5 Herbs That Will Improve Your Digestive Health

Today's lifestyle has several unhealthy aspects, including a lack of physical activity, poor sleep habits, and the consumption of unhealthy foods such as fast, processed, and junk food. Hectic work schedules have increased stress (which has resulted in disturbed sleep), unhealthy dietary habits such as eating too much or too little, and not spending enough time eating well. Other factors that have contributed to health problems include smoking and alcoholism.

The negative consequences of this stressful lifestyle are visible in the form of illness, the most common of which is poor digestive health. This is exacerbated by the digestive system's declining ability to function efficiently with age and handle digestive problems such as indigestion, bloating, flatulence, and gastritis.

Digestive issues should not be overlooked because they can lead to irreversible complications in the long run. Several medicinal herbs and natural ingredients, some of which are well-known and used in Indian cuisine, can aid in the natural management of digestive problems.

1. Triphala

Triphala is a powerful Ayurvedic blend of three herbs' fruits: amla (gooseberry), haritaki (chebulic myrobalan), and bibhitaki (Belleric myrobalan). It prevents gas accumulation in the digestive system, improves the contractile movement of digestive system muscles, and aids in the food movement. Triphala also aids in the treatment of indigestion.

2. Fennel Seeds

Fennel seeds, which are commonly used as mouth fresheners, have several digestive system-friendly medicinal properties. It has an antispasmodic effect, which aids in the relaxation of contracted intestinal muscles. Fennel seeds also aid in the elimination of gas from the digestive system.

3. Black Pepper

Black pepper is a common spice that serves as both a seasoning and a flavouring agent. It contains a compound called Piperine, which aids in nutrient absorption. Black pepper improves bile acid secretion and thus food breakdown. It also expels gas from the digestive system, making it useful for treating flatulence, belching, and other symptoms.

4. Ginger

Ginger, a common flavouring agent in Indian cooking, has a pungent aroma and a warming effect when consumed. It is an indigestion home remedy that stimulates gastric acids and digestive enzymes, which improve digestion. Ginger also aids in the elimination of gas from the digestive tract.

5. Shankha Bhasma

Shankha Bhasma is an ayurvedic medicine that is used to treat conditions such as acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease. It contains antacid properties that provide relief from symptoms such as heartburn and chest pain. Shankha is a mineral mentioned in Rasashastra under the Sudha Varga (Calcium group) category. Shankha Bhasma is one of the most important Bhasmas used by Ayurvedic physicians in their daily practice.

While these ingredients can be used individually or in combination to help with digestive issues, it is always best to consult your doctor for the proper dosage before using them.