Family gatherings and parties with friends lead to an increase in the consumption of food and alcoholic beverages, which can cause various health problems, with gastritis being one of the most common.
According to the Mayo Clinic, gastritis is characterized by inflammation of the stomach lining and is usually the result of prolonged use of certain painkillers, certain foods, drinking too much alcohol, or stress.
Gastritis can appear suddenly (acute gastritis) or develop slowly over time (chronic gastritis). In both cases, ulcers can develop, and there is an increased risk of stomach cancer, although in most cases, it improves with treatment.
Among the main symptoms of gastritis are discomfort, sharp pains or burning in the upper abdomen that usually worsens when food is ingested; nausea, vomiting, and a feeling of fullness in the upper abdomen after eating.
What causes gastritis?
Among some factors that increase the risk of developing gastritis are infection with the Helicobacter pylori bacteria, which, although common, could affect those who inherit a vulnerability to it or lead an unhealthy life with vices such as smoking.
Another cause is the frequent use of painkillers, mainly non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or naproxen, which can cause a reduction in the substance that helps preserve the stomach’s protective lining.
Age is another point to consider, as older adults are at risk of gastritis because the stomach lining tends to become thinner, and the chances of infection or disorders increase compared to younger people.
Excessive alcohol consumption can irritate and erode the stomach lining, making it more vulnerable to gastric juices. Another factor to consider is stress, which can trigger an acute episode of the disease.
On the other hand, cancer treatments, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy increase the risk, as does suffering from other serious illnesses such as HIV or AIDS.
There are various types of treatments to relieve the symptoms of gastritis, whether acute or chronic; however, many of the medications used do not usually work well for everyone, so the use of some plants may be a better way to combat it.
Calendula
The calendula, whose scientific name is Calendula officinalis, is a herbaceous plant characterized by being branched and reaching a height of no more than 40 centimeters.
According to the document “Tlayeyecolpahtli (Experienced Medicine). Healing plants in the communities of Mexico”, published by the National Institute of Indigenous Peoples (INPI) of Mexico, this medicinal herb is composed of flavonoids, salicylic acid, saponin, resin, calendin, lactones, essential oil, and alcohols.
One of the main uses of this medicinal plant focuses on gastrointestinal ailments, as it is effective in treating gastritis, gastroenteritis, or vomiting, as well as healing stomach and duodenal ulcers.
To obtain the medicinal benefits of calendula, it is recommended to prepare it as an infusion by adding one flower of the plant to a cup of water and simmering it for ten minutes. Two to three cups can be taken daily.
Horsetail
Horsetail, whose scientific name is Equisetum hyemale L., is a herb that measures about one meter in height and is characterized by its hollow and easily broken stems, as well as its small, scale-like leaves.
According to the “Guide to medicinal plants in the Valley of Mexico”, published by the INPI, one of the medicinal qualities of this herb is to relieve gastritis and ulcers through an infusion.
To prepare horsetail as an infusion, add four teaspoons or pinches of dried herb, or eight teaspoons or pinches of fresh herb, including leaves, flowers, stems, roots, or seeds, to one cup of boiling water. Let it steep for five to 20 minutes and strain.
Chamomile
Chamomile tea is made from a flower that has multiple health benefits, as it is an herb that has been used as a remedy for different ailments since ancient times.
According to the Digital Library of Traditional Mexican Medicine of the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), the plant is used to treat menstrual cramps, stomach aches, and even gastritis.
The infusion is prepared with one tablespoon of flowers per liter of freshly boiled water; it is left to steep and then strained. It is recommended to drink one to two cups a day.
Rosemary
Rosemary is a plant of Mediterranean origin, whose use dates back to ancient Greece, and which arrived in America through Spanish friars during the time of the Conquest.
In addition to its culinary use, this plant has various medicinal uses thanks to its properties, and among the diseases it helps to relieve are gastritis and irritable bowel syndrome, because it works as an antispasmodic.
To prepare tea as an infusion: add four teaspoons or pinches of leaves to a cup of boiling water and let it steep for ten minutes. Up to three cups can be consumed daily.
Aloe vera
Aloe vera is a plant known for its skin-protective properties; however, one of its lesser-known properties is its action to improve the health of the gastric mucosa by having an inhibitory effect on the production of gastric acid.
Not only that, but consuming this plant in any form helps heal gastric ulcers. It is recommended to consume it in the morning in fruit or vegetable smoothies.
To obtain the medicinal benefits of this plant, you can prepare a juice by diluting a tablespoon of pulp in half a glass of water. It can be taken one to three times a day before meals.
While some may be helpful, they are not a substitute for professional medical care. At PRIMICIA, we remind you that it is always important to consult a doctor before using any home remedy for an illness or ailment.