Speedwell is a perennial herb that grows in the stony regions of Asia, North America, and Europe. Traditionally, the various aerial parts of this plant were used in preparing medicines and syrups. With its leaves, stems and especially the purple flowers, the herb can also be converted into tea. The parts are boiled in water for several minutes to produce a herbal tea that alleviates various skin disorders, relieves coughs, supports liver health, treats UTIs, aids digestion, and reduces symptoms of diarrhea.

Speedwell tea possesses astringent, expectorant and diuretic properties as well polyphenols that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory abilities. The tea also contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are good fats that support the activities of the joints, heart, brain, and nerves.

Speedwell tea is rich in resins, flavonoids, sugars, tannins, and organic acids.

Health Benefits of Speedwell Tea

Now, let’s discuss some of the health benefits that speedwell tea is known for.

Reduces Diarrhea Symptoms

The symptoms associated with diarrhea include loose stool, bloody stool, fever, nausea, bloating, frequent bowel movements, and abdominal pain. Typically, diarrhea does not last beyond a couple of days. However, when diarrhea persists for weeks, it may be an indication of an infection, irritable bowel syndrome, or inflammatory bowel disease.

Luckily, you can alleviate the symptoms of diarrhea by consuming speedwell tea. This is because the astringent properties of speedwell can manage diarrhea and slow down the production of mucus in the large intestines. However, it is important to keep in mind that diarrhea can cause dehydration, especially in children, if untreated. Consult a doctor if diarrhea does not improve within 24 hours.

Boosts Liver Health

The liver is an organ that facilitates the metabolism of foods, drugs, alcohol and poisonous substances. The liver produces a liquid called bile, which helps the body break down fat from food. It also stores sugar called glucose, which provides a quick energy boost when the body needs it. The liver also rids the blood of harmful chemicals that the body produces.

An excessive consumption of alcohol can damage liver cells and result in the inflammation that eventually becomes cirrhosis, which can be fatal. Although it is rare, certain cholesterol drugs can occasionally have adverse effects that lead to liver problems. Painkillers can also cause damage to the liver if taken in excess. Taking large amounts of acetaminophen, especially in drugs such as prescription painkillers and medicines for cold, can be bad for liver health.

It is believed that drinking speedwell tea is an effective way to keep the liver in good health. In fact, it has been used for centuries in keeping the liver in a healthy state.

In addition to taking speedwell tea, consuming a healthy diet and getting regular exercise can boost the health of the liver. Also, when a person keeps their weight under control, it prevents nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a condition that is responsible for cirrhosis.

Treats UTIs

Urinary tract infections are one of the most common types of infection that occur when harmful microscopic organisms get into the urinary tract. These organisms include viruses and fungi, but most UTIs are caused by bacteria. Typically, the body destroys these bacteria before they can cause any damage, but sexual activity and some health problems can increase the risk of developing a urinary tract infection.

Apart from conventional medications, speedwell tea can help in the management and control of UTIs. This is because speedwell tea possesses mild diuretic properties that increase the production of urine, which eliminates traces of UTIs.

Aids Digestion

At some points in life, everyone experiences digestive problems, including gas, upset stomach, nausea, heartburn, diarrhea, or constipation. However, when these symptoms occur too often, they can be as a result of major health issues.

Fortunately, the right diet, lifestyle changes, and certain herbal remedies can have a positive impact on a person’s gut health. Speedwell herbal tea is one of such remedies that can improve the digestion process and prevent problems linked with the gastrointestinal (GI tract). Drinking speedwell tea is believed to also help stimulate a person’s appetite.

Alleviates Coughs

A cough is a natural reflex action to clear the respiratory tract of mucus and irritants such as inhaled smoke or dust. The common causes of coughs are cold, sinusitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, hay fever, laryngitis, whooping coughs, and asthma.
Coughs are hardly a sign of any serious health issue as they clear up in no time and may not require any treatment.

However, to alleviate coughs, speedwell tea is one of the most effective remedies. That is because it has expectorant properties, making it capable of eliminating excess phlegm or mucus in the upper airways. But for more persistent coughs, it is advisable to consult a medical doctor.

Supports Skin Health

The skin, which is the largest organ of the body, protects against microbes, regulates body temperature, and allows the sensations of cold, heat, and touch. Typically, conventional skin treatments include topical steroids, skin moisturizers, antibiotics, skin surgery, antifungal drugs, antiviral drugs, and immune modulators.

However, speedwell is a herbal remedy that possibly deals with several skin problems such as acne, psoriasis, rash, eczema, and dandruff. Simply apply the herb on the affected areas to alleviate pain and fight off skin infections.

How to make Speedwell Tea

When making speedwell tea, it is important to take note of a few things. First of all, you need to decide on whether to use speedwell powder, fresh speedwell plants, or its dried roots. Add the ingredients to a pot of boiled water, allow to cool, and enjoy the amazing health benefits of speedwell tea.

If you decide to use speedwell powder, allow it to seep in boiled water for just 10 minutes. For fresh speedwell plants or its dried roots, leave for between 15 to 20 minutes. However, to get better results and a more concentrated solution, allow ingredients for an additional 15 minutes. You can drink the solution as tea or apply it to the affected areas. Speedwell powder can also be applied directly on open wounds.

Side Effects of Speedwell Tea

• Speedwell tea has almost no side effects at all. However, it is important to take note of the following:
  Do not drink more than 3 cups of speed tea per day as this may cause diarrhea and nausea. In the absence of these side effects, speedwell tea is safe for consumption.
• If you suffer from a dry throat, speedwell tea may not be the best tea for you.
• Pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and anyone diagnosed with a medical condition should steer clear of speedwell tea. Otherwise, they can talk to a medical doctor about their plan on using speedwell tea for medicinal purposes.
• It is not advisable to take supplements and herbal remedies, including speedwell, without consulting a doctor first.

Bottom Line

Evidently, speedwell tea is a very popular herb as it enjoys amazing reviews by people from all over the world. It is then safe to conclude that speedwell tea is a potent herbal remedy for a range of health problems.

Interestingly, owing to its pleasant taste and aroma, speedwell tea is consumed in France as a great alternative to tea. With its glowing reviews and impressive health benefits, isn’t it time you added speedwell tea to your shopping list for natural treatments?