Digestive Troubles? Try These Natural Remedies
Nearly everyone experiences gut issues. According to Dr Anton Emmanuel, consultant gastroenterologist at University College Hospital in London, around 40 per cent of people have at least one digestive symptom at any one time. The most common are indigestion, heartburn, abdominal pain, and constipation or diarrhoea.
Most digestive health problems have to do with one’s lifestyle. So taking healthy changes, such as proper diet, regular exercise and quality rest can help prevent the onset of these issues. There’s also a wide range of natural remedies that give us instant relief from digestive troubles and provide long-term gut health benefits. Here they are:
Probiotics
The reason why yoghurt is good for your tummy is because it contains billions of live bacteria that promote healthy digestion and boost your immune system. Some types of probiotics may provide relief from diarrhoea and may also relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Other foods that are rich in probiotics include kefir and other fermented products.
Liquorice
This natural candy has long been used to treat symptoms of indigestion, such as heartburn and acid reflux. In Chinese medicine, liquorice root is considered to have strong anti-inflammatory properties and is used as a treatment of a variety of illnesses, from stomach ulcers to diabetes. It is used to soothe coughs and sore throats, control blood sugar, balance hormones, heal cold sores, and treat eczema, asthma, flu, herpes, and hepatitis.
Peppermint Oil
Several studies have shown that peppermint oil may lessen pain and bloating that comes with IBS. It is also used to treat many other health conditions and can be taken orally in dietary supplements or topically as a skin cream or ointment. However, peppermint oil may cause side effects such as heartburn and it may interact with certain medications. Talk to your health care provider before using it.
Chamomile Tea
Apart from helping treat anxiety and nausea, chamomile tea is also used for digestive problems such as upset stomach and colic. It has the ability to ease digestive distress, as well as the underlying stress and tension that are perhaps the cause of the issue. Chamomile soothes the walls of the intestines, easing sudden sharp and intense pains, and eliminating gas. To get most of its health benefits, steep chamomile tea for 10 to 15 minutes.
Ginger
Ginger is widely used to treat stomach aches. But it’s best to consume it in moderation. It is a safe way to relieve nausea, vomiting, motion sickness, morning sickness, gas, loss of appetite, and colic High doses of ginger can backfire; more than 2 to 4 grams per day can cause heartburn.
Psyllium
This plant is very high in fibre that’s why it is able to absorb water in the intestines. Fibre makes the stool bulky and easier to pass, and helps avoid dehydration or a worse case of constipation. Psyllium is also used to treat irritable bowel syndrome, haemorrhoids, and other intestinal problems, according to the University of Maryland Medical Centre.
Artichoke
The extract from artichoke leaf is often used to ease indigestion. When used daily, the extract seems to lessen nausea, vomiting, gas, and abdominal pain. Whilst it has no known interaction with medicines, artichoke extract can cause allergic reactions in people who are allergic to ragweed and related pollens.
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