Imagine if everything you ate caused pain and discomfort. For those who
suffer from chronic indigestion, that's the everyday way of life.
When you have chronic indigestion, taking medication on a daily basis
becomes tedious. Wouldn't you rather be able to control your
indigestion while reducing your medication intake? There are many
natural remedies that you can try, each offering to reduce the effects
of acid reflux, heartburn and indigestion. It can be the natural
alternative you need.
You may be aware of the negative side effects that come from taking
medicated antacids. Studies suggest that the high aluminum content of
some of these medications may even be attributed to senility and
Alzheimer's disease. Natural remedies, on the other hand, can provide
safer, non-medicated relief.
Anise or Aniseed: These are powerful herbs known to sooth the
discomfort of digestive conditions, and provide other healthy benefits
to your body. It's important to know that there are several types of
anise, so be sure you're taking the right one. Visit a health food
store and purchase ash-colored varieties of anise, known as sweet,
green or European anise. Caraway, star anise and other types are
popular in cooking but should not be taken as a digestive aid.
Chicory Root: This is a bitter herb that contains escarole and endive.
Boiling one and a half cups of water with chicory root for five to ten
minutes, then allowing it to cool, will create a tea that you can drink
to correct heartburn, indigestion and acid reflux. Adding chicory root
to your salad is another way to aid in digestion.
Cinnamon: Soups, stews, baking and more. Cinnamon is a welcome addition
to all kinds of foods, and it's a tasty way to combat stomach
discomfort. Cinnamon has an antiseptic effect, and may be able to
settle acidic stomachs. Many people choose cinnamon as it gives food a
unique flavor, while offering soothing relief.
Grapefruit Zest: Eating a whole grapefruit can cause digestive
distress, but some people swear by grapefruit peel as a helpful remedy.
Grate the entire outer skin of a grapefruit, and then allow the
shavings, or "zest", to dry. Once fully dried, the zest can be stored
safely. When indigestion strikes, try chewing the dried peel as a
remedy to help settle your stomach. All you need is a nibble, so be
careful not to overdo this.
Lavender: This sweet-smelling herb is highly respected for its many
soothing properties. Used to treat many internal and external
conditions, taking lavender can bring relief of stomach discomforts,
and can reduce the amount of acid in your stomach.
Natural Papaya: A delicious tropical fruit that naturally contains
papain, a digestive enzyme. This enzyme is excellent for protein
digestion, and can be taken with every meal. Some sources suggest
taking 500 mg or more of papaya enzymes per meal, but you must
determine the best dosage for you. Speak with your health practitioner
or natural health advisor.
Peppermint: Another natural remedy for indigestion. That's why
restaurants have traditionally served peppermints on the check tray.
Peppermint naturally helps your digestion system, while bringing relief
for cramps, ulcers, gas and other stomach problems.
Pineapple Juice and Fruit: Pineapple is rich in a number of naturally
occurring enzymes including bromelain, a substance that reduces
protein. This delicious, natural wonder may help to support digestion,
reduce inflammation and support the healing of damaged esophagus
tissues. Fresh pineapple juice has many enzymes that can help put an
end to indigestion. You can also purchase bromelain in capsule form,
taking 200 mg to 500 mg with each meal. Again, be sure to seek expert
advice before taking any dietary supplements.
When chronic indigestion strikes, there are many natural remedies that
can bring the relief you need. Patients often choose natural remedies
over medicated treatments to avoid potential side effects and long-term
damage. Speak with your doctor or natural healthcare provider to
determine which alternatives are best suited to your condition and your
lifestyle.
