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10 Homeopathic Remedies for IBS And Gastritis To Try Today

Tired of painful bloating, cramping and constipation? Homeopathy may be able to help

IBS, gastritis and digestive tract issues are becoming increasingly commonplace in Western countries where fast-food and takeaways are gaining in popularity. Up to one-fifth of the population in Britain have sought medical attention for the painful symptoms of bloating, cramps, constipation and diarrhoea. According to the NHS website, the cause is unknown and there is no cure. The BDA (Association of UK Dieticians) suggest relaxation, yoga and massage, as well as regular exercise to alleviate the condition. Homeopathy has a proven track record in helping alleviate chronic symptoms. A study at Bristol Homoeopathic Hospital, showed over 70 percent of patients with chronic diseases including irritable bowel syndrome, reported positive health changes after treatment. More than 6,500 patients took part in the six-year study with problems such as arthritis, eczema, asthma, migraines, depression and chronic fatigue.

Here are ten remedies known to help IBS, gastritis and digestive tract issues:

Lycopodium clavatum
This remedy is well-suited to people with IBS and food intolerances, especially onions, oysters, cabbage and beans. The pains are worse in the evening, typically from 4-8pm and are relieved by passing wind. The inflamed digestive tract struggles to get enough nutrition from food, so there can be a loss of weight with fullness and bloating in the abdomen. The appetite is very changeable and can go from being ravenous to very full after a few mouthfuls.

Colocynthis
This remedy is for those with terrible stomach cramps. The pains are short, sharp and pinching, and are aggravated after eating, especially fruit. Heat and pressure give some relief to the pains which can extend to the lower back or into the buttocks. It is also a very useful remedy for sciatica and neuralgic pain in general.

Nux Vomica
This remedy suits people who burn the candle at both ends, working hard and playing harder. Eventually, this stressful lifestyle takes its toll and the digestive system suffers. The sufferer will experience severe stomach cramps and acid reflux that is aggravated by mental exertion. Hiccups, belching, fullness and indigestion are worse after coffee, spicy foods and smoking. There can be a lot of nausea and feelings of being seasick. The remedy is also very useful to treat a hangover.

Arsenicum album
This remedy suits people who always feel chilly, so much so that even eating cold foods such as ice cream aggravates. There is a great deal of diarrhoea that can come on after drinking whilst moving around. Taking regular sips of a warm drink and lying down to rest can help to bring relief.

Argentum nitricum
In this remedy, there is a lot of wind, with very loud and forceful belching or flatulence. There is nausea and indigestion associated with nerves or anxiety, especially when anticipating a stressful event like a job interview or exam.

Sulphur
This is ideal for sufferers of stomach cramps that are aggravated by touch, with burning pains worse in the morning and night. Appetite is usually increased, especially around 11am with an ‘all-gone’ sensation. The stomach feels very heavy straight after eating.

Bryonia alba
A useful remedy in IBS that is aggravated after eating bread and where the thirst is increased. The stomach may feel so heavy that it is like a stone sitting there. Belching relieves the pain and tastes of undigested food. Tight clothing and walking also worsen the condition.

Carbo veg
The remedy is well-suited to older people or those suffering from general fatigue with stomach pains that are burning, sore or pressing. There are cramps which feel like the stomach is being contracted with a lot of bloating after eating. Butter, fats and rich foods can cause belching, heartburn and indigestion, with weakness or faintness.

China officinalis
This can be beneficial for stomach acidity with a great deal of bloating and bitter or sour belching. The appetite swings from being ravenous to being completely off food, with a feeling of fullness after eating a small amount. Fruit and milk aggravate and the pains are pressing or sore. Digestion, in general, is very slow.

Natrum muriaticum
Do you struggle with indigestion after too much starchy food with sour belching and terrible hiccups? Do you also find you have painful stomach cramps, aggravated by touch? Strong emotions such as grief, or stewing on the past can aggravate the condition.

For acute problems, you could try self-prescribing but for long-term chronic problems like IBS you can consult a professional homeopath – find registered homeopaths here or vist School of Homeopathy’s clinic in Stroud.

Want to learn more? The School of Homeopathy produces an excellent first aid course. The complete course takes around a month to complete and it is home-based, so it can be done at your leisure, as intensively or gradually as you want.

Try implementing different foods into your diet with our natural guide to beat IBS.