From overeating at a party to a bout of food poisoning, or the occasional irritable bowel syndrome, stomach issues can throw a wrench in your daily routine. While over-the-counter medications are always an option, natural remedies can often provide immediate relief without any unwanted side effects. Here, we list the top five natural remedies to soothe an upset stomach.
1. Ginger Magic
Long celebrated for its medicinal properties, ginger is a powerful remedy for an upset stomach. Its inherent compounds, known as gingerols and shogaols, can improve digestion, alleviate nausea, and even combat inflammation. Ginger’s warming effect is believed to help break down food in the stomach, reducing the risk of gastric distress after eating.
Whether you choose to consume it as a tea, a smoothie ingredient, or even in its raw form, ginger can work wonders. To prepare ginger tea, simply slice fresh ginger root into thin pieces and steep in boiling water for ten to fifteen minutes. You can add honey or lemon for taste, but remember that the natural spiciness of ginger is part of its healing charm.
2. Soothing Chamomile Tea
Chamomile is another superstar in the world of natural remedies. It’s renowned for its calming effects, but not everyone knows it can also be a potent ally against stomach distress. Chamomile may reduce stomach acid, lessen gas and bloating, and relieve stomach cramps.
Making chamomile tea is as easy as it gets. Just steep a chamomile tea bag in hot water for about five minutes, let it cool down a bit, and enjoy. Drinking chamomile tea before bedtime can also promote better sleep, which is especially beneficial if your stomach woes are keeping you up at night.
3. Peppermint Power
Peppermint isn’t just for freshening your breath. The natural compounds in peppermint, particularly menthol, have antispasmodic effects, which can relax the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract and reduce discomfort. Peppermint can be consumed in many forms, but tea is one of the most effective.
To make a cup of peppermint tea, steep dried peppermint leaves or a tea bag in hot water for about ten minutes. If you want to enhance the taste, feel free to add a sweetener like honey. It’s best to consume this tea between meals to maximize its benefits.
4. Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)
While it might seem counterintuitive to fight acid with acid, apple cider vinegar can actually help soothe an upset stomach. ACV can kickstart digestion, helping to break down food more efficiently, which can help ease bloating and discomfort.
For the best results, mix one to two tablespoons of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar with a glass of warm water. If the taste is too potent for you, add a tablespoon of honey to sweeten it. It’s advisable to drink this concoction before meals to preemptively aid digestion.
5. The BRAT Diet
Sometimes, going back to basics is the best strategy. The BRAT diet — which stands for bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast — is a tried-and-true method for soothing an upset stomach. These bland, easy-to-digest foods can help bind loose stools and replenish your body with essential nutrients.
Bananas, rich in potassium, can help replace electrolytes lost during bouts of diarrhea or vomiting. Rice and toast, as plain carbs, can provide energy without overstimulating the stomach. And applesauce, containing pectin, can bulk up stool and reduce diarrhea.
In Conclusion
While these natural remedies can provide relief, remember that persistent stomach issues should not be ignored. If your upset stomach continues for an extended period, it’s essential to seek medical attention. These remedies are meant to complement, not replace, professional medical advice.
Nature has a remarkable array of solutions for many common health woes. The next time your stomach starts to grumble, reach for ginger, chamomile tea, peppermint, apple cider vinegar, or BRAT diet staples before heading to the medicine cabinet. Here’s to a happy and healthy stomach!
