Natural Remedy for Stomach Ulcers

Stomach ulcers are inflamed lesions in the lining of the upper digestive tract. These lesions are formed when the lining is exposed to gastric juices. Contrary to popular belief, they are not caused by spicy food or stress but usually result from a bacterial infection with H. pylori or from long-term use of certain medications like aspirin and other NSAID pain relievers. Herbal treatments are effective for treating symptoms and H. pylori infection; they should be used for several months to achieve full benefit.

Herbs that treat H. pylori infection

• These herbs are best used as a complement to standard medications that treat this infection. Barberry, coptis, goldenseal, and Oregon graperoot all contain similar substances that kill this form of bacteria. Choose one and take 500 milligram capsules three times daily. Do not use for periods longer than two weeks at a time and do not use if you are pregnant or have gallbladder disease. Specifically avoid goldenseal if you have glaucoma or cardiovascular disease. Cat's claw also kills these bacteria and helps prevent another infection. Take 500 milligram three times daily. Do not use if you take insulin or are pregnant or nursing. Chamomile tea counteracts H. pylori and reduces inflammation. Drink one cup three times daily. Olive leaf is a potent antibacterial herb. Take 250 to 500 milligrams three times daily.

Herbs that ease ulcer symptoms

• Peppermint is probably the best known herb for relieving stomach and digestive issues. Drink tea as desired daily or take tablets as directed on the label. Aloe juice curbs bleeding ulcers. Take up to two cups daily but do not use if you have diarrhea. Chen pi tea, also known as bitter orange, relaxes the stomach muscles and relieves belching, bloating, and gas. Drink three times a day before meals. Cinnamon tea improves blood circulation in the stomach, which speeds the healing process. Drink one cup three times daily. Licorice relieves ulcer symptoms in a similar manner as Tagamet or Zantac and prevents vomiting. Take 380 milligrams 20 minutes before eating. Malva tea eases stomach upset and reduces intestinal irritation. Drink as directed on the product label. Marshmallow root power, also known as althea, protects the stomach lining. Take 1 teaspoon in a cup of cold water three times a day. Rhubard treats intestinal bleeding. Take the juice or tablets as directed on the label.

Diet

• Drinking a large glass of water can ease acute pain by diluting stomach acids and moving them out of the stomach. Raw cabbage juice can ease ulcer symptoms. It contains high amounts of glutamine, an amino acid that promotes the formation of a protective layer of mucus in the stomach lining. Drink up to two cups a day. Black and green tea has similar substances that kill H. pylori. Blueberries contain a pigment that secretes mucous which will protect the stomach lining. Eat two or three servings weekly.