10 Best Herbs to Cure Ulcer

WHAT IS ULCER?

Ulcer is a sore that can develop in different parts of the body. It commonly occurs in the lining of the stomach andesophagus which causes inflammation and discomfort. 

The acid it produces may cause bleeding to the infected part. Even if healed or treated, ulcers can keep occurring if preventive measures are not taken. You should not take ulcer lightly as it can cause serious problems if not treated properly.

Having ulcer may also cause bleeding within the body and spread infection that may lead to inflammation. People with ulcers may likely suffer from severe pain and discomfort.

WHAT CAUSES ULCER?

There are many factors that may cause ulcer in the body. It may be in the form of a bacteria called Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). 

This bacteria can cause infection once evolved and invades the mucus lining of the stomach which leads to stomach ulcer.

Other factors that cause ulcer include stress, excessive alcohol intake and smoking. Anti-inflammatory medications or pain reliever medicines such as ibuprofen, naproxen and aspirin may also lead to ulcer when not used in moderation.

Love spicy foods? If you have an ulcer, it is better to avoid eating one. Spicy foods may increase the stomach acid production which may worsen the inflammation within the stomach lining. 

Remember that the stomach acid’s primary role is to break down the food we take and assist the body to absorb the necessary nutrients. Abnormal increase in stomach acid is bad for the body.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF HAVING ULCER?

There is usually a burning sensation or excessive pain between the chest and stomach area brought about by ulcer to people who suffer from it.

Common cases may include symptoms of having a poor appetite, bloating, belching and heartburn among others. On the contrary, serious cases may include symptoms of vomiting blood (red or black in color) and an occurrence of blood in the stool.

ARE THERE ANY HOME REMEDIES THAT CAN PREVENT ULCER?

There are many types of medication that can prevent or reduce the risks of having an ulcer to occur to a person. Unfortunately, some anti-ulcer treatments may cause a negative effect on the body such as headaches and diarrhea.

Taking this into account, studies for natural remedies or herbal medicines have risen over the years which enables medical professionals to assist individuals who suffer from ulcer. This article will tackle the best herbs forpreventing or lowering the risks of ulcer.

THE 10 BEST HERBS FOR ULCER:

1. CABBAGE

OVERVIEW:

When it comes to its culinary use, cabbage is a popular choice by the masses. Not only does cabbage make the dishes look appetizing but also has its healthy benefits. 

Cabbage can be eaten raw, steamed, stewed, sauteed or braised. It is also a popular ingredient for making vegetable salads and coleslaw. 

Numerous dishes can be made out of cabbage.Cabbage is abundant in various nutrients and phytochemicals that are vital for the body. 

It contains about ninety-two percent of water content as well as other nutrients such as carbohydrates, protein, vitamin C, vitamin B6, folate and vitamin K.

Cabbage has been used in traditional medicine as a herbal plant that aids common ailments such as sore throat and acts as liniments for bruises.

Additionally, cabbage is a popular ulcer remedy among others.Cabbage has an anti-ulcer component called glutamine, a type of amino acid. 

Glutamine strengthens the mucous lining of the stomach. Glutamine also helps in improving the blood flow within the stomach which speedsup the healing process and repair of the sores. 

Without a doubt, aside from its culinary uses, cabbage can help you in preventing or reducing the risks of having an ulcer. Its effectiveness has long been proven even before the creation of conventional medicine for treating ulcer.

CAN BE TAKEN AS:

Cabbage JuiceIn Ancient Greek history, cabbage has been used as an antidote for curing poisoning from mushrooms. Significantly, drinking a cabbage juice can aid in reducing the risk of ulcer formation within the body. As a rich source for vitamin C with antioxidant components, cabbage inhibits the spread of H. pylori infection that causes stomach ulcer and even increases the recovery growth.

2. HONEY

OVERVIEW:

When we hear the word “bees”, it reminds us of the sweet, sugary substance called honey. Bees collects honey and stores it in a wax structure called honeycombs. 

Honey is highly popular for its baking and pastry uses, actingas a sweetener. Other beverages also incorporated honey as its main component. Not only is it sweet but also a great source of various nutrients. Honey has low fat, dietary fiber and protein content. 

Aside from that, honey is a rich source of carbohydrates and sugar content. It also contains antioxidant and antibacterial components which aids in preventing further spread of infections.

In traditional Chinese medicine, honey has been used as a treatment for skin injuries such as burns, skin ulcer and open wounds. It was also used as a treatment for digestive disturbances such as stomach ulcer and gastric problems. 

Presently, it has been proven by researchers that honey can halt the progress of H. pylori infection that leads to stomach ulcer. Medical professionals further study honey as a potential antibiotic due to its methylglyoxal, hydrogen peroxide, and royalisin content.

CAN BE TAKEN AS:

Warm Water with Honey

Drinking a cup of warm water with honey has its benefits for you. It allows your body to fight against infections that may cause cough, sore throat and stomach ulcer due to its antimicrobial component. If you are health conscious and want to lose weight, then, having a cup of warm water with honey will help you achieve it. Additionally, honey dissolved in water can aid in indigestion by neutralizing gases produced by the body.

Raw Honey

A tablespoon of raw honey in the morning and evening can reduce the risk of having an ulcer. Keep honey as a natural remedy until the sores and inflammation in your stomach lining is gone.

3. LICORICE

OVERVIEW:

Like the other herbal plants, licorice has been used as part of traditional medicine which cures stomach ailments and skin inflammation. It is considered as one of the world’s oldest herbal remedies. 

Licorice is also widely known as a confectionary ingredient for candies or sweets. In other countries, licorice root is used as a mouth freshener or even as a beverage. Indeed, licorice has many uses that may benefit us. 

Licorice, or “Liquorice” in the United Kingdom, contains nutrients such as sodium, carbohydrates, sugar and potassium. Researchers also found that licorice may have ulcer-fighting properties which may decrease the chances of getting ulcer.

Ideally, licorice may stimulate the production of mucus in the stomach and intestines, fortifying its defenses against infection and boosts the healing process. It may also soothe any ulcer-related pains or discomfort due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The effects of licorice varies from person to person. It is better to talk with your health consultant when
considering the licorice content to be included in your diet. Although licorice has many uses, it should be noted that excessive use may lead to several health risks.

CAN BE TAKEN AS:

Supplements

The effects of licorice have been maximized in supplements. It comes in many forms such as capsules,
topical gels and powder. It aids in treating acid reflux, heartburn and other bacterial infections that affects the
body.

Licorice Tea

Licorice Tea may aid people in relieving sore throats and constipations. It contains anti-inflammatory
properties that help relieve the pain brought about by infections.

4. GARLIC

OVERVIEW:

Garlic is a popular herb that spices up any dishes it accompanies. Almost every dish has garlic in it. It adds flavor and helps in stimulating the appetite of a person. It is also packed with necessary nutrients that are good
for the body.

Garlic has a long history in the field of traditional medicine. It has been used to cure ailments and wounds such as arthritis, coughs, snake bites and insect bites. 

During the World War events, Garlic is most notably known for acting as an antiseptic to prevent gangrene that causes death to bodily tissues and damage to organs. Garlic is also known as a cure for cholesterol and high blood pressure.

Garlic contains manganese, selenium, fiber, vitamin B6 and vitamin C with favourable amounts of calcium, copper, potassium, iron, vitamin B1 and phosphorus. It also contains antioxidants which helps the body eliminate free radicals that causes oxidative damage.

Studies show that garlic can prevent or lower the risk of having ulcer due to its antimicrobial and antibacterial properties which are necessary to prevent the growth of H. pylori. Additionally, garlic helps speed up the healing properties of the body and reduce inflammation caused by infection.

CAN BE TAKEN AS:

Raw Garlic

Eating at least 2 cloves of garlic daily as part of your meal may lower the risk of H. pylori infection in the
lining of the stomach. It also boosts the healing process of the body.

5. TURMERIC

OVERVIEW:

Turmeric is referred to as the “golden spice” and it accompanies many dishes by providing flavor. Just like garlic, aside from its culinary purpose, turmeric is packed with a wide variety of healthy benefits. It also has a long history of medicinal use.

Turmeric contains calcium, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, iron, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, ascorbic acid, carbohydrates, dietary fiber, sugar and protein. Additionally, components such as antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidants are found within turmeric.

Turmeric has been used as an herbal medicine for treating ailments and wounds such as chicken pox, wounds and urinary tract infection (UTI). It is also used in aiding any digestive disorders.

Turmeric encourages the healing properties of the body to speed up, soothing any ulcer-related pains. Aside from that, it fortifies the protection around the stomach lining by stimulating the production of mucus. 

This prevents the further spread of infection that may lead to ulcer and halts the abnormal increase of acid that erodes the mucus lining of the stomach.

CAN BE TAKEN AS:

Turmeric Tea

Having turmeric as tea has been one of the most popular ways to consume it. It can be prepared either
as a pure powder, grated, dried or ground. Consult with your healthcare provider on how much turmeric you
should take daily as a precaution.

6. ALOE VERA

OVERVIEW:

We are all familiar with the many wonders aloe vera has in store for us. Aloe vera is popular across three industries such as medical, cosmetics and food manufacturing.

It has been included in the production of commercial products such as gel, ointments, essential oils, hair growth products, cosmetics and skin lotions. In traditional medicine, aloe vera is used to treat skin-related problems.

Aloe vera contains numerous vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin B12, folic acid, choline, copper, selenium, magnesium, calcium, chromium, manganese, potassium, sodium and zinc. It is also known for its healing properties which reduces inflammation.

Aloe vera can effectively reduce H. pylori levels and encourages the body to boost its healing properties, thereby treating ulcer.

CAN BE TAKEN AS:

Supplement

Aloe vera supplements can help fight the risk of ulcer. It is also safe since the laxative part of the herbal
plant has been minimized. Seek advice from your healthcare provider to know the right amount of aloe vera that you can take and if it can be taken along conventional treatment.

Aloe Vera Juice

Consuming a glass of aloe vera juice may soothe the irritation around the stomach and intestines as well as flush out harmful toxins within the body. Additionally, it can elevate the pain and discomfort one experiences from having an ulcer.

7. GINGER

OVERVIEW:

For over the centuries, ginger has been used not only as a spice that adds flavor to any dishes but also as an herbal plant used in traditional Chinese medicine. 

It has been used to cure common ailments and conditions such as sore throat, nausea, vomiting, menstrual cramps and migraine headaches to name a few.

Ginger packs numerous vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B3, vitamin B6, vitamin C, iron, calcium,
potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, folate, riboflavin, niacin and zinc. It also reduces irritation in the body due to its anti-inflammation compound.

Ginger can aid in any digestive-related problems such as stomach ulcer. It can help in preventing the infection from spreading as well reduce the inflammation around the stomach lining due to its gastroprotective effects.

Although it may not provide a fast effect of relieving ulcer-related pain, it may still aid in preventing recurring ulcers.

Although ginger has useful effects for the body, excessive intake may worsen the present condition. Ask for
advice from your doctor concerning the right dosage for ginger.

CAN BE TAKEN AS:

Ginger Tea

Ginger tea is a good remedy to reduce the stomach acid that may flow into the esophagus. It can also minimize the inflammation around the stomach lining.

Supplements

Because of its gastroprotective effects, ginger has been used to produce various supplements that can aid in the protection of the digestive system.

8. BANANA

OVERVIEW:

Banana is popular for not only as a snack but also as for its health benefits. Banana is an abundant source of water content, carbohydrates, vitamin B6 and potassium. 

It also contains other nutrients such as protein, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B3, vitamin C, manganese, dietary fiber, iron, sodium and zinc.

Banana can support the body by increasing the mucus tissues in the digestive tract due to its sitoindosides chemical compound. 

It strengthens the protective layer around the lining of the stomach. Significantly, it reduces acidity which relieves ulcer-related pain and symptoms.

Banana has an anti-ulcer compound called polysaccharides which helps in preventing or lowering the risk of having stomach ulcer. Leucocyanidin, another component found in bananas, can effectively increase the production of mucus in the stomach.

CAN BE TAKEN AS:

Raw Banana

Banana has its fair share of health benefits. For treating ulcer, eating bananas three times a day may
reduce the risks of ulcer development. It is also rich in enzymes that may inhibit the growth of bacteria in the stomach that causes ulcer.

Banana Powder

Other studies show that banana powder has the best results for treating ulcer. You may combine it with
honey for maximum effect. It may be taken thrice a day – in the morning, afternoon and evening.

9. FENUGREEK

OVERVIEW:

Fenugreek has been recently known for its culinary use as part of the household spice. It also has its long history with traditional Chinese medicine for treating common skin conditions and other diseases. Many Indian dishes have used fenugreek seeds and powder due to its nutritional value and taste.

Fenugreek contains a good amount of fiber and other nutrients such as protein, carbohydrates, iron, magnesium and manganese. It also has anti-inflammatory properties which reduces irritation caused by harmful toxins.

In addition to that, the mucilaginous compound of fenugreek acts as a mucus shield and coats the stomach lining, protecting it against irritants. Fenugreek has a healing property that speeds up the healing process of the affected area.

CAN BE TAKEN AS:

Supplements

Fenugreek comes in different forms of supplements. Its formulations differ from one type to another. It
may also vary in the dosage content. The type of supplements depends on the individual’s overall health
condition. Consult your physician for advice.

10. COCONUT

OVERVIEW:

Coconut is widely known as the “Tree of Life”. It is greatly appreciated by many due to its beneficial effects to the body. 

From its leaves, water content, milk extraction, flowers down to its roots, coconut has many uses and aids in treating various illnesses as a medicinal plant.

Coconut contains antibacterial properties with a considerable amount of nutrients such as protein, carbohydrates, sugar, fiber, manganese, selenium, copper, phosphorus, potassium, iron and zinc. It may aid in weight loss and maintenance of the overall health condition of the heart and digestive system.

Coconut exhibits anti-inflammation and antibacterial components. It may boost the immune system and reduce irritation caused by ulcers. 

With its strong anti-ulcer property, coconut can effectively become your comrade in fighting the H. pylori bacteria.

CAN BE TAKEN AS:

Coconut Water

Coconut contains water which other people may refer to as “coconut juice”. It can assist in treating
conditions such as ulcer and urinary tract infection (UTI). Drinking fresh coconut water daily will create countless miracles for the body!

Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is also popular for treating ulcers. A fresh coconut milk daily may soothe ulcer-related pain and symptoms.

TIPS FOR PREVENTING ULCER:

Taking herbal medicines or prescriptions can support us in fighting ulcers that comes in different forms. However, it would be better to prevent one from occurring.
We can avoid ulcer by taking the following into consideration:

1. Avoid food that may irritate or upset your stomach. We all have different tolerance when it comes to the food we take. Eating in moderation helps.
2. If you can’t stop smoking, then try avoiding it little by little. Smokers have high risk in developing
duodenal ulcer which affects the small intestines or duodenum.
3. Excessive alcohol intake can cause ulcer. Try avoiding it or keep it to a minimum.
4. Excessive intake of anti-inflammatory medicines and pain relievers may lead to ulcer. Only use it when necessary.
5. Try to manage your stress. Taking a break from your stressful routine by relaxing and exercising can be helpful in preventing ulcers.

CONCLUSION:

Herbal medicines come a long way and have proven their effectiveness for curing illnesses which leads to the advancement of conventional medicine. Research for the more beneficial facts about herbal plants are continuously conducted as we speak. There is no harm in knowing the benefits these herbal plants can provide our body. If you are unsure on how you have to take it, consult your healthcare practitioner for advice. It isn’t bad to take precautions and eat a balanced diet in moderation. Remember that prevention is better than cure. Live an even healthier life!