Native American Remedies For Ulcers

A peptic ulcer is an open sore on the stomach lining, esophagus or intestine. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, about 20 million people in the United States suffer from ulcers. This condition is characterized by symptoms such as a burning sensation in the stomach, heartburn, diminished appetite, vomiting and weight loss. Some herbalists and alternative medicine practitioners believe that Native American remedies may help reduce the symptoms or ulcers.

Native American remedies are not meant to replace conventional medical treatment. Check with your doctor before using alternative remedies to treat ulcers or any other condition.

Peppermint

Peppermint is an herb that grows in moist soils in parts of North America, Asia and Europe, according to the Herbs 2000 website. This herb is a hybrid of wild mint and spearmint. Menthol, the primary active ingredient in peppermint, makes up between 35 percent and 78 percent of the content of the oil extracted from this herb. Peppermint was used by Native American tribes of the eastern United States, including the Algonquin and Wampanoag tribes. They consumed the steeped leaves as a tea to heal digestive disorders such as ulcers. Talk to your doctor if you plan to use peppermint as an ulcer remedy.

Licorice

Licorice is an herb that has been used in China for more than 5,000 years as a remedy for respiratory problems, liver damage and sore throats, according to Michael Castleman, author of "The Healing Herbs." Licorice also appeared in Native American remedies, particularly of those Native Americans who settled in the eastern United States. These tribes brewed licorice and drank the tea to treat earaches and coughs. They also used the herb as a laxative and to reduce the symptoms of ulcers and other forms of digestive distress. Consult your physician before using licorice to treat ulcers.

Pau D'Arco

Pau d'arco is an evergreen that grows in the rain forests of South American countries, particularly Brazil. The native South Americans of Brazil extracted the inner bark from the pau d'arco evergreen and brewed it as a tree to treat a variety of conditions, including diabetes, cancer and ulcers, according to the Herbs 2000 website. Talk to your medical care provider before treating ulcers with pau d'arco.