Herbs for Better Digestion
You don’t always need to reach for harsh chemicals or prescription medications for digestive ailments. There are many herbal allies to keep your digestive tract in good health and to alleviate occasional digestive ailments. However, keep in mind that no amount of herbs or medications can substitute for a healthy diet and lifestyle. A well-balanced, whole foods diet, regular exercise and managing your stress effectively will take you far in the quest for healthy digestion.
Herbs known at bitters are good choices for regular use to support healthy digestion. Bitters trigger the release of hormones that stimulate the flow of digestive juices, aid the liver in it’s work, increase bile flow and stimulate self-repair of the stomach and intestines. Common, safe bitters include Dandelion and Chamomile. Carminatives stimulate the digestive system, soothe the gut wall and reduce inflammation and remove gas. Common carminatives include Chamomile, Ginger, Lemon Balm, Peppermint and Sage. Demulcents form protective barriers for irritated and inflamed intestinal tissues. Good digestive demulcents are Comfrey leaf, Cornsilk, Licorice, Marshmallow, Slippery Elm and Mullein. Hepatics aid the liver by toning, strengthening and increasing bile flow. Common mild to moderate hepatics are Fennel, Lemon Balm, and Dandelion.
Some tea and tincture suggestions for specific digestive complaints:
Constipation: 2 parts Dandelion root, 2 parts Yellow dock root, 1 part Aniseed (less mild herbs for constipation include Senna and Cascara)
Diarrhea: 1 part each chamomile and blackberry leaf
Gas: 1 part each Lemon Balm and Chamomile
Acid: 2 parts marshmallow root, 1 part each calendula and chamomile
Simple Indigestion: equal parts of chamomile, lemon balm and peppermint
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