Home Remedies for an Upset Stomach

An upset stomach is a blanket term used to describe heartburn, nausea, indigestion, dyspepsia, or constipation. At one time or another, everyone has experienced some form of an upset stomach. what everyone does not know is that the remedies to alleviate the symptoms of an upset stomach can often be found in, or around your home.

For an upset stomach that is the result of heartburn, there are several things that will help to ease your discomfort. Chamomile tea actually neutralizes the stomach acids that cause heartburn. In addition to its acid reduction properties, chamomile can also be used for relaxation, indigestion, and menstrual cramps. That is reason enough for me to include a few chamomile plants in my garden. www.health.howstuffworks.com.

Baking soda can also be used to alleviate the discomfort associated with heartburn. You can create your own antacid by mixing 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda with 1 cup of water. This antacid works, but should not be used if you are on a low-sodium diet. www.health.howstuffworks.com.

Nausea is a common symptom associated with an upset stomach. Ginger is probably the most common, and oldest cure for an upset stomach. Any form of ginger, whether it be a tea, sticks, crystallized form, grated, or baked into foods like gingersnaps (my favorite), will relieve nausea. Ginger can also be used for heartburn, motion sickness, and indigestion www.webmd.com.

An upset stomach attributed to indigestion can be the result of many culinary temptations. To cure the symptoms of occasional indigestion, a tea made from fennel seeds should do the trick. Add one teaspoon of fennel seeds to a cup of boiling water, and let it steep for about 10 minutes. Drink on an empty stomach for quick relief of indigestion. Fennel seed can also be used for stomach upset caused by gas www.herbal-remedy.com.

Dyspepsia is an upset stomach cause by difficulty in the digestion of food. Yogurt contains beneficial bacteria that will aid in the digestion process. When shopping for yogurt, make sure that your choice contains active yogurt cultures and probiotics www.probiotic.org.

Another form of an upset stomach is constipation. The root of the dandelion plant is a mild laxative that does not deplete the potassium supply of the body. To make dandelion root tea, dig up the weeds from your yard and make sure to wash them thoroughly. I choose to make my dandelion tea stronger by grating the root, but it works just fine if left whole. Boil 1 1/2 teaspoons of the dandelion root in 1 cup of water for 5-8 minutes, then drink while still hot for relief from occasional constipation www.umm.edu.

These remedies are intended for occasional episodes of an upset stomach, and are not intended to replace the advice of your physician. If your symptoms are severe, or persist for a number of days, it is advised that you see your physician in case your upset stomach is indicative of a more serious condition.