Gastric Ulcers
Gastric Ulcers
When stomach acid and digestive juices eat their way through the lining of the digestive tract, sores called ulcers occur. Since ulcers can recur and become a chronic problem, or can lead to a number of serious complications including bleeding, it is important to treat them promptly.
An overgrowth of the bacterium Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) can contribute to the development of stomach ulcers. Normal populations of these bacteria, however, have been shown to provide a protective effect for the oesophagus. Another possible cause of stress induced ulcers is low melatonin levels which can decrease with anxiety, lifestyle, insomnia or with those on certain medicines.
In general, depending on where the ulcer is located, ulcer symptoms can vary widely. Some people may have no symptoms of an ulcer at all. Others can experience an intermittent burning and gnawing sensation along with feeling empty and hungry. Instead of pursuing the most common conventional medicinal treatment which may lead to further digestive problems the following natural ulcer remedies are suggested:
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Zinc and Carnotine
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Mastic gum
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Bananas, Cabbage
Zinc and Carnotine
This combination has been shown to have protective and healing properties for inflamed and ulcerative stomach lining.
Mastic gum
This is derived from a resin taken from the mastic tree grown in Greece, Taken for 4 to 6 weeks (500mg) is usually sufficient to heal stomach ulcers and control helicobacter pylori levels
Vitamin E
Peptic ulcers were successfully treated with 300mg vitamin E in shorter time than in those given conventional medication. Those taking vitamin E had faster recovery because it increased protein repair in their intestinal linings.
Honey
Raw honey has been shown to be an effective ulcer treatment for two reasons. First, glucose oxidase, an enzyme in honey, produces hydrogen peroxide, which kills harmful bacteria that can contribute to the development of ulcers. Then there are other floral antibacterial substances- including propolis- in honey that add to honey’s effectiveness in eliminating bacteria. Manuka honey from New Zealand (ensure it is a certified source) has other enzymes proven in studies to heal skin inflammation and has been used to promote the healing of problematic varicose ulcers.
Bananas
Unripe bananas may increase mucus in the digestive tract, which provides a strong protective coating to help prevent and heal ulcers, whilst also promoting cell growth in the intestinal tract. The best results are obtained with banana powder taken with a tablespoon of antibacterial (raw) honey. Take this before or outside meals.
Garlic
Research has shown that the preventive and therapeutic benefits of garlic (more specifically Allicin) can keep levels of the Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacterium in check without entirely eliminating the strain and this may be more beneficial to digestion than its elimination.
Cabbage
Raw cabbage juice has the benefit of ‘Vitamin U’( unspecified healing enzymes),Vitamin C, prebiotics and probiotics and used to be a successful treatment for digestive ulcers, partly by helping to maintain the balance of bacteria. dosage in recommended is only 50 mL of raw cabbage juice derived from a quart of freshly pressed cabbage. Fermented cabbage juice may be even more beneficial.
Licorice
Several studies have suggested that deglycyrrhized licorice (DGL) works as well conventional medicine for treating and maintaining peptic and duodenal ulcers by helping the stomach and intestines produce more protective mucus. It is also protective for those using ulcer-producing drugs like aspirin, cortisone derivatives, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories.
Capsaicin
Contrary to what many people believe, eating hot peppers doesn't cause gastric ulcers. Instead, eating them actually prevents ulcer development partly because it acts as an antacid.