Plants that aid digestion

Long lunches with relatives, friends, and numerous courses are often followed by the unwelcome visit of guests to our stomach: heaviness and poor digestion.

Once again, nature provides simple and effective remedies.

We are talking about the so-called carminative plants, which, thanks to their phyto-complex, can reduce all those annoying symptoms that accompany overly abundant meals, such as abdominal bloating, a sense of weight, pains, stomach acidity, etc.

This category of plants can be divided into two groups, which differ in their mechanism of action: the first group includes drugs capable of absorbing gases produced in the stomach and intestines, such as clay or activated charcoal.

Note that these remedies should not be taken concurrently with other medications, as they would absorb the active ingredient of the drug itself, making it unavailable and inactive.

The second group of plants acts by promoting the expulsion of gases following the stimulation of the contractility of visceral musculature. Anise, fennel, cumin, coriander, dill, caraway, mint, and sage belong to this group.

In addition to their carminative action, these medicinal plants can combat potential putrefactive phenomena in the intestine, thanks to their antiseptic action provided by the presence of essential oil.

Plants that promote and improve digestive processes are those containing bitter principles.

It has been demonstrated that these substances stimulate gastric secretion and, furthermore, promote bile excretion by increasing intestinal transit. The result is the smooth functioning of the entire digestive system.

Among the most commonly used medicinal plants for this purpose are artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.), gentian (Gentiana lutea L.), ash (Fraxinus excelsior L.), rhubarb (Rheum palmatum L.), myrtle (Myrtus communis L.), and yarrow (Achillea millefolium L.).

Also extremely useful are plants containing mucilages.

By depositing on the stomach walls, these substances form a protective film, ideal in case of acid secretions and poor digestion.

Marshmallow (Althea officinalis L.) and mallow (Malva sylvestris L.) are clear examples.

If taken before meals, these plants can act as excellent preventives, making their intake especially recommended for those who frequently suffer from stomach acidity.

Getting into the habit of consuming a cup of herbal tea based on digestive or carminative plants after each meal contributes to improving digestion in general and allows you to quickly regain your activity and full energy!