Ayurvedic medicine is a form of traditional herbal medicine that originated several thousand years ago in India. Its goal is to promote health and prevent sickness by balancing the body, mind and spirit. Ayurvedic practitioners use many different herbs to maintain a healthy balance among the body's organs and also to treat specific disorders. Several of these herbs may help relieve the symptoms of stomach disorders.
Turmeric
Turmeric, or Indian saffron, is made from the dry root of the Curcuma longa plant. Its active ingredients include the compound curcumin. Turmeric may help relieve stomach cramps or gas that accompanies irritable bowel syndrome, according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Turmeric is a general anti-inflammatory. It is considered safe and without serious side effects, although some people may be allergic to the herb. Turmeric is available in powdered form, and purified curcumin is available in capsules. Consult a doctor before adding turmeric to your regimen.
Triphala
Triphala is an herbal preparation made from powdered fruits of three plants -- amla, myrobalan and belleric myrobalan. Ayurvedic practitoners use triphala for several digestive problems, including stomach inflammation and chronic ulcers. Memorial Sloan-Kettering notes that triphala contains antioxidants and that it may enhance the immune system. Triphala is considered safe but may cause mild side effects such as gas or diarrhea. It is available in powdered form to sprinkle on food or in standardized in capsules. Consult a doctor before taking triphala.
Isatis Leaf
The isatis plant is also called indigo. Its leaf has many uses in Ayurvedic medicine, including as a general digestive tonic and to treat gastrointestinal disorders. Memorial Sloan-Kettering indicates that it may reduce inflammatory processes and have antibacterial and antiviral properties. Isatis leaf is available as a powdered extract that may be brewed as a tea or sprinkled on food. Although generally safe, it may cause mild nausea. Consult a doctor before adding isatis leaf to your regimen.
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