Trapped gas in the lower intestines can lead to uncomfortable gas pain. Gas develops when you swallow large amounts of air or when your colon breaks down undigested food. As bacteria in your large intestine work to digest food, carbon dioxide and methane form, leading to intestinal gas. Gas can cause discomfort and bloating. You can treat recurring gas pain with prescription or over-the-counter medicines, as well as lifestyle changes and natural home remedies.
Ginger and Charcoal
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, ginger can provide natural relief for gas pain. You can eat fresh ginger or purchase ginger in liquid or powder form from a natural food store to treat gas pain. Ginger is most helpful when taken with or after a meal. Some people find relief from gas pain by taking activated charcoal tablets, according to the Mayo Clinic. You can find charcoal tablets at drugstores. It's best to take charcoal before and after a meal to reduce painful gas.
Teas
You can use natural remedies to reduce trapped gas in your intestines. Abdominal gas is most likely to develop after you eat a meal. Many people find it helpful to take their favorite herbal remedy as a tea directly after eating. You can prepare teas to ease gas pains at home using peppermint leaves, ginger, parsley, fennel or lemon verbena.
Benefits
Using natural remedies to relieve gas pain is helpful if you prefer to avoid taking prescription medications. Natural remedies can reduce painful cramping and lessen uncomfortable bloating. Intestinal gas can be an embarrassing, irritating condition. Finding a natural remedy can provide much-needed relief.
Considerations
The American Dietetic Association warns that excessive gas may be a sign of a bigger underlying problem. Irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn's disease and gallstones can cause excessive gas. While some of these conditions can be treated with natural remedies, if you suffer from chronic gas pain, consider seeing a doctor to determine the cause before starting a natural treatment regimen.
Expert Insight
The Mayo Clinic recommends several lifestyle changes in addition to natural remedies to treat chronic painful gas. Many gas sufferers experience a reduction in pain by eating smaller meals, eating more slowly, avoiding smoking and getting moderate exercise. By avoiding certain foods, such as fried foods, dairy items and foods high in fat, you can help lessen gas pain.
