How to Treat Indigestion at Home

Indigestion can often be managed with home remedies such as peppermint and ginger, but if you experience frequent indigestion or other symptoms, seeking medical attention may be necessary. Eating your favorite foods too quickly or in large quantities can also cause occasional indigestion, which can include discomfort in the abdominal area after eating, or a burning sensation in the upper stomach. Indigestion is not a disease, but a symptom of other gastrointestinal issues like ulcers, gastritis, or acid reflux.

Instead of relying on over-the-counter antacids to alleviate symptoms, there are several natural remedies you can try at home. Here are eight effective home remedies for indigestion:

1. Peppermint tea can be helpful for relieving stomach issues like nausea and indigestion due to its antispasmodic properties. However, it’s not recommended for those with acid reflux or GERD as it can cause stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus.
2. Chamomile tea can help reduce stomach acid, acting as an anti-inflammatory to relieve pain. However, it’s important to consult a doctor before drinking chamomile tea if you take a blood thinner.
3. Apple cider vinegar can help increase your body’s production of stomach acid, aiding in digestion. However, it’s important to dilute it properly as undiluted or excessive consumption can cause side effects such as tooth erosion, nausea, throat burn, and low blood sugar.
4. Ginger can also reduce stomach acid and relieve indigestion. You can drink ginger tea, suck on ginger candy, or make your own ginger water. However, consuming too much ginger can cause gas, throat burn, and heartburn. Remember to limit your consumption of these remedies and consult with a doctor if you have any underlying health issues.
5. Fennel seed is an antispasmodic herb that can alleviate indigestion, stomach cramping, nausea, and bloating. To use fennel seed as a remedy, add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed fennel seed to water and let it boil for 10 minutes before drinking. Drink fennel tea whenever you experience indigestion or chew on fennel seeds after meals if certain foods cause indigestion. However, be aware that fennel may cause nausea, vomiting, and sun sensitivity in some people.
6. Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) can rapidly neutralize stomach acid and relieve indigestion, bloating, and gas after eating. To use this remedy, add 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda to 4 ounces of warm water and drink it. Although sodium bicarbonate is generally safe and nontoxic, drinking large amounts of baking soda can lead to constipation, diarrhea, irritability, vomiting, and muscle spasms. Therefore, if you use baking soda for indigestion, do not repeat the process for at least two hours. Additionally, adults should have no more than seven 1/2 teaspoons of baking soda in a 24-hour period, and no more than three 1/2 teaspoons if over the age of 60, according to a 2013 study.
7. Lemon water can also neutralize stomach acid and improve digestion due to its alkaline effect. To use this remedy, mix a tablespoon of lemon juice in hot or warm water and drink a few minutes before eating. Along with easing indigestion, lemon water is an excellent source of vitamin C. However, too much lemon water can wear down tooth enamel and cause increased urination. Therefore, rinse your mouth with water after drinking lemon water to protect your teeth.
8. Licorice root can alleviate indigestion by calming muscle spasms and inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. Chew on licorice root for relief or add it to boiling water and drink the mixture. However, consuming large doses of licorice root can cause sodium and potassium imbalances and high blood pressure. Therefore, limit your consumption of dried licorice root to no more than 2.5 grams per day for fast relief. Eat or drink licorice root 30 minutes before eating or one hour after eating for indigestion.
9. When to see a doctor: Although indigestion is a common problem, some bouts should not be ignored. Frequent indigestion can be a symptom of a chronic digestive problem such as acid reflux, gastritis, and even stomach cancer. Therefore, see a doctor if indigestion persists for more than two weeks, or if you experience severe pain or other symptoms such as weight loss, loss of appetite, vomiting, black stools, trouble swallowing, or fatigue.

The takeaway: Frequent indigestion can disrupt your life, but you don’t have to live with it. Try these home remedies, but be sure to visit a doctor about any worrisome symptoms. Keep in mind that the FDA does not monitor herbs and remedies for quality, so research your brand choices. The sooner you see a doctor, get a diagnosis, and begin treatment, the sooner you can feel better and enjoy a higher quality of life.

Cafegist Category: Health