There are a wide variety of indigestion remedies on the market, ranging from conventional treatments to herbal remedies.
Indigestion occurs when food cannot be broken down properly by the digestive system, and symptoms include heartburn, nausea, bloating, and a build-up of gas in the digestive tract. It can be caused by eating too fast, excessive alcohol consumption, stress, medications, and lifestyle changes.
Herbs For Indigestion
•Peppermint is perhaps the most popular natural remedy for indigestion. Peppermint can be administered in the form of a tea or a capsule and should be consumed after a meal. Indian restaurants often give out mints after a meal to counteract the effects of the spicy food and prevent indigestion.
It is relaxing for the stomach muscles and allows the digestive juices to break down the food. Those who suffer from acid reflux should not use peppermint, as it can aggravate the problem.
•Ginger can increase digestive function after a meal. Ginger tea can ease the painful symptoms of indigestion if taken after eating and is a useful natural remedy for acid indigestion when accompanied by nausea.
•Fennel is one of a number of acid indigestion remedies that can help to prevent the build-up of gas in the digestive system and increase the rate of digestion. Fennel is a natural remedy for indigestion and is widely available in the form of a tea.
•Chamomile is a very soothing herb that can calm inflammation and ease symptoms of stress that may trigger an attack of indigestion. The calming herb is also useful for reducing a build-up of gas in the digestive system.
•Green tea can encourage the digestive system to function properly. Those who have an extremely sensitive stomach should not use green tea.
•A slippery elm bark supplement can coat the stomach to protect it from irritating foods that can cause indigestion. It can help with a number of digestion related problems such as diarrhea and stomach cramps as well. The coating it provides for the digestive tract may inhibit the absorption of other medications so should not be taken within two hours of any other remedy.
•Drinking aloe vera juice is a very effective natural indigestion remedy. It can help to soothe the digestive system and ensure that the digestive tract is working smoothly. Aloe can also encourage the production of bile for effective breakdown of fats.
•Fennel and peppermint essential oils can be blended with carrier oil and massaged into the abdomen for relief from the pain of indigestion.
•Licorice is a popular natural remedy for indigestion that can help to strengthen the stomach lining to protect against acid. Studies have shown that it is just as effective as some conventional antacids.
Bouts of indigestion which occur regularly should be checked out by a medical professional to ensure that there is no serious underlying medical cause.
Indigestion that occurs with other symptoms such as severe pain, vomiting, and shortness of breath should be reported to a doctor immediately.
Pregnant women should consult their doctor to ensure any indigestion remedies that they are considering will not adversely affect their pregnancy.
HERBAL ENCYCLOPEDIA OF REMEDIES