Home Remedies and Herbs for Gastric Ulcer (Stomach Ulcer)

Gastric ulcers—or stomach ulcers—are a type of peptic ulcer that forms inside the stomach lining. An ulcer is an open sore that typically develops over time as the result of an infection or the long-term use of certain substances like medications. It’s estimated that 1 in 10 people develop a stomach ulcer, primarily affecting men over the age of 60.¹

Stomach ulcers can be quite painful, and may interfere with a person’s quality of life. However, many people don’t suffer pain from stomach ulcers until something causes them to flare-up, triggering pain and other symptoms.²
 
What Causes Gastric Ulcer (Stomach Ulcer)?

Researchers used to attribute stomach ulcer causes to high levels of stress, which would trigger gastric acid causing corrosion of the stomach lining. Over time, research indicated that stomach ulcers may actually be caused by a combination of underlying factors, including chronic exposure to certain toxins.^2,3

Experts feel that an excess of gastric acids combined with any of the following factors may cause stomach ulcers in certain people:

• Infection from the H. pylori bacteria
• Taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAIDs) medications frequently 
• Other possible toxins ingested from poor lifestyle habits

The stomach’s gastric acids may react with any of the above conditions, causing the stomach tissue lining to develop small holes, which eventually grow into a larger, open sore.³

Gastric Ulcer (Stomach Ulcer) Symptoms

Some people may be totally unaware of having stomach ulcers because of subdued or limited symptoms. Common gastric ulcer symptoms can include:

• Heartburn
• Nausea
• Burning pain in the stomach
• An intolerance to fatty foods
• Feeling bloated

While many people don’t experience the symptoms above, sometimes symptoms can be quite severe. If gastric ulcers are causing serious health complications, they may produce symptoms like: 

• Vomiting up blood
• Bloody or tar-like stools
• Loss of appetite
• Sharp stomach pain that worsens

These serious symptoms could indicate internal bleeding and it’s important to seek medical advice right away.
 
Natural Remedies and Herbs for Gastric Ulcer (Stomach Ulcer)

For managing gastric ulcer pain, try these natural remedies:

• Cayenne Pepper - Cayenne pepper can help to manage stomach irritation caused by gastric ulcers.
• Cabbage Juice - Cabbage juice helps to neutralize stomach acids, providing gastric ulcer pain-relief.
• Flaxseed Oil - Flaxseed oil can help reduce inflammation and irritation caused by gastric ulcers and help repair and nourish the stomach lining.
• Moringa - Moringa can help ease and repair stomach ulcers and provide soothing relief.
• Apple Cider Vinegar and Water - Apple cider vinegar taken with water neutralizes gastric acids, easing stomach ulcer pain.

References

1. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/stomach-ulcer/ 
2. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/peptic-ulcer/symptoms-causes/syc-20354223 
3. https://draxe.com/stomach-ulcer/