Top DIY Herbal Remedies for Ulcers

There are two types of ulcers. Gastric ulcers are those that occur on the stomach. Duodenal ulcers are those that are located in the first part of the small intestine. When one suffers from both gastric ulcers and duodenal ulcers then that condition is called peptic ulcers. Many bacteria have been known to cause peptic ulcers. One common bacterium that causes ulcers is H.Pylori bacteria. This bacterium destroys the mucosal lining of the stomach. When the lining is destroyed, the acid in the stomach reacts with the underlying tissue causing ulcer. However, there are many herbal remedies that can restore the lining inside the stomach and the intestines. Here are some remedies that can treat the uncomfortable symptoms and cure stomach ulcers:

• Cayenne pepper – Cayenne pepper sometimes heals ulcers. It also stimulates blood flow so that the nutrients in the blood reach the affected area. To use cayenne pepper effectively mix ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper in 1 cup of hot water. Have this every day.

• Cabbage – Cabbage is widely known to heal ulcers. Recent studies have shown that people drinking 1 quart of raw cabbage juice everyday are free of ulcers within 5 days. Cabbage juice is better than the cabbage. So for best results, drink cabbage juice to heal your ulcers quickly.

• Dark colored fruits and vegetables – Dark colored fruits and vegetables like plums, berries, and red cabbages are rich in flavonoid. This bioflavonoid has anti-inflammatory properties. You can also have parsley and onions. Garlic has been reported to be useful as well.

• Bilberry – Bilberry is commonly used to treat ulcers. It reduces inflammation in the lining of stomachs and intestines. It also protects the mucous membranes. Calendula also helps in healing ulcers. However, calendula tea might be a bit repelling to drink due to its taste. You can change the flavor by adding of flavored beverage.

• Chamomile – Chamomile is commonly used to treat ulcers. It has many useful properties in healing ulcers. It decreases inflammation and accelerates the healing process. Chamomile contains a chemical called flavonoid which helps to combat bacteria that are responsible for ulcers. Chamomile is best taken as a tea. For best results, have 3-4 cups of tea every day.

• Licorice – Licorice works similar to that of chamomile. However, licorice is more effective in treating ulcers. It decreases inflammation and induces the stomach to protect itself from acid produced during ulcers. It also protects the stomach lining and intestine lining by producing the substance called mucin. When there are enough mucin on the lining of the stomach and intestines, there is a lower probability of having ulcers. When taking ulcers, make sure you have taken deglyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) as this avoids high blood pressure.  You can also take tablets before meals and couple of hours before sleeping.

• Marshmallow (yes, you read that right!) – Marshmallow acts a soothing agent. It has mucilage that reduces and soothes inflammation therefore it helps heal ulcers. Marshmallow also contains a slippery gel called mucilaginous which soothes the stomach lining and the intestines lining.

• Peppermint – Peppermint reduces inflammation caused by peptic ulcers. Peppermint consists of menthol which has antibacterial properties. It also helps fight against the bacteria that causes ulcers. However, menthol may increase acidity and stimulate digestion. So make sure you consult with a doctor before deciding what dosage of peppermint to take.

• Yarrow – Yarrow has been clinically proven to make blood clot quickly and stop bleeding. If you are suffering from bleeding ulcers, yarrow tea may help to prevent the bleeding. Yarrow also reduces inflammation.

These herbal remedies work well in treating ulcers and reduce the uncomfortable symptoms associates with ulcer. However, you should take extra measures to treat ulcer and fasten the recovery.

• Avoid foods that aggravate ulcers.

• Take plenty of rest for the body to heal.

• Avoid taking too many iron supplements. Too many supplements may irritate the lining of the stomach.

• Avoid taking aspirin and other pain killers as they might cause bleeding. You can have Tylenol instead. Also avoid headache powders as they contain aspirin as well.

• Avoid putting too much stress on yourself as stress might worsen you condition. To alleviate stress, try exercising.

With these herbal remedies and precautionary steps, you can treat your ulcer in no time!