A stomach ulcer is an open sore that develops in the lining of the stomach or small intestine. While they are usually caused by an infection with Helicobacter pylori bacteria, other possible causes include prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and smoking. Thus, anyone can be affected, from seniors in assisted living facilities to toddlers in daycare.
While you should definitely see a medical professional to get the proper treatment, there are effective home remedies you can try to help alleviate the discomfort of an ulcer in the meantime.
Honey
It’s a good thing bees produce honey by collecting nectar from flowers and then breaking it down into simple sugars as honey is a great home remedy for ulcers because of its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiseptic properties.
Honey helps reduce the pain and irritation caused by an ulcer if taken regularly. You can take a teaspoon of honey three times a day on an empty stomach.
Cabbage Juice
Cabbage juice can be made by blending fresh cabbage leaves in a blender and straining to extract the liquid. It’s known for its powerful healing properties due to its high levels of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as iron, calcium, and magnesium.
Cabbage juice is said to help heal stomach ulcers due to its natural antibacterial properties, soothing irritation and speeding up the healing process. Drink a glass of fresh cabbage juice once a day on an empty stomach.
Cranberry Juice
Cranberry juice is made from the berries of the same name and has long been used as a folk remedy for various ailments as it’s packed with antioxidants and vitamin C.
Cranberry juice can help reduce the acidity in your stomach, protecting the lining from irritation caused by an ulcer. Drink one glass of cranberry juice twice a day on an empty stomach for best results.
Yogurt
Yogurt is made by adding bacteria to milk, which then breaks down the lactose and turns it into lactic acid. It’s a great source of calcium, protein, and probiotics.
The “good” bacteria in yogurt can help fight off the bacteria that cause stomach ulcers and eating a cup of plain yogurt every day may reduce the inflammation and pain caused by an ulcer. Try to buy unsweetened yogurt for best results.
Mastic Gum
Mastic gum is a resin that comes from the Pistacia lentiscus tree and has been used for thousands of years as a folk remedy in some cultures. It contains antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and antibacterial properties that can help reduce the pain and inflammation of an ulcer.
You can buy mastic gum from health food stores or online. Chew on one piece after meals for best results.
These home remedies can help reduce the discomfort caused by a stomach ulcer and speed up healing, but it’s important to make sure to get professional medical advice as well. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor.