Treat Your Indigestion Naturally
Joelle Applebe
Imagine how you would feel if everything you ate brought about pain and discomfort. For those with chronic indigestion, this is the everyday way of life.
If you suffer from chronic indigestion, you're probably tired of taking medication on a daily basis. Wouldn't it be nice if you could find a way to control your indigestion, and reduce your medication intake? Several natural remedies are available that may reduce the effects of acid reflux, heartburn and indigestion, and bring about the relief that you need.
You may be aware of the negative side effects that come from taking medicated antacids. Studies suggest that the high aluminum content of some of these medications may even be attributed to senility and Alzheimer's disease. Natural remedies, on the other hand, can provide safer, non-medicated relief.
Anise or Aniseed: These are powerful herbs known to sooth the discomfort of digestive conditions, and provide other healthy benefits to your body. It's important to know that there are several types of anise, so be sure you're taking the right one. Visit a health food store and purchase ash-colored varieties of anise, known as sweet, green or European anise. Caraway, star anise and other types are popular in cooking but should not be taken as a digestive aid.
Chicory Root: This is a bitter herb that contains escarole and endive. Boiling one and a half cups of water with chicory root for five to ten minutes, then allowing it to cool, will create a tea that you can drink to correct heartburn, indigestion and acid reflux. Adding chicory root to your salad is another way to aid in digestion.
Cinnamon: Soups, stews, baking and more. Cinnamon is a welcome addition to all kinds of foods, and it's a tasty way to combat stomach discomfort. Cinnamon has an antiseptic effect, and may be able to settle acidic stomachs. Many people choose cinnamon as it gives food a unique flavor, while offering soothing relief.
Grapefruit Zest: Eating a whole grapefruit can cause digestive distress, but some people swear by grapefruit peel as a helpful remedy. Grate the entire outer skin of a grapefruit, and then allow the shavings, or "zest", to dry. Once fully dried, the zest can be stored safely. When indigestion strikes, try chewing the dried peel as a remedy to help settle your stomach. All you need is a nibble, so be careful not to overdo this.
Natural Lavender: This common herb is favoured for its fragrance, and highly respected for its many soothing properties. Used to calm and treat both internal and external conditions, lavender can relieve stomach discomforts and reduce the amount of stomach acid.
Papaya: A delicious tropical fruit that naturally contains the digestive enzyme papain. This enzyme is excellent for protein digestion, and can be taken with every meal. Some sources report taking 500mg or more of papaya enzymes per meal, but you must check with your health practitioner or at your health food store for the dosage amounts that are best for you.
Tried-and True Peppermint: There's a reason that so many restaurants offer peppermints on the check tray. It's one of the most popular and time-tested natural remedies for indigestion. Peppermint is a natural digestive aid that brings welcome relief from cramps, gas, ulcers and other stomach problems. This is why restaurants have traditionally served peppermints on the check tray.
Pineapple: These fruits are rich in a number of naturally occurring enzymes including bromelain, which reduces protein. This natural wonder may help to support digestion, reduce the inflammation caused by digestion, and even support the healing of damaged esophagus tissues. Fresh pineapple juice has a high level of enzymes that can help put an end to your indigestion. You can also choose to purchase bromelain in capsule form, and take 200 to 500mg per meal. Again, ask an expert before taking any dietary supplements.
If you suffer from chronic indigestion, there are many natural remedies that may bring about the relief you need. Many people choose natural remedies over medicated treatments to avoid side effects and potentially hazardous long-term effects. Speak with your doctor or healthcare provider to determine the natural alternatives that are best suited to your condition and your lifestyle.
Writer Joelle Applebe writes for several web sites, on http://sofod.com/ fitness training and http://mifot.com/ physical fitness issues.
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