A stressful lifestyle or highly acidic diet were once thought to cause stomach ulcers. Although neither is healthy, they aren't likely to lead to an ulcer. Ulcers often result from infection, although stomach acids can burn the digestive tract, promoting ulcers of the stomach. Additionally, stress can aggravate an ulcer and heighten your symptoms. Talk to your doctor before pursuing treatments and remedies, such as turmeric.
Stomach Ulcer Symptoms
Common symptoms of a stomach ulcer include pain that comes and goes.The pain may emerge with burning sensations or dullness. You might also experience vomiting, nausea and belching. Loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss are other signs. In some cases, however, ulcers do not cause symptoms.
About Tumeric
Turmeric is an ancient medicinal herb. A perennial plant and thick rhizome, turmeric belongs to the ginger family, and is cultivated in parts of Asia, India and China. Although evidence is conflicting, the herb shows promise as a treatment for digestive disorders. Due to its potent antioxidant activity, turmeric might also help fight infections and some types of cancer. As a culinary component, turmeric lends its color and flavor to foods, and is a primary ingredient in curry powders and mustards. For medicinal use, the herb is available in capsule and tincture.
Scientific Evidence
No scientific evidence exists to prove turmeric treats or positively affects a stomach ulcer or ulcerous symptoms. In fact, some evidence indicates the herb may actually worsen stomach ulcers by increasing the level of acid in the stomach, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. On the other hand, a 2009 study published in "Biomedical and Environmental Sciences" shows anti-ulcer activity in rats that were given varying doses of curcumin -- a derivative of the turmeric root -- after a period of fasting. It's important to remember, however, that the same effects do not always occur in both animals and humans.
Considerations
If you're exhibiting signs of a stomach ulcer, visit your doctor for a diagnosis before attempting to treat your symptoms with turmeric or other remedies. A doctor will ask you about your symptoms and prescribe the appropriate medications to reduce them. If you've begun treatment and continue to experience bothersome effects, make another appointment to see your doctor, as you may need X-rays or additional procedures to assess your condition.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Turmeric; David Zieve, M.D.; et al.; August 2010
- American Cancer Society: Turmeric
- "Biomedical and Environmental Sciences;" Anti-Ulcer Activity of Curcumin on Experimental Gastric Ulcer in Rats...; Tuorkey M, et al, December 2009
- FamilyDoctor.org; Ulcers: What You Can Do to Heal Your Ulcer; January 2011
