A hernia is a protrusion of part of the stomach through the diaphragm, which is a sheet of muscle between your abdomen and chest. In some cases, hernias are congenital; in other cases, they may be caused by smoking, age or obesity, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The most common symptoms are heartburn and chest pain caused by bile and stomach acids penetrating the esophagus. Although herbs cannot cure a hernia, they may help to reduce symptoms. Talk to your physician before taking any herb to treat hernia symptoms.
Licorice
In the United States, licorice is commonly associated with a strong-tasting candy of the same name. However, most licorice candy does not contain licorice herb. Licorice is an herb that has been used by traditional Chinese healers for more than 5,000 years to soothe sore throat and treat respiratory problems, according to Michael Castleman, author of "The New Healing Herbs." This roots of this herb may also promote the healing of damage to your esophagus and stomach lining caused by hernia-related reflux. This may help reduce pain and burning sensations in your chest and throat. Talk to your doctor before taking licorice root to ease hernia symptoms. Although side effects are rare, licorice may have a laxative effect.
Ginger Root
Ginger root is a pungent herb that is used extensively in Indian and Asian cuisine. This herb may also offer protective benefits for hernia sufferers. Ginger may help buffer the stomach and esophagus against damage caused by bile and gastric acids, helping to prevent hernia symptoms, according to certified nutritional consultant Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Contact your doctor before treating hernia symptoms with ginger root. In rare cases, this herb may cause stomach upset.
Chamomile
Chamomile is sold in the United States as a mild sleep aid; however, it may also help provide hernia relief. Chamomile may relax the lining of your digestive tract, improving digestion and reducing the need for stomach acids. Decreased stomach acid production may help reduce the frequency and severity of hernia-related acid reflux. Chamomile may also help to sooth the lining of your esophagus, according to Balch. Contact your doctor before treating hernia symptoms with chamomile -- this herb may trigger nausea.
Marshmallow Root
Marshmallow has no relation to the confection that bears the same name. It is an herb with edible roots that may have medicinal properties. Marshmallow root may improve digestion and reduce the production of gastric acids in your digestive system, according to Balch. Talk to your doctor before using marshmallow root -- it may occasionally cause diarrhea.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Hiatal Hernia; David Zieve, M.D., M.H.A.; Agust 2009
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C., et al.; 2010
- "The New Healing Herbs"; Michael Castleman; 2010
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