Smooth Move Tea: How Long Does It Last?

Smooth Move Tea is an herbal blend commonly used as an over-the-counter constipation remedy. Its primary ingredient, Senna, has been used as a natural laxative for centuries. The tea also contains ingredients like licorice, ginger, coriander, and sweet orange, which are meant to soothe the bowels and reduce the chances of cramping. While Smooth Move Tea is generally safe for short-term use, long-term use is not recommended as it can lead to health issues such as electrolyte imbalances and dehydration.

Smooth Move Tea's effectiveness in relieving constipation

Smooth Move Tea is a herbal blend commonly used as an over-the-counter constipation remedy. Its main ingredient, senna, is a powerful plant native to Africa and India that has been used as a natural laxative for centuries. The tea also contains other ingredients such as licorice, bitter fennel, cinnamon, ginger, coriander, and sweet orange, which help to soothe the bowels and reduce the chances of cramping.

Smooth Move Tea is advertised to relieve constipation within 6-12 hours of consumption. This claim is supported by a 28-day study, in which 86 nursing home residents who drank Smooth Move Tea had four times as many bowel movements, on average, as those who drank a placebo. The active chemical compounds in senna, called sennosides, cause the bowels to contract and increase the amount of water and electrolytes in the colon, aiding bowel movements.

In addition to relieving constipation, Smooth Move Tea may offer other health benefits. It may help prevent hemorrhoids by reducing the amount of straining needed during bowel movements. The tea and its ingredients may also fight infections and offer protection against certain types of parasites and bacteria. The ingredients in Smooth Move Tea are also rich in antioxidants, which help protect against cellular damage and may fight conditions like cancer and heart disease.

However, Smooth Move Tea may have several unpleasant side effects and is not suitable for everyone. Short-term use is generally considered safe, but long-term use has been linked to electrolyte imbalances and other health issues. It may also cause laxative dependence and is not recommended for children under 12 years of age or for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Smooth Move Tea should also be avoided by individuals with certain medical conditions, such as appendicitis, heart disease, intestinal obstruction, Crohn's disease, or ulcerative colitis.

The tea's ingredients and their benefits

Smooth Move Tea is an herbal blend commonly used as an over-the-counter constipation remedy. Its ingredients include:

• Senna, which is the primary ingredient and has been used as a natural laxative for centuries. It works by stimulating your intestines and aiding your body's natural elimination process. It also has antioxidant properties, which may improve brain and gut health and reduce the risk of heart disease.
• Licorice, which is used in herbal medicine to support digestion, respiratory health, and throat health.
• Bitter Fennel, which is traditionally used to relieve indigestion and support breast milk production in nursing mothers.
• Cinnamon, which may help to reduce inflammation.
• Ginger, which is used to aid digestion, upset stomach, and nausea.
• Coriander, which is another herb that supports digestion.
• Sweet Orange, which promotes healthy digestion.

Smooth Move Tea also comes in two other varieties: Smooth Move Peppermint Tea and Smooth Move Chamomile Tea. The former contains peppermint, which aids digestion and relieves indigestion and cramping, while the latter contains chamomile, which has a calming effect.

How to prepare a cup of Smooth Move Tea

Smooth Move Tea is a herbal blend commonly used as an over-the-counter constipation remedy. Its main ingredient, senna, is a natural laxative that has been used for centuries. The tea also contains licorice, bitter fennel, cinnamon, ginger, coriander, and sweet orange, which help to soothe the bowels and reduce the chances of cramping.

• Choose a mug or teapot: Select your favourite mug or teapot to drink your tea from. A mug is typically used for individual servings, while a teapot is ideal if you plan to share with others or prefer your tea in smaller quantities.
• Prepare the water: Always use freshly drawn, cold water in your kettle. Run the tap a little first to aerate the water, and only boil it once to maintain the optimal oxygen level, which enhances the flavour.
• Boil the water: Bring the water to a boil in your kettle. If using a teapot, swirl a small amount of boiling water in the empty pot first to keep it hot. You can also use this water to warm your cup or cups.
• Prepare the tea: For a mug, place one tea bag into your mug. If using a teapot, add two tea bags for a regular-sized teapot or one tea bag for a mini teapot. If you prefer loose tea, use one teaspoon per person and an additional teaspoon "for the pot".
• Pour the water: Carefully pour the hot water over the tea bag or loose tea. Use 8 ounces (240 ml) of water for a mug or adjust the amount based on the size of your teapot.
• Steep the tea: Cover your mug or teapot and allow the tea to steep. For Smooth Move Tea, steeping for 10-15 minutes is recommended. For other types of tea, follow the brewing instructions on the box or pouch.
• Remove the tea bag: Before removing the tea bag, gently squeeze it against the side of the mug or teapot once. Avoid mashing or squeezing it multiple times, as this can make the tea bitter.
• Add milk and sweetener (optional): If desired, add a splash of milk and a sweetener such as sugar or honey. You can also add a slice of lemon for a tangy flavour.
• Enjoy your tea: Take a moment to savour the flavour and aroma of your freshly brewed tea. Smooth Move Tea has a sweet and slightly bitter taste with citrus-orange and spice notes.

It is important to note that Smooth Move Tea is intended for short-term use and should not be used for more than one week unless directed by a healthcare professional. It may cause side effects such as cramping, diarrhoea, and fluid loss, and it may interact with certain medications. Always read the instructions and warnings on the packaging before consuming any herbal tea.

The safety and side effects of Smooth Move Tea

Smooth Move Tea is a herbal blend commonly used as an over-the-counter constipation remedy. Its primary ingredient, Senna, has been used as a natural laxative for centuries. The tea also contains licorice, bitter fennel, cinnamon, ginger, coriander, and sweet orange, which are meant to soothe the bowels and reduce the chances of cramping.

Smooth Move Tea is said to help relieve constipation within 6-12 hours. It triggers bowel movements and prevents the body from reabsorbing water from the colon, which can help clear out the bowels and promote fluid loss, reducing bloating and helping one feel lighter.

However, any weight loss resulting from drinking the tea will be due to the loss of water and stools, rather than fat. Additionally, the weight will likely be regained as soon as one stops drinking the tea. Long-term use of laxative teas like Smooth Move has been linked to electrolyte imbalances and other health issues, and it may cause the bowels to become dependent on laxatives to function properly.

Smooth Move Tea may also have several unpleasant side effects and is not suitable for everyone. Some of the possible side effects include painful cramping, diarrhea, fluid losses, poor nutrient absorption, and changes in urine color. Consuming Senna-containing products in high doses or for long periods is not recommended, as it may lead to liver damage, electrolyte imbalances, severe dehydration, laxative dependence, and worsened hemorrhoids.

Smooth Move Tea should be avoided by children under 12 years of age, as Senna-containing products are linked to severe diaper rash, blisters, and skin sloughing. It is also not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, as the safety of the tea for these populations is unknown. Additionally, people with certain medical conditions, such as appendicitis, heart disease, intestinal obstruction, Crohn's disease, or ulcerative colitis, should steer clear of Smooth Move Tea.

In conclusion, while Smooth Move Tea may provide short-term relief from constipation and promote fluid loss, it is not a suitable long-term solution and may have unpleasant side effects. It is important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations and discontinue use if any negative side effects occur.

The manufacturer's recommendations for use

Smooth Move Tea is intended for occasional use and should be consumed for less than one week at a time, unless otherwise directed by a physician. Concerns with long-term usage of Smooth Move Tea include tolerance and dependence, meaning you may need more of the product to achieve the same effect and may become dependent on it for peristalsis.

The manufacturers recommend drinking only one cup (240 ml) per day for no longer than one week at a time. It is also advised that you consult a doctor if you need a laxative for more than a week.

Smooth Move Tea is not suitable for children under 12 years of age. The manufacturer specifically discourages giving this tea to children under 12 and suggests discontinuing its use if you experience abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting.

Smooth Move Tea is also not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, as little is known about its safety for these populations.

Additionally, people with certain medical conditions, such as appendicitis, heart disease, intestinal obstruction, Crohn's disease, or ulcerative colitis, should avoid consuming Smooth Move Tea.

It is important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for use and consult a healthcare professional if you have any questions or concerns about using Smooth Move Tea.

Frequently asked questions