If meals fall badly, a hint of spices added to your plate or simple tea after meal can improve gastric well-being.
Digestive discomfort – whether swelling after a heavy meal or an occasional episode of indigestion – can make anyone uncomfortable.
Although modern medicine offers effective treatments, there is a renewed interest in natural ways to support intestinal health. Herbs and spices have been used in traditional medicine for centuries for their digestive benefits, and modern science begins to confirm some of these old remedies.
These five herbs and spices have been associated with a better digestion. This is what scientific evidence shows.
Peppermint
The peppermint (Mentha Piperita) It is one of the best known herbs to relieve digestive discomfort. Its active compound, menthol, relaxes the intestinal muscles, Helping to reduce swelling, gases and abdominal pain. It can also decrease pain sensitivity, combat harmful bacteria and calm inflammation.
Clinical trials show that peppermint oil capsules relieve the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (SII). However, oil may not be suitable for people with acid reflux, For it relaxes the inferior esophageal sphincter – the muscle that prevents the stomach acid from climbing to throat – can cause heartburn, especially fasting. Mint tea is smoother and can offer similar benefits.
Chamomile
In Camomila (Matricaria Chamomilla) is famous for its soothing effects and can also soften the digestive system. THE Chamomile Tea is one of the most popular infusions in the world -It is estimated that about one million cups will be consumed a day-and is traditionally used to relieve indigestion, gases, stomach pain and intestinal irritation.
Although most tests are traditional, animal studies show that chamomile extract can reduce gastric ulcers thanks to its antioxidant properties. Can also help children: in a 57% of babies who received chamomile tea felt relief from cramps In just one week, against 26% in the Placebo group. Another essay revealed that children with light diarrhea recovered faster when treated with a mixture of chamomile (associated with other herbs).
Chamomile is usually safe, but some people may have allergy.
Ajowan Seeds (Carom)
Ajowan’s seeds (Trachyspermum ammi), known as “carom seeds”are common in Indian cuisine and ayurvedic medicine. For centuries that are used to relieve gases and swelling, probably due to timol – A compound that stimulates the stomach to produce up to four times more acidic.
In animal studies, ajowan seeds accelerated the passage of food through the digestive tract, increased the activity of digestive enzymes and stimulated the production of biles, essential for decompose fats. They also showed antispasmodic effects, relaxing intestinal muscles by blocking contractions responsible for the contractions. Data in humans are still limited, but culinary use is considered safe.
Pregnant women or breastfeeding should avoid High doses, as excessive consumptions were associated with risk of abortion.
Fennel
The fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) is traditionally chewed after meals in many cultures to refresh breath and favor digestion. The seeds are rich in insoluble fiber, which helps Prevent gases and swelling accumulation. NHS recommends about 30 g fiber a day.
O anetolthe main active compound of the fennel is chemically similar to dopamine and relaxes intestinal muscles – a confirmed mechanism in laboratory studies. In a small rehearsal with people suffering from SII, the fennel reduced abdominal pain in colic, probably thanks to this relaxing effect.
The “fennel water”, often combined with baking soda and syrup To form the so -called Flu Water, has long been used to relieve gases and swelling in babies. Although clinical trials in humans are limited, the long history of safe use reinforces its traditional role in digestive care.
Cumin
The cumin (Cumin cumin) They also have a long tradition in relieving digestive problems. Modern studies suggest that they increase the activity of digestive enzymes, accelerating food decomposition. Also stimulate the liberation of bile by the liverhelping to digest fats and absorb nutrients.
In one with rats, the cumins reduced by about 25% the time the food remained in the digestive tract – probably due to this combined effect of enzymes and biles. In a clinical trial with 57 people with SII, the concentrated eating extract significantly reduced symptoms by just two weeks.
Seek a doctor
Herbs and spices do not replace medical treatment, but can complement a balanced diet and offer gentle support for daily life problems. In normal quantities of cooking are usually safe, but those who have base diseases or take medication should first consult a healthcare professional.
For many, however, a Chamomile Tea Tea or a pinch of cumin It can be a simple – and tasty – step towards healthier digestion.
