How many times have we frequented our favorite Mexican restaurant for that healthy helping of guacamole and burritos, or our favorite Chinese spot for some Kung Pao chicken only to return home with a bad case of indigestion?!
Bloating, Gas, Nausea, Heartburn or Acid Reflux-These are all uncomfortable indications that our digestive systems need some rewiring!
But how... and just how much is this going to cost?!?!
Well, since the beginning of time, herbs have been used to aid in the digestive process. As a matter of fact, many cultures use herbs as seasonings in their meals for the same reason. Herbs are safe and inexpensive yet effective in helping to improve digestion!
Here we have a quick reference guide to many traditional herbal remedies used to relieve symptoms of digestive distress and aid in smoother digestion. And the best part is that most if not all can be found at your local health food store.
(Note: This list is not exhaustive. It is just an introduction to some of the many herbal remedies for digestive issues.)
Herbal Digestive Aids
1.Chamomile: Chamomile tea, made from dried flowers, is an excellent herbal remedy for upset stomachs. It relieves heartburn, indigestion, and general stress. It also has mild relaxant and sedative properties. Brew the tea as an infusion, letting the flowers steep, covered, for 10 minutes before pouring.
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2. Dandelion: The fresh greens and dried roots are both used as digestive tonic.
3. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL): This extract soothes the digestive tract by building the mucosal lining. The best form to use is a chewable tablet for quick relief.
4. Digestive bitters: A variety of pre-mixed herbs with bitter compounds help stimulate digestion, increase bile production in the gallbladder and bile flow from the liver, while strengthening bowel function.
5. Fennel seed: This culinary herb is carminative, which means it expels gas from the intestinal tract. Chew 1/2 tsp of fennel seeds at the end of a meal or any time you feel the beginnings of indigestion.
6. Fenugreek seed: Fenugreek is a mucilaginous (slippery, soothing) source of fibre. It soothes gastrointestinal spasms, pain, and irritation. It's effective in any form.
7. Ginger: This spicy, aromatic digestive aid alleviates nausea, strengthens the lining of the upper gastrointestinal (GI) l tract, and protects against ulcers and parasites.
8. Peppermint: This refreshing traditional digestive remedy has powerful, fast-acting therapeutic properties for the entire GI tract.
Steep peppermint leaves for hot or cool tea. Peppermint oil is available in capsules and is especially effective for irritable bowel syndrome.
9. Slippery elm bark powder: This herb is well-known for its immediate, soothing relief of heartburn. It's also ideal for promoting healing of the mucosal lining of the digestive tract and relieving constipation.
Of course, the best digestive aid of all is a clean diet rich in fresh raw fruits and vegetables for they contain many naturally-occurring enzymes. Avoid processed foods for they are harder to digest and mostly void of nutrients. Consume healthy proteins from sources like organically raised, free-range meat or wild-caught seafood. Organic beans and nuts make great meat substitutes.
A balanced diet should also contain healthy fats such as coconut oil and extra virgin olive oil. Carbohydrates should come from whole sprouted, low glycemic grains and low starch vegetables. Drink plenty of water, exercise daily and sleep for at least 8 hours. Great food leads to greater digestion!!
Monday, August 15, 2011
Digestion-The Key To Overall Good Health-Part I
