Ulcers occur when the digestive juices used to process the fat, starch, and proteins in food begin to create erosions in the stomach or duodenal lining. Those that occur in the stomach are called gastric ulcers, while ulcers that are located in the duodenum are known as duodenal ulcers. A person suffering from both types is said to have peptic ulcer disease.
Prescription treatments for ulcers can be expensive and have unpleasant side effects. Since the most common symptom is persistent abdominal pain, however, people diagnosed with this condition often find themselves in search of safe and effective home remedies for ulcers.
There are many over-the-counter antacids available to treat ulcers. Pepto-Bismol®, a compound containing bismuth subsalicylate, is useful in the majority of cases. Antacids that contain magnesium are also helpful. However, products containing magnesium should not be used by people suffering from kidney problems.
If you don’t like the taste of over-the-counter antacids, cayenne pepper capsules may be a useful alternative. Commonly used in European countries, cayenne pepper capsules are great home remedies for ulcers because they are soothing to the mucosal linings. They can be purchased at most health food stores and should be taken with your meals to achieve maximum therapeutic benefits.
According to researchers, there are a number of dietary changes that can help relieve ulcers. Bananas have natural antacid effects that make them excellent home remedies. Honey is also said to treat ulcers by helping to reduce inflammation in the lining of the stomach. The taste may take some getting used to, but a juice concoction of carrots and raw cabbage is also considered by some to be a great ulcer home remedy.
Although many people say that yoga, meditation, and other stress relief programs are good home remedies for ulcers, this is not entirely accurate. Stress does not specifically cause ulcers, but it can significantly aggravate the condition. Common causes of ulcers include bacterial infection, immune system abnormalities, alcoholism, and the use of Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDS) such as aspirin and ibuprofen.
Home remedies work very well in most cases. However, if a patient notices symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, chest pain, or bloody stools, it’s best to seek immediate medical attention. An ulcer may have developed into a more serious problem that can’t be treated using home remedies.