Herbs for Digestive Health - Traditional Herbal Remedies
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Traditional Herbal Remedies for Digestive Health
Traditional herbal remedies to improve digestive health have been around for hundreds or even thousands of years. People sometimes suffer from digestive disorders or discomfort - and never seek a treatment. Implementing herbs to help digestion can be a natural, gentle way to improve digestive functioning.
It's not a secret any more that the key to sound health is in the bowels. When clean and active, bowels promptly process digestive waste and eliminate it. And when bowels are sluggish, they keep filling up with toxins which eventually leak into the bloodstream - and that way spread throughout the body.
When you experience extreme gas (wind, flatulence) constipation, diarrhoea, cramps - that might be a signal that your bowels have a problem. Unfortunately, there might be no warning signs until serious disease strikes. The bowel has no pain-sensitive nerves that could alert you to brewing trouble.
Following is the list of the most common digestive symptoms and complaints - and the collection of herbs, enzymes and supplements that have been providing some release to the many who have used them throughout the human history. I hope you can find some valuable information on this page.
Disclaimer: All the information on this webpage was gathered from various Internet websites and it's only meant for informational/educational purposes because it has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. For medical advice and treatments consult your licensed health practitioner. Prescription medications and herbs might not work well together.
It's not a secret any more that the key to sound health is in the bowels. When clean and active, bowels promptly process digestive waste and eliminate it. And when bowels are sluggish, they keep filling up with toxins which eventually leak into the bloodstream - and that way spread throughout the body.
When you experience extreme gas (wind, flatulence) constipation, diarrhoea, cramps - that might be a signal that your bowels have a problem. Unfortunately, there might be no warning signs until serious disease strikes. The bowel has no pain-sensitive nerves that could alert you to brewing trouble.
Following is the list of the most common digestive symptoms and complaints - and the collection of herbs, enzymes and supplements that have been providing some release to the many who have used them throughout the human history. I hope you can find some valuable information on this page.
Disclaimer: All the information on this webpage was gathered from various Internet websites and it's only meant for informational/educational purposes because it has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. For medical advice and treatments consult your licensed health practitioner. Prescription medications and herbs might not work well together.
Restoring Your Digestive Healt
Amazon Price: $8.66 (as of 02/15/2012)
Contents at a glance
- List of common digestive problems
- Aloe Vera
- Barley
- Black Currant
- Black Walnut
- Burdock
- Capsicum (Cayenne)
- Cascara-Sagrada
- Chlorella
- Dandelion
- Dunaliella
- Echinacea
- Fennel
- Garlic
- Ginkgo Biloba
- Guar Gum
- Milk Thistle
- Parsley
- Psyllium
- Red Beet
- Rosehips
- Rhubarb
- Senna Pod
- Spirulina
- Watercress
- Wheat Grass
- Wormwood
- Enzymes for digestion
- Other supplements for digestive health
The Complete Guide To Digestive Health: Plain Answers About Ibs, Constipation, Diarrhea, Heartburn, Ulcers, and More
Amazon Price: $5.49 (as of 02/15/2012)
List of common digestive problems
- Belching - releasing of the gas from digestive system through the mouth
- Bloating - abnormal swelling in abdominal area, making one feel full and abdomen tight
- Constipation - infrequent and/or hard to pass bowel movements. Synonyms: costiveness, dyschezia, dyssynergic defaecation
- Diarrhea - condition of having three or more loose or liquid bowel movements in a day. Can also be spelled as "diarrhoea"
- Flatulence - state of having excessive stomach or intestinal gas which might result in uncomfortable feelings of bloating, as well as increased belching (burping) or passing of gas from the rectum
- Food sensitivities or food intolerance - unpleasant reaction to certain foods which can result from the absence of specific chemicals or enzymes needed to digest a food substance. Should not be confused with food allergy - which involves an immune system response or the release of histamine.
- Gas in the digestion system comes from two sources: from swallowed air and the breakdown of undigested food by bacteria in the large intestine. Certain foods may cause gas, yet not the same in every person.
- Indigestion - is another name for upset stomach or dyspepsia. It happens often when people eat too much, too fast, or certain foods don't agree with them. It might happen even more often when you smoke, drink alcohol, are under a lot of pressure/stressed out, or don't get enough sleep.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome - intestinal condition which coincides with abdominal pain and cramps; changes in bowel movements (diarrhea, constipation, or both); gassiness; bloating; nausea; and some other symptoms. Synonyms: spastic colitis, mucus colitis, nervous colon syndrome. In the past this condition was also addressed by the following terms: colitis, mucous colitis, spastic colon, nervous colon, spastic bowel, and functional bowel disorder.
- Malabsorption - difficulty in digesting or absorbing nutrients from food
Aloe Vera
Latin Names: Aloe vera, Aloe barbadensis
Common Names: aloe vera, aloe, burn plant, lily of the desert, elephant's gall
Taken internally, aloe vera juice is said to aid the digestion and absorption of nutrients, to help control blood sugar, to increase energy production, to promote cardiovascular health, to improve liver function, and to boosts the immune system.
Common Names: aloe vera, aloe, burn plant, lily of the desert, elephant's gall
Photo "Aloe vera" courtesy of RoBeRtO!!!
Taken internally, aloe vera juice is said to aid the digestion and absorption of nutrients, to help control blood sugar, to increase energy production, to promote cardiovascular health, to improve liver function, and to boosts the immune system.
Lily of the Desert Aloe Vera Juice, 16 Ounces (473 ml) (Pack of 6)
Amazon Price: $17.60 (as of 02/15/2012)
Barley
Latin name: Hordeum vulgare
Common name: barley
Barley grass juice powder is being promoted as a healing juice and a powerful liver, kidney, and digestive tract detoxifier and cleanser.
Common name: barley
Photo courtesy of HJsfoto
Barley grass juice powder is being promoted as a healing juice and a powerful liver, kidney, and digestive tract detoxifier and cleanser.
Just Barley - Organic Barley Juice - 80 gram - Powder
Amazon Price: $14.96 (as of 02/15/2012)
Black Currant
Latin name: Ribes Nigrum
Common names: Currant
Black currant can stimulate digestion, the functions of the liver, spleen, pancreas and kidneys. It can be consumed as a fresh fruit, in the form of a dietary supplement, tea, syrup, concentrate, juice powder or juice form.
Common names: Currant
Photo "Black currants" courtesy of Aureusbay
Black currant can stimulate digestion, the functions of the liver, spleen, pancreas and kidneys. It can be consumed as a fresh fruit, in the form of a dietary supplement, tea, syrup, concentrate, juice powder or juice form.
Black Currant Extract (Cassis) 200 mg 30 Caps
Amazon Price: $7.59 (as of 02/15/2012)
Black Walnut
Latin name for a black walnut tree: Juglans nigra
Common name: Black Walnut, American Walnut
Ancient Romans referred to black walnut tree as the "Imperial Nut" because of its multiple applications in holistic medicine. Black walnut hulls promote healthy digestion and assimilation of fats, they encourage bowel regularity (natural laxative), oxygenate blood, have antiseptic healing properties and aid in balancing blood sugar and reducing cholesterol, and help flush toxins and harmful pathogens out of the body. Different substances work together to discourage or reduce the growth of parasites within the digestive tract. Due to its purgative properties, Organic Black Walnut Hull has been traditionally used in many native cultures to help the body reject what doesn't belong.
Common name: Black Walnut, American Walnut
Photo "Black Walnut Hulls " courtesy of knitting iris
Ancient Romans referred to black walnut tree as the "Imperial Nut" because of its multiple applications in holistic medicine. Black walnut hulls promote healthy digestion and assimilation of fats, they encourage bowel regularity (natural laxative), oxygenate blood, have antiseptic healing properties and aid in balancing blood sugar and reducing cholesterol, and help flush toxins and harmful pathogens out of the body. Different substances work together to discourage or reduce the growth of parasites within the digestive tract. Due to its purgative properties, Organic Black Walnut Hull has been traditionally used in many native cultures to help the body reject what doesn't belong.
Nature's Way - Black Walnut Hulls, 500 mg, 100 capsules
Amazon Price: $5.79 (as of 02/15/2012)
Burdock
Latin name: Arctium minus
Common names: Common Burdock, Lesser Burdock, Beggar's Button, great burdock
Root of Burdock has been used for centuries: to release water retention, to stimulates digestion, to aid kidneys, liver and gallbladder function and more.
Common names: Common Burdock, Lesser Burdock, Beggar's Button, great burdock
Photo "Burdocks" courtesy of Bo FaHaD -QtR-
Root of Burdock has been used for centuries: to release water retention, to stimulates digestion, to aid kidneys, liver and gallbladder function and more.
Burdock Root 460 mg 100 Caps by Swanson Premium
Amazon Price: $2.99 (as of 02/15/2012)
Capsicum (Cayenne)
Latin names of several different cultivars: Capsicum annuum, Capsicum frutescens, Capsicum chinense, Capsicum pubescens, Capsicum baccatum
Common names: chilli pepper, cayenne, paprika, peppers, pimiento, red pepper, sweet pepper, aji dulce, Hungarian pepper, and Mexican pepper.
Cayenne pepper has been nicknamed "the king of herbs" for several good reasons. It has been prized through thousands of years for its healing powers in folklore from around the world.
Capsicum added diet helps avoid stomach aches, gas and cramps. Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine recommends cayenne pepper for proper digestion. It stimulates the flow of stomach secretions and saliva.
What makes capsicum even more valuable is a claim that it improves the effectiveness of other herbs.
Common names: chilli pepper, cayenne, paprika, peppers, pimiento, red pepper, sweet pepper, aji dulce, Hungarian pepper, and Mexican pepper.
Photo "126/365 - The colour of taste" courtesy of Ann McLeod Images
Cayenne pepper has been nicknamed "the king of herbs" for several good reasons. It has been prized through thousands of years for its healing powers in folklore from around the world.
Capsicum added diet helps avoid stomach aches, gas and cramps. Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine recommends cayenne pepper for proper digestion. It stimulates the flow of stomach secretions and saliva.
What makes capsicum even more valuable is a claim that it improves the effectiveness of other herbs.
Spring Valley: Natural Cayenne Fruit
Amazon Price: $3.24 (as of 02/15/2012)
Cascara-Sagrada
Latin name: Rhamnus purshiana DC
Common names: Cascara, chittem bark, California buckthorn, sacred bark, Chittim wahoo, sacred bark, holy
bark, Persian bark, puchiana bark, Christ's thorn, bear wood, purchiana bark, chittam bark
Primary uses of cascara sagrada bark are supposed to be the following: chronic constipation, colitis, colon problems, digestive problems, gallbladder disorders, gallstones, gas, gout, hemorrhoids, intestinal problems, jaundice, liver problems, pancreas function, parasites.
Common names: Cascara, chittem bark, California buckthorn, sacred bark, Chittim wahoo, sacred bark, holy
bark, Persian bark, puchiana bark, Christ's thorn, bear wood, purchiana bark, chittam bark
Photo "cascara sagrada leaves" courtesy of hit_the_snow
Primary uses of cascara sagrada bark are supposed to be the following: chronic constipation, colitis, colon problems, digestive problems, gallbladder disorders, gallstones, gas, gout, hemorrhoids, intestinal problems, jaundice, liver problems, pancreas function, parasites.
Cascara Sagrada 450 mg 100 Caps by Swanson Premium
Amazon Price: $2.99 (as of 02/15/2012)
Chlorella
Latin name: Chlorella pyrenoidosa and Chlorella vulgaris are the two species, most used in supplements
Common names: Freshwater grene algae, freshwater seaweed, chlorella pyrenoidosa, Japanese chlorella, Chinese chlorella, Bulgarian chlorella, Bulgarian green algae, yaeyama chlorella
Chlorella has been known to aid Digestion, Bad Breath and Constipation.
Common names: Freshwater grene algae, freshwater seaweed, chlorella pyrenoidosa, Japanese chlorella, Chinese chlorella, Bulgarian chlorella, Bulgarian green algae, yaeyama chlorella
Photo "Chlorella vulgaris with lettucelike chloroplast 400X Palmer Reese 10-30-08" courtesy of Joe biologist
Chlorella has been known to aid Digestion, Bad Breath and Constipation.
Nature's Way Chlorella, 100 Capsules
Amazon Price: $8.90 (as of 02/15/2012)
Dandelion
Latin name: Taraxacum officinale
Common names: Common dandelion
Dandelion roots are said to make wonderful colon cleansing and detoxifying medications because every time digestion is improved, the absorption of nutrients and the removal of wastes from the body improve also.
Dandelion greens have traditionally been used as a diuretic - an agent promoting the elimination of water from the body through urination.
Common names: Common dandelion
Photo courtesy of .: Philipp Klinger :.
Dandelion roots are said to make wonderful colon cleansing and detoxifying medications because every time digestion is improved, the absorption of nutrients and the removal of wastes from the body improve also.
Dandelion greens have traditionally been used as a diuretic - an agent promoting the elimination of water from the body through urination.
Dandelion Leaf Freeze-Dried - 90 - VegCap
Amazon Price: $11.20 (as of 02/15/2012)
Dandelion Root 520mg - 100 - Capsule
Amazon Price: $4.71 (as of 02/15/2012)
Dunaliella
Latin name: Dunaliella salina
Common names: algae, Dunaliella
Dunaliella is a red micro-algae, high in natural carotenoids. Benefits the adrenal glands, reproductive organs, pancreas, spleen and skin.
Common names: algae, Dunaliella
Photo courtesy of cesarharada.com
Dunaliella is a red micro-algae, high in natural carotenoids. Benefits the adrenal glands, reproductive organs, pancreas, spleen and skin.
Carlson Labs Super Beta Carotene, Antioxidant 100 Softgels- 25,000 IU(16 MG)
Amazon Price: $10.55 (as of 02/15/2012)
Echinacea
Latin names: Echinacea purpurea, Echinacea pallida and Echinacea angustifolia
Common names: Cone flower, purple Cone flower, Eastern purple Cone flower, Indian echinacea, Indian fig, Indian fleabane, Kansas cone-flower
Beyond Echinacea root being used by herbalists to stimulate the body's immune system against all manner of irregular conditions, Echinacea is a also used as tissue detoxifier. It stimulates digestion and promotes perspiration to sweat out toxins.
Three Echinacea roots - purpurea, pallida and angustifolia - are being used in herbal medicine practice - and are considered to be clinically identical and interchangeable.
Common names: Cone flower, purple Cone flower, Eastern purple Cone flower, Indian echinacea, Indian fig, Indian fleabane, Kansas cone-flower
Photo "echinacea pink" courtesy of MissPasta
Beyond Echinacea root being used by herbalists to stimulate the body's immune system against all manner of irregular conditions, Echinacea is a also used as tissue detoxifier. It stimulates digestion and promotes perspiration to sweat out toxins.
Three Echinacea roots - purpurea, pallida and angustifolia - are being used in herbal medicine practice - and are considered to be clinically identical and interchangeable.
Nature's Way Echinacea Root Complex, 100 Capsules
Amazon Price: $8.18 (as of 02/15/2012)
Fennel
Latin name: Foeniculum vulgare
Common names: Fennel, Common Fennel, Wild Fennel, Common Garden Fennel, Sweet Fennel, Fenkel, Fennel Fruit, Large Fennel
Fennel seeds have historically been used to relieve symptoms of indigestion, upset stomach, acid indigeston and gas: simply chew on 1/2 teaspoon of these aromatic seeds every thirty minutes.
Common names: Fennel, Common Fennel, Wild Fennel, Common Garden Fennel, Sweet Fennel, Fenkel, Fennel Fruit, Large Fennel
Photo "Fennel Seed" courtesy of Omsel
Fennel seeds have historically been used to relieve symptoms of indigestion, upset stomach, acid indigeston and gas: simply chew on 1/2 teaspoon of these aromatic seeds every thirty minutes.
Frontier Herb Organic Whole Fennel Seed ( 1x1lb)
Amazon Price: $9.23 (as of 02/15/2012)
Garlic
Latin name: Allium sativum
Common names: Poor Man's Treacle, Clove Garlic
Garlic has been traditionally used to aid digestion and to help keep the stomach lining healthy. It has antibacterial, anti-fungal, and antiviral properties.
Note: Overuse of raw garlic might cause irritation to the gastrointestinal tract.
Interesting fact: Used as an antiseptic, garlic has been praised for saving millions of lives in battlefields through the centuries. Crushed garlic cloves were packed into the wounds.
Common names: Poor Man's Treacle, Clove Garlic
Photo "organic garlic" courtesy of aloalo*
Garlic has been traditionally used to aid digestion and to help keep the stomach lining healthy. It has antibacterial, anti-fungal, and antiviral properties.
Note: Overuse of raw garlic might cause irritation to the gastrointestinal tract.
Interesting fact: Used as an antiseptic, garlic has been praised for saving millions of lives in battlefields through the centuries. Crushed garlic cloves were packed into the wounds.
Odorless Garlic 1000 mg, Twin Pack
Amazon Price: $6.45 (as of 02/15/2012)
Ginkgo Biloba
Latin name: Ginkgo biloba
Common names: Ginkgo, Maidenhair tree, Ginkgo biloba, fossil tree, Japanese silver apricot, baiguo, bai guo ye, kew tree, yinhsing (yin-hsing), Ginko
In China, Ginkgo is most commonly used as a digestive aid. It is a long standing tradition in that country to include roasted Ginkgo nuts on formal buffets to aid digestion. Ginko also aids in a variety of other body systems that could improve digestion as a secondary benefit.
Common names: Ginkgo, Maidenhair tree, Ginkgo biloba, fossil tree, Japanese silver apricot, baiguo, bai guo ye, kew tree, yinhsing (yin-hsing), Ginko
Photo "Ginkgo Biloba" courtesy of PaRAnOid AnDRoiD ARG
In China, Ginkgo is most commonly used as a digestive aid. It is a long standing tradition in that country to include roasted Ginkgo nuts on formal buffets to aid digestion. Ginko also aids in a variety of other body systems that could improve digestion as a secondary benefit.
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Guar Gum
Latin names: Cyamopsis tetragonolobus (L.) Taub. synonymous with C. psoralioides DC
Common names: Guar, guar flour, jaguar gum
Guar gum is a soluble fiber that passes through the body undigested (and therefore has virtually no calories). It helps the intestine peristalsis to move food more effectively through digestive system and has many other benefits. In short, guar gum has been praised for promoting a healthy colon - and preventing obesity by adding virtually calorie-free bulk to your meals.
Guar gum has been traditionally used for releasing digestive complaints like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or even colon cancer.
Common names: Guar, guar flour, jaguar gum
Photo "guar_gum" courtesy of metronet_jogja
Guar gum is a soluble fiber that passes through the body undigested (and therefore has virtually no calories). It helps the intestine peristalsis to move food more effectively through digestive system and has many other benefits. In short, guar gum has been praised for promoting a healthy colon - and preventing obesity by adding virtually calorie-free bulk to your meals.
Guar gum has been traditionally used for releasing digestive complaints like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or even colon cancer.
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Milk Thistle
Latin name: Silybum marianum; Carduus marianus
Common names: Mary Thistle, Wild Artichoke, Silybum, Marian Thistle, St. Mary's Thistle, Lady Thistle, Holy Thistle
Milk Thistle is said to regulate the digestion of fats.
Common names: Mary Thistle, Wild Artichoke, Silybum, Marian Thistle, St. Mary's Thistle, Lady Thistle, Holy Thistle
Photo courtesy of pieceoflace
Milk Thistle is said to regulate the digestion of fats.
Nature's Way Milk Thistle, 120 Vcaps
Amazon Price: $14.05 (as of 02/15/2012)
Parsley
Latin name: Petroselinum crispum
Common names: Parsley
Parsley acts as an excellent digestion restorative remedy, promoting intestinal absorption, liver assimilation and storage. Due to its high enzyme content, parsley benefits digestive activity and elimination.
Parsley root (picture below) especially strengthens the spleen, treats malabsorption, bad breath, weight loss, loose stools, anorexia and fatigue - and also improves the digestion of proteins and fats.
Common names: Parsley
Photo "Parsley Prickles" courtesy of Maddy Lou
Parsley acts as an excellent digestion restorative remedy, promoting intestinal absorption, liver assimilation and storage. Due to its high enzyme content, parsley benefits digestive activity and elimination.
Parsley root (picture below) especially strengthens the spleen, treats malabsorption, bad breath, weight loss, loose stools, anorexia and fatigue - and also improves the digestion of proteins and fats.
Photo "Parsley roots" courtesy of Jo Peattie
Nature's Herbs - Parsley Leaf, 450 mg, 100 capsules
Amazon Price: (as of 02/15/2012)
Parsley Root C/S Organic
Amazon Price: (as of 02/15/2012)
Psyllium
Latin names: Plantago psyllium, Psyllium ovata, Plantago arenaria
Common names: Plantago genus contains over 200 species and Psyllium is the common name for some members of the plant genus Plantago whose seeds have been traditionally used for the production of mucilage. Another known names for it are: Ispaghula, Sand Plantain, Flea Seed, Psyllium Seed, Indian Plantago, Spogel
Psyllium is the husk of the seed of the Plantain and is said to be a top herb used in weight control and for general intestinal health.
Psyllium contains spongy fiber which reduces appetite, improves digestion and cleanses the system, which makes it an excellent choice for healthy dieting. Psyllium can also be beneficial in providing the (soluble) fiber, missing in low carbohydrate diets.
Psyllium should NOT be taken by:
Capsule of psyllium should be taken with plenty of water.
Common names: Plantago genus contains over 200 species and Psyllium is the common name for some members of the plant genus Plantago whose seeds have been traditionally used for the production of mucilage. Another known names for it are: Ispaghula, Sand Plantain, Flea Seed, Psyllium Seed, Indian Plantago, Spogel
Photo "Psyllium Husk" courtesy of Husk by Nuts City Aust Pty Ltd
Psyllium is the husk of the seed of the Plantain and is said to be a top herb used in weight control and for general intestinal health.
Psyllium contains spongy fiber which reduces appetite, improves digestion and cleanses the system, which makes it an excellent choice for healthy dieting. Psyllium can also be beneficial in providing the (soluble) fiber, missing in low carbohydrate diets.
Psyllium should NOT be taken by:
- people with a bowel obstruction or a disease that causes narrowing of any part of the digestive tract
- diabetics having problems keeping blood sugar levels under control
Capsule of psyllium should be taken with plenty of water.
Psyllium Husks 610 mg 100 Caps by Swanson Premium
Amazon Price: $2.99 (as of 02/15/2012)
Red Beet
Latin name: Beta vulgaris
Common names: Blood Turnip, Detroit Red Beet, Detroit Dark Red, Beetroot, beet
In case of constipation, red beets and their green tops are recommended to become a regular part of the diet. Both contain significant amounts of fiber which helps waste materials moving through the small and large intestines at a healthy pace.
Common names: Blood Turnip, Detroit Red Beet, Detroit Dark Red, Beetroot, beet
Photo courtesy of Piccolina Photography
In case of constipation, red beets and their green tops are recommended to become a regular part of the diet. Both contain significant amounts of fiber which helps waste materials moving through the small and large intestines at a healthy pace.
Nature's Way Beet Root Powder Capsules 500 mg, 100-Count
Amazon Price: $2.99 (as of 02/15/2012)
Rosehips
Latin names: Rosa canina L., Rosa rugosa Thunb., Rosa acicularis Lindl. or Rosa cinnamomea L. and numerous other species of rose have been used for the preparation of rose hips
Common names: Rose hips, heps, dog rose, Haggebutt, Wild Rose
Rosehips act as an aperient (laxative) - a mild stimulant producing a natural movement of the bowels or a gentle purgative (foods, compounds or drugs, taken to cleanse or purge, especially causing evacuation of the bowels)
Common names: Rose hips, heps, dog rose, Haggebutt, Wild Rose
Photo "Rosehip cluster" courtesy of clickclique
Rosehips act as an aperient (laxative) - a mild stimulant producing a natural movement of the bowels or a gentle purgative (foods, compounds or drugs, taken to cleanse or purge, especially causing evacuation of the bowels)
Davidson's Tea Bulk, Organic Rosehips, 16-Ounce Bag
Amazon Price: $10.95 (as of 02/15/2012)
Rhubarb
Latin name: Rheum rhabarbarum (and other species)
Common names: rhubarb, pie plant, Turkish rhubarb, turkey rhubarb, Chinese Rhubarb, garden rhubarb
Rhubarb has been used for centuries to stimulate digestion and appetite.
Common names: rhubarb, pie plant, Turkish rhubarb, turkey rhubarb, Chinese Rhubarb, garden rhubarb
Photo courtesy of Églantine
Rhubarb has been used for centuries to stimulate digestion and appetite.
Turkey Rhubarb 500 mg 100 Caps by Swanson Premium
Amazon Price: $3.99 (as of 02/15/2012)
Senna Pod
Latin name: Cassia angustifolia VAHL
Common names: Senna, Indian Senna, Tinnervelly Senna, Cassia Senna
Senna acts as a deliberate purgative and laxative and is usually used by those with a sluggish digestive system that has yet to be toned up and made stronger. It stimulates the bowels herbally and promotes proper and effective elimination.
Common names: Senna, Indian Senna, Tinnervelly Senna, Cassia Senna
Photo "ORGANIC Senna Pods - Purgative, Laxative - Gentler than Senna leaves from MisticalAcScents.etsy.com" courtesy of Treasach
Senna acts as a deliberate purgative and laxative and is usually used by those with a sluggish digestive system that has yet to be toned up and made stronger. It stimulates the bowels herbally and promotes proper and effective elimination.
Senna Pods Whole, 1 lb. - Bulk
Amazon Price: (as of 02/15/2012)
Spirulina
Latin name: Arthrospira platensis, Arthrospira maxima
Common names: blue-green algae, spirulina
Spirulina promotes digestion, bowel function and absorption of vitamins.
Common names: blue-green algae, spirulina
Photo courtesy of PROYECTO AGUA** /** WATER PROJECT
Spirulina promotes digestion, bowel function and absorption of vitamins.
Earthrise Spirulina Natural, 300 Capsules
Amazon Price: $23.17 (as of 02/15/2012)
Watercress
Latin name: Nasturtium officinale
Common names: Watercress, Berro, Berros, Brooklime, Brown Cress, Cress, Cresson, Tall Nasturtium
This peppery-tasting herb is thought to stimulate the appetite and improve digestion.
Common names: Watercress, Berro, Berros, Brooklime, Brown Cress, Cress, Cresson, Tall Nasturtium
Photo Watercress Sprout" courtesy of sakichin
This peppery-tasting herb is thought to stimulate the appetite and improve digestion.
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Wheat Grass
Latin name: Triticum aestivum (subspecies of the family Poaceae)
Common names: wheatgrass
It's been argued whether the combination of vitamins and antibacterial properties in wheat grass helps the human body to clear out harmful intestinal bacteria and to promote better digestion - or not
Its proponents with its most avid supporter, Ann Wigmore, 'claim that it's a virtual fountain of youth - a wonder food that offers health by providing protection against disease, regulating the blood sugar, cleansing the cells and improving digestion.'
Common names: wheatgrass
Photo "Wheat" courtesy of A guy with A camera
It's been argued whether the combination of vitamins and antibacterial properties in wheat grass helps the human body to clear out harmful intestinal bacteria and to promote better digestion - or not
Its proponents with its most avid supporter, Ann Wigmore, 'claim that it's a virtual fountain of youth - a wonder food that offers health by providing protection against disease, regulating the blood sugar, cleansing the cells and improving digestion.'
Amazing Grass All Natural Drink Powder, Green Superfood, 8.5-Ounce Container
Amazon Price: $19.30 (as of 02/15/2012)
Wormwood
Latin name: Artemisia absinthium
Common names: Roman Wormwood, mugwort, common wormwood, Artemisia
Wormwood herb has been medicinally used for hundreds of years to promote digestion, to treat intestinal worms, and liver and gall bladder problems. Oil of Wormwood contains toxins thujone and isothujone. They stimulate digestive and gallbladder functions.
Common names: Roman Wormwood, mugwort, common wormwood, Artemisia
Photo "Artemisia (Wormwood)" courtesy of rwkphotos
Wormwood herb has been medicinally used for hundreds of years to promote digestion, to treat intestinal worms, and liver and gall bladder problems. Oil of Wormwood contains toxins thujone and isothujone. They stimulate digestive and gallbladder functions.
Full-Spectrum Wormwood 425 mg 90 Caps by Swanson Premium
Amazon Price: $5.49 (as of 02/15/2012)
Enzymes for digestion
Enzymes are chemicals that improve the rate of chemical reactions. By taking enzymes at the beginning of every meal, you can increase the amount of helpful nutrients and improve digestion.
Enteric coated enzymes easier pass through the acid of the stomach into the alkaline small intestine. They are capable of withstanding hours of exposure to gastric fluids while at the same time protecting the biological activity of the enzymes - which are thereafter released in their biologically active state into intestinal fluids.
Enteric coated enzymes easier pass through the acid of the stomach into the alkaline small intestine. They are capable of withstanding hours of exposure to gastric fluids while at the same time protecting the biological activity of the enzymes - which are thereafter released in their biologically active state into intestinal fluids.
- Amylase-Starches
- Bifid us Bacterium - Intrinsic Factor
- Chymo-Tryp - to swells protein
- Lactase- Milk Sugar
- Lipase- Fat
- Maltase- to reduces Maltose & Dextrose
- Papain - from Papaya & Bromelain from Pineapple
- Pepsin- to help form Polypeptides & Amino Acids
- Protease-Protein
- Raw foods- like fresh fruits and vegetables - they contain enzymes that help the digestive process
- Rennin - Milk Protein
- Sucrose- Sugar
- Trypsin- Protein
Spring Valley - Papaya Enzyme, 180 Chewable Tablets
Amazon Price: $5.64 (as of 02/15/2012)
Other supplements for digestive health
- Acidophilus - When suffering from painful gas, bloating, constipation, indigestion, or even bad breath, the problem might be a deficiency in lactobacillus acidophilus, often called acidophilus - type of bacteria found in the stomach and digestive tract - that helps to break down food.
- Carminative Oil - Carminative herbs or preparations either prevent formation of gas in the gastrointestinal tract or facilitate the expulsion of the gas - combating flatulence. Carminatives are usually sold in a form of essential oil capsules. They might contain oil from peppermint, caraway or fennel - or other herbal carminative essential oils like: Angelica, Aniseed, Balm, Caraway, Cardamom, Celery Seed , Chamomile, Cinnamon, Dill , Eucalyptus , Fennel, Garlic, Ginger, Hops, Motherwort, Mustard, Parsley, Pennyroyal, Peppermint, Sage , Thyme, Valerian, Wintergreen, Wormwood.
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Gamma Oryzanol - Acting on the brain's control of digestion, and most likely through a direct effect on the stomach, gamma-oryzanol may help ease heartburn and other digestion-related discomforts.
In studies, gamma-oryzanol supplements have also relieved pain, nausea, vomiting, and other post-meal gastrointestinal symptoms in participants that were suffering from gastritis (stomach inflammation).
Japanese scientists have discovered that gamma-oryzanol might even ease hot flashes and other symptoms of menopause, and may even help to lower cholesterol. In addition, antioxidant properties in the extract may protect heart vessels from free-radical damage. -
Germanium - Seems to regulate different body functions and help the body to "fix" itself in cases when normal body functions have gone out of whack due to illness, medication, diet or something else. Taking regular amounts of Germanium might help to "reset" your body so that all your critical body systems run the way they are supposed to.
There are different forms of Germanium available but the most efficient one is supposed to be organic Germanium powder for being readily digested and absorbed into the body and almost nothing goes wasted, which means it's also the most cost-effective. - Herbal Bitters - Bitters have long been used as a laxative, to treat upset stomach or excess fullness. They can simply be taken (a spoonful) before each meal to promote digestion - and after each meal (a spoonful) to loosen stools.
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Tea: Peppermint, Ginger - Peppermint tea is a popular after-dinner beverage, refreshing and useful for relief of bloating. Preparation: Steep 1 teaspoon of dried peppermint leaves or 3 teaspoons of fresh peppermint leaves in 1 cup of boiled water.
Ginger tea helps with uncomfortable feeling of nausea. Preparation: Simmer 1 - 2 teaspoons of grated or sliced fresh ginger root for 10 minutes in 1 cup of purified water.
NutriCology - Organic Germanium - 50 grams
Amazon Price: $88.35 (as of 02/15/2012)
About Daria, the author of this lens
Daria Perse on Squidoo
- Jul 25, 2010 @ 11:14 amHow to kill bugs without poison from Plants of Florida
- Image via WikipediaHow to kill bugs - or how to keep them at bay - has probably been an important question since the dawn of the humankind. It still is and as going green is becoming more and more po...
- May 27, 2010 @ 11:04 amYou can grow African violets from Plants of Florida
- The rights to distribute newly discovered African violet plant (Saintpaulia ionantha) were first sold to the German company, Ernst Benary, in 1893. A year later, this Seed company provided seeds to th...
- May 8, 2010 @ 10:32 pmGrowing African Violets Under the Full-Spectrum Fl... from Plants of Florida
- African violet (Saintpaulia ionantha) was discovered by Baron Walter Von Saint Paul in 1892. He found that precious little plant about an hour from Tanga on the nowadays border of Tanzania and Kenya....
- Apr 24, 2010 @ 9:07 pmMy birthday flower bouquet from Plants of Florida
- I got up this morning (on my birthday) and walked around the house with my camera. Then I took a photo of every bloom that I was able to find, to capture beauties for my very own birthday flower bouqu...
- Apr 16, 2010 @ 6:08 pmFarmer cheese recipe from Plants of Florida
- I bought some farmer cheese and nobody wanted to eat it. I wouldn't be me if I didn't have an idea how to use it, though. Here's what I made with it. Ingredients: about 2 tbs of farmers cheese about...
- Apr 15, 2010 @ 9:14 pmVegetable Gardening With Children from Plants of Florida
- Here's a video of a fun vegetable gardening project with children. They sure look like they enjoyed preparing garden beds and planting very much... :) ***
- Mar 26, 2010 @ 7:02 amNon toxic cleaners vs. toxic cleaners from Plants of Florida
- when you place food on the countertop, cleaned with surface cleaner that claims to kill 99.9 percent of bacteria, those "killing chemicals" can be absorbed in your food ammonia from the glass cleaners...
- Mar 25, 2010 @ 11:50 amNatural cleaning products from Plants of Florida
- It's really easy to make your own cleaners with ingredients you might already have in your home. Plus, if you choose to add an essential oil, you can pick your favorite scent and your home will smell...
- Mar 24, 2010 @ 12:41 pmBeautiful skies from Plants of Florida
- Many times I feel So fortunate to live where I live, to be able to admire beautiful trees, native plants and potted beauties all around my home and through every window, even when I'm sitting at my de...
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by daria369
daria369
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