Three TCM Herbal Teas for Children’s Digestion: Clearing Food Stagnation Naturally
Published 2026-06-04 · 380 words · TCM & Functional Medicine
In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), children are particularly prone to digestive disturbances due to their developing spleen and stomach systems. Food stagnation (积滞) is a common pattern, often resulting from overeating or improper diet. The following three herbal tea formulas, specifically designed for children aged 3–6, gently promote digestion, relieve bloating, and harmonize the digestive tract.
Ingredients: Charred Hawthorn (焦山楂) 3–5g, Charred Malt (焦麦芽) 10–15g, Charred Medicated Leaven (焦神曲) 5–6g, Fried Chicken Gizzard Lining (炒鸡内金) 3–6g. (Dosage for 3–5-year-old children)
Preparation: Soak the herbs in 1.5 bowls of water for 30 minutes. Bring to a boil over high heat, then simmer over low heat for 15 minutes. One dose per day, taken in multiple servings.
Indications: Loss of appetite, frequent abdominal bloating, loose stools or diarrhea.
Ingredients: Malt (麦芽) 10–15g, Rice Sprout (谷芽) 10–15g, Chicken Gizzard Lining (鸡内金) 3–6g, Hawthorn (山楂) 5g. (Dosage for 3–5-year-old children)
Preparation: Same as above.
Indications: Children with food stagnation who are prone to fever and sore throat due to accumulated heat.
Ingredients: Codonopsis (党参) 10g, Atractylodes (白术) 8g, Poria (茯苓) 10g, Agastache (藿香) 8g, Tangerine Peel (陈皮) 6g, Bupleurum (柴胡) 6g, Chicken Gizzard Lining (鸡内金) 10g, Malt (麦芽) 15g, Hawthorn (山楂) 8g, Medicated Leaven (神曲) 10g, Striga (独脚金) 5g, Licorice (甘草) 6g. (Dosage for 5–6-year-old children)
Preparation: Soak herbs in 2 bowls of water for 30 minutes. Boil, then simmer for 15 minutes. One dose per day, taken in multiple servings.
Indications: Food stagnation with spleen deficiency – weak digestion, lack of appetite, bloating, fatigue, loose stools, irritability.
These teas are intended for short-term use under guidance. Always consult a qualified TCM practitioner before administering to children. Adjust dosages based on age and individual constitution.
References
1. Huangdi Neijing (The Yellow Emperor's Inner Classic) – discusses the spleen and stomach as the foundation of postnatal life and the importance of proper digestion.
2. Bencao Gangmu (Compendium of Materia Medica) by Li Shizhen – documents the digestive properties of hawthorn, malt, and medicated leaven.
3. Shanghan Lun (Treatise on Cold Damage) – principles of harmonizing the middle jiao.
4. Pi Wei Lun (Treatise on the Spleen and Stomach) by Li Dongyuan – emphasizes strengthening the spleen to resolve food stagnation.