Stomach disorders encapsulate many conditions that affect the digestive system and stomach. The conditions range from issues as simple as indigestion to issues as severe as stomach cancer, ulcers and bowel diseases. Peptic ulcer disease also known as PUD is a chronic condition where the open sores or ulcers gradually start developing in the lining of the stomach. They are typically caused by the damage done by stomach acid.
What happens in Peptic Ulcer Disease?
Peptic, is the word derived from pepsin which is a major digestive enzyme that the stomach produces. What happens when there is peptic ulcer disease?
1. Damage to the lining
The stomach is protected by a layer of mucus which shields it from the harsh effects of stomach acid. In peptic ulcer disease, the shield weakens and this allows the acid to erode the lining. When the lining deteriorates, it creates ulcers.
2. Discomfort and pain
The most common pain is a gnawing pain in the abdomen usually between the belly button and the breastbone.
Stomach acid and pepsin are the ingredients in the stomach juices which ultimately help to chemically break down food. The gastrointestinal tract has a shield in the form of a mucous lining that insulated it from the substances that are present inside.
What are the symptoms of Peptic ulcer?
Indigestion and epigastric pain are the two most common symptoms one experiences. Indigestion includes epigastric pain in which one feels a burning sensation. The person also experiences a feeling of fullness that comes shortly after. Some people also experience the following symptoms-
· Blood in the stool.
· Rapid heart rate.
· Dizziness.
· Tarry stool.
· Paleness.
One can also get a peptic ulcer in the jejunum which is the middle part of small intestine.
Ayurveda and Peptic Ulcer
People choose Ayurvedic treatment for peptic ulcers for many reasons. Individuals nowadays are relying on long-term, holistic and natural healing. Moreover, the ayurvedic medicines address stress, diet and digestion which contribute to chronic ulcers. Following are the ayurvedic medicines for peptic ulcer-
1. Ghee
When a person has peptic ulcer, doctors recommend ghee to heal the ulcer inside the intestinal tract. Yoghurt and ghee result in a huge amount of salivary mucus. Owing to the effects of ghee, peptic ulceration may be prevented. Gut health factors in when it comes to dealing with peptic ulcers. A healthy gut means a healthy body! Ghee nourished your gut thereby preventing the formation of peptic ulcer. Ghee also help improve the immunity and also promotes the healing of peptic ulcer. It increases the metabolism in the body. It is good for diarrhea, peptic ulcer and sprue syndrome!
Ghee has a cooling effect on the digestive tract owing to its pitta pacifying properties. It plays a key role in neutralizing the stomach acid. Ghee also promotes mucosal healing and lubricates the gut.
2. Coconut oil
Beneficial for managing peptic ulcers, coconut oil has soothing, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Lauric acid present in the oil is responsible for the destruction of many bacteria. It also forms a protective coating in the intestines and stomach. The cooling nature of the oil calms the excess Pitta dosha. It reduces acid reflux. Products such as coconut milk or coconut pieces are also believed to cool the inflammation in the digestive system. It acts as a cure of ulcers.
One should see to it that they use cold-pressed virgin coconut oil. If you have lipid imbalance, it is not recommended to use the oil in huge quantities. The oil shields the stomach lining from acid.
3. Licorice
Locally going by the name, Yashtimadhu, Licorice coats and protects the stomach lining, reduces the inflammation and also promotes healing. The herb contains compounds like glycyrrhizin which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The ayurvedic medicine increases mucin secretion which coats the stomach. This protects it from pepsin and acid. It also helps ulcers heal naturally. Licorice is Sheetala and pitta-pacifying. This counteract excess acid and heat in the gut.
How to make licorice tea?
Take one tablespoon of dried licorice in 1.5 cups of water. Put the roots in water for 10 minutes, strain and drink warm.
4. Sutshekhar ras
The medicine deals with hyperacidity and acid reflux. This ayurvedic formulation is used for treating gastritis, Amlapitta and peptic ulcers. The herb consists of ingredients like Shuddha Gandhak, Shankha Bhasma, Shuddha Parad, Kapardak Bhasma and Camphor. The drug is Anti-ulcerogenic which means that it heals the stomach lining when combined with ghee. Owing to the presence of Kapardak and Shankha, the drug neutralizes acid naturally. It also helps relieve pain associated with ulcers. It acts as a digestive stimulant which enhances agni without aggravating Pitta.
The drug is ideal when combined with-
· Ghee- As a carrier.
· Amla- For cooling and tissue repair.
· Licorice- For mucosal healing.
· Kamadudha Ras- For stronger antacid effect.
5. Amla
Also known as Indian Gooseberry, Amla is an excellent remedy peptic ulcers. It is widely used in Ayurveda for gastrointestinal healing. Amla is rich in polyphenols and Vitamin C. These two compounds help regenerate damaged gastric mucosa. Amla promotes mucus secretion and speeds ulcer healing. It also has antimicrobial effects against Helicobacter Pylori which is the major cause of peptic ulcer.
How to use Amla for Peptic ulcers?
· Amla Juice.
One should take 10-20 ml fresh amla juice on an empty stomach in the morning. Then, mix it with ½ cup of warm water.
· Amla churna.
One should take 1 tablespoon of Amla churna with water once or twice.
One can also mix it with ghee or honey.
· Amla capsules.
500mg once/twice daily after meals.
· Amla+Ghee+Licorice.
Take one tablespoon of each before meals. This synergistic combo helps alleviate the ill effects of the ulcer faster.
The churna is safe for long term use and if diabetic, one should monitor its usage properly.
6. Bananas.
This is a fruit that is easily digestible and is used for protecting the stomach lining from inflammation. Bananas help regulate acid levels and supports natural healing.