In Spain, bloating after eating is no longer a taboo subject. More and more people are looking for natural drinks to help them feel lighter, and Mercadona has stocked its Hacendado brand options on its shelves, which have become staples in many homes. The price, close to one euro, and the ease of preparation explain much of their popularity.
Among the most talked-about alternatives are Hacendado's digestive herbal teas, with fennel as the main ingredient. It's not a miracle product, but rather a beverage made with traditionally used plants, perfect for those who prefer an affordable option to more expensive solutions. The key is to drink it regularly as part of a balanced diet.
Which Mercadona herbal teas are associated with bloating
Mercadona sells at least two Hacendado products that are often mentioned when discussing bloating. One is Hacendado Fennel Infusion, presented in a 40-gram box with 20 tea bags and priced at €1,05. The other is Hacendado Digest Infusion, also in boxes of 20 tea bags and priced at €1,05, which is a blend of various herbs. Their similar format and price make them easy to spot on the shelf.
Both products contain fennel, though not in the same way. The first relies on a single plant, while the second is part of a broader combination. This difference matters if you're looking for a specific flavor or a more comprehensive digestive aid.
Composition: from pure fennel to digestive blend
The fennel-only version contains only dehydrated fennel, with no added sugars or artificial flavorings. In contrast, the Hacendado Digest blend combines fennel (32,5%), anise (30%), mint (16,5%), lemon balm (14,6%), and chamomile (6%). These are two different ways of addressing the same discomfort.
Fennel provides fiber, potassium, calcium, and vitamins A and B3, according to information about the plain variety. The Digest blend, on the other hand, is presented as an option with only 2 kcal per dose. This information helps in choosing, but it doesn't make the infusion a medical treatment.
How it helps reduce bloating and gas
The most sought-after effect of these drinks is to relieve heaviness and bloating after large meals. Fennel has traditionally been used as a mild antispasmodic, capable of relaxing the digestive muscles and promoting the expulsion of gas. That's why many people drink it right after finishing a meal.
- It helps reduce heaviness after large meals.
- It can relieve stomach spasms and intestinal gas.
- It aids digestion without changing the taste of food.
- It acts as a mild diuretic in cases of fluid retention.
- It provides fiber, potassium and vitamins with very few calories.
When to take it and how to prepare it
The experts cited in the information consulted agree that the most logical time to take it is after main meals, especially if they have been large. It can also be taken at night, as its action is gentle. It is not advisable to expect immediate results or to take it as a substitute for a light dinner.
Preparation is simple: pour boiling water over a tea bag and let it steep for five to eight minutes. For the Digest variety, about 150 ml of water is recommended, and the longer it steeps, the more intense the anise aroma will be. Consistency and good hydration are more important than haste.
What does the evidence say and what precautions are in place?
The European Medicines Agency recognizes the traditional use of sweet fennel fruit for spasmodic digestive discomfort and gas. This recognition doesn't mean that an infusion can replace medication, but it does provide context for a plant that has been associated with digestion for centuries. We're talking about tradition and evidence, not miracles.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women, as well as people with hormonal problems, should moderate their consumption and consult a healthcare professional first. Fennel contains compounds with some estrogenic activity. Caution is especially important if consumed daily.
Why have these infusions become so popular?
The surge in popularity isn't solely due to taste. A growing number of Spanish consumers are seeking natural and affordable alternatives to support their digestion without resorting to pills or over-the-counter products. Budget also plays a role in their shopping habits.
Other Mercadona herbal teas, such as Digest and Horsetail, have experienced stock shortages at various times, according to comments surrounding this trend. This reflects the continued growth in demand for simple solutions to bloating. Their combination of low price and everyday use makes them very popular.
What can happen from now on?
Everything suggests that Mercadona could expand its range of herbal teas or launch new blends with fennel and other digestive herbs. The company already has experience with the Hacendado brand and with high-turnover products. If demand remains strong, it wouldn't be surprising to see more options on the shelves.
For those who suffer from occasional bloating, herbal tea can be an inexpensive remedy, but it won't resolve persistent problems on its own. If symptoms appear almost daily, are accompanied by severe pain, diarrhea, severe constipation, weight loss, or blood in the stool, it's advisable to consult a healthcare professional. This beverage is not a substitute for medical evaluation.
Mercadona has made Hacendado brand herbal teas available to Spanish consumers at affordable prices, designed to aid digestion. The fennel variety and the Digest blend both feature fennel, come in a 20-bag format, and cost €1,05, although they are not identical. They can be used as a temporary aid against bloating after meals, always as part of a balanced diet and with proper precautions. The wisest approach is to try them, observe how your body reacts, and consult a doctor if the discomfort becomes persistent.