Many of us suffer in silence when it comes to our tummy troubles. So we’ve developed this list of natural remedies that may help to lessen your discomfort. These can be purchased from a good health food store, chemist, naturopath or herbalist.

Peppermint
Peppermint is one of the best calming agents for the digestive system relaxing the visceral (smooth) muscles and decreasing inflammation. Because of its anti-flatulence properties it relieves intestinal colic, irritable bowels, belching and other similar conditions. The volatile oil in peppermint can act as a mild anaesthetic to the wall of the stomach, relieving feelings of nausea. It can also help ease travel sickness.

Chamomile
Chamomile aids digestion when taken as a tea after meals and assists with gastro-intestinal problems due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic actions. When used internally it has a calming effect on the stomach. It can also help ease the ‘burn’ associated with acid reflex.

Fennel
Fennel is an excellent stomach and intestinal remedy aiding digestion, relieving flatulence and colic and can be helpful in digesting fat. Externally the essential oil can help relieve muscular and rheumatic pains. Fennel can ease cramping, bloating and indigestion.

Slippery elm
Slippery elm is perfectly suited for sensitive or inflamed mucous membrane linings of the digestive system assisting with conditions such as enteritis. Slippery elm is also great for easing gastrointestinal irritation.

Meadowsweet
Meadowsweet can help balance stomach acid levels – easing both heartburn and indigestion. It can also help irritated areas heal at a quicker rate, ease indigestion, diarrhoea and gastrointestinal bleeding.