Gastric ulcers affect a large number of adults annually and cause acute stomach pain as well as indigestion, acid reflux and loss of appetite. A major cause of stomach ulcers is the bacteria H. pylori, although stress, alcohol, caffeine, smoking and poor diet can also play a role. Instead of, or in addition to, the anti-inflammatories and antibiotics doctors usually prescribe to treat stomach ulcers, you can reduce symptoms with a variety of herbs. Obtain a diagnosis of gastric ulceration from a qualified health care practitioner before embarking on a course of treatment.
Chamomile
Chamomile exhibits calming, anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic qualities, making it a good herb to combat the pain of stomach ulcers. In addition, it is mildly antiseptic, and so will help eradicate any overgrowth of H. pylori. Drink 3 to 4 cups of chamomile tea day, brewed for 30 minutes before drinking. Be careful what activities you engage in after consuming chamomile, however, as it has a mild sedative effect.
Licorice
Licorice root has long been regarded as an effective herb for all manner of stomach ailments, especially those associated with inflammation, such as stomach ulcers. Licorice is a potent anti-inflammatory and serves to soothe the stomach lining by encouraging the production of mucus. It also lowers stomach acidity, which aids in ulcer healing. There is some evidence that using licorice root can increase blood pressure, however, so the best idea is to use deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) instead, available in chewable tablets from herbalist shops and health food stores. Those who suffer from high blood pressure or who are on digoxin-based drugs should not consume licorice.
Marshmallow
Marshmallow root encourages the heavy production of mucus, which soothes the symptoms of gastric ulcers as well as encourages their healing. It also exhibits anti-inflammatory and antibiotic qualities, both of which are beneficial for healing ulceration. You can take the ground root in capsule form or make a decoction that can be drunk 2 or 3 times a day. It combines well with slippery elm when taken as capsules, and can be mixed with fennel to improve the taste of the decoction.
Yarrow
Yarrow flowers are highly anti-microbial as well as anti-inflammatory. When taken internally, they combat the growth of H. pylori and soothe the stomach lining, aiding in healing ulcers. Yarrow also stimulates digestion, and so can be used when the symptoms of gastric ulceration include loss of appetite. Large amounts of yarrow, generally considered to be over 3 g a day, are a uterine stimulant, so should not be taken by pregnant women.
Slippery Elm
The bark of the slippery elm tree is a demulcent, meaning it promotes the production of mucus. For this use it combines well with other demulcents, such as marshmallow, and is useful for abating the symptoms of gastric ulcers. It also strengthens the digestive system in weak patients. Take the powdered bark in capsule form before meals.
References
- "The Complete Medicinal Herbal;" Penelope Ody, 1993
- The Herb Companion: Gut Reaction.
