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PharmEasy Blog

Natural Home Remedies For Stomach Ulcers

Introduction:  

Stomach ulcers are open sores present in the stomach wall. Stomach ulcers develop when the acid in your stomach starts damaging your stomach lining. Damage to the stomach wall causes open sores, which might cause pain and bleeding.¹  

Stomach ulcers are common among people and are manageable. Still, you should take stomach ulcers seriously and get timely medical help. Stomach ulcers are also called gastric ulcers. Ulcers can also develop around the duodenum wall, the first part of the small intestine. These ulcers are known as duodenal ulcers. Stomach ulcers require medical care and treatment, even if they don’t cause symptoms. If not treated in time, stomach ulcers can get worse. Therefore, medical help is necessary.¹  

There are also some herbal remedies that you can use to manage the symptoms of stomach ulcers at home. The benefits of these herbs and the method to use them are mentioned below.  

What Causes Stomach Ulcer? 

The common causes of stomach ulcers are mentioned below. 

• Over usage of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Taking NSAIDs for a long time or in large quantities can cause stomach ulcers. Examples of common NSAIDs include aspirin, naproxen, and ibuprofen.¹  
• Helicobacter pylori infection: Getting infected by the bacteria Helicobacter pylori can cause stomach ulcers. This bacteria lives in the stomach itself and does not cause any symptoms for most people. But people who have bacterial overgrowth can develop stomach ulcers as the bacteria continue to grow and damage the stomach wall.¹  

Some rare causes of stomach ulcers are: 

• Severe physiological stress: Getting burns or injuries or other severe illnesses can cause stomach ulcers. Physical stress can cause overproduction of stomach acids, causing stomach ulcers.¹    
• Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome: A rare kind of condition that causes the stomach to overproduce stomach acids.¹    

Also Read: Natural Home Remedies To Reduce Belly Fat

Symptoms of Stomach Ulcer: 

For most of the patients, true healing of stomach ulcers goes beyond short-term remedies; it entails a steadfast commitment to long-term treatment, embracing dietary adjustments, mastering stress management, and nurturing a sound sleep regimen.

Dr. Arpit Verma, MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

Some stomach ulcers may not cause any symptoms. These stomach ulcers are also called ‘silent ulcers’. Some common symptoms of stomach ulcers are:  

• Burning pain in the abdomen  
• Bloating (the stomach swells due to accumulation of gas)  
• Nausea    
• Vomiting    
• Indigestion    
• Heartburn and acid reflux^1,2  

Also Read: Best Home Remedies For Hangover

Home Remedies for Stomach Ulcer: 

You can use these natural remedies for stomach ulcers. The remedies mentioned below can help you take care of your stomach and manage the symptoms of stomach ulcers.  

1. Turmeric:  

Turmeric is a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant remedy that could be extensively used as a medicinal herb. It is found throughout India. Because of its antioxidant activity, it may help reduce ulceration. It might also reduce the inflammation and swelling in the stomach lining.³ You can put turmeric in your foods and dishes. You can also add turmeric powder to a glass of warm water. Drinking this water will help you manage stomach ulcers.  

2. Tea:  

Tea or Camellia sinensis is one of the most nonalcoholic popular beverages worldwide. It might be effective against stomach ulcers because of its rich antioxidant benefits. The antioxidant activity of tea might be good for managing ulcers. It could also reduce swelling in the stomach and increase the production of mucin. Mucin is responsible for forming the protective barrier of the stomach wall.³ You can prepare black tea at home and get all its antioxidant benefits.  

3. Ginger:  

Ginger is widely used as a therapeutic herb in many parts of the world. Ginger might be an effective remedy for many gastric ailments like indigestion and gas. It is good for reducing stomach distress. It may also be effective for stomach ulcers because of its antioxidant activity.³ Ginger could be used as an ingredient in food and dishes. You can put ginger in your soups, salads, and other side dishes.  

4. Liquorice:    

Liquorice is the root of the plant scientifically known as Glycyrrhiza glabra. It is often used in the management of gastric ulcers in Europe. Liquorice may help by enhancing mucin production in the stomach, increasing the vitality of the cells lining the stomach, and promoting ulcer healing.³ Liquorice root can be used to make tea. Heat some water in a saucepan or kettle till it boils. You can put some liquorice root powder and a little honey in the boiling water for taste. Let the tea simmer on low flame. Strain it in a cup and enjoy.  

5. Indian Gooseberry:    

Indian gooseberry or Amla is widely consumed as a fruit and food product. This fruit is often used as a medicinal ingredient in the Ayurvedic and Siddha systems of medicine. It possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which might aid in dealing with ulcers. Intake of amla in the form of fruit or juice might help you manage gastric ulcers.³   

Also Read: 12 Natural Remedies For Mouth Ulcers

6. Kutki:    

Kutki or Picrorhiza kurroa is a medicinal herb grown in tropical regions of the country. This herb is known for its antioxidant benefits, because of which it might act as an effective stomach protective agent.³ You can take kutki powder with a glass of warm water. You can also put some honey for taste.  

7. Myrobalan:  

Harad is a medicinal herb known as Myrobalan in English. It offers many health benefits. It may also be effective for many stomach ailments like gastritis (inflammation and swelling of the stomach) and stomach ulcers. It might help form a protective barrier for the stomach lining and prevent ulcer formation. You can mix some harad powder in warm water. Intake of this mixture might help you relieve stomach ulcers.⁴  

8. Aloe Vera:  

Aloe vera is used as a herbal medicine for many health conditions. For example, Aloe vera has wound healing and anti-inflammatory properties, because of which it could be an effective remedy for stomach ulcers. Consuming pure aloe vera gel regularly might help you reduce the swelling in the stomach lining and promote the ulcers’ healing.⁴ You can also try aloe vera juice to get the benefits.  

9. Honey:    

Honey is one of the most popular medicinal ingredients used in the Ayurvedic system of medicine. It is good for many stomach conditions such as gastritis and peptic ulcers. It is mainly recommended to manage stomach ulcers. Honey has healing powers that might be beneficial in dealing with stomach ulcers.⁵ you can eat a spoonful of honey directly. You can also take honey with a glass of warm water to relieve stomach ulcers. 

Though there are studies that show the benefits of the given herbs and home remedies in managing stomach ulcers, these are insufficient. There is a need for large-scale human studies to establish the true extent of the benefits of these home remedies on human health. Thus, these should only be taken with caution and never as a substitute for medical treatment.    

Also Read: Natural Home Remedies for Fatty Liver

When to Seek Medical Help? 

You need to contact your healthcare provider and get medical help if you: 

• Experience sharp pain in the stomach 
• Notice blood in stools, or notice black stools 
• Vomit blood that looks like coffee grounds 
• Experience weakness, difficulty breathing, or fainting⁶  

You must not rely on home remedies alone for dealing with stomach ulcers and should consult a qualified doctor for advice if the symptoms do not improve with home remedies.   

Conclusion: 

Stomach ulcers are nothing but sores present in the stomach wall. These open sores result from damage due to acids present in the stomach. Common reasons for stomach ulcers are over usage of certain drugs and getting infected by Helicobacter pylori bacteria. Stomach ulcers often lead to burning pain in the abdomen. There are various herbal remedies for stomach ulcers that might help you manage the symptoms and prevent the ulcer from worsening. Examples are turmeric, myrobalan, ginger, kutki, and liquorice.  

If you or somebody around has any symptoms of stomach ulcers, take care and reach out to your doctor. Getting an early diagnosis and advice can help you prevent the condition from worsening.    

Also Read: Natural Home Remedies for Blood Clots

Frequently Asked Questions: 

References: 

1. Cleveland Clinic. Stomach (Peptic) Ulcer: Signs, Symptoms, Causes & Treatment [Internet]. [cited 2022 Jun 3]. Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22314-stomach-peptic-ulcer 

2. NHS. Stomach ulcer [Internet]. [cited 2022 Jun 3]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/stomach-ulcer/ 

3. Chatterjee A, Bandyopadhyay SK. Herbal Remedy: An Alternate Therapy of Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug Induced Gastric Ulcer Healing. Ulcers. 2014 May 6;2014:1–13. Available from: https://www.hindawi.com/journals/ulcers/2014/361586/ 

4. Ayush Division. Ayurveda offering Herbal healing [Internet]. Available from: https://www.esic.nic.in/attachments/publicationfile/7d11b02e5abb4717d53b4ce05efabd21.pdf 

5. Kuropatnicki AK, Kłósek M, Kucharzewski M. Honey as medicine: historical perspectives. https://doi.org/101080/0021883920171411182 [Internet]. 2018 Jan 1 [cited 2022 Jun 3];57(1):113–8. Available from: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/00218839.2017.1411182 

6. NIDDK. Symptoms & Causes of Peptic Ulcers (Stomach Ulcers) [Internet]. [cited 2022 Jun 3]. Available from: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/peptic-ulcers-stomach-ulcers/symptoms-causes 

 Disclaimer:  The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

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Stomach Ulcer: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Stomach ulcers are sores in the lining of the stomach. These sores occur when the acid that generally aids in the digestion of the food attacks the tissue. The most common cause is a bacterial infection involving Helicobacter pylori but long-term use of nonprescription or prescription pain medication can also result in this condition. Know the stomach ulcer facts to avoid them!

SOURCE

Barry Marshall, along with his research partner J. Robin Warren, found out the cause and effect between helicobacter pylori  bacterium infection and stomach ulcer and cancer. They discovered that the Helicobacter pylori bacterium is the cause of gastric disorders or stomach ulcers. Their finding proved false the previous medical record that said gastric disorder or ulcer is only caused by stress, spicy foods and excessive consumption of food or drinks that contain acid.

Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) is a global problem with a lifetime risk of development ranging from 5% to 10%. Overall, there is a decrease in the incidence of PUD worldwide due to improved hygienic and sanitary conditions combined with effective treatment and judicious use of NSAIDs. Duodenal ulcers are four times more common than gastric ulcers. Also, duodenal ulcers are more common in men than in the woman.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

Also Read: Food For Upset Stomach: A Research-Based Guide To Soothing Foods

Symptoms of Stomach Ulcers

These are the most common symptoms that you should be aware of-

• Burning pain in the abdomen that improves with food
• Bleeding
• Nausea
• Weight loss
• Black tarry tools

Diagnosing Stomach Ulcer

If you’re experiencing the above symptoms, visit your doctor at the earliest. One of the most essential stomach ulcer facts states that for diagnosing a stomach ulcer, your doctor may request an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy or gastroscopy. Note that if your doctor has asked for a gastroscopy, you will need to fast for 12 hours before the procedure.

Peptic ulcer disease is a life-long condition and ulcers remain active with an unchanged potential for complications such as haemorrhage and perforation, in my practice, most patients experience recurrence of their peptic ulcer after discontinuation of the healing therapy.

Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D

Treating Stomach Ulcer

Treatment may vary depending on the cause of your ulcer. Most ulcers can be treated with a prescription from your doctor but in rare cases, surgery may be required.

If your stomach ulcer is the result of  H. pylori, you’ll need antibiotics. For mild-to-moderate stomach ulcers, your doctor will usually prescribe the following medications:

• H2 blockers: to prevent your stomach from making too much acid
• Proton pump inhibitors:  blocks the cells that produce acid
• Over-the-counter antacids: to help neutralize stomach acid
• Cytoprotective agents:  to protect the lining of the stomach and small intestine, such as Pepto-Bismol

Protecting yourself from stomach ulcer is all about prevention and early action. By being aware of the risks and living a healthy lifestyle, you can greatly reduce your chances of getting this painful and dangerous condition.

Dr. Arpit Verma, MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

What to Avoid

When diagnosed with a stomach ulcer, you’ll do well to avoid the consumption of the following:

Acidic drinks: Coffee, carbonated beverages and citrus juices are all acidic and may aggravate the stomach. Since it’s the acidity that causes the problem, it won’t matter whether you use caffeinated versions of the drink or not, either. In such cases, it is advised to follow a diet with non-acidic juices or plain water.

Citrus: If citrus juices are too acidic for an ulcer diet, then the fruits themselves are definitely out. You’ll need to wait for the ulcer to clear up before you can enjoy your grapefruits, tomatoes, lemons and oranges!

Spicy foods: This one is more subjective, as it can be a harmful trigger for some and does not have much effect on others. Unless you’re willing to experiment, it’s best to be cautious and avoid the chillis, hot peppers and masala.

Fatty foods: Deep-fried, buttery, overly-processed or even a thick slab of meat, fat should be kept to a minimum when possible in a stomach ulcer diet. Fat can make your stomach produce more acid than usual.

Milk:  Milk’s ability to coat the tongue and throat is one of the reasons it’s able to combat spicy food, so it’s not unreasonable to think it can do something similar to the stomach. Drinking milk can cause short-term relief from stomach ulcer pain but is best left out of the diet in the long term. Remember: milk has more fat in it than most drinks, which means it can cause more acid production.

Smoking:  Another one from the common stomach ulcer facts is that smoking can promote acid production and further weaken the mucus lining. If you smoke, cut back or quit. Read more about the health effects of smoking.  

Alcohol:  Alcohol consumption  irritates and erodes the lining of the stomach and alcohol abuse on its own is considered a risk factor for developing an ulcer.

Also Read: 12 Natural Remedies For Mouth Ulcers

Prevention

Excess smoking, alcohol consumption and NSAID (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs) use are all considered risk factors for developing a stomach ulcer. Standard lifestyle changes like cutting back on drinks or cigarettes or finding alternative pain relievers are best considered alongside an ulcer diet, which is one of the most common stomach ulcer facts. Common sense steps to prevent the spread of H. pylori can also be utilized, like washing your hands before handling food and cleaning fruits and vegetables.

Also Read: Diverticulitis Diet: Foods to Avoid for a Healthy Gut

Read More: 5 Causes of Recurring Stomach Pain