Stomach pain isn't a disease in itself, but rather a symptom of an underlying problem. In fact, according to the Mayo Clinic, doctors consider it to be a functional disorder, meaning it's not necessarily caused by a specific disease. In "1000 Cures for 200 Ailments," Dr. Christine Gustafson advises that if you experience intense stomach pain, equaling seven or higher on a 10-point scale, you should seek medical treatment. However, a stomachache is often caused by indigestion, stress, food allergies, and other reasons that don't require immediate medical treatment. For those times when you aren't in intense pain, the following natural remedies may be a more convenient and appropriate treatment course.
Diet
The Mayo Clinic suggests that you eat smaller meals more frequently and avoid certain irritating foods---ones that are fatty, acidic, or spicy. In "1000 Cures for 200 Ailments," both the conventional medical expert Dr. Christine Gustafson and the naturopathy expert Dr. Geovanni Espinosa suggest that during more severe stomach pain you should switch to a diet of clear liquids, such as chicken and vegetable broths and teas.
Stress Management
Anxiety is a major cause of stomach pain, as stress can increase your stomach acidity, causing stomachache and heartburn. Making it difficult to digest certain foods, stress can also lead to gas, bloating and stomach cramps. To reduce stress, practice deep relaxation techniques. According to Edmund J. Bourne, Ph.D. in "The Anxiety and Phobia Handbook," this isn't the same as unwinding in front of the television. Instead, he recommends practicing abdominal breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, meditation, guided imagery, or yoga for 20 to 30 minutes a day. Bourne states that "after several weeks of practicing deep relaxation once per day, you will tend to feel more relaxed all the time." Even if stress isn't the primary cause of your stomach pain, if you experience stress regularly, it's almost certainly a contributor.
Herbal Remedies
In "1000 Cures for 200 Ailments," naturopathy expert Dr. Geovanni Espanosa suggests licorice, which helps with the regeneration of the gastric tissue and has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activity. He suggests aloe vera for its anti-microbial and soothing properties as well as activated charcoal, which is an effective treatment for irritable bowel syndrome and reduces gas. Herbalism expert Dr. David Kiefer suggests fennel, which has long been used to treat stomachaches. Add fennel seed to your food throughout the day. Both experts suggest chamomile tea, which soothes the stomach, relieves gastrointestinal pain and bloating, and acts as a mild sedative, relieving anxiety contributing to your stomach pain.
References
- The Mayo Clinic: Nonulcer Stomach Pain
- "The Anxiety & Phobia Workbook 4th Ed."; Edmund J. Bourne, Ph.D.; 2005
- "1000 Cures for 200 Ailments"; Editor Dr. Victor Sierpina; 2007
