Can drinking water boiled with Chinese chives help relieve bloating?

Jul 23, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Introduction
Boiling Chinese chives (garlic chives) in water may have a mild relieving effect on minor functional bloating, but is ineffective for bloating caused by underlying diseases. For temporary bloating resulting from eating too quickly or consuming gas-producing foods, without significant pain or vomiting, drinking a moderate amount of warm water boiled with Chinese chives may help stimulate gastrointestinal motility through its aromatic properties. When combined with slow walking, this may assist in expelling some gas and relieving abdominal distension, although the effect is limited.

Generally, leek decoction may have a mild relieving effect on slight functional bloating, but it cannot resolve bloating caused by diseases. Detailed analysis is as follows:

Short-term bloating caused by eating too quickly or consuming gas-producing foods, without significant pain or vomiting, may be slightly relieved by drinking warm leek decoction in moderation. The pungent odor of leek might stimulate gastrointestinal motility. When combined with gentle walking, it may help expel some gas and alleviate the sensation of bloating, although the effect is limited.

If bloating is caused by diseases such as gastric ulcers or intestinal obstruction, or if it is accompanied by severe abdominal pain, cessation of bowel movements, or other symptoms, leek decoction will not relieve the symptoms. In such cases, medical examination is necessary to determine the underlying cause and receive targeted treatment. Relying solely on leek decoction may increase the burden on the gastrointestinal tract and delay recovery.

When experiencing bloating, one may try chewing food thoroughly, eating slowly, and avoiding raw or cold foods. If discomfort persists, it is advisable to seek medical assistance early to help the body return to a comfortable state as soon as possible.