Intestinal gas can cause significant abdominal discomfort in some individuals. Gas is formed in the intestines by bacteria as a normal part of the digestive process. Also known as flatus or flatulence, intestinal gas moves through the intestines until it is eventually expelled through the rectum. Certain herbs may be used to help reduce intestinal gas or treat other associated symptoms. Talk with your doctor about the efficacy and safety of herbs before pursuing this treatment option.
About Intestinal Gas
The voluntary or involuntary passing of gas rectally is a common daily occurrence for most people. In most cases, passing intestinal gas is a normal process. However, for some people, excessive intestinal gas may signal a digestive disorder. Common causes of intestinal gas include food residue in the large intestine, antibiotic-induced alterations of intestinal bacteria, an inability to properly absorb carbohydrates and swallowed air that makes its way to the colon. Constipation also contributes to the fermentation of food waste and the formation of intestinal gas.
Helpful Herbs
In his book "Plant Medicine in Practice," William A. Mitchell Jr., a naturopathic physician and noted herbalist, writes that certain herbs possess carminative action. A carminative is a substance that decreases intestinal gas and eases discomfort in the gastrointestinal tract. Examples of herbs with carminative action include angelica, anise, caraway, cardamom, catnip, chamomile, cinnamon, elecampane, fennel, garlic, ginger, hyssop, lavender, lemon balm, peppermint, rosemary, sage, thyme, turmeric, wild yam and yerba santa. Consult your physician to determine if any of these herbs are safe for you.
Featured Herb
Lemon balm is an herb that is commonly used to treat intestinal gas. According to Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing" and a certified nutritional consultant, lemon balm is an effective digestive aid and helps treat intestinal irritations. The leaves of the lemon balm plant possess carminative properties and are used in herbal preparations. Lemon balm is also used to help treat herpes, insomnia and anxiety. Consult your doctor to determine if lemon balm is safe for you.
Disclaimer
Intestinal gas, though often benign, may signal the presence of an underlying condition that requires the assistance of a qualified health care professional. Herbs alone may not be sufficient to treat your problem, and their use does not guarantee a cure for your ailment. Discuss treatment options with your doctor before making any decisions about your care. An herbalist, a naturopathic doctor or a medical doctor with training in herbal medicine can give you relevant information about herbs to try and herbs to avoid.
References
- MedlinePlus: Intestinal Gas
- MayoClinic.com: Gas and Gas Pains
- "Plant Medicine in Practice;" William A. Mitchell Jr., N.D.; 2003
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Lemon Balm
