5 Home Remedies That Actually Help Stomach Aches
By: Dr. Donna Powell & Dr. Renee M. Marchioni Beery
Dealing with stomach aches can be uncomfortable and disruptive to daily life, but common digestion issues often have common solutions that have been available and effective for many years. Before reaching for over-the-counter medications, you might want to explore some simple, affordable home remedies. Here are five effective remedies that will help reduce discomfort and promote digestive wellness.
1) Peppermint Tea
Peppermint has long been praised for its soothing properties, particularly for digestive issues. Peppermint tea can help relax the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract, reducing spasms and alleviating discomfort associated with indigestion, bloating, and gas. Simply steep fresh or dried peppermint leaves in hot water for several minutes, then strain and enjoy. Sipping on peppermint tea after meals or at the onset of stomach discomfort can provide quick relief.
2) Ginger
Ginger is another natural remedy that can help ease multiple digestive struggles, including nausea, vomiting, and stomach upset. Ginger contains compounds like gingerol and shogaol, which have anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties, making it effective in soothing your upset stomach. You can take ginger in many forms, such as ginger tea, ginger ale, or simply chewing on a small piece of fresh ginger root. Drinking or eating ginger can help soothe your stomach ache and provide you with much-needed relief from these symptoms.
3) BRAT Diet
The BRAT diet, consisting of bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast, is a bland diet often recommended for easing stomach issues like diarrhea and nausea. These easily digestible foods help firm up stools and provide essential nutrients without irritating the digestive system. Bananas are rich in potassium and easy to digest, while rice and toast provide bland carbohydrates that can help settle an upset stomach. Applesauce is gentle on the stomach and provides a source of soluble fiber, which can boost digestion.
4) Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea is classically renowned for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties, making it an excellent remedy for soothing stomach discomfort. Chamomile has compounds like flavonoids and terpenoids, which are proven to reduce inflammation and relax the digestive tract. Drinking chamomile tea can help with symptoms of indigestion, bloating, and cramping. Just steep dried chamomile flowers in hot water for several minutes, then strain and enjoy.
5) Warm Lemon Water
Warm lemon water is a simple yet effective remedy for promoting digestion and relieving stomach aches. Lemon contains citric acid, which stimulates the production of digestive enzymes and promotes the breakdown of food. Drinking warm lemon water first thing in the morning can help kickstart your digestive system and relieve bloating and discomfort. Simply squeeze the juice of half a lemon into a cup of warm water and drink it slowly. Lemon can also be added to any of the teas mentioned above to double-up on digestive benefits.
Keeping Home Remedies On-Hand
Stomach aches are never comfortable, but fortunately, there are many tried-and-true natural remedies that can help calm symptoms and promote digestive wellness. Peppermint tea, ginger, the BRAT diet, chamomile tea, and warm lemon water are all effective home remedies for soothing an upset stomach. Keeping these remedies on your pantry shelves and incorporating them into your routine can provide quick relief whenever you need them. However, if stomach pain persists or worsens, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
At Gastro MD, we’re dedicated to providing comprehensive care for digestive health issues. Contact us to schedule a consultation or learn more about how we can help you achieve optimal digestive wellness.
