In a 2001 article in the German "Research in Complimentary Medicine," R. Saller of the Department of Internal Medicine at Universitätsspital in Zürich, Switzerland, revealed that herbal remedies proved superior, compared to placebo, and were as effective as prokinetics (drugs that speed food along the digestive tract) in treating stomach complaints. Dr. Linda White, author of "The Herbal Drugstore," mentions that several herbal remedies are effective treatments for a sour stomach and indigestion. However, if you experience indigestion several times a week, consult your physician because this may be a symptom of a larger problem.
Angelica Root
Angelica stimulates digestion, dispels gas and calms the nerves. Steep 1 tsp. of angelica root in 8 oz. of boiling water for 10 minutes. If desired, strain the tea into a clean cup and add honey to taste. Drink 30 minutes before a meal. Angelica root may cause sun sensitivity, and pregnant and nursing women should not use this root.
Chamomile & Peppermint Tea
Chamomile helps dispel gas and soothe the stomach. It also relaxes the muscle that moves food through the intestines. Peppermint acts as a muscle relaxant and can calm an overactive digestive tract. Peppermint also relaxes the valve between the stomach and esophagus and can make heartburn worse. Do not use peppermint if you have heartburn. Steep 1 tsp. of dried chamomile and 1.5 tsp. of peppermint in 8 oz. of hot water for 10 minutes. If desired, strain the tea into a clean cup and add honey to taste.
Fennel Seed
Ayurvedic medicine uses fennel to relieve gas and stimulate the digestive tract. You can often find these seeds on the table, in Indian restaurants, as a post-meal digestive aid. Chew up to 2 tsp. of raw seeds after meals. Alternatively, simmer 2 to 3 tsp. of crushed seeds in 8 oz. of boiling water for 15 minutes. If desired, strain the tea into a clean cup and add honey to taste.
Ginger
Ginger stimulates digestion, reduces irritation and helps move food through the digestive tract. Ginger can also treat motion sickness. Steep 1 tsp. of grated ginger root in 8 oz. of hot water for 15 minutes. If desired, strain the tea into a clean cup and add honey to taste.
Marshmallow Root
Marshmallow root soothes the membranes of the digestive tract and is also a mild immune system stimulant. Simmer 1 tsp. of dried root in 8 oz. of hot water for 15 minutes. If desired, strain the tea into a clean cup and add honey to taste.
References
- Dyspeptic Pain and Phytotherapy
- The Herbal Drugstore;Linda B. White, MD & Steven Foster;2000
- University of Maryland CAM Index
