We've all been there. You're dressed up, enjoying yourself at a nice event, when your stomach starts to rebel and you're wondering whether it was the mystery chicken or that weird-looking fellow's hand you shook. As a traveling food blogger, I’ve had more than my fair share of digestive complaints, especially after eating meals that are far too rich or unusual for my tummy to handle. Digestion isn't exactly the sexiest subject, but it goes without saying that everyone will encounter digestive problems at some point in their life. Thankfully, I've also learned a lot of tips to help counteract some of the worst symptoms, the natural way.
- Rub with Eater's Digest: Of all the Saje essential oil remedies in my Pocket Pharmacy and Remedy Bar, I get the most sceptical looks about Eater's Digest. This remedy incorporates licorice-y fennel and peppermint essential oils that are applied directly to your rumbling stomach. This blend is specially formulated to help soothe the effects of stomach discomfort. You can also use it regularly to support ongoing healthy digestion. It may sound unusual, but it works! If your tummy troubles also involve nausea, Peppermint Halo will feel amazing applied to the temples and even a smidge on the nostrils.
- Drink herbal tea: Peppermint, chamomile, or ginger teas are known to have a positive effect on reducing stomach discomfort and nausea. Ginger, (especially of the fresh variety) works really fast to reduce abdominal pain. Chamomile and peppermint are both anti-inflammatory, and help to relax the stomach muscles. You can also add lemon or honey for a bit of flavor (or reduce the intensity of the ginger) without increasing your sugar intake. Saje Eater's Digest RemTea is the ideal blend of peppermint and licorice that will help you feel better, naturally.
- Eat bland food: If you're in a lot of pain, it's probably best not to eat anything at all for awhile, but your body will eventually need energy in order to recover. Easy-to-digest foods like dry toast, bananas, crackers, rice and clear broth are great options. It's also a good idea to avoid dairy-based foods as the "good bacteria" that might have helped prevent indigestion may not be helpful in the recovery stage.
- Avoid drugs, soft drinks, and alcohol: There are many over-the-counter prescriptions to treat indigestion, diarrhea and constipation, but for the most part all they do is block your stomach from producing acid required for proper digestion. While these medications are great in an emergency, try to use them sparingly and consult a doctor if necessary. Other drugs such as alcohol and caffeine not only irritate your stomach, but interfere with your body's natural ability to heal. Consuming either can actually make you feel much worse, especially if you are experiencing cramps.
- Soothe with a Hot Compress: Adding a bit of general heat over your abdominal area can do wonders to reduce discomfort, especially from cramping. One of my favourite non-essential oil products at Saje is the Clay Comfort, which can be used hot or cold. I would recommend spraying the Clay Comfort with some of the Pain Release analgesic mist (containing soothing Lavender, Eucalyptus, Peppermint and Roman Chamomile) prior to heating it up. For the ultimate in relaxation, lie flat with the Clay Comfort across your belly, turn down the lights, and put on some soft music.
These natural remedies are great for occasional tummy troubles, but if you find that you are experiencing chronic discomfort, it may be time to change the way you eat. Eating smaller meals more often, and paying greater attention to the food you eat alone can make a difference. However, it may also be helpful to consult a doctor or naturopath to determine whether you may have developed an allergy, intolerance, or something more serious. Here's to feeling better soon!