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7 Natural Remedies for an Upset Stomach
Stomach aches are so common that everyone experiences them at some point. There are dozens of reasons why you might have a stomachache. Most causes aren’t serious, and symptoms usually pass quickly. Generally, you don’t need to look further than your kitchen for a solution.
1. Bitters and Soda
The bar might be the last place you’d think to find relief from nausea, but many swear by adding 5 or 6 drops of cocktail bitters into a cold glass of tonic water, club soda, or ginger ale.
Most common brands of bitters are blends of herbs like cinnamon, fennel, mint, and ginger. These ingredients might be why bitters help alleviate nausea in some people.
2. Ginger
Since ancient times, people have regarded ginger as a cure-all for everything from pain to nausea. This isn’t just folklore; studies have shown that ginger can be a highly effective treatment for some kinds of stomach discomfort.
As a natural anti-inflammatory, ginger is available in many forms, all of which can be beneficial. Ginger candies and supplements are easy to consume, while others prefer ginger in beverage form. Try an all-natural ginger ale or chop up some fresh ginger root to make tea.
3. Chamomile Tea
A fragrant cup of chamomile tea can help soothe the pain of an upset stomach by acting as an anti-inflammatory. These anti-inflammatory properties help your stomach muscles relax, reducing the pain from cramps and spasms.
4. The BRAT Diet
Every parent of a toddler knows about the Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, and Toast (BRAT) diet to soothe an upset stomach. This diet can help alleviate nausea or diarrhea.
BRAT consists of low-fiber, binding foods. None of these foods contain salt or spices that can aggravate symptoms. This bland diet is a go-to when you’re feeling unwell but still need to eat something. Try toasting the bread more than usual—slightly burnt toast is believed to reduce nausea.
5. Peppermint
Peppermint is often cited as a helpful remedy for nausea and stomach aches because the menthol in its leaves is a natural analgesic (pain reliever).
Try:
– Brewing a cup of peppermint or spearmint tea
– Sniffing peppermint extract
– Sucking on a mint candy
– Chewing on fresh mint leaves
These methods can soothe an upset stomach and alleviate feelings of nausea.
6. Apple Cider Vinegar
If you can handle it, try taking a tablespoon of this acidic pantry staple to neutralize an upset stomach. Too strong? Mix one tablespoon with a cup of water and a teaspoon of honey, then sip it slowly.
The acids in apple cider vinegar may help decrease starch digestion, allowing the starch to reach the intestines and keep the bacteria in the gut healthy. Some people take a spoonful each day as a preventive measure against stomach aches.
7. Heating Pad
You might feel more relaxed with a heating pad or hot water bottle when you’re feeling unwell. So, cuddle up under a warm blanket and relax until your symptoms pass.
The warmth on your stomach can distract you from cramping or pain, and the heat can help relax muscles and reduce nausea. However, avoid prolonged use as it can damage the skin.
When to See a Doctor
Stomach issues can sometimes be a sign of a more serious problem. Prolonged vomiting puts you at risk of dehydration. Sipping small amounts of water can help prevent dehydration. See a doctor if you struggle to retain fluids for more than 6 hours. You should also contact a physician if you experience nausea or stomach discomfort for more than 48 hours.
If you notice frequent stomach issues after eating certain foods or engaging in specific activities, discuss your symptoms with your doctor during your next visit. It might seem trivial, but a quick doctor’s visit can help rule out conditions like Crohn’s disease, food allergies, or other concerns.
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