Some 40 to 50 percent of Americans over age 50 suffer from chronic gastritis, an inflammation of the lining of the stomach, according to the Medical University of South Carolina Digestive Disease Center. Although the need for further scientific evidence exists, practitioners of alternative medicine claim that the herb calendula may act to relieve the inflammation associated with gastritis.
Gastritis
Gastritis, one of the most common digestive disorders, causes acid inflammation of the stomach lining and often occurs with increasing age. The condition doesn't always cause symptoms, but it can produce nausea, vomiting and burning aches in the pit of your upper abdomen. Commonly the result of bacterial infections, additional risk factors include injury and excessive ingestion of painkillers or alcohol. According to MayoClinic.com, while most cases improve quickly with treatment, gastritis occasionally can lead to increased risks of ulcers and stomach cancer.
About Calendula
A versatile herb used in Western herbal medicine, calendula grows up to 2 feet tall and bears bright orange and yellow flowers. The attractive plant often forms the centerpiece for ornamental and culinary gardens. Native to the Mediterranean countries, calendula enjoys a long medicinal history. Its flowers were used to lift spirits and encourage cheerfulness. Today, herbalists use calendula's flower heads and petals to provide treatment for skin abrasions, minor burns, wounds and digestive irritation.
Calendula Benefits
Calendula has a lengthy history as an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agent. German studies indicate that the herb may help reduce the hormonal effects that lead to swelling and inflammation of the stomach lining, according to Phyllis A. Balch, certified nutritional consultant and author of the book "Prescription for Herbal Healing." Taken internally, calendula appears to counteract infections caused by Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium linked to gastritis. Additionally, when combined with comfrey, calendula seems to increase the effectiveness of antacids.
Considerations
Generally recognized as safe when used topically, avoid calendula if you have allergies to plants in the aster family, as it can cause skin rash. When taken internally, calendula can accelerate the sedative effect of anti-anxiety medications. Due to reputed action on the menstrual cycle, pregnant and nursing women should avoid the herb. In addition, the University of Maryland Medical Center advises that both males and females attempting to conceive should refrain from using calendula.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Gastritis
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center: Calendula
- "Prescription for Herbal Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch; 2002
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Calendula
- Medical University of South Carolina Digestive Disease Center: Digestive Problems
