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Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining. With tea, the helpful part is what you avoid: strong caffeine and empty-stomach brewing. Gentle herbals can soothe, but the underlying cause needs proper treatment.
What gastritis actually is
Gastritis is irritation or inflammation of the stomach lining. Common causes are Helicobacter pylori infection and regular use of anti-inflammatory painkillers (NSAIDs), with alcohol a frequent aggravator. Those causes need medical treatment, not tea. See the NHS guide to gastritis and Wikipedia: gastritis.
Cut the irritants
Strong black and green tea stimulate stomach acid through caffeine, which can aggravate an already irritated lining. Keep tea weak, drink it with food rather than on an empty stomach, and cut back on alcohol while things settle.
Gentler cups
- Chamomile. Mild and soothing; a sensible low-caffeine choice.
- Ginger, in small amounts. Settling for many, but keep it weak so it does not irritate.
- Caffeine-free herbals in general are kinder than strong builder's tea here.
At a glance
| Tea | For gastritis |
|---|---|
| Chamomile | Gentle, soothing |
| Ginger (small amount) | Can settle; keep it weak |
| Strong black / green | Caffeine can aggravate; avoid on empty stomach |
FAQ
Best tea for gastritis? A weak, caffeine-free herbal such as chamomile, with food.
Can tea cure gastritis? No. If it is caused by infection or medication, that needs treating by a GP.
Should I avoid normal tea? Keep it weak and with food; strong caffeinated tea on an empty stomach is the thing to avoid.
When should I see a GP? Persistent stomach pain, indigestion, or any vomiting blood or black stools needs urgent medical attention.
This is general information, not medical advice. Persistent gastritis should be assessed by a GP, who can test for and treat the cause.
Sources
Part of: Tea for Digestion
- Tea & digestion (overview)
- Tea & acid reflux
- Tea & bloating and wind
- Tea & nausea and upset stomach
- Tea & IBS
Shop gentle, caffeine-free teas in the herbal & fruit range or browse the full tea shop (free UK postage over £35).
More from the tea wiki
- Green tea
- Black tea
- Oolong tea
- White tea
- Herbal tea
- Caffeine in tea
- How to make tea properly
- Loose leaf vs teabag
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