Ease Your Digestion With These 5 Home Remedies

February 13, 2015

Tummy troubles are caused by problems such as constant acidity, bloating, flatulence and gas. Our digestive tract is 25 feet long, and with such a long stretch of muscles to do the job of digestion, it surely can use some help. Eat these herbs regularly, not just when you suffer digestives issues, to ensure a clean and happy gut.

Here are five natural remedies that will help your digestion and improve its health and function.

1. Ginger
The spicy ginger root is packed with beneficial compounds such as gingerols, shaogals and essential oils that have the ability to invigorate the digestive system and treat several digestive problems. It improves the absorption of nutrients and minerals and clears out gas from the intestine, thus relieving flatulence. If you feel too heavy after a meal, steep a soothing tea by boiling 1tsp of grated ginger in one cup of boiling water for five minutes. Sit back and feel the heaviness disappear. (Related Article: Quick Fix For Motion Sickness: Ginger)

2. Peppermint
Highly recommended not only for its refreshing flavor but also for its healing properties, peppermint is primarily loaded with menthol which increases the flow of digestive juices, thus aiding digestion. Menthol is also responsible for its cooling effect, which can reduce heartburn. Include peppermint in your soups or salads to reap its digestive benefits. You can also make peppermint tea or use enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules to ease your tummy troubles.

3. Basil
A digestive stimulant, basil works exceptionally well to improve appetite and enhance digestion. It works best to treat dyspepsia, flatulence and also constipation. Basil is also rich in antioxidants such as vitamin A and C, which protect your stomach lining from the harmful effects of free radicals. Garnish your soups with basil and include it in salads and your favorite Italian dishes, or make a tea with five to six basil leaves in one cup of boiling hot water. Steep for 10 minutes and drink once cool. (Related Article: 9 Reasons Basil Is Good For Your Health)

4. Cinnamon
This spicy-sweet bark doesn’t lag behind in terms of its health benefits and is also useful to improve digestion and keep your tummy tack healthy. A warm cinnamon tea is mild but an effective remedy to improve sluggish digestion. Experts say that cinnamon can improve appetite, dyspepsia and also flatulence. Regular consumption of cinnamon can also help you get rid of bloating. Another reason to get cooking with cinnamon! (Related Article: Cinnamon: The Super Spice)

5. Cardamom
Known as a carminative herb, cardamom has the ability to warm up the digestive tract and speed up the process of digestion by relaxing the stomach muscles, thus making it easier for the food to pass through your gut. This is also beneficial to restrict the production of any gas, which is usually a result of poor or sluggish digestion. Cardamom seeds have a good flavor and can be eaten raw. You can also use two to three cardamom pods to make a relaxing tea.

The best way to avoid any digestive issues is eating right. Avoid oily and fried foods. Drinking too much soda can damage your stomach lining in the long run and hence is best avoided. Concentrate on incorporating healthy fats, fruits, veggies and grains rich in soluble fiber to help your tummy.