A Systematic Review of the Evidence for Use of Herbal Medicine for the Treatment of Acute Diarrhea
Natural Products Journal · 2012
Reviewed guidance
Camellia sinensis (tea tree / tea shrub) for acute diarrhea
Black tea (Camellia sinensis) has a history of traditional use for diarrhea. Laboratory research found that a black tea leaf infusion inhibited E. coli O157, but this does not establish that black tea treats acute diarrhea in people.
What this means
Used traditionally for short-term relief of acute diarrhea symptoms.
How to use it: • 1 black tea bag or 1 teaspoon of loose black tea • 1 cup (approx. 250 ml) of water • Optional: A tiny pinch of sugar or a few drops of lemon juice (avoid milk, as dairy can worsen an upset stomach). Can be taken with freshly ground cardamom or nutmeg.
Safety & cautions
Tea contains caffeine, which can cause jitteriness, sleep problems, or stomach upset. Children and people who are pregnant should limit caffeine intake. Concentrated green tea extracts can cause digestive side effects and have rarely been linked to liver injury. Green tea may interact with some medicines. Do not use tea in place of oral rehydration for acute diarrhea.
Get medical care for symptoms that are severe, last longer than expected, get worse, or otherwise concern you.
Household preparations
Practical ways to use the ingredient may not provide the same form or amount discussed in the evidence.
Evidence transparency