Tummy Trouble Solved Naturally
As you must know from reading this newsletter, I always give my patients a wide array of treatment options, including the most natural and simple solutions available. I know that many illnesses and health problems are sometimes handled more gently and effectively with natural remedies. One of these health issues that responds exceptionally well to natural treatment is nausea.
You may be familiar with some of these treatments, especially ginger. It seems like almost everyone’s mother gave them a glass of ginger ale for an upset stomach. Though effective, ginger is not the only home remedy you can turn to when you feel queasy. The natural world is full of solutions to treat this common condition.
Herbal Solutions
Nausea can have many causes, from a 24-hour flu bug…to pregnancy… to chemotherapy. Whatever the source of your nausea, there is no question that you want to get rid of it as quickly and gently as possible. Here are some herbs and one additional all-star remedy you can try:
1) Peppermint – This cooling herb calms inflamed tissue, eases stomach cramps and discourages bacterial growth. It has anti-infection and antispasmodic qualities, which soothe the stomach lining and muscles of the colon. You can take peppermint in tea form or mix the essential oil with water and drink.
2) Chamomile – Best known for its soothing qualities, chamomile is often used as a tea to induce drowsiness. However, this potent herb also has antifungal and antispasmodic properties, so it relaxes the digestive system too.
3) Basil - Used in a similar fashion as peppermint, this culinary herb has been known to ease nausea in people who don’t respond to other remedies.
4) Ginger – Not an herb, but a rhizome, ginger root is the most famous natural nausea remedy. It contains gingerol, an antioxidant that decreases oxidative damage in the body, particularly in the digestive tract. Additionally, it warms the body by causing blood vessels to dilate and blocks the serotonin receptors in the stomach which cause nausea. Get ginger in tea, ginger ale, or ginger snaps; add fresh ginger to recipes; or try ginger capsules available at natural foods stores. The key is to make sure the product you use contains real ginger, not imitation ginger flavoring.
Alternative Therapies
Most of my patients find herbs and ginger to be the most readily available solutions for nausea, but there are even more options for you to consider. If you suffer from an illness that causes chronic nausea, one of the following therapies may be right for you:
1) Acupressure and Reflexology - Both of these treatments utilize special pressure points on the body that have an effect on internal functions when stimulated with touch.
2) Ayurveda- This Indian healing tradition uses herbs and spices to re-balance the body. Three remedies to try are: cardamom and 1/2 teaspoon honey stirred into 1/2 cup plain yogurt; nutmeg and cardamom in warm milk; and hot tea made with cumin seeds and nutmeg.
3) Homeopathy – This treatment involves “treating like with like” by taking small doses of an irritant in order to coax the body into fighting off an illness. Consult a homeopath for treatment.
4) Diet therapy – Initially, you should let your stomach empty out, then slowly introduce bland, low fat foods. High fat or fried foods take longer to digest and are more taxing to your system. A few soda crackers, dry toast or oatmeal would be good choices.
Since all of us will probably have to deal with nausea at some point in life, it is important to be aware of the natural options available. There is no need to turn to medical treatments that may have more harsh side effects than benefits. The next time you have an upset stomach, drink a glass of all natural ginger ale and enjoy the healing properties of this natural wonder.
Mark Rosenberg, M.D.
Institute For Healthy Aging
http://www.vitalmaxvitamins.com
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Author: Mark Rosenberg, M.D.
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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