People of any age suffer from stomach ulcers, and must be treated immediately. If left untreated, this can result in bleeding or even a hole in the bowel or stomach.
Conventional ulcer treatment relies on medications, which can cause negative side effects such as headaches and diarrhea. But, in some cases you just cannot avoid taking conventional medications. Just make sure you discuss with your doctor for proper treatment plan and diagnosis.
Also, you can try some simple, yet effective natural home remedies to help relieve pain and heal your ulcer.
Natural Remedies for Ulcer:
1. Bananas
Bananas can help to heal a stomach ulcer by promoting cellular proliferation in your stomach. Also, there are certain anti-bacterial compounds present in bananas that inhibit the growth of ulcer-causing H. pylori. Bananas also strengthen the stomach lining and help reduce inflammation.
A 1986 study, that was published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology suggested that banana powder treatment not only strengthens mucosal resistance against ulcerogens, but, it also promotes healing by inducing cellular proliferation.
While, a 2001 study, that was published in the Indian Journal of Experimental Biology suggested that the antioxidant activity of bananas may be involved in its ulcer-protective activity.
In a 2013 study, that was published in Pharmacognosy Research, researchers suggested the anti-ulcer effect of bananas may be because of its cytoprotective and antisecretory activity. The healing of the ulcer base might be linked to the basic fibroblast growth factors responsible for epithelial regeneration, in the case of acid-induced ulcers.
For the treatment of stomach ulcer, both unripe and ripe bananas are very effective. You can just eat at least 3 ripe bananas a day.
2. Cabbage
Cabbage is a good remedy for ulcers in the stomach. Being a lactic acid food, cabbage helps in producing amino acid, which stimulates blood flow to the stomach lining. This helps in the healing process.
Also, cabbage contains a vitamin C, which is beneficial for fighting H. pylori infection.
A study in 2014, that was published in Medicinal Chemistry Research reported that the aqueous cabbage plant extract help increased the pH value of gastric juice, and hence it could be used for healing an acute gastric ulcer.
Directions:
1. Cut 1/2 head of cabbage into chunks, then throw it into a blender with a bit of water.
2. Blend until it makes a juice.
3. Drink the fresh juice before meals.
4. Repeat daily for a few weeks.
Note: Make sure to use fresh juice each time.
3. Cayenne Pepper
Capsaicin present in cayenne pepper can ease discomfort, and treat stomach ulcer naturally. Capsaicin helps in soothing the mucosal lining of the stomach, while increasing the release of alkali, which help ease discomfort and help in the treatment of ulcers.
A 1997 study, that was published in FEMS Microbiology Letters reported that capsaicin consumption or supplementation inhibited the growth of H. pylori, which is the most common cause of stomach ulcer.
According to a 2006 review, that was published in Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, the compound capsaicin that is present in cayenne pepper inhibits the secretion of stomach acids, stimulates mucus secretions and gastric mucosal blood flow, and boosts the production of alkali, thereby preventing and healing ulcers.
Directions:
1. Mix 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper in 1 glass of warm water.
2. Drink it at least twice daily for 3 days. Then, gradually increase the amount of cayenne pepper up to 1/4 teaspoon, for the remaining week.
OR
You can take cayenne capsules that can be bought at health food stores. Remember to talk to your doctor for the right dosage.
4. Garlic
Garlic is another food that contains anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties.
Animal studies showed that garlic extracts may help speed up recovery from ulcers, and even reduce the likelihood of ulcer developing.
Also, animal and human studies reported that garlic extracts may help prevent H. pylori growth, which is one of the most common causes of ulcers.
In a urrentc study, consuming 2 cloves of raw garlic daily for 3 days helped significantly in reducing bacterial activity in the stomach lining of patients suffering from H. Pylori infection.
But, not all studies were able to reproduce these results, and more studies are needed before strong conclusions can be made.
5. Honey
Honey is known to be an antioxidant-rich food associated with various health benefits. These include reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, improved eye health and even certain types of cancer.
Also, honey believed to help in preventing the formation, and promoting the healing of many wounds, including ulcers.
Scientists believe that honey’s antibacterial properties can help in fighting H. pylori, which is one of the most common causes of stomach ulcers.
Various animal studies provide support for honey’s ability to help in reducing the risk of developing ulcers, as well as healing time. But, human studies are needed.
Sources:
Healthline
Top10homeremedies
Related Articles:
1. Home Remedies for Ulcers
2. Sweet Potato: For Treating Stomach Ulcer, Diabetes and Heart Health
3. 7 Signs You May Have a Stomach Ulcer
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