Herbs to Cleanse the Stomach

Herbs have been used for hundreds of years to heal and clear a variety of ailments and conditions. Today, natural therapists employ herbs for a variety of uses, including cleansing the main organs of the body. Natural therapists believe that cleansing the organs will help to give you energy and keep you healthy and free from illness. Cleansing the stomach is believed to support and heal digestive problems.

Cleansing herbs

• The stomach is the organ responsible for breaking down and digesting food. It is a larger area that exists along the digestive tract between the esophagus and the small intestine. The stomach breaks down food with gastric juices and digestive enzymes. When the stomach is unhealthy, a variety of digestive upsets and conditions can occur.

  Digestive enzymes help the body to break down carbohydrates, protein, fats and lactose. Modern diets tend to include an abundance of processed foods which don't contain these enzymes. Ginger root, sprouted grains, and fruits and vegetables all contain digestive enzymes. By including these with your meals you can help to keep the stomach clear and healthy.

  Marshmallow root, fennel and licorice are known for their ability to cleanse, soothe and coat the lining of the stomach. By aiding in the digestive process they reduce stomach ailments. Combine 1 tsp. of these herbs with one cup of boiled water. Allow it to steep for three to five minutes. Strain and drink the tea when it's ready. Drink one to three cups daily.

  Psyllium husk and flax seed are very high in fiber. They form a gel-like substance in the intestines that sweeps the colon clean as the waste is eliminated through the bowels. These herbs absorb water so it is important to increase your water intake when using them. A tablespoon of either herb can be added to breakfast cereal, smoothies or water.

  Turmeric and mustard seed speed up the metabolism by stimulating the production of bile and digestive enzymes. They can help the stomach to easily absorb and process nutrients as well as eliminate waste more efficiently. These herbs can be added to meals, or a pinch of each can be added to water to be consumed after meals. Cayenne pepper can also be used to speed up the metabolism and is said to stimulate and cleanse the colon.