals that the practice of drinking clove tea for stomach health has a long history. Ancient court ladies often drank clove tea to freshen their breath; it was particularly effective for bad breath caused by stomach discomfort.
Clove tea is warm in nature and has the effects of warming the middle jiao, reversing qi, and nourishing the stomach. Regular consumption can relieve abdominal bloating, enhance digestion, and reduce nausea and vomiting. It is recommended that those with a weak stomach brew 3-10g of clove tea daily, which can be taken before or after meals. With consistent use, your stomach will feel better.
2. Barley Tea
Roasted barley steeped in water and taken daily can help nourish the stomach. Barley tea is very effective for nourishing deficiency, relieving fatigue, aiding grain digestion, stopping diarrhea, and alleviating indigestion.
Suitable for: Those with weak stomach qi and poor digestion; those with liver conditions, poor appetite, a feeling of fullness and bloating after overeating; and women experiencing breast tenderness during weaning.
Not suitable for: Because barley can reduce milk supply, it should be avoided by women during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
3. Pu-erh Tea
For tea connoisseurs, drinking Pu-erh tea regularly is a good idea, as ripe Pu-erh tea has a warming effect on the stomach. Besides Pu-erh, black tea is also a good choice. After fermentation, black tea is less irritating to the stomach. For those with a severe cold stomach, you can even add a slice of ginger when brewing. Additionally, women can add roses or osmanthus according to their preference for aroma and flavor.
For the more patient, you can also make your own safe and healthy milk tea by adding milk and sugar. Not only does this satisfy your taste buds, but it also has anti-inflammatory effects and can protect the gastric mucosa, and is even somewhat beneficial for treating ulcers.
Choosing Tea Based on Your Constitution
1. Unfermented Tea (Green Tea): Green tea does not harm the spleen and stomach, but it can be difficult for the spleen to process. Those with a deficient spleen who drink too much may experience weight loss, a poor complexion, loss of appetite, and diarrhea. However, it is very beneficial for the stomach as it promotes bowel movements. Therefore, drinking green tea can help with detoxification and even treat tumors.
2. Semi-fermented Tea (e.g., Oolong, Black Tea): For those with a deficient spleen and poor digestion, drinking black tea or Pu-erh tea can improve the spleen's function of transformation and transportation. Many people feel bloated after eating things like mooncakes, pig skin, or bird's nest.
3. Fully-fermented Tea (e.g., Black Tea, Pu-erh): Generally, if you are not very sensitive to tea, semi-fermented teas are suitable for both cold and hot constitutions.