Simple lifestyle tweaks can go a long way when it comes to your overall health, including your stomach.
Whether you’re struggling with inflammation or bloating, a stomach doctor has revealed five herbs he uses regularly to keep his gut strong and healthy.
Dr Saurabh Sethi, a board-certified gastroenterologist, took to his TikTok to outline the powerful compounds hidden in inexpensive herbs readily available in your local grocery store.
1.Ginger
Packed with gingerol, ginger is a “potent anti-inflammatory” that could help reduce gut inflammation, according to the gastroenterologist.
What’s more, the fragrant herb offers benefits beyond the gut. A review, published in the Journal of Traditional Chinese Medical Sciences, highlighted ginger’s antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidative effects on Covid. The review explained that these powers can affect the key fundamental processes that participate in Covid development.
Other studies found that a ginger extract may even reduce inflammatory reactions in rheumatoid arthritis as effectively as steroids did.
2.Peppermint
The second herb that Dr Sethi recommended was peppermint. He said: “It contains menthol which can help relax the muscles in the gastrointestinal tract (GI) and promote healthy digestion. However, avoid it if you have acid reflux.”
Research suggests that peppermint could help prevent the muscles in your tummy from contracting, which could help with spasms and bloating.
3.Turmeric
The golden spice is rich in curcumin, a “powerful” anti-inflammatory compound that can help reduce inflammation.
In a study published in the US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health, it was suggested that curcumin might reduce the risk of inflammatory disorders, such as ulcers.
Based on available literature, the researchers suggested that curcumin could be recommended as a novel drug for ulcer treatment.
4.Chamomile
Dr Sethi explained that chamomile contains apigenin, a natural compound that can help improve gut health by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria.
In a previous interview with Express.co.uk, Dr Deborah Lee from Dr Fox Online Pharmacy shared that chamomile may also benefit other aspect of your gut. She said it could prevent the growth of helicobacter pylori – a type of bacteria known to cause stomach ulcers.
Furthermore, the doctor added that dried chamomile flowers mixed only with hot water can pose as a remedy to gas problems.
5.Fennel
The doctor confessed that fennel is his “absolute favourite”. It contains anethole, a compound that can help relax the muscles in the GI tract and also improve overall gut digestion.
Research even found that fennel’s essential oils can work effectively against bacteria that cause indigestion and diarrhoea.
Dr Sethi recommended always talking to your doctor before making any dietary or lifestyle changes.