Digestive Support ©Paulina Nelega, Registered Clinical Herbalist (RH)
Whether heartburn, acid reflux, ‘overacidity’ or ulcers, gastric pain is one of the most common ailments that people seek help for from their healthcare provider. What some may not realise is that gastric pain is usually not caused by excess hydrochloric (HCl) acid. Quite the contrary, in fact. Many people actually have deficient HCl acid production, especially as they age.
The reason for gastric pain, itself, is usually due to chronic inflammation and/or an insufficient layer of protective mucous lining the stomach and duodenum (the first section of the small intestine). When this protective layer is diminished, the underlying lining is exposed to the acidic pH and enzymatic action of gastric secretions, essentially ‘corroding’ it. A deficient layer of protective mucous (quality and/or quantity), along with deficient production of HCl acid and other gastric secretions, can be due to a combination of factors, most notably poor nutrition and lifestyle.
Faulty closure of the esophageal sphincter, located between the uppermost part of the stomach and the esophagus (the tube that food travels down when we swallow), can allow for regurgitation of the stomach contents into the esophagus. This is called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or simply acid reflux, otherwise known as heartburn. Again, poor nutrition and lifestyle choices often play a significant role in the incomplete closure of this sphincter, e.g., overconsumption of caffeine and alcohol, tobacco, soft drinks, and processed foods can lead to dysfunctional innervation of the sphincter mechanism.
It is also important to rule out the presence of the bacteria, Helicobacter pylori. Though considered normal flora, in some individuals this bacteria can cause chronic inflammation, ulcers and, if left untreated, may lead to stomach cancer. If you have a helicobacter infection (confirmed by a breath test that measures CO2), it would be wise to do an antibiotic regime to eradicate it. Afterwards, a supportive digestive program will help ensure that your digestive system won’t allow this bacteria to flourish again.
Over-the-counter preparations including antacids and acid-production blockers can reduce the symptoms of gastric pain and may be helpful as an interim measure. Symptoms will invariably return, however, unless the underlying cause is addressed. The most effective approach to digestive issues such as acid reflux or ulcers includes enhancing the digestive secretions, repairing and strengthening the protective mucosal lining, and appropriate dietary/lifestyle modifications.
Many herbs can support digestive function by regulating hydrochloric acid secretion and enhancing digestive secretions. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL), a special form of licorice extract, and the amino acid supplement glutamine, can also assist by helping to rebuild and strengthen the protective mucous layer.
Herbal Digestive Stimulants & Tonics:
- Dandelion root (Taraxacum officinalis)
- Angelica root (Angelica archangelica)
- Meadowsweet herb (Filipendula ulmaria)
- Centaury herb (Erythraea centaurium)
- Orange peel (Citrus spp.)
- Prickly Ash bark (Zanthoxylum spp.)
- Turmeric rhizome (Curcuma longa)
- Fennel seed (Foeniculum vulgare)
- Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
If you are experiencing digestive problems, it’s important to determine the underlying cause and seek appropriate treatment. Natural remedies including herbal medicine can do much to support and improve digestive health!
