We all know the feeling–that bloated, uncomfortable sensation you get when things just aren’t right in the digestion department. When your digestive system isn’t happy, it’s hard for you to be happy. If you add in common factors such as eating out in restaurants, travel, increased sugar intake and good old everyday stress, our bellies can really get off track fast.
Often with an inflamed and irritated digestive tract, soothing herbs, also known as demulcent botanicals, are just what is needed to regain balance.
Here are three top botanicals to help soothe your digestion:
1. Marshmallow root
When we’re talking about marshmallow here, we’re not referring to the candy, but to the root of a plant. Marshmallow has been used in different cultures for thousands of years, both for medicinal purposes and as a food. It can help to soothe irritated mucous membranes such as those that line our digestive tracts.†
2. Slippery elm bark
Slippery Elm is a tree native to North America. The name “slippery” refers to the nature of mucilage content of the inner bark, which contributes to its soothing nature. Native Americans used slippery elm for centuries to provide relief from sore throat, coughs and digestive complaints. In a human study, slippery elm has been shown to support regular bowel habits and a healthy lower gastrointestinal system.†[1]
3. Aloe vera
Many people are familiar with aloe in the form of a topical gel or lotion to help soothe sunburned skin. It was used traditionally in many cultures as a skin application. Aloe vera is a succulent plant found in tropical climates, and is grown for both medicinal and decorative uses. Aloe powder (not the aloe latex) can be taken internally to soothe an irritated digestive tract.†
Plants have been utilized for centuries to help support optimal health. Today we often find that modern herbal usage validates this long standing traditional use. Botanicals, particularly those with a high mucilaginous content that can soothe irritated mucous membranes, can be useful as part of an overall gastrointestinal wellness program.
As always, consult your healthcare practitioner before taking any new supplement.
[1] Hawrelak JA, Myers SP. Effects of two natural medicine formulations on irritable bowel syndrome symptoms: a pilot study. J Altern Complement Med. 2010 Oct;16(10):1065-71. 5. Shawn D. Larson.
†These statements have not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.
Article contributed by Erin Stokes, N.D., Medical Director at INNATE Response. Dr. Stokes received her naturopathic doctor degree from Bastyr University in 2001. Shortly afterwards she began to pursue her passion for educating others by teaching Western Pathology and Psychology of Healing at Southwest Acupuncture College in Boulder, Colo. She combines her experience as a naturopathic doctor with an extensive background in the natural retail industry, most recently providing naturopathic consultations at an integrative pharmacy for over six years. Her personal mission is to empower people with the inspiration and tools to change their lives, and she is a frequent radio show and podcast guest. Dr. Stokes is a registered Naturopathic Doctor in Colorado, and lives with her family in Boulder, Colo.