Khaberni - Digestive discomfort, whether it's bloating after consuming a heavy meal or an occasional bout of indigestion, can be very bothersome for anyone, and while modern medicine offers effective treatments, interest in natural ways to support gut health is being renewed.
Herbs and spices have been used in traditional medicine for their digestive benefits, and modern science is beginning to validate some of these ancient remedies.
According to the "Independent", the following herbs and spices have been linked to improved digestion:
1. Mint
Mint is one of the most famous herbs for relieving indigestion. Its active compound, menthol, relaxes the intestinal muscles, which helps reduce bloating, gas, and abdominal pain. It can also reduce pain, fight harmful bacteria, and soothe inflammations.
Clinical trials have shown that peppermint oil capsules alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
However, peppermint oil may not be suitable for people with acid reflux, while peppermint tea is milder and may offer similar benefits.
2. Chamomile
Chamomile is renowned for its calming effects and may also help soothe the digestive system.
Chamomile tea is one of the most popular herbal drinks in the world - with about one million cups consumed daily - and has been used for a long time to alleviate indigestion, gas, stomach upset, and intestinal irritation.
3. Fennel
Fennel is traditionally chewed after meals in many cultures to freshen breath and aid digestion. Its seeds are rich in insoluble fiber, which helps prevent the build-up of gas and bloating.
Anethole is the main active compound in fennel, chemically similar to dopamine, and relaxes the intestinal muscles - a mechanism confirmed by laboratory studies.
In a small trial conducted on individuals suffering from irritable bowel syndrome, fennel alleviated pain similar to cramps, perhaps due to its muscle-relaxing effect.
4. Cumin
Cumin has a long record of relieving digestive problems. Recent studies suggest that it enhances the activity of digestive enzymes, which speeds up food digestion, and it promotes the secretion of bile from the liver, which aids in fat digestion and nutrient absorption.
One study conducted on mice found that cumin reduces the time food stays in the digestive system by about 25%, likely due to these enzymatic and biliary effects.
In a clinical trial conducted on 57 individuals with irritable bowel syndrome, concentrated cumin significantly reduced symptoms within two weeks.
