Home Remedies and Herbs for Dyspepsia (Indigestion)

The dyspepsia definition is generally interchangeable with indigestion or an upset stomach. Rather than considering it a disease, the dyspepsia definition is more of a general classification of a group of gastrointestinal symptoms. Experiencing dyspepsia is extremely common and can happen to anyone. ^{1, 2, 3}

In some cases, dyspepsia may be an indicator of a more serious underlying condition such as a digestive disease. This is especially true if you experience chronic dyspepsia and if it’s accompanied by other more serious symptoms like bleeding. ^1,2

What Causes Dyspepsia?

Generally dyspepsia causes are related to diet and food. Eating too much or too fast is the most common cause of dyspepsia. Eating certain poor quality foods like greasy, spicy or fatty foods  are other main dyspepsia causes. 

Dyspepsia causes can also be triggered by other conditions or factors including:

• Anxiety and nervousness
• Smoking
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Excessive caffeine consumption
• Gallstones
• Celiac disease
• Constipation
• Gastritis
• Pancreatitis 
• Peptic ulcers
• Certain prescription medications or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Dyspepsia Symptoms

There are several dyspepsia symptoms that are classified as indigestion. Depending on the dyspepsia causes, certain people may experience dyspepsia symptoms differently.

If you suffer from indigestion, you may experience one or several of the following dyspepsia symptoms:

• Feeling full during a meal, even if eating small amounts
• Feeling uncomfortably full after a meal
• Upper abdominal pain and discomfort
• Upper abdominal burning
• Bloating
• Nausea

Less frequently, dyspepsia symptoms may be accompanied by:

• Vomiting
• Gas
• Chest pain
• Heavy sweating

If you experience dyspepsia for several days, have severe abdominal pain or have trouble swallowing, these symptoms could indicate a more serious medical condition. ²

Generally, dyspepsia can be managed by eating less, eating slower and eliminating fatty, spicy or greasy foods from the diet. It’s also important to avoid physical activity immediately following a meal and to reduce any stress that may aggravate dyspepsia. ⁴

Natural Remedies and Herbs for Dyspepsia

While dyspepsia can be managed by healthier eating habits, there are many dyspepsia natural remedies to try at home to reduce uncomfortable indigestion symptoms. Here are some of the top dyspepsia natural remedies:

• Apple - Apples have digestive fibers that can help to reduce dyspepsia and other related symptoms. 
• Prickly Chaff Flower - Prickly chaff flower is a traditional remedy used to treat gastrointestinal problems and can help reduce dyspepsia symptoms. It can also help to alleviate any pain or discomfort from indigestion.
• Galangal - Galangal is a root that is part of the ginger family.Ginger is a traditional home remedy for easing digestive problems including dyspepsia. Eat galangal root to help reduce abdominal discomfort and bloating.
• Elecampane - Elecampane is an ancient herbal remedy used to treat a variety of conditions including improving gastrointestinal health. Taking elecampane when experiencing dyspepsia can help ease symptoms.
• Houttuynia - Houttuynia has natural antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory health benefits that can restore gastrointestinal health and alleviate dyspepsia.
• Caraway Seed - Caraway seeds have been used for centuries to help treat digestive problems. Caraway seeds gas relieve gas and constipation which can sometimes cause dyspepsia symptoms.

References

1. http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/indigestion/symptoms-causes/dxc-20209277
2. http://umm.edu/health/medical/ency/articles/indigestion 
3. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/indigestion-dyspepsia 
4. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003260.htm