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Natural Herbs for Digestion

The digestive system breaks down food and allows its nutrients to be absorbed into the bloodstream. By incorporating herbs into your diet, you can help your digestive system function at its optimal level. Here are five herbs you can try if you want to improve your digestion.

Chamomile



From the daisy family, chamomile is a bitter-tasting herb that is commonly used as a tea for medicinal purposes. Chamomile contains antispasmodic properties that help to relax the intestinal muscles and stomach. It is a herb that has been used to treat gas, diarrhea, indigestion, stomach cramps, and colic. The mildly bitter qualities help to stimulate liver function, increasing the secretion of bile, which aids in the digestive process. Chamomile also helps to calm the nervous system, aids in better sleep, and regulates blood sugar.

Peppermint



There's good reason why people suck on peppermint candy and drink peppermint tea when they have an upset stomach. Peppermint contains a relaxant and antispasmodic, which help to ease cramps and spasms in the gastrointestinal tract, bile duct, and gallbladder. It's beneficial to sip on peppermint tea before or during meals. Peppermint is also helpful for relieving gas. Enjoy a piece of gum with a strong peppermint flavor or drink peppermint tea to reap the benefits.

Dandelion root



Dandelion has a few positive effects on the digestive system. It has been long hailed as a liver tonic. It helps to increase the flow of bile, which contains acids that are crucial for digestion and absorption of fats and vitamins. Dandelion tea can be taken daily to help improve liver function. It will help to prevent the accumulation of toxins from foods eaten and environmental factors. Dandelion is a bitter tonic that stimulates digestion as a mild laxative.

Gentian



Gentian is another bitter herb. It is commonly found in digestive tonics as it helps stimulate the flow of saliva, bile, and stomach acids. Gentian is commonly used for digestive problems such as loss of appetite, fullness, diarrhea, and intestinal gas. A half teaspoon of gentian or tonic formula before meals will benefit your digestive system. Gentian may also improve kidney health and circulation.

Marshmallow Root



Marshmallow root tea is a mild laxative that can also help to soothe the digestive tract. It is a demulcent, which means it cools and soothes inflamed digestive tissues. Marshmallow root may also stimulate the cells that support tissue regeneration. It is also helpful in treating heartburn. Limit how much marshmallow root you ingest because too much can cause upset stomach, diarrhea, and dizziness. It's a good idea to drink a couple glasses of water after having the marshmallow root.

Ginger Root



Ginger is great for digestion, and is used as a general tonic for the digestive system. Specifically, it is used for both nausea and an upset stomach. One thing it does particularly well is to stimulate the digestive juices, specifically saliva. It is an excellent beverage to sip on while eating.

Herbs provide many benefits to health and wellness. If you're dealing with any mild digestive issues, you might benefit from trying one of the previously mentioned herbs.
Note: The information in this article isn't intended to replace a physician. If needed, you should seek medical attention before taking herbs as you don't know how they will affect your condition.

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Content copyright © 2013 by Katherine Tsoukalas. All rights reserved.
This content was written by Katherine Tsoukalas. If you wish to use this content in any manner, you need written permission. Contact Katherine Tsoukalas for details.



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