Digestive Aid / Nausea / Constipation

Digestive aids can be gastro-protective, anti-inflammatory, and/or improve elimination. Key herbs include peppermint, ginger, and fennel, slippery elm, aloe, and licorice.

For indigestion, sniff peppermint oil, chew fennel seeds, or drink ginger tea.
For constipation, eat more fiber, stay hydrated, and exercise.
For diarrhea, keep hydrated and try probiotics.
For gas, eat slower, and try an enzyme supplement if you arelacking enzymes to digest dairy, beans, or raw vegetables.

Seek a Doctor if conditions are persistent.

Nausea

Digestive discomfort can have a variety of causes. Certain herbs, like peppermint, ginger, and sweet fennel, have been used as an anti-nausea folk remedy. Scientific studies have shown peppermint and ginger to be especially helpful herbs. Consult with a Doctor in the case of chronic or acute pains, or for possible contraindications with medical conditions or interactions with medications.

Demulcent

Demulcent herbs soothe mucous membranes of the respiratory and digestive tract and include aloe, slippery elm, licorice root, and marshmallow.

Constipation

Laxative herbs help to loosen stool and increase bowel movements. Constipation is the result of infrequent bowel movements. It can be caused by a low fiber diet, low fluid intake, lack of exercise, aging, and certain medical conditions and medications.

Ulcers

Ulcers are holes in the digestive tract caused by stomach acid and enzymes. The mouth, esophagus, stomach, and upper small intestines can be affected. Causes can be due to bacterial infections, medications, alcohol abuse, smoking, poor diet, and stress. Treatment can include antibiotics, antacids, and more. There are different types of ulcers and symptoms can be very similar to other digestive tract disorders, such as heartburn, stomach pain, bad breath, constipation, diarrhea, and nausea. For acute or chronic symptoms, seek medical attention. Untreated ulcers can cause more serious medical concerns like bleeding, cancer, and anemia.

Recipes to Help with the Digestive System

Aloe Cucumber Cooling Smoothie

Candied Ginger Recipe

Corriander Tea Recipe

Dandelion Detox Tea Recipe

Digestive Aid Dried Fruit Compote Recipe

Dill Seed Tea

dried fruit and senna leaf laxative treats recipe

Dried Fruit & Senna Leaf Treat Recipe

Easy Cardamom Tea Recipe

Easy Fennel Tea Recipe

Easy Ginger Tea Recipe & Some Research

Easy Peppermint Tea Recipe

Flatulence Tea Recipe

Ginger & Angelica Root Syrup

Meadowsweet Heartburn Tea Recipe

Peppermint Belly Rub

There are Many Benefits of Yarrow

What is a goji berry?

Blog Articles

Flatulence Tea Recipe

Noni Berries: Not so Delicious, but Quite Nutricious!

Peppermint for Nausea

The Aroma of Ginger Essential Oil for Digestive Complaints

There are Many Benefits of Yarrow

What is a goji berry?

RESEARCH

The listings of research below represent a compilation of scientific articles found on the topic, with a very brief overview description of each article/study. This compilation of research articles does not necessarily imply that there are adequate results to demonstrate safe and/or effective human use of any herb listed.

GENERAL

Herbs used to treat digestive issues is reviewed. From: Al-Snafi, A. E. (2018). Arabian medicinal plants for the treatment of intestinal disorders-plant based review (part 1). health, 21, 22.
The spasmolytic effects of essential oils is reviewed. From: Heghes, S. C., Vostinaru, O., Rus, L. M., Mogosan, C., Iuga, C. A., & Filip, L. (2019). Antispasmodic effect of essential oils and their constituents: A review. Molecules, 24(9), 1675.
In a review of research, it was shown that aromatherapy may aid in reducing postoperative nausea. Asay, K., Olson, C., Donnelly, J., & Perlman, E. (2019). The Use of Aromatherapy in Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting: A Systematic Review. Journal of PeriAnesthesia Nursing, 34(3), 502-516.

ALOE

A combination of celandin, aloe vera and psyllium was an effective laxative in constipated patients. From: Odes, H. S., & Madar, Z. (1991). A double-blind trial of a celandin, aloevera and psyllium laxative preparation in adult patients with constipation. Digestion, 49(2), 65-71.
Aloe and myrrh reduced stomach ulcer symptoms in human patients. From: Mansour, G., Ouda, S., Shaker, A., & Abdallah, H. M. (2014). Clinical efficacy of new aloe vera‐and myrrh‐based oral mucoadhesive gels in the management of minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis: a randomized, double‐blind, vehicle‐controlled study. Journal of Oral Pathology & Medicine, 43(6), 405-409.
In a double blind study, aloe gel was effective in treating the symptoms of ulcerative colitis. From: Langmead, L., Feakins, R. M., Goldthorpe, S., Holt, H., Tsironi, E., De Silva, A., … & Rampton, D. S. (2004). Randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial of oral aloe vera gel for active ulcerative colitis. Alimentary pharmacology & therapeutics, 19(7), 739-747.
Aloe was effective against H. pylori and may be good in treating human gastric infection. From: Cellini, L., Di Bartolomeo, S., Di Campli, E., Genovese, S., Locatelli, M., & Di Giulio, M. (2014). In vitro activity of Aloe vera inner gel against Helicobacter pylori strains. Letters in applied microbiology, 59(1), 43-48.
Aloe reduced constipation in rats. From: Wintola, O. A., Sunmonu, T. O., & Afolayan, A. J. (2010). The effect of Aloe ferox Mill. in the treatment of loperamide-induced constipation in Wistar rats. BMC gastroenterology, 10(1), 95.
In constipated rats, aloe was as effective as the laxative drug Gaviscon.From: Ashafa, A. O. T., Sunmonu, T. O., Abass, A. A., & Ogbe, A. A. (2011). Laxative potential of the ethanolic leaf extract of Aloe vera (L.) Burm. f. in Wistar rats with loperamide-induced constipation. Journal of Natural Pharmaceuticals, 2(3), 158-162.
Research was reviewed on the following plants for treating recurrent apthous (mouth) ulcers: Satureja khuzistanica, Aloe vera, Myrrh, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Alchemilla vulgaris, Myrtus communis, Melissa officinalis, Rhizophora mangle, Chamomile, Rosa damascena, Nicotiana tabacum, Punica granatum, Ageratina pichinchensis, Norwegian LongoVital, Lavendula angustifolia oil, and Perilla frutescens oil. From: Heydarpour, F., Abasabadi, M., Shahpiri, Z., Vaziri, S., Nazari, H. A., Najafi, F., … & Farzaei, M. H. (2018). Medicinal plant and their bioactive phytochemicals in the treatment of recurrent aphthous ulcers: A review of clinical trials. Pharmacognosy Reviews, 12(23), 27.

ANGELICA

Extracts from Iberis amara (candytuft), Melissa officinalis (Melissa), Matricaria recutita (chamomile), Carum carvi (caraway), Mentha piperita (peppermint), Glycyrrhtza glabra (licorice), Angelica archangelica (Angelica), Silybum marianum (milk thistle), and Chelidonium majus (celandines) demonstrated in vivo antiulcer activity alone and as a combined furomulation. From: Khayyal, M. T., El-Ghazaly, M. A., Kenawy, S. A., Seif-El-Nasr, M., Mahran, L. G., Kafafi, Y. A., & Okpanyi, S. N. (2001). Antiulcerogenic effect of some gastrointestinally acting plant extracts and their combination. Arzneimittelforschung, 51(07), 545-553.

ANISE

A blend of Pimpinella anisum (anise), Foeniculum vulgare (fennel), Sambucus nigra (elderberry), and Cassia angustifolia had a laxative efficacy and may be a safe alternative option for the treatment of constipation. From: Picon, P. D., Picon, R. V., Costa, A. F., Sander, G. B., Amaral, K. M., Aboy, A. L., & Henriques, A. T. (2010). Randomized clinical trial of a phytotherapic compound containing Pimpinella anisum, Foeniculum vulgare, Sambucus nigra, and Cassia augustifolia for chronic constipation. BMC complementary and alternative medicine, 10(1), 1.
Upper GI pain was reduced in this double blind randomized clinical trial of 107 patients with 3g of anise powder 3 times a day over 4 weeks. From: Ghoshegir, S. A., Mazaheri, M., Ghannadi, A., Feizi, A., Babaeian, M., Tanhaee, M., … & Adibi, P. (2015). Pimpinella anisum in the treatment of functional dyspepsia: A double-blind, randomized clinical trial. Journal of research in medical sciences: the official journal of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, 20(1), 13.
Ginger, peppermint, aniseed and fennel, citrus fruits, dandelion and artichoke, melissa, and chamomile have digestive enhancing activities. From: Valussi, M. (2012). Functional foods with digestion-enhancing properties. International journal of food sciences and nutrition, 63(sup1), 82-89.
Helicobacter pylori causes gastritis and peptic ulcer disease. Botanical extracts that were most effective against H. pylori included: Carum carvi, Elettaria cardamomum, Gentiana lutea, Juniper communis, Lavandula angustifolia, Melissa officinalis, Mentha piperita, Pimpinella anisum, Matricaria recutita, and Ginkgo biloba. From: Mahady, G. B., Pendland, S. L., Stoia, A., Hamill, F. A., Fabricant, D., Dietz, B. M., & Chadwick, L. R. (2005). In vitro susceptibility of Helicobacter pylori to botanical extracts used traditionally for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. Phytotherapy research, 19(11), 988-991.
In a study of 25 patients who were also using other medicines, a synergistic blend of Pimpinella anisum (anise), Foeniculum vulgare (sweet fennel), Anthemis nobilis (Roman chamomile) and Mentha piperita (peppermint) resulted in nausea relief. From: Gilligan, N. P. (2005). The palliation of nausea in hospice and palliative care patients with essential oils of Pimpinella anisum (aniseed), Foeniculum vulgare var. dulce (sweet fennel), Anthemis nobilis (Roman chamomile) and Mentha x piperita (peppermint). International Journal of Aromatherapy, 15(4), 163-167.
Anise significantly inhibited gastric mucosal damage induced by necrotizing agents in rats. From: Alhaider, A. A., Al-Moqh, I. A., Mossa, J. S., Al-Soohaibani, M. O., & Rafatullah, S. (2007). Aqueous suspension of anise” Pimpinella anisum” protects rats against chemically induced gastric ulcers. World Journal of Gastroenterology, 13(7), 1112-1118.
In a scientific study, Pimpinella anisum displayed a smooth muscle relaxant action as used in folk medicine for use as an antispasmodic agent. From: Tirapelli, Carlos R., Claudia R. de Andrade, Adriano O. Cassano, Fernando A. De Souza, Sergio R. Ambrosio, Fernando B. da Costa, and Ana M. de Oliveira. “Antispasmodic and relaxant effects of the hidroalcoholic extract of Pimpinella anisum (Apiaceae) on rat anococcygeus smooth muscle.” Journal of ethnopharmacology 110, no. 1 (2007): 23-29.

ARROW ROOT

Arrow root demonstrated anti-diarrheal activity in vivo. From: Rahman, M., Chowdhury, M., Uddin, A., Islam, M. T., Uddin, M. E., & Sumi, C. D. (2015). Evaluation of antidiarrheal activity of methanolic extract of Maranta arundinacea linn. Leaves. Advances in pharmacological sciences, 2015.

ARTICHOKE

Ginger, peppermint, aniseed and fennel, citrus fruits, dandelion and artichoke, melissa, and chamomile have digestive enhancing activities. From: Valussi, M. (2012). Functional foods with digestion-enhancing properties. International journal of food sciences and nutrition, 63(sup1), 82-89.

BASIL

Basil demonstrated anti-ulcerogenic properties potentially via active flavonoid glycosides. From: Akhtar, M. S., Akhtar, A. H., & Khan, M. A. (1992). Antiulcerogenic effects of Ocimum basilicum extracts, volatile oils and flavonoid glycosides in albino rats. International Journal of Pharmacognosy, 30(2), 97-104.
Basil oil exerted relaxant effects on intestinal smooth muscle of guinea pigs, and may be considered to treat gastrointestinal disorders. From: Madeira, S. V., Matos, F. J. A., Leal-Cardoso, J. H., & Criddle, D. N. (2002). Relaxant effects of the essential oil of Ocimum gratissimum on isolated ileum of the guinea pig. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 81(1), 1-4.

BERGAMOT

Citrus aurantium and d-limonene promote gastric mucosal healing without any apparent toxic effect in rats. From: Moraes, T. M., Rozza, A. L., Kushima, H., Pellizzon, C. H., Rocha, L. R. M., & Hiruma-Lima, C. A. (2013). Healing actions of essential oils from Citrus aurantium and d-limonene in the gastric mucosa: the roles of VEGF, PCNA, and COX-2 in cell proliferation. Journal of medicinal food, 16(12), 1162-1167.
Β-myrcene, a minor constituent in Citrus aurantium, inhibited gastric and duodenal ulcers by increasing the levels of gastric mucosa. From: Bonamin, F., Moraes, T. M., dos Santos, R. C., Kushima, H., Faria, F. M., Silva, M. A., … & da Rocha, L. R. (2014). The effect of a minor constituent of essential oil from Citrus aurantium: the role of β-myrcene in preventing peptic ulcer disease. Chemico-biological interactions, 212, 11-19.

BILLBERRY

Extracts of raspberry, strawberry, cranberry, elderberry, blueberry, and bilberry inhibited Helicobacter pylori in vitro. From: Chatterjee, A., Yasmin, T., Bagchi, D., & Stohs, S. J. (2004). Inhibition of Helicobacter pylori in vitro by various berry extracts, with enhanced susceptibility to clarithromycin. Molecular and cellular biochemistry, 265(1), 19-26.

BLACK PEPPER / PIPERINE

Bloating and constipation was reduced in a double-blind randomized controlled two week trial with 84 participants. The supplement tested contained Trachyspermum ammi (sprague seed), Zingiber officinale (ginger root) and Piper nigrum (black pepper berry). From: Mahmoudpour, Z., Shokri, J., Kamalinejad, M., Meftah, N., Khafri, S., Mozaffarpur, S. A., & Shirafkan, H. (2019). The efficacy of a Persian herbal formulation on functional bloating: A double-blind randomized controlled trial. Journal of integrative medicine.
Piperine was both gastro-stimulating and antispasmodic in gastrointestinal motility disorders. From: Mehmood, M. H., & Gilani, A. H. (2010). Pharmacological basis for the medicinal use of black pepper and piperine in gastrointestinal disorders. Journal of medicinal food, 13(5), 1086-1096.

BURDOCK

This study demonstrated that 1000 mg of burdock essence taken orally three times a day after meals helped against H. pylori infection and in gastric mucosal repair in those with gastric ulcers. From: Wu, Y. C., Lin, L. F., Yeh, C. S., Lin, Y. L., Chang, H. J., Lin, S. R., … & Lee, S. C. (2010). Burdock essence promotes gastrointestinal mucosal repair in ulcer patients. Fooyin Journal of Health Sciences, 2(1), 26-31.

CALENDULA

Byrsonima crassifolia (changunga), Diphysa robinioides, Gnaphalium stramineum, Guazuma ulmifolia (bay cedar), Psidium guajava (guava), Sambucus mexicana (elderberry), Simarouba glauca (paradise tree), Smilax lundelii, Spondias purpurea (jocote) and Tagetes lucida (Mexican marigold) showed activity against the gastrointestinal bacteria: Escherichia coli, Salmonella enteritidis, Salmonella typhi, Shigella dysenteriae and Shigella flexneri. From: Caceres, A., Cano, O., Samayoa, B., & Aguilar, L. (1990). Plants used in Guatemala for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. 1. Screening of 84 plants against enterobacteria. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 30(1), 55-73.

CARAWAY

Seventeen randomized clinical trials for the herbal treatment of non-ulcer dyspepsia were reviews. Nine studies involved peppermint and caraway and showed promising results. More research is necessary. From: Thompson Coon, J., & Ernst, E. (2002). Herbal medicinal products for non‐ulcer dyspepsia. Alimentary pharmacology & therapeutics, 16(10), 1689-1699.
Patients treated orally with a peppermint / caraway oil showed good tolerability and reduced symptoms associated with functional dyspepsia. From: May, B., Köhler, S., & Schneider, B. (2000). Efficacy and tolerability of a fixed combination of peppermint oil and caraway oil in patients suffering from functional dyspepsia. Alimentary pharmacology & therapeutics, 14(12), 1671-1677.
Helicobacter pylori causes gastritis and peptic ulcer disease. Botanical extracts that were most effective against H. pylori included: Carum carvi, Elettaria cardamomum, Gentiana lutea, Juniper communis, Lavandula angustifolia, Melissa officinalis, Mentha piperita, Pimpinella anisum, Matricaria recutita, and Ginkgo biloba. From: Mahady, G. B., Pendland, S. L., Stoia, A., Hamill, F. A., Fabricant, D., Dietz, B. M., & Chadwick, L. R. (2005). In vitro susceptibility of Helicobacter pylori to botanical extracts used traditionally for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. Phytotherapy research, 19(11), 988-991.
Extracts from Iberis amara (candytuft), Melissa officinalis (Melissa), Matricaria recutita (chamomile), Carum carvi (caraway), Mentha piperita (peppermint), Glycyrrhtza glabra (licorice), Angelica archangelica (Angelica), Silybum marianum (milk thistle), and Chelidonium majus (celandines) demonstrated in vivo antiulcer activity alone and as a combined formulation. From: Khayyal, M. T., El-Ghazaly, M. A., Kenawy, S. A., Seif-El-Nasr, M., Mahran, L. G., Kafafi, Y. A., & Okpanyi, S. N. (2001). Antiulcerogenic effect of some gastrointestinally acting plant extracts and their combination. Arzneimittelforschung, 51(07), 545-553.

CARDAMOM

In a randomized study of 66 chemotherapy patients with nausea, the aroma of cardamom inhaled in three deep breathes (twice) in 5-minute intervals significantly reduced nausea and vomiting. From: Khalili, Z., Khatiban, M., Faradmal, J., Abbasi, M., Zeraati, F., & Khazaei, A. (2014). Effect of Cardamom aromas on the Chemotherapy-induced Nausea and Vomiting in Cancer Patients. Scientific Journal of Hamadan Nursing & Midwifery Faculty, 22(3), 64-73.
Elettaria cardamomum inhibited gastric lesions which could be useful in treating ulcers and other gastric disorders. From: Jamal, A., Javed, K., Aslam, M., & Jafri, M. A. (2006). Gastroprotective effect of cardamom, Elettaria cardamomum Maton. fruits in rats. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 103(2), 149-153.
This study determined the gastroprotective effects of cardamom. From: Jafri, M. A., Javed, K., & Singh, S. (2001). Evaluation of the gastric antiulcerogenic effect of large cardamom (fruits of Amomum subulatum Roxb). Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 75(2), 89-94.
Helicobacter pylori causes gastritis and peptic ulcer disease. Botanical extracts that were most effective against H. pylori included: Carum carvi, Elettaria cardamomum, Gentiana lutea, Juniper communis, Lavandula angustifolia, Melissa officinalis, Mentha piperita, Pimpinella anisum, Matricaria recutita, and Ginkgo biloba. From: Mahady, G. B., Pendland, S. L., Stoia, A., Hamill, F. A., Fabricant, D., Dietz, B. M., & Chadwick, L. R. (2005). In vitro susceptibility of Helicobacter pylori to botanical extracts used traditionally for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. Phytotherapy research, 19(11), 988-991.
Percutaneous application on neck of Zingiber officinale (ginger), Elletaria cardamomum (cardamom) and Artemisia dracunculus (tarragon) essential oils in equal parts reduced postoperative nausea and vomiting 50-75%. From: De Pradier, E. (2006). A trial of a mixture of three essential oils in the treatment of postoperative nausea and vomiting. International Journal of Aromatherapy, 16(1), 15-20.
Cardamom inhibited gastric lesions significantly. From: Jamal, A., Siddiqui, A., Aslam, M., Javed, K., & Jafri, M. A. (2005). Antiulcerogenic activity of Elettaria cardamomum Maton. and Amomum subulatum Roxb. seeds. Indian journal of traditional knowledge, 4(3), 298-302.

CASSIA / TEA LEAF

A blend of Pimpinella anisum (anise), Foeniculum vulgare (fennel), Sambucus nigra (elderberry), and Cassia angustifolia had a laxative efficacy and may be a safe alternative option for the treatment of constipation. From: Picon, P. D., Picon, R. V., Costa, A. F., Sander, G. B., Amaral, K. M., Aboy, A. L., & Henriques, A. T. (2010). Randomized clinical trial of a phytotherapic compound containing Pimpinella anisum, Foeniculum vulgare, Sambucus nigra, and Cassia augustifolia for chronic constipation. BMC complementary and alternative medicine, 10(1), 1.

CEDAR

Aqueous extracts of the following herbs had antiulcerogenic activity when given orally to rats: Cedrus libani (Lebanon cedar), Centaurea solstitialis (yellow star thistle), Cistus laurifolius (cistus), Hypericum scabrum, Plantago major (plantain), Sambucus ebulus (danewort) and Spartium junceum (Spanish broom). From: Yeşilada, E., Sezik, E., Fujita, T., Tanaka, S., & Tabata, M. (1993). Screening of some Turkish medicinal plants for their antiulcerogenic activities. Phytotherapy Research, 7(3), 263-265.

CHAMOMILE

In a controlled study of 30 women with chemotherapy related nausea, aromatherapy with chamomile significantly reduced nausea. From: Putri, I. N., Amelia, R., & Rahayu, S. (2019). The chamomile aromatherapy reduce the scale of nausea. International Journal of Public Health, 8(3), 294-299.
In a randomized controlled trial with 142 women who had just given birth, application of a chamomile oil on the abdominal improved postoperative bowel activity. From: Khadem, E., Shirazi, M., Janani, L., Rahimi, R., Amiri, P., & Ghorat, F. (2018). Effect of topical chamomile oil on postoperative bowel activity after cesarean section: A randomized controlled trial. Journal of research in pharmacy practice, 7(3), 128.
Ginger, peppermint, aniseed and fennel, citrus fruits, dandelion and artichoke, melissa, and chamomile have digestive enhancing activities. From: Valussi, M. (2012). Functional foods with digestion-enhancing properties. International journal of food sciences and nutrition, 63(sup1), 82-89.
Helicobacter pylori causes gastritis and peptic ulcer disease. Botanical extracts that were most effective against H. pylori included: Carum carvi, Elettaria cardamomum, Gentiana lutea, Juniper communis, Lavandula angustifolia, Melissa officinalis, Mentha piperita, Pimpinella anisum, Matricaria recutita, and Ginkgo biloba. From: Mahady, G. B., Pendland, S. L., Stoia, A., Hamill, F. A., Fabricant, D., Dietz, B. M., & Chadwick, L. R. (2005). In vitro susceptibility of Helicobacter pylori to botanical extracts used traditionally for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. Phytotherapy research, 19(11), 988-991.
In a study of 25 patients who were also using other medicines, a synergistic blend of Pimpinella anisum (anise), Foeniculum vulgare (sweet fennel), Anthemis nobilis (Roman chamomile) and Mentha piperita (peppermint) resulted in nausea relief. From: Gilligan, N. P. (2005). The palliation of nausea in hospice and palliative care patients with essential oils of Pimpinella anisum (aniseed), Foeniculum vulgare var. dulce (sweet fennel), Anthemis nobilis (Roman chamomile) and Mentha x piperita (peppermint). International Journal of Aromatherapy, 15(4), 163-167.
Research was reviewed on the following plants for treating recurrent apthous (mouth) ulcers: Satureja khuzistanica, Aloe vera, Myrrh, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Alchemilla vulgaris, Myrtus communis, Melissa officinalis, Rhizophora mangle, Chamomile, Rosa damascena, Nicotiana tabacum, Punica granatum, Ageratina pichinchensis, Norwegian LongoVital, Lavendula angustifolia oil, and Perilla frutescens oil. From: Heydarpour, F., Abasabadi, M., Shahpiri, Z., Vaziri, S., Nazari, H. A., Najafi, F., … & Farzaei, M. H. (2018). Medicinal plant and their bioactive phytochemicals in the treatment of recurrent aphthous ulcers: A review of clinical trials. Pharmacognosy Reviews, 12(23), 27.
In a study of 101 patients with recurrent mouth ulcers, a Zataria multiflora and Anthemis nobilis preparation was better than an M. communis preparation at reducing pain. From: Jafari, S., Amanlou, M., Borhan-mojabi, K., & Farsam, H. (2003). Comparartive study of Zataria multiflora and Anthemis nobelis extracts with Myrthus communis preparation in the treatment of recurrent aphthous stomatitis. DARU Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 11(1), 23-7.
Extracts from Iberis amara (candytuft), Melissa officinalis (Melissa), Matricaria recutita (chamomile), Carum carvi (caraway), Mentha piperita (peppermint), Glycyrrhtza glabra (licorice), Angelica archangelica (Angelica), Silybum marianum (milk thistle), and Chelidonium majus (celandines) demonstrated in vivo antiulcer activity alone and as a combined formulation. From: Khayyal, M. T., El-Ghazaly, M. A., Kenawy, S. A., Seif-El-Nasr, M., Mahran, L. G., Kafafi, Y. A., & Okpanyi, S. N. (2001). Antiulcerogenic effect of some gastrointestinally acting plant extracts and their combination. Arzneimittelforschung, 51(07), 545-553.
The following plant extracts were gastroprotective against H. pylori gastric infections in vitro: Achillea millefolium, Berberis aristata, Coriandrum sativum, Foeniculum vulgare, Matricaria chamomilla and Prunus domestica From: Zaidi, S. F., Muhammad, J. S., Shahryar, S., Usmanghani, K., Gilani, A. H., Jafri, W., & Sugiyama, T. (2012). Anti-inflammatory and cytoprotective effects of selected Pakistani medicinal plants in Helicobacter pylori-infected gastric epithelial cells. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 141(1), 403-410.

CINNAMON

Cinnamon, clove, oregano, and thyme at the right dose can reduce E. coli with minimal intestine cell cytotoxicity. From: Dušan, F., Marián, S., Katarína, D., & Dobroslava, B. (2006). Essential oils—their antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli and effect on intestinal cell viability. Toxicology in vitro, 20(8), 1435-1445.

CISTUS

Aqueous extracts of the following herbs had antiulcerogenic activity when given orally to rats: Cedrus libani (Lebanon cedar), Centaurea solstitialis (yellow star thistle), Cistus laurifolius (cistus), Hypericum scabrum, Plantago major (plantain), Sambucus ebulus (danewort) and Spartium junceum (Spanish broom). From: Yeşilada, E., Sezik, E., Fujita, T., Tanaka, S., & Tabata, M. (1993). Screening of some Turkish medicinal plants for their antiulcerogenic activities. Phytotherapy Research, 7(3), 263-265.

CITRUS / LEMON

In a review of research, eating citrus fruits help reduce inflammatory bowel disease. From: Musumeci, L., Maugeri, A., Cirmi, S., Lombardo, G. E., Russo, C., Gangemi, S., … & Navarra, M. (2019). Citrus fruits and their flavonoids in inflammatory bowel disease: an overview. Natural product research, 1-15.
An essential oil blend including rosemary, lemon, and peppermint rubbed on the abdomen reduced constipation in the elderly. From: Kim, M. A., Sakong, J. K., Kim, E. J., & Kim, E. H. (2005). Effect of aromatherapy massage for the relief of constipation in the elderly. Taehan Kanho Hakhoe Chi, 35(1), 56-64.
Ginger, peppermint, aniseed and fennel, citrus fruits, dandelion and artichoke, melissa, and chamomile have digestive enhancing activities. From: Valussi, M. (2012). Functional foods with digestion-enhancing properties. International journal of food sciences and nutrition, 63(sup1), 82-89.
Lemon and its constituents of limonene showed gastroprotective activity, causing mucus formation in vivo. From: Rozza, A. L., de Mello Moraes, T., Kushima, H., Tanimoto, A., Marques, M. O. M., Bauab, T. M., … & Pellizzon, C. H. (2011). Gastroprotective mechanisms of Citrus lemon (Rutaceae) essential oil and its majority compounds limonene and β-pinene: Involvement of heat-shock protein-70, vasoactive intestinal peptide, glutathione, sulfhydryl compounds, nitric oxide and prostaglandin E2. Chemico-biological interactions, 189(1-2), 82-89.
In a review of research, flavones from citrus fruits can help improve digestive health. From: Stevens, Y., Rymenant, E. V., Grootaert, C., Camp, J. V., Possemiers, S., Masclee, A., & Jonkers, D. (2019). The Intestinal Fate of Citrus Flavanones and Their Effects on Gastrointestinal Health. Nutrients, 11(7), 1464.

CLOVE

Cinnamon, clove, oregano, and thyme at the right dose can reduce E. coli with minimal intestine cell cytotoxicity. From: Dušan, F., Marián, S., Katarína, D., & Dobroslava, B. (2006). Essential oils—their antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli and effect on intestinal cell viability. Toxicology in vitro, 20(8), 1435-1445.
The Helicobacter pylori bacteria can be associated with peptic ulcers. Multiple Chinese medicinal herbs showed antibacterial action, including Abrus cantoniensis, Saussurea lappa, and Eugenia caryophyllata. From: Li, Y., Xu, C., Zhang, Q., Liu, J. Y., & Tan, R. X. (2005). In vitro anti-Helicobacter pylori action of 30 Chinese herbal medicines used to treat ulcer diseases. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 98(3), 329-333.

CORRIANDER

In a study of 32 patients with irritable bowel syndrome, a blend of Melissa officinalis (lemon balm), Mentha spicata (spearmint), and Coriandrum sativum (coriander seed) taken with either loperamide or psyllium reduced pain and bloating over the placebo. From: Vejdani, R., Shalmani, H. R. M., Mir-Fattahi, M., Sajed-Nia, F., Abdollahi, M., Zali, M. R., … & Amin, G. (2006). The efficacy of an herbal medicine, Carmint, on the relief of abdominal pain and bloating in patients with irritable bowel syndrome: a pilot study. Digestive diseases and sciences, 51(8), 1501-1507.
Coriander seed extracts caused hypotensive and diuretic effects in vivo. From: Jabeen, Q., Bashir, S., Lyoussi, B., & Gilani, A. H. (2009). Coriander fruit exhibits gut modulatory, blood pressure lowering and diuretic activities. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 122(1), 123-130.
The following plant extracts were gastroprotective against H. pylori gastric infections in vitro: Achillea millefolium, Berberis aristata, Coriandrum sativum, Foeniculum vulgare, Matricaria chamomilla and Prunus domestica From: Zaidi, S. F., Muhammad, J. S., Shahryar, S., Usmanghani, K., Gilani, A. H., Jafri, W., & Sugiyama, T. (2012). Anti-inflammatory and cytoprotective effects of selected Pakistani medicinal plants in Helicobacter pylori-infected gastric epithelial cells. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 141(1), 403-410.

CRANBERRY

Extracts of raspberry, strawberry, cranberry, elderberry, blueberry, and bilberry inhibited Helicobacter pylori in vitro. From: Chatterjee, A., Yasmin, T., Bagchi, D., & Stohs, S. J. (2004). Inhibition of Helicobacter pylori in vitro by various berry extracts, with enhanced susceptibility to clarithromycin. Molecular and cellular biochemistry, 265(1), 19-26.

CYPRESS

Extracts of cypress were healing to ulcerative colitis wounds in vivo. From: Sepehrimanesh, M., Samimi, N., Koohi-Hosseinabadi, O., Mokhtari, M., Amiri-Zadeh, S., & Farjam, M. (2018). Effects of Cupressus sempervirens extract on the healing of acetic acid-induced ulcerative colitis in rat. Journal of Coloproctology.

DANDILION

Ginger, peppermint, aniseed and fennel, citrus fruits, dandelion and artichoke, melissa and chamomile have digestive enhancing activities. From: Valussi, M. (2012). Functional foods with digestion-enhancing properties. International journal of food sciences and nutrition, 63(sup1), 82-89.

DEVIL’S CLAW

Slippery elm, fenugreek, devil’s claw, tormentil and wei tong ning demonstrated antioxidant effects in cell-free oxidant-generating systems and inflamed human colorectal biopsies and could be useful in treating irritable bowel syndrome. From: Langmead, L., Dawson, C., Hawkins, C., Banna, N., Loo, S., & Rampton, D. S. (2002). Antioxidant effects of herbal therapies used by patients with inflammatory bowel disease: an in vitro study. Alimentary pharmacology & therapeutics, 16(2), 197-205.

DILL

In a study of 118 women who had received a cesarean section, an oral treatment containing dill essential oil taken every 20 minutes reduced flatulence and digestive tract pain over the placebo. From: Fazel, N., Pejhan, A., Taghizadeh, M., Tabarraei, Y., & Sharifi, N. (2017). Effects of Anethum graveolens L.(Dill) essential oil on the intensity of retained intestinal gas, flatulence and pain after cesarean section: A randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled trial. Journal of Herbal Medicine, 8, 8-13.
A high dose of dill extract reduced gastric irritation in vivo. From: Hosseinzadeh, H., Karimi, G., & Ameri, M. (2002). Effects of Anethum graveolens L. seed extracts on experimental gastric irritation models in mice. BMC pharmacology, 2(1), 21.
Dill extracts were ulder-protective in vivo. From: Rifat-uz-Zaman, M. S., Akhtar, M. S., & Khan, M. S. (2004). Preliminary eva-luation of Anethum graveolens fruit in indomethacin-ulcer induced rats. Journal of Biological Sciences, 4(2), 151-156.
Dill extracts were spasmolytic on rat ileum. From: Naseri, M. G., & Heidari, A. (2007). Antispasmodic effect of Anethum graveolens fruit extract on rat ileum. Int J Pharmacol, 3, 260-264.

ELDERBERRY

A blend of Pimpinella anisum (anise), Foeniculum vulgare (fennel), Sambucus nigra (elderberry), and Cassia angustifolia had a laxative efficacy and may be a safe alternative option for the treatment of constipation. From: Picon, P. D., Picon, R. V., Costa, A. F., Sander, G. B., Amaral, K. M., Aboy, A. L., & Henriques, A. T. (2010). Randomized clinical trial of a phytotherapic compound containing Pimpinella anisum, Foeniculum vulgare, Sambucus nigra, and Cassia augustifolia for chronic constipation. BMC complementary and alternative medicine, 10(1), 1.
Byrsonima crassifolia (changunga), Diphysa robinioides, Gnaphalium stramineum, Guazuma ulmifolia (bay cedar), Psidium guajava (guava), Sambucus mexicana (elderberry), Simarouba glauca (paradise tree), Smilax lundelii, Spondias purpurea (jocote) and Tagetes lucida (Mexican marigold) showed activity against the gastrointestinal bacteria: Escherichia coli, Salmonella enteritidis, Salmonella typhi, Shigella dysenteriae and Shigella flexneri. From: Caceres, A., Cano, O., Samayoa, B., & Aguilar, L. (1990). Plants used in Guatemala for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. 1. Screening of 84 plants against enterobacteria. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 30(1), 55-73.
Extracts of raspberry, strawberry, cranberry, elderberry, blueberry, and bilberry inhibited Helicobacter pylori in vitro. From: Chatterjee, A., Yasmin, T., Bagchi, D., & Stohs, S. J. (2004). Inhibition of Helicobacter pylori in vitro by various berry extracts, with enhanced susceptibility to clarithromycin. Molecular and cellular biochemistry, 265(1), 19-26.

FENNEL

Ginger, peppermint, aniseed and fennel, citrus fruits, dandelion and artichoke, melissa and chamomile have digestive enhancing activities. From: Valussi, M. (2012). Functional foods with digestion-enhancing properties. International journal of food sciences and nutrition, 63(sup1), 82-89.
The following methanol extracts showed activity against Helicobacter pylori which causes gastrointestinal disorders: Myristica fragrans (nutmeg seed), Zingiber officinale (ginger root), Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary leaf), Achillea millefolium (yarrow), Foeniculum vulgare (fennel seed), Passiflora incarnata (passionflower), Origanum majorana (oregano), and others. From: Mahady, G. B., Pendland, S. L., Stoia, A., Hamill, F. A., Fabricant, D., Dietz, B. M., & Chadwick, L. R. (2005). In vitro susceptibility of Helicobacter pylori to botanical extracts used traditionally for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. Phytotherapy research, 19(11), 988-991.
A blend of Pimpinella anisum (anise), Foeniculum vulgare (fennel), Sambucus nigra (elderberry), and Cassia angustifolia had a laxative efficacy and may be a safe alternative option for the treatment of constipation. From: Picon, P. D., Picon, R. V., Costa, A. F., Sander, G. B., Amaral, K. M., Aboy, A. L., & Henriques, A. T. (2010). Randomized clinical trial of a phytotherapic compound containing Pimpinella anisum, Foeniculum vulgare, Sambucus nigra, and Cassia augustifolia for chronic constipation. BMC complementary and alternative medicine, 10(1), 1.
In a study of 25 patients who were also using other medicines, a synergistic blend of Pimpinella anisum (anise), Foeniculum vulgare (sweet fennel), Anthemis nobilis (Roman chamomile) and Mentha piperita (peppermint) resulted in nausea relief. From: Gilligan, N. P. (2005). The palliation of nausea in hospice and palliative care patients with essential oils of Pimpinella anisum (aniseed), Foeniculum vulgare var. dulce (sweet fennel), Anthemis nobilis (Roman chamomile) and Mentha x piperita (peppermint). International Journal of Aromatherapy, 15(4), 163-167.
In a study with 211 patients with irritable bowel syndrome, a product containing extracts of turmeric and fennel essential oil taken over two months significantly reduced symptoms. From: Di Ciaula, A., Portincasa, P., Maes, N., & Albert, A. (2018). Efficacy of bio-optimized extracts of turmeric and essential fennel oil on the quality of life in patients with irritable bowel syndrome. Annals of gastroenterology, 31(6), 685.
The following plant extracts were gastroprotective against H. pylori gastric infections in vitro: Achillea millefolium, Berberis aristata, Coriandrum sativum, Foeniculum vulgare, Matricaria chamomilla and Prunus domestica From: Zaidi, S. F., Muhammad, J. S., Shahryar, S., Usmanghani, K., Gilani, A. H., Jafri, W., & Sugiyama, T. (2012). Anti-inflammatory and cytoprotective effects of selected Pakistani medicinal plants in Helicobacter pylori-infected gastric epithelial cells. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 141(1), 403-410.

FENUGREEK

Slippery elm, fenugreek, devil’s claw, tormentil and wei tong ning demonstrated antioxidant effects in cell-free oxidant-generating systems and inflamed human colorectal biopsies and could be useful in treating irritable bowel syndrome. From: Langmead, L., Dawson, C., Hawkins, C., Banna, N., Loo, S., & Rampton, D. S. (2002). Antioxidant effects of herbal therapies used by patients with inflammatory bowel disease: an in vitro study. Alimentary pharmacology & therapeutics, 16(2), 197-205.

GALLIK ACID

Gallic acid, the major component of Galla Chinensis (sumac), blocked the binding to reduce induced diarrhea in mice.From: Chen, J. C., Ho, T. Y., Chang, Y. S., Wu, S. L., & Hsiang, C. Y. (2006). Anti-diarrheal effect of Galla Chinensis on the Escherichia coli heat-labile enterotoxin and ganglioside interaction. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 103(3), 385-391.
Gallic acid, a polyphenolic compound in certain plants, significantly prevented and healed induced gastric injury of gastric mucosal cells in vivo. From: Pal, C., Bindu, S., Dey, S., Alam, A., Goyal, M., Iqbal, M. S., … & Bandyopadhyay, U. (2010). Gallic acid prevents nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug-induced gastropathy in rat by blocking oxidative stress and apoptosis. Free Radical Biology and Medicine, 49(2), 258-267.
The antioxidant activity of gallic acid and the inhibitory activity of cinnamic acid against Helicobacter pylori found in ginger rhizomes contributed to its gastroprotective ability. From: Nanjundaiah, S. M., Annaiah, H. N. M., & Dharmesh, S. M. (2011). Gastroprotective effect of ginger rhizome (Zingiber officinale) extract: role of gallic acid and cinnamic acid in H. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2011.

GINGER

A total of 184 patients were randomized into 4 groups: Aromatherapy with lavender essential oil, rose essential, ginger essential oil, or with just water. The lavender and ginger groups had the greatest reduction in postoperative nausea. The rose group had a slightly better reduction in post operative naseau that the water group. From: Karaman, S., Karaman, T., Tapar, H., Dogru, S., & Suren, M. (2019). A randomized placebo-controlled study of aromatherapy for the treatment of postoperative nausea and vomiting. Complementary therapies in medicine, 42, 417-421.
In a study with 60 abdominal surgery patients, half received ginger aromatherapy post operatively and demonstrated significantly less nausea and vomiting. From: Lee, Y. R., & Shin, H. S. (2017). Effectiveness of ginger essential oil on postoperative nausea and vomiting in abdominal surgery patients. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 23(3), 196-200.
In a multi-center, double blind, randomized study of over 500 cancer patients, ginger intake significantly reduced chemotherapy induced nausea. From: Ryan, J. L., Heckler, C. E., Roscoe, J. A., Dakhil, S. R., Kirshner, J., Flynn, P. J., … & Morrow, G. R. (2012). Ginger (Zingiber officinale) reduces acute chemotherapy-induced nausea: a URCC CCOP study of 576 patients. Supportive care in cancer, 20(7), 1479-1489.
In a randomized controlled trial of 90 pregnant women, both the aromas of lemon and ginger helped reduce nausea. From: Kustriyanti, D., & Putri, A. A. (2019). The Effect of Ginger and Lemon Aromatherapy on Nausea and Vomiting among Pregnant Women. Jurnal Keperawatan Soedirman, 14(1), 15-22.
In a randomized controlled trial with 120 patients, aroma of ginger applied to the collar significantly reduced post-operative nausea. From: Adib-Hajbaghery, M., & Hosseini, F. S. (2015). Investigating the effects of inhaling ginger essence on post-nephrectomy nausea and vomiting. Complementary therapies in medicine, 23(6), 827-831.
In a study with 46 patients having mild to moderate ulcerative colitis, the group who received 1200 mg of ginger powder daily for 12 weeks showed showed improved symptoms. From: Nikkhah-Bodaghi, M., Maleki, I., Agah, S., & Hekmatdoost, A. (2019). Zingiber officinale and oxidative stress in patients with ulcerative colitis: A randomized, placebo-controlled, clinical trial. Complementary therapies in medicine, 43, 1-6.
In a randomized double blind study of 120 women with post operative nausea, ginger powder intake significantly reduced day surgery nausea and vomiting. From: Phillips, S., Ruggier, R., & Hutchinson, S. E. (1993). Zingiber officinale (ginger)–an antiemetic for day case surgery. Anaesthesia, 48(8), 715-717.
In a double blind study of 322 postoperative patients, aromatherapy with ginger and peppermint significantly reduced nausea. From: Fearrington, M. A., Qualls, B. W., & Carey, M. G. (2019). Essential Oils to Reduce Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting. Journal of PeriAnesthesia Nursing.
Bloating and constipation was reduced in a double-blind randomized controlled two week trial with 84 participants. The supplement tested contained Trachyspermum ammi (sprague seed), Zingiber officinale (ginger root) and Piper nigrum (black pepper berry). From: Mahmoudpour, Z., Shokri, J., Kamalinejad, M., Meftah, N., Khafri, S., Mozaffarpur, S. A., & Shirafkan, H. (2019). The efficacy of a Persian herbal formulation on functional bloating: A double-blind randomized controlled trial. Journal of integrative medicine.
In a randomized study with 121 patients having postoperative nausea, a blend of lavender, ginger, peppermint, and spearmint in a portable inhaler was effective and well received by patients. From: Hodge, N. S., McCarthy, M. S., & Pierce, R. M. (2014). A prospective randomized study of the effectiveness of aromatherapy for relief of postoperative nausea and vomiting. Journal of PeriAnesthesia Nursing, 29(1), 5-11.
Ginger, peppermint, aniseed and fennel, citrus fruits, dandelion and artichoke, melissa and chamomile have digestive enhancing activities. From: Valussi, M. (2012). Functional foods with digestion-enhancing properties. International journal of food sciences and nutrition, 63(sup1), 82-89.
In two small studies of cancer patients receiving chemotherapy, ginger intake reduced nausea. From: Hickok, J. T., Roscoe, J. A., Morrow, G. R., & Ryan, J. L. (2007). A phase II/III randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial of ginger (Zingiber officinale) for nausea caused by chemotherapy for cancer: a currently accruing URCC CCOP Cancer Control Study. Supportive cancer therapy, 4(4), 247-250.
The following methanol extracts showed activity against Helicobacter pylori which causes gastrointestinal disorders: Myristica fragrans (nutmeg seed), Zingiber officinale (ginger root), Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary leaf), Achillea millefolium (yarrow), Foeniculum vulgare (fennel seed), Passiflora incarnata (passionflower), Origanum majorana (oregano), and others. From: Mahady, G. B., Pendland, S. L., Stoia, A., Hamill, F. A., Fabricant, D., Dietz, B. M., & Chadwick, L. R. (2005). In vitro susceptibility of Helicobacter pylori to botanical extracts used traditionally for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. Phytotherapy research, 19(11), 988-991.
Percutaneous application on neck of Zingiber officinale (ginger), Elletaria cardamomum (cardamom) and Artemisia dracunculus (tarragon) essential oils in equal parts reduced postoperative nausea and vomiting 50-75%. From: De Pradier, E. (2006). A trial of a mixture of three essential oils in the treatment of postoperative nausea and vomiting. International Journal of Aromatherapy, 16(1), 15-20.
In a double blind study of 322 postoperative patients, aromatherapy with ginger and peppermint significantly reduced nausea. From: Fearrington, M. A., Qualls, B. W., & Carey, M. G. (2019). Essential Oils to Reduce Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting. Journal of PeriAnesthesia Nursing.
In a randomized double blind study of 120 women with post operative nausea, ginger powder intake significantly reduced day surgery nausea and vomiting. From: Phillips, S., Ruggier, R., & Hutchinson, S. E. (1993). Zingiber officinale (ginger)–an antiemetic for day case surgery. Anaesthesia, 48(8), 715-717.
In a randomized trial with 301 patients with nausea, ginger aromatherapy was effective in treating postoperative nausea. From: Hunt, R., Dienemann, J., Norton, H. J., Hartley, W., Hudgens, A., Stern, T., & Divine, G. (2013). Aromatherapy as treatment for postoperative nausea: a randomized trial. Anesthesia & Analgesia, 117(3), 597-604.
Ginger aromatherapy lowered the incidence of nausea and vomiting in the post-anaesthesia recovery. From: Geiger, J. L. (2005). The essential oil of ginger, Zingiber officinale, and anaesthesia. International Journal of Aromatherapy, 15(1), 7-14.
In this meta-analysis, ten randomized trials with a total of 918 patients demonstrated that ginger reduced the incidence of postoperative nausea and the need for antiemetic drugs. From: Tóth, B., Lantos, T., Hegyi, P., Viola, R., Vasas, A., Benkő, R., … & Hegyi, D. (2018). Ginger (Zingiber officinale): An alternative for the prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting. A meta-analysis. Phytomedicine, 50, 8-18.
In a study with 100 patients, the oral administration of 500 mg of ginger one hour before cholecystectomy surgery significantly reduced postoperative nausea. From: Soltani, E., Jangjoo, A., Aghaei, M. A., & Dalili, A. (2018). Effects of preoperative administration of ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) on postoperative nausea and vomiting after laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Journal of traditional and complementary medicine, 8(3), 387-390.
In a review of randomized studies, the author concluded that ginger may help reduce nausea during the acute phase of chemotherapy for patients with breast cancer. From: Saneei Totmaj, A., Emamat, H., Jarrahi, F., & Zarrati, M. (2019). The effect of ginger (Zingiber officinale) on chemotherapy‐induced nausea and vomiting in breast cancer patients: A systematic literature review of randomized controlled trials. Phytotherapy Research.
Ginger had a gastroprotective and anti-ulcerogenic effect in rats. From: Al-Yahya, M. A., Rafatullah, S., Mossa, J. S., Ageel, A. M., Parmar, N. S., & Tariq, M. (1989). Gastroprotective activity of ginger zingiber officinale rosc., in albino rats. The American journal of Chinese medicine, 17(01n02), 51-56.
Ginger had a protective effect in rats induced with gastric ulcers, likely related to gingerol and shogaol constituents. From: Wang, Z., Hasegawa, J., Wang, X., Matsuda, A., Tokuda, T., Miura, N., & Watanabe, T. (2011). Protective effects of ginger against aspirin-induced gastric ulcers in rats. Yonago acta medica, 54(1), 11.

GINKGO

Helicobacter pylori causes gastritis and peptic ulcer disease. Botanical extracts that were most effective against H. pylori included: Carum carvi, Elettaria cardamomum, Gentiana lutea, Juniper communis, Lavandula angustifolia, Melissa officinalis, Mentha piperita, Pimpinella anisum, Matricaria recutita, and Ginkgo biloba. From: Mahady, G. B., Pendland, S. L., Stoia, A., Hamill, F. A., Fabricant, D., Dietz, B. M., & Chadwick, L. R. (2005). In vitro susceptibility of Helicobacter pylori to botanical extracts used traditionally for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. Phytotherapy research, 19(11), 988-991.
In a multi-center, double blind, randomized study of over 500 cancer patients, ginger intake significantly reduced chemotherapy induced nausea. From: Ryan, J. L., Heckler, C. E., Roscoe, J. A., Dakhil, S. R., Kirshner, J., Flynn, P. J., … & Morrow, G. R. (2012). Ginger (Zingiber officinale) reduces acute chemotherapy-induced nausea: a URCC CCOP study of 576 patients. Supportive care in cancer, 20(7), 1479-1489.

HELICHRYSUM

H. italicum ssp. italicum was studied in vivo and in vitro and demonstrated an intestinal antispasmodic effect. From: Rigano, D., Formisano, C., Senatore, F., Piacente, S., Pagano, E., Capasso, R., … & Izzo, A. A. (2013). Intestinal antispasmodic effects of Helichrysum italicum (Roth) Don ssp. Italicum and chemical identification of the active ingredients. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 150(3), 901-906.
Researchers studied H. italicum ssp. Italicum flowers in vitro and in vivo and found the ethanolic extract elicited antispasmodic actions in a mouse ileum and inhibited inflammation. From: Senatore, F., Izzo, A. A., Capasso, R., Rigano, D., Borrelli, F., Formisano, C., … & Piacente, S. (2013). Intestinal antispasmodic effects of Helichrysum italicum (Roth) Don ssp. italicum and chemical identification of the active ingredients.

HYSSOP

Hyssop essential oil and its constituent isopinocamphone had a muscle relaxing action on the intestine in vitro. From: Lu, M., Battinelli, L., Daniele, C., Melchioni, C., Salvatore, G., & Mazzanti, G. (2002). Muscle relaxing activity of Hyssopus officinalis essential oil on isolated intestinal preparations. Planta medica, 68(03), 213-216.
Hyssop and its linalool constituent showed spasmolytic action on guinea pig ileum. From: Mazzanti, G., Lu, M., & Salvatore, G. (1998). Spasmolytic action of the essential oil from Hyssopus officinalis L. var. decumbens and its major components. Phytotherapy research, 12(S1).

JASMINE

Leaves of Jasminum grandiflorum possessed potential anti-ulcer activity. From: Umamaheswari, M., Asokkumar, K., Rathidevi, R., Sivashanmugam, A. T., Subhadradevi, V., & Ravi, T. K. (2007). Antiulcer and in vitro antioxidant activities of Jasminum grandiflorum L. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 110(3), 464-470.
The leaves and roots from Jasmine grandiflorum have been used in folk medicine to treat stomach and skin ulcers. An in vivo study demonstrated reduced gastric acid in rats. From: Hunasagi, B. S., Kalyane, N. V., & Somashekhar, M. (2018). Phyto chemical investigation & anti-ulcer activity of Jasminum grandiflorum. Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry, 7(4), 2201-2203.

JUNIPER

Helicobacter pylori causes gastritis and peptic ulcer disease. Botanical extracts that were most effective against H. pylori included: Carum carvi, Elettaria cardamomum, Gentiana lutea, Juniper communis, Lavandula angustifolia, Melissa officinalis, Mentha piperita, Pimpinella anisum, Matricaria recutita, and Ginkgo biloba. From: Mahady, G. B., Pendland, S. L., Stoia, A., Hamill, F. A., Fabricant, D., Dietz, B. M., & Chadwick, L. R. (2005). In vitro susceptibility of Helicobacter pylori to botanical extracts used traditionally for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. Phytotherapy research, 19(11), 988-991.

LADY’S MANTLE

Research was reviewed on the following plants for treating recurrent apthous (mouth) ulcers: Satureja khuzistanica, Aloe vera, Myrrh, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Alchemilla vulgaris, Myrtus communis, Melissa officinalis, Rhizophora mangle, Chamomile, Rosa damascena, Nicotiana tabacum, Punica granatum, Ageratina pichinchensis, Norwegian LongoVital, Lavendula angustifolia oil, and Perilla frutescens oil. From: Heydarpour, F., Abasabadi, M., Shahpiri, Z., Vaziri, S., Nazari, H. A., Najafi, F., … & Farzaei, M. H. (2018). Medicinal plant and their bioactive phytochemicals in the treatment of recurrent aphthous ulcers: A review of clinical trials. Pharmacognosy Reviews, 12(23), 27.

LAVENDER

A total of 184 patients were randomized into 4 groups: Aromatherapy with lavender essential oil, rose essential, ginger essential oil, or with just water. The lavender and ginger groups had the greatest reduction in postoperative nausea. The rose group had a slightly better reduction in post operative naseau that the water group. From: Karaman, S., Karaman, T., Tapar, H., Dogru, S., & Suren, M. (2019). A randomized placebo-controlled study of aromatherapy for the treatment of postoperative nausea and vomiting. Complementary therapies in medicine, 42, 417-421.
In a randomized study with 121 patients having postoperative nausea, a blend of lavender, ginger, peppermint, and spearmint in a portable inhaler was effective and well received by patients. From: Hodge, N. S., McCarthy, M. S., & Pierce, R. M. (2014). A prospective randomized study of the effectiveness of aromatherapy for relief of postoperative nausea and vomiting. Journal of PeriAnesthesia Nursing, 29(1), 5-11.
Helicobacter pylori causes gastritis and peptic ulcer disease. Botanical extracts that were most effective against H. pylori included: Carum carvi, Elettaria cardamomum, Gentiana lutea, Juniper communis, Lavandula angustifolia, Melissa officinalis, Mentha piperita, Pimpinella anisum, Matricaria recutita, and Ginkgo biloba. From: Mahady, G. B., Pendland, S. L., Stoia, A., Hamill, F. A., Fabricant, D., Dietz, B. M., & Chadwick, L. R. (2005). In vitro susceptibility of Helicobacter pylori to botanical extracts used traditionally for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. Phytotherapy research, 19(11), 988-991.

LEMON

An essential oil blend including rosemary, lemon, and peppermint rubbed on the abdomine reduced constipation in the elderly. From: Kim, M. A., Sakong, J. K., Kim, E. J., & Kim, E. H. (2005). Effect of aromatherapy massage for the relief of constipation in the elderly. Taehan Kanho Hakhoe Chi, 35(1), 56-64.
In a randomized controlled trial of 90 pregnant women, both the aromas of lemon and ginger helped reduce nausea. From: Kustriyanti, D., & Putri, A. A. (2019). The Effect of Ginger and Lemon Aromatherapy on Nausea and Vomiting among Pregnant Women. Jurnal Keperawatan Soedirman, 14(1), 15-22.
Lemon and its constituents of limonene showed gastroprotective activity, causing mucus formation in vivo. From: Rozza, A. L., de Mello Moraes, T., Kushima, H., Tanimoto, A., Marques, M. O. M., Bauab, T. M., … & Pellizzon, C. H. (2011). Gastroprotective mechanisms of Citrus lemon (Rutaceae) essential oil and its majority compounds limonene and β-pinene: Involvement of heat-shock protein-70, vasoactive intestinal peptide, glutathione, sulfhydryl compounds, nitric oxide and prostaglandin E2. Chemico-biological interactions, 189(1-2), 82-89.

LEMONGRASS

Lemongrass decoctions had an anti-diarrheal effect in mice using three different experimental methods. From: Tangpu, V., & Yadav, A. K. (2006). Antidiarrhoeal activity of Cymbopogon citratus and its main constituent, citral. Pharmacologyonline, 2, 290-298.
Lemongrass extracts showed an anti-inflammatory action that could be useful in treating gastrointestinal issues. From: Figueirinha, A., Cruz, M. T., Francisco, V., Lopes, M. C., & Batista, M. T. (2010). Anti-inflammatory activity of Cymbopogon citratus leaf infusion in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated dendritic cells: contribution of the polyphenols. Journal of Medicinal Food, 13(3), 681-690.

LICORICE

Polysaccharides from the roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice) were strong anti-adhesives against Helicobacter pylori gastric bacteria invasions. From: Wittschier, N., Faller, G., & Hensel, A. (2009). Aqueous extracts and polysaccharides from liquorice roots (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.) inhibit adhesion of Helicobacter pylori to human gastric mucosa. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 125(2), 218-223.
Deglycyrrhizinated licorice reduced gastric mucosal damage in rats. From: Rees, W. D. W., Rhodes, J., Wright, J. E., Stamford, I. F., & Bennett, A. (1979). Effect of deglycyrrhizinated liquorice on gastric mucosal damage by aspirin. Scandinavian journal of gastroenterology, 14(5), 605-607.
Research was reviewed on the following plants for treating recurrent apthous (mouth) ulcers: Satureja khuzistanica, Aloe vera, Myrrh, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Alchemilla vulgaris, Myrtus communis, Melissa officinalis, Rhizophora mangle, Chamomile, Rosa damascena, Nicotiana tabacum, Punica granatum, Ageratina pichinchensis, Norwegian LongoVital, Lavendula angustifolia oil, and Perilla frutescens oil. From: Heydarpour, F., Abasabadi, M., Shahpiri, Z., Vaziri, S., Nazari, H. A., Najafi, F., … & Farzaei, M. H. (2018). Medicinal plant and their bioactive phytochemicals in the treatment of recurrent aphthous ulcers: A review of clinical trials. Pharmacognosy Reviews, 12(23), 27.
Deglycyrrhizinated licorice reduced gastric mucosal damage in rats. From: Rees, W. D. W., Rhodes, J., Wright, J. E., Stamford, I. F., & Bennett, A. (1979). Effect of deglycyrrhizinated liquorice on gastric mucosal damage by aspirin. Scandinavian journal of gastroenterology, 14(5), 605-607.
Deglycyrrhizinated licorice improved stomach epithelium in rats. From: Van Marle, J., Aarsen, P. N., Lind, A., & Van Weeren-Kramer, J. (1981). Deglycyrrhizinised liquorice (DGL) and the renewal of rat stomach epithelium. European journal of pharmacology, 72(2-3), 219-225.
Extracts from Iberis amara (candytuft), Melissa officinalis (Melissa), Matricaria recutita (chamomile), Carum carvi (caraway), Mentha piperita (peppermint), Glycyrrhtza glabra (licorice), Angelica archangelica (Angelica), Silybum marianum (milk thistle), and Chelidonium majus (celandines) demonstrated in vivo antiulcer activity alone and as a combined formulation. From: Khayyal, M. T., El-Ghazaly, M. A., Kenawy, S. A., Seif-El-Nasr, M., Mahran, L. G., Kafafi, Y. A., & Okpanyi, S. N. (2001). Antiulcerogenic effect of some gastrointestinally acting plant extracts and their combination. Arzneimittelforschung, 51(07), 545-553.

MANUKA

Leptospermone from the essential oil of Leptospermum scoparium strongly inhibited the growth of C. difficile and C. perfringens human intestinal bacteria. From: Jeong, E. Y., Jeon, J. H., Kim, H. W., Kim, M. G., & Lee, H. S. (2009). Antimicrobial activity of leptospermone and its derivatives against human intestinal bacteria. Food chemistry, 115(4), 1401-1404.
Manuka honey was antibacterial against Staphyloccal microbes associated with the digestive tract in vitro. From: Mannina, L., Sobolev, A. P., Coppo, E., Di Lorenzo, A., Nabavi, S. M., Marchese, A., & Daglia, M. (2016). Antistaphylococcal activity and metabolite profiling of manuka honey (Leptospermum scoparium L.) after in vitro simulated digestion. Food & function, 7(3), 1664-1670.

MARSHMALLOW

Meadowsweet, okra, eyebright, marshmallow, and plantain were reviewed as botanicals for acid reflux. From: Olivier, R. (2014). Specific botanicals as an aid for acid reflux. Published on the web on Jan, 9.
In vitro, marshmallow extracts stimulated epithelial cells to support the traditional use for treatment of irritated mucous membranes. From: Deters, A., Zippel, J., Hellenbrand, N., Pappai, D., Possemeyer, C., & Hensel, A. (2010). Aqueous extracts and polysaccharides from Marshmallow roots (Althea officinalis L.): Cellular internalisation and stimulation of cell physiology of human epithelial cells in vitro. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 127(1), 62-69.

MEADOWSWEET

Meadowsweet, okra, eyebright, marshmallow, and plantain were reviewed as botanicals for acid reflux. From: Olivier, R. (2014). Specific botanicals as an aid for acid reflux. Published on the web on Jan, 9.

MELISSA / LEMON BALM

In a study of 32 patients with irritable bowel syndrome, a blend of Melissa officinalis (lemon balm), Mentha spicata (spearmint), and Coriandrum sativum (coriander seed) taken with either loperamide or psyllium reduced pain and bloating over the placebo. From: Vejdani, R., Shalmani, H. R. M., Mir-Fattahi, M., Sajed-Nia, F., Abdollahi, M., Zali, M. R., … & Amin, G. (2006). The efficacy of an herbal medicine, Carmint, on the relief of abdominal pain and bloating in patients with irritable bowel syndrome: a pilot study. Digestive diseases and sciences, 51(8), 1501-1507.
Ginger, peppermint, aniseed and fennel, citrus fruits, dandelion and artichoke, melissa, and chamomile have digestive enhancing activities. From: Valussi, M. (2012). Functional foods with digestion-enhancing properties. International journal of food sciences and nutrition, 63(sup1), 82-89.
Helicobacter pylori causes gastritis and peptic ulcer disease. Botanical extracts that were most effective against H. pylori included: Carum carvi, Elettaria cardamomum, Gentiana lutea, Juniper communis, Lavandula angustifolia, Melissa officinalis, Mentha piperita, Pimpinella anisum, Matricaria recutita, and Ginkgo biloba. From: Mahady, G. B., Pendland, S. L., Stoia, A., Hamill, F. A., Fabricant, D., Dietz, B. M., & Chadwick, L. R. (2005). In vitro susceptibility of Helicobacter pylori to botanical extracts used traditionally for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. Phytotherapy research, 19(11), 988-991.
Research was reviewed on the following plants for treating recurrent apthous (mouth) ulcers: Satureja khuzistanica, Aloe vera, Myrrh, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Alchemilla vulgaris, Myrtus communis, Melissa officinalis, Rhizophora mangle, Chamomile, Rosa damascena, Nicotiana tabacum, Punica granatum, Ageratina pichinchensis, Norwegian LongoVital, Lavendula angustifolia oil, and Perilla frutescens oil. From: Heydarpour, F., Abasabadi, M., Shahpiri, Z., Vaziri, S., Nazari, H. A., Najafi, F., … & Farzaei, M. H. (2018). Medicinal plant and their bioactive phytochemicals in the treatment of recurrent aphthous ulcers: A review of clinical trials. Pharmacognosy Reviews, 12(23), 27.
Extracts from Iberis amara (candytuft), Melissa officinalis (Melissa), Matricaria recutita (chamomile), Carum carvi (caraway), Mentha piperita (peppermint), Glycyrrhtza glabra (licorice), Angelica archangelica (Angelica), Silybum marianum (milk thistle), and Chelidonium majus (celandines) demonstrated in vivo antiulcer activity alone and as a combined formulation. From: Khayyal, M. T., El-Ghazaly, M. A., Kenawy, S. A., Seif-El-Nasr, M., Mahran, L. G., Kafafi, Y. A., & Okpanyi, S. N. (2001). Antiulcerogenic effect of some gastrointestinally acting plant extracts and their combination. Arzneimittelforschung, 51(07), 545-553.

MILK THISTLE

Extracts from Iberis amara (candytuft), Melissa officinalis (Melissa), Matricaria recutita (chamomile), Carum carvi (caraway), Mentha piperita (peppermint), Glycyrrhtza glabra (licorice), Angelica archangelica (Angelica), Silybum marianum (milk thistle), and Chelidonium majus (celandines) demonstrated in vivo antiulcer activity alone and as a combined formulation. From: Khayyal, M. T., El-Ghazaly, M. A., Kenawy, S. A., Seif-El-Nasr, M., Mahran, L. G., Kafafi, Y. A., & Okpanyi, S. N. (2001). Antiulcerogenic effect of some gastrointestinally acting plant extracts and their combination. Arzneimittelforschung, 51(07), 545-553.

MYRRH

Aloe and myrrh reduced stomach ulcer symptoms in human patients. From: Mansour, G., Ouda, S., Shaker, A., & Abdallah, H. M. (2014). Clinical efficacy of new aloe vera‐and myrrh‐based oral mucoadhesive gels in the management of minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis: a randomized, double‐blind, vehicle‐controlled study. Journal of Oral Pathology & Medicine, 43(6), 405-409.
Research was reviewed on the following plants for treating recurrent apthous (mouth) ulcers: Satureja khuzistanica, Aloe vera, Myrrh, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Alchemilla vulgaris, Myrtus communis, Melissa officinalis, Rhizophora mangle, Chamomile, Rosa damascena, Nicotiana tabacum, Punica granatum, Ageratina pichinchensis, Norwegian LongoVital, Lavendula angustifolia oil, and Perilla frutescens oil. From: Heydarpour, F., Abasabadi, M., Shahpiri, Z., Vaziri, S., Nazari, H. A., Najafi, F., … & Farzaei, M. H. (2018). Medicinal plant and their bioactive phytochemicals in the treatment of recurrent aphthous ulcers: A review of clinical trials. Pharmacognosy Reviews, 12(23), 27.

MYRTLE

Research was reviewed on the following plants for treating recurrent apthous (mouth) ulcers: Satureja khuzistanica, Aloe vera, Myrrh, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Alchemilla vulgaris, Myrtus communis, Melissa officinalis, Rhizophora mangle, Chamomile, Rosa damascena, Nicotiana tabacum, Punica granatum, Ageratina pichinchensis, Norwegian LongoVital, Lavendula angustifolia oil, and Perilla frutescens oil. From: Heydarpour, F., Abasabadi, M., Shahpiri, Z., Vaziri, S., Nazari, H. A., Najafi, F., … & Farzaei, M. H. (2018). Medicinal plant and their bioactive phytochemicals in the treatment of recurrent aphthous ulcers: A review of clinical trials. Pharmacognosy Reviews, 12(23), 27.

NONI

In a study of 100 patients, the noni group who received a dose one hour before surgery had significantly less post operative nausea than the placebo. From: Prapaitrakool, S., & Itharat, A. (2011). Morinda citrifolia Linn. for prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting. Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand, 93(12), 204.

NUTMEG

The following methanol extracts showed activity against Helicobacter pylori which causes gastrointestinal disorders: Myristica fragrans (nutmeg seed), Zingiber officinale (ginger root), Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary leaf), Achillea millefolium (yarrow), Foeniculum vulgare (fennel seed), Passiflora incarnata (passionflower), Origanum majorana (oregano), and others. From: Mahady, G. B., Pendland, S. L., Stoia, A., Hamill, F. A., Fabricant, D., Dietz, B. M., & Chadwick, L. R. (2005). In vitro susceptibility of Helicobacter pylori to botanical extracts used traditionally for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. Phytotherapy research, 19(11), 988-991.

OREGANO

Oreganum vulgare was orally administered to 14 adult patients whose stools tested positive for enteric parasites, reducing the incidence of, Blastocystis hominis, Entamoeba hartmanni and Endolimax nana, and improving gastrointestinal symptoms. From: Force, M., Sparks, W. S., & Ronzio, R. A. (2000). Inhibition of enteric parasites by emulsified oil of oregano in vivo. Phytotherapy Research, 14(3), 213-214.
Thyme and oregano essential reduced inflammation and colitis in mice. From: Bukovská, A., Cikoš, Š., Juhás, Š., Il’ková, G., Rehák, P., & Koppel, J. (2007). Effects of a combination of thyme and oregano essential oils on TNBS-induced colitis in mice. Mediators of inflammation, 2007.
Cinnamon, clove, oregano, and thyme at the right dose can reduce E. coli with minimal intestine cell cytotoxicity. From: Dušan, F., Marián, S., Katarína, D., & Dobroslava, B. (2006). Essential oils—their antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli and effect on intestinal cell viability. Toxicology in vitro, 20(8), 1435-1445.
Carvacrol reduced inflammation in paw edema, likely interfering with the release / synthesis of inflammatory mediators like prostanoids, and may be useful in healing gastric ulcers. From: Silva, F. V., Guimarães, A. G., Silva, E. R., Sousa-Neto, B. P., Machado, F. D., Quintans-Júnior, L. J., … & Oliveira, R. C. (2012). Anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcer activities of carvacrol, a monoterpene present in the essential oil of oregano. Journal of medicinal food, 15(11), 984-991.
The following methanol extracts showed activity against Helicobacter pylori which causes gastrointestinal disorders: Myristica fragrans (nutmeg seed), Zingiber officinale (ginger root), Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary leaf), Achillea millefolium (yarrow), Foeniculum vulgare (fennel seed), Passiflora incarnata (passionflower), Origanum majorana (oregano), and others. From: Mahady, G. B., Pendland, S. L., Stoia, A., Hamill, F. A., Fabricant, D., Dietz, B. M., & Chadwick, L. R. (2005). In vitro susceptibility of Helicobacter pylori to botanical extracts used traditionally for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. Phytotherapy research, 19(11), 988-991.

PARSLEY

Extracts of parsley had an antispasmodic effect on rat ileum. From: Branković, S., Kitić, D., Radenković, M., Ivetić, V., Veljković, S., & Nešić, M. (2010). Relaxant activity of aqueous and ethanol extracts of parsley (Petroselinum crispum (Mill.) Nym. ex AW Hill, Apiaceae) on isolated ileum of rat. Medicinski pregled, 63(7-8), 475-478.
Parsley affected electrolyte levels to have a laxative effect in rats. From: Kreydiyyeh, S. I., Usta, J., Kaouk, I., & Al-Sadi, R. (2001). The mechanism underlying the laxative properties of parsley extract. Phytomedicine, 8(5), 382-388.
Parsley extract reduced gastric ulcers in rats. From: Al-Howiriny, T., Al-Sohaibani, M., El-Tahir, K., & Rafatullah, S. (2003). Prevention of experimentally-induced gastric ulcers in rats by an ethanolic extract of” Parsley” Petroselinum crispum. The American journal of Chinese medicine, 31(05), 699-711.

PASSION FLOWER

The following methanol extracts showed activity against Helicobacter pylori which causes gastrointestinal disorders: Myristica fragrans (nutmeg seed), Zingiber officinale (ginger root), Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary leaf), Achillea millefolium (yarrow), Foeniculum vulgare (fennel seed), Passiflora incarnata (passionflower), Origanum majorana (oregano), and others. From: Mahady, G. B., Pendland, S. L., Stoia, A., Hamill, F. A., Fabricant, D., Dietz, B. M., & Chadwick, L. R. (2005). In vitro susceptibility of Helicobacter pylori to botanical extracts used traditionally for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. Phytotherapy research, 19(11), 988-991.

PATCHOULI

Patchouli alcohol reduced ulcers in vivo with mucus forming activity. From: Zheng, Y. F., Xie, J. H., Xu, Y. F., Liang, Y. Z., Mo, Z. Z., Jiang, W. W., … & Su, Z. R. (2014). Gastroprotective effect and mechanism of patchouli alcohol against ethanol, indomethacin and stress-induced ulcer in rats. Chemico-biological interactions, 222, 27-36.
Patchouli extracts supressed colon inflammation in vitro and in vivo. From: Park, S. Y., Neupane, G. P., Lee, S. O., Lee, J. S., Kim, M. Y., Kim, S. Y., … & Kim, J. A. (2014). Protective effects of Pogostemon cablin Bentham water extract on inflammatory cytokine expression in TNBS-induced colitis in rats. Archives of pharmacal research, 37(2), 253-262.
Inhalation of patchouli oil reduced constipation in mice. From: Mikuriya, N., Kim, Y., & Fujimura, K. (2004). The effect of the aroma of patchouli essential oil on defecation and constipation. Aroma Res, 5, 70-75.
Patchouli was protective against gastro-intestinal trauma in vivo. From: Xie, Y., & Tang, F. (2009). Protective effect of Pogostemon cablin on membrane fluidity of intestinal epithelia cell in ischemia/reperfusion rats after ischemia/reperfusion. Zhongguo Zhong xi yi jie he za zhi Zhongguo Zhongxiyi jiehe zazhi= Chinese journal of integrated traditional and Western medicine, 29(7), 639-641.

PEPPERMINT

Seventeen randomized clinical trials for the herbal treatment of non-ulcer dyspepsia were reviews. Nine studies involved peppermint and caraway and showed promising results. More research is necessary. From: Thompson Coon, J., & Ernst, E. (2002). Herbal medicinal products for non‐ulcer dyspepsia. Alimentary pharmacology & therapeutics, 16(10), 1689-1699.
Patients treated orally with a peppermint / caraway oil showed good tolerability and reduced symptoms associated with functional dyspepsia. From: May, B., Köhler, S., & Schneider, B. (2000). Efficacy and tolerability of a fixed combination of peppermint oil and caraway oil in patients suffering from functional dyspepsia. Alimentary pharmacology & therapeutics, 14(12), 1671-1677.
In nine studies, peppermint oil improved gastrointestinal health. From: Grigoleit, H. G., & Grigoleit, P. (2005). Gastrointestinal clinical pharmacology of peppermint oil. Phytomedicine, 12(8), 607-611.
In a single blind, randomized, controlled trial, 26 patients who performed controlled breathing with peppermint aroma showed reduced postoperative nausea compared to 16 patients who just performed controlled breathing. From: Sites, D. S., Johnson, N. T., Miller, J. A., Torbush, P. H., Hardin, J. S., Knowles, S. S., … & Tart, R. C. (2014). Controlled breathing with or without peppermint aromatherapy for postoperative nausea and/or vomiting symptom relief: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of PeriAnesthesia Nursing, 29(1), 12-19.
Enteric coated peppermint capsules reduced irritable bowel syndrome symptoms in humans. From: Merat, S., Khalili, S., Mostajabi, P., Ghorbani, A., Ansari, R., & Malekzadeh, R. (2010). The effect of enteric-coated, delayed-release peppermint oil on irritable bowel syndrome. Digestive diseases and sciences, 55(5), 1385-1390.
In this mega analysis on herbal remedies for IBS, peppermint was identified as effective from multiple studies. From: Rahimi, R., & Abdollahi, M. (2012). Herbal medicines for the management of irritable bowel syndrome: a comprehensive review. World J Gastroenterol, 18(7), 589-600.
An essential oil blend including rosemary, lemon, and peppermint rubbed on the abdomen reduced constipation in the elderly. From: Kim, M. A., Sakong, J. K., Kim, E. J., & Kim, E. H. (2005). Effect of aromatherapy massage for the relief of constipation in the elderly. Taehan Kanho Hakhoe Chi, 35(1), 56-64.
In a double blind study of 322 postoperative patients, aromatherapy with ginger and peppermint significantly reduced nausea. From: Fearrington, M. A., Qualls, B. W., & Carey, M. G. (2019). Essential Oils to Reduce Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting. Journal of PeriAnesthesia Nursing.
In a randomized study with 121 patients having postoperative nausea, a blend of lavender, ginger, peppermint, and spearmint in a portable inhaler was effective and well received by patients. From: Hodge, N. S., McCarthy, M. S., & Pierce, R. M. (2014). A prospective randomized study of the effectiveness of aromatherapy for relief of postoperative nausea and vomiting. Journal of PeriAnesthesia Nursing, 29(1), 5-11.
Ginger, peppermint, aniseed and fennel, citrus fruits, dandelion and artichoke, melissa, and chamomile have digestive enhancing activities. From: Valussi, M. (2012). Functional foods with digestion-enhancing properties. International journal of food sciences and nutrition, 63(sup1), 82-89.
Helicobacter pylori causes gastritis and peptic ulcer disease. Botanical extracts that were most effective against H. pylori included: Carum carvi, Elettaria cardamomum, Gentiana lutea, Juniper communis, Lavandula angustifolia, Melissa officinalis, Mentha piperita, Pimpinella anisum, Matricaria recutita, and Ginkgo biloba. From: Mahady, G. B., Pendland, S. L., Stoia, A., Hamill, F. A., Fabricant, D., Dietz, B. M., & Chadwick, L. R. (2005). In vitro susceptibility of Helicobacter pylori to botanical extracts used traditionally for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. Phytotherapy research, 19(11), 988-991.
Peppermint capsules reduced symptoms of irritable bowels. From: Cappello, G., Spezzaferro, M., Grossi, L., Manzoli, L., & Marzio, L. (2007). Peppermint oil (Mintoil®) in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome: a prospective double blind placebo-controlled randomized trial. Digestive and liver disease, 39(6), 530-536.
Artemisia ludoviciana, Cuphea aequipetala, Ludwigia repens, Mentha piperita, Persea americana, Annona cherimola, Guaiacum coulteri, and Moussonia deppeana showed the highest inhibitory effect against helicobacter pylori, a bacteria that causes gastrointestinal disorders. From: Castillo-Juárez, I., González, V., Jaime-Aguilar, H., Martínez, G., Linares, E., Bye, R., & Romero, I. (2009). Anti-Helicobacter pylori activity of plants used in Mexican traditional medicine for gastrointestinal disorders. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 122(2), 402-405.
Peppermint oil enhanced gastric emptying. From: Inamori, M., Akiyama, T., Akimoto, K., Fujita, K., Takahashi, H., Yoneda, M., … & Nakajima, A. (2007). Early effects of peppermint oil on gastric emptying: a crossover study using a continuous real-time 13C breath test (BreathID system). Journal of gastroenterology, 42(7), 539-542.
Peppermint increased bile flow in rats. From: Trabace, L., Avato, P., Mazzoccoli, M., & Siro‐Brigiani, G. (1994). Cholertic activity of Thapsia chem I, II, and III in rats: Comparison with terpenoid constituents and peppermint oil. Phytotherapy Research, 8(5), 305-307.
In a study of 25 patients who were also using other medicines, a synergistic blend of Pimpinella anisum (anise), Foeniculum vulgare (sweet fennel), Anthemis nobilis (Roman chamomile) and Mentha piperita (peppermint) resulted in nausea relief. From: Gilligan, N. P. (2005). The palliation of nausea in hospice and palliative care patients with essential oils of Pimpinella anisum (aniseed), Foeniculum vulgare var. dulce (sweet fennel), Anthemis nobilis (Roman chamomile) and Mentha x piperita (peppermint). International Journal of Aromatherapy, 15(4), 163-167.
In a double blind study of 322 postoperative patients, aromatherapy with ginger and peppermint significantly reduced nausea. From: Fearrington, M. A., Qualls, B. W., & Carey, M. G. (2019). Essential Oils to Reduce Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting. Journal of PeriAnesthesia Nursing.
Peppermint oil and menthol exert an antiemetic effect in vitro. From: Heimes, K., Hauk, F., & Verspohl, E. J. (2011). Mode of action of peppermint oil and (‐)‐menthol with respect to 5‐HT3 receptor subtypes: binding studies, cation uptake by receptor channels and contraction of isolated rat ileum. Phytotherapy Research, 25(5), 702-708.
Peppermint reduced postoperative nausea. From: Tate, S. (1997). Peppermint oil: a treatment for postoperative nausea. Journal of advanced nursing, 26(3), 543-549.
Peppermint and spearmint reduced chemotherapy induced nausea and vomiting. From: Tayarani-Najaran, Z., Talasaz-Firoozi, E., Nasiri, R., Jalali, N., & Hassanzadeh, M. K. (2013). Antiemetic activity of volatile oil from Mentha spicata and Mentha× piperita in chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. ecancermedicalscience, 7, 290.
Extracts from Iberis amara (candytuft), Melissa officinalis (Melissa), Matricaria recutita (chamomile), Carum carvi (caraway), Mentha piperita (peppermint), Glycyrrhtza glabra (licorice), Angelica archangelica (Angelica), Silybum marianum (milk thistle), and Chelidonium majus (celandines) demonstrated in vivo antiulcer activity alone and as a combined formulation. From: Khayyal, M. T., El-Ghazaly, M. A., Kenawy, S. A., Seif-El-Nasr, M., Mahran, L. G., Kafafi, Y. A., & Okpanyi, S. N. (2001). Antiulcerogenic effect of some gastrointestinally acting plant extracts and their combination. Arzneimittelforschung, 51(07), 545-553.
In a meta-review of 12 randomized controlled trials and 591 patients, peppermint oil showed spasmolytic activity related to IBS. From: Ford, A. C., Talley, N. J., Spiegel, B. M., Foxx-Orenstein, A. E., Schiller, L., Quigley, E. M., & Moayyedi, P. (2008). Effect of fibre, antispasmodics, and peppermint oil in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome: systematic review and meta-analysis. Bmj, 337, a2313.
In a barium solution mixed with peppermint oil was safe and effective for eliminating colonic spasm during an enema procedure. From: Asao, T., Kuwano, H., Ide, M., Hirayama, I., Nakamura, J. I., Fujita, K. I., & Horiuti, R. (2003). Spasmolytic effect of peppermint oil in barium during double-contrast barium enema compared with Buscopan. Clinical radiology, 58(4), 301-305.
Reasons for peppermint oils spasmolytic effect on the gastrointestinal tract are discussed. From: Grigoleit, H. G., & Grigoleit, P. (2005). Pharmacology and preclinical pharmacokinetics of peppermint oil. Phytomedicine, 12(8), 612-616.

PLANTAIN

Meadowsweet, okra, eyebright, marshmallow, and plantain were reviewed as botanicals for acid reflux. From: Olivier, R. (2014). Specific botanicals as an aid for acid reflux. Published on the web on Jan, 9.
Aqueous extracts of the following herbs had antiulcerogenic activity when given orally to rats: Cedrus libani (Lebanon cedar), Centaurea solstitialis (yellow star thistle), Cistus laurifolius (cistus), Hypericum scabrum, Plantago major (plantain), Sambucus ebulus (danewort) and Spartium junceum (Spanish broom). From: Yeşilada, E., Sezik, E., Fujita, T., Tanaka, S., & Tabata, M. (1993). Screening of some Turkish medicinal plants for their antiulcerogenic activities. Phytotherapy Research, 7(3), 263-265.

POMEGRANATE

Research was reviewed on the following plants for treating recurrent apthous (mouth) ulcers: Satureja khuzistanica, Aloe vera, Myrrh, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Alchemilla vulgaris, Myrtus communis, Melissa officinalis, Rhizophora mangle, Chamomile, Rosa damascena, Nicotiana tabacum, Punica granatum, Ageratina pichinchensis, Norwegian LongoVital, Lavendula angustifolia oil, and Perilla frutescens oil. From: Heydarpour, F., Abasabadi, M., Shahpiri, Z., Vaziri, S., Nazari, H. A., Najafi, F., … & Farzaei, M. H. (2018). Medicinal plant and their bioactive phytochemicals in the treatment of recurrent aphthous ulcers: A review of clinical trials. Pharmacognosy Reviews, 12(23), 27.

PSYLLIUM

A combination of celandin, aloe vera and psyllium was an effective laxative in constipated patients.From: Odes, H. S., & Madar, Z. (1991). A double-blind trial of a celandin, aloevera and psyllium laxative preparation in adult patients with constipation. Digestion, 49(2), 65-71.
Psyllium with senna improved bowel movements in constipated ambulatory patients. From: Marlett, J. A., Li, U. K., Patrow, C. J., & Bass, P. (1987). Comparative laxation of psyllium with and without senna in an ambulatory constipated population. American journal of gastroenterology, 82(4).

RASPBERRY

Tea made from raspberry leaves showed intestinal relaxant activity in vitro. From: Rojas‐Vera, J., Patel, A. V., & Dacke, C. G. (2002). Relaxant activity of raspberry (Rubus idaeus) leaf extract in guinea‐pig ileum in vitro. Phytotherapy Research, 16(7), 665-668.
Ellagitannis from raspberries and blackberries reduced gastric inflammation. From: Sangiovanni, E., Vrhovsek, U., Rossoni, G., Colombo, E., Brunelli, C., Brembati, L., … & Dell’Agli, M. (2013). Ellagitannins from Rubus berries for the control of gastric inflammation: in vitro and in vivo studies. PloS one, 8(8), e71762.
Extracts of raspberry, strawberry, cranberry, elderberry, blueberry, and bilberry inhibited Helicobacter pylori in vitro. From: Chatterjee, A., Yasmin, T., Bagchi, D., & Stohs, S. J. (2004). Inhibition of Helicobacter pylori in vitro by various berry extracts, with enhanced susceptibility to clarithromycin. Molecular and cellular biochemistry, 265(1), 19-26.

RHUBARB

Turkey rhubarb reduced upper digestive tract bleeding in 97% of 400 cases. From: Dong-hai, J., Yu-hua, M., Shou-jing, C., Chuen-tang, L., Hung-nien, S., & Chang-min, C. (1980). Resume of 400 cases of acute upper digestive tract bleeding treated by rhubarb alone. Pharmacology, 20(Suppl. 1), 128-130.

ROSE

A total of 184 patients were randomized into 4 groups: Aromatherapy with lavender essential oil, rose essential, ginger essential oil, or with just water. The lavender and ginger groups had the greatest reduction in postoperative nausea. The rose group had a slightly better reduction in post operative naseau that the water group. From: Karaman, S., Karaman, T., Tapar, H., Dogru, S., & Suren, M. (2019). A randomized placebo-controlled study of aromatherapy for the treatment of postoperative nausea and vomiting. Complementary therapies in medicine, 42, 417-421.
Research was reviewed on the following plants for treating recurrent apthous (mouth) ulcers: Satureja khuzistanica, Aloe vera, Myrrh, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Alchemilla vulgaris, Myrtus communis, Melissa officinalis, Rhizophora mangle, Chamomile, Rosa damascena, Nicotiana tabacum, Punica granatum, Ageratina pichinchensis, Norwegian LongoVital, Lavendula angustifolia oil, and Perilla frutescens oil. From: Heydarpour, F., Abasabadi, M., Shahpiri, Z., Vaziri, S., Nazari, H. A., Najafi, F., … & Farzaei, M. H. (2018). Medicinal plant and their bioactive phytochemicals in the treatment of recurrent aphthous ulcers: A review of clinical trials. Pharmacognosy Reviews, 12(23), 27.
Rose damascena was effective in reducing the inflammatory condition of ulcerative colitis in rats. From: Latifi, G., Ghannadi, A., & Minaiyan, M. (2015). Anti-inflammatory effect of volatile oil and hydroalcoholic extract of Rosa damascena Mill. on acetic acid-induced colitis in rats. Research in pharmaceutical sciences, 10(6), 514.
In a randomized double blind study of 50 patients, the use of a mouthwash containing Rosa damascena for two weeks reduced the incidence of mouth ulcers. From: Hoseinpour, H., Peel, S. A., Rakhshandeh, H., Forouzanfar, A., Taheri, M., Rajabi, O., … & Sohrabi, K. (2011). Evaluation of Rosa damascena mouthwash in the treatment of recurrent aphthous stomatitis: A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Quintessence International, 42(6).

ROSEMARY

An essential oil blend including rosemary, lemon, and peppermint rubbed on the abdomen reduced constipation in the elderly. From: Kim, M. A., Sakong, J. K., Kim, E. J., & Kim, E. H. (2005). Effect of aromatherapy massage for the relief of constipation in the elderly. Taehan Kanho Hakhoe Chi, 35(1), 56-64.
The following methanol extracts showed activity against Helicobacter pylori which causes gastrointestinal disorders: Myristica fragrans (nutmeg seed), Zingiber officinale (ginger root), Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary leaf), Achillea millefolium (yarrow), Foeniculum vulgare (fennel seed), Passiflora incarnata (passionflower), Origanum majorana (oregano), and others. From: Mahady, G. B., Pendland, S. L., Stoia, A., Hamill, F. A., Fabricant, D., Dietz, B. M., & Chadwick, L. R. (2005). In vitro susceptibility of Helicobacter pylori to botanical extracts used traditionally for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. Phytotherapy research, 19(11), 988-991.
Rosemary extracts reduced colon tissue lesions and colitis indices in rats and may be effective in treating irritable bowel syndrome. From: Minaiyan, M., Ghannadi, A., Afsharipour, M., & Mahzouni, P. (2011). Effects of extract and essential oil of Rosmarinus officinalis L. on TNBS-induced colitis in rats. Research in pharmaceutical sciences, 6(1), 13-21.

SENNA

This review of research suggests senna is a safe laxative without genotoxic, carcinogenic, digestive muscle risk. From: Morales, M. A., Hernández, D., Bustamante, S., Bachiller, I., & Rojas, A. (2009). Is senna laxative use associated to cathartic colon, genotoxicity, or carcinogenicity?. Journal of toxicology, 2009.
Bulk laxative plus senna was an efficient in treatment for constipation in geriatric patients. From: Kinnunen, O., Winblad, I., Koistinen, P., & Salokannel, J. (1993). Safety and efficacy of a bulk laxative containing senna versus lactulose in the treatment of chronic constipation in geriatric patients. Pharmacology, 47(Suppl. 1), 253-255.
Psyllium with senna improved bowel movements in constipated ambulatory patients. From: Marlett, J. A., Li, U. K., Patrow, C. J., & Bass, P. (1987). Comparative laxation of psyllium with and without senna in an ambulatory constipated population. American journal of gastroenterology, 82(4).

SLIPPERY ELM

Slippery elm, fenugreek, devil’s claw, tormentil and wei tong ning demonstrated antioxidant effects in cell-free oxidant-generating systems and inflamed human colorectal biopsies and could be useful in treating irritable bowel syndrome. From: Langmead, L., Dawson, C., Hawkins, C., Banna, N., Loo, S., & Rampton, D. S. (2002). Antioxidant effects of herbal therapies used by patients with inflammatory bowel disease: an in vitro study. Alimentary pharmacology & therapeutics, 16(2), 197-205.
An herb formula including slippery elm reduced symptoms of irritable bowels.From: Hawrelak, J. A., & Myers, S. P. (2010). Effects of two natural medicine formulations on irritable bowel syndrome symptoms: a pilot study. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 16(10), 1065-1071.

SPEARMINT

In a study of 32 patients with irritable bowel syndrome, a blend of Melissa officinalis (lemon balm), Mentha spicata (spearmint), and Coriandrum sativum (coriander seed) taken with either loperamide or psyllium reduced pain and bloating over the placebo. From: Vejdani, R., Shalmani, H. R. M., Mir-Fattahi, M., Sajed-Nia, F., Abdollahi, M., Zali, M. R., … & Amin, G. (2006). The efficacy of an herbal medicine, Carmint, on the relief of abdominal pain and bloating in patients with irritable bowel syndrome: a pilot study. Digestive diseases and sciences, 51(8), 1501-1507.
Peppermint and spearmint reduced chemotherapy induced nausea and vomiting. From: Tayarani-Najaran, Z., Talasaz-Firoozi, E., Nasiri, R., Jalali, N., & Hassanzadeh, M. K. (2013). Antiemetic activity of volatile oil from Mentha spicata and Mentha× piperita in chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. ecancermedicalscience, 7, 290.
In a randomized study with 121 patients having postoperative nausea, a blend of lavender, ginger, peppermint, and spearmint in a portable inhaler was effective and well received by patients. From: Hodge, N. S., McCarthy, M. S., & Pierce, R. M. (2014). A prospective randomized study of the effectiveness of aromatherapy for relief of postoperative nausea and vomiting. Journal of PeriAnesthesia Nursing, 29(1), 5-11.

TANNIC ACID

A product called Cesinex® whose major ingredient was tannic acid, was tested on cholera toxin-induced mice, and showed antidiarrheal properties: epithelial barrier ability, inhibited intestinal fluid secretion, and a high antioxidant capacity From: Ren, A., Zhang, W., Thomas, H. G., Barish, A., Berry, S., Kiel, J. S., & Naren, A. P. (2012). A tannic acid-based medical food, Cesinex®, exhibits broad-spectrum antidiarrheal properties: a mechanistic and clinical study. Digestive diseases and sciences, 57(1), 99-108.
Herbs high in tannins and flavonoids reduce diarrhea by increasing water in the colon and increasing electrolyte reabsorption. From: Palombo, E. A. (2006). Phytochemicals from traditional medicinal plants used in the treatment of diarrhoea: modes of action and effects on intestinal function. Phytotherapy Research, 20(9), 717-724.
Tannic acid offers protection against Salmonella colonization by improving the mucosal resistance in rats. From: van Ampting, M. T., Schonewille, A. J., Vink, C., Brummer, R. J. M., van der Meer, R., & Bovee‐Oudenhoven, I. M. (2010). Damage to the intestinal epithelial barrier by antibiotic pretreatment of Salmonella-infected rats is lessened by dietary calcium or tannic acid. The Journal of nutrition, 140(12), 2167-2172.

TARRAGON

Percutaneous application on neck of Zingiber officinale (ginger), Elletaria cardamomum (cardamom) and Artemisia dracunculus (tarragon) essential oils in equal parts reduced postoperative nausea and vomiting 50-75%. From: De Pradier, E. (2006). A trial of a mixture of three essential oils in the treatment of postoperative nausea and vomiting. International Journal of Aromatherapy, 16(1), 15-20.

THYME

Thyme and oregano essential reduced inflammation and colitis in mice. From: Bukovská, A., Cikoš, Š., Juhás, Š., Il’ková, G., Rehák, P., & Koppel, J. (2007). Effects of a combination of thyme and oregano essential oils on TNBS-induced colitis in mice. Mediators of inflammation, 2007.
Cinnamon, clove, oregano, and thyme at the right dose can reduce E. coli with minimal intestine cell cytotoxicity. From: Dušan, F., Marián, S., Katarína, D., & Dobroslava, B. (2006). Essential oils—their antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli and effect on intestinal cell viability. Toxicology in vitro, 20(8), 1435-1445.
Carvacrol reduced inflammation in paw edema, likely interfering with the release / synthesis of inflammatory mediators like prostanoids, and may be useful in healing gastric ulcers. From: Silva, F. V., Guimarães, A. G., Silva, E. R., Sousa-Neto, B. P., Machado, F. D., Quintans-Júnior, L. J., … & Oliveira, R. C. (2012). Anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcer activities of carvacrol, a monoterpene present in the essential oil of oregano. Journal of medicinal food, 15(11), 984-991.
Thymus vulgaris extract was antispasmodic action on guinea pig ileum. From: Babaei, M., Abarghoei, M. E., Ansari, R., Vafaei, A. A., Taherian, A. A., Akhavan, M. M., … & Mousavi, S. (2008). Antispasmodic effect of hydroalcoholic extract of Thymus vulgaris on the guinea-pig ileum. Natural product research, 22(13), 1143-1150.
Thymol has a spasmolytic effect on guinea pig stomach in vitro. From: Beer, A. M., Lukanov, J., & Sagorchev, P. (2007). Effect of Thymol on the spontaneous contractile activity of the smooth muscles. Phytomedicine, 14(1), 65-69.
Thyme extract had an antispasmodic effect on rat ileum and trachea, with thymol being a significant constituent. From: Begrow, F., Engelbertz, J., Feistel, B., Lehnfeld, R., Bauer, K., & Verspohl, E. J. (2010). Impact of thymol in thyme extracts on their antispasmodic action and ciliary clearance. Planta medica, 76(04), 311-318.

TURMERIC

In a study with 211 patients with irritable bowel syndrome, a product containing extracts of turmeric and fennel essential oil taken over two months significantly reduced symptoms. From: Di Ciaula, A., Portincasa, P., Maes, N., & Albert, A. (2018). Efficacy of bio-optimized extracts of turmeric and essential fennel oil on the quality of life in patients with irritable bowel syndrome. Annals of gastroenterology, 31(6), 685.

VERBENA, LEMON

The flavonoid vitexin from Aloysia citriodora contributed to the spasmolytic effect on rat duodenum. From: Ragone, M. I., Sella, M., Conforti, P., Volonté, M. G., & Consolini, A. E. (2007). The spasmolytic effect of Aloysia citriodora, Palau (South American cedrón) is partially due to its vitexin but not isovitexin on rat duodenums. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 113(2), 258-266

YARROW

In a small double blind study with 45 irritable bowel syndrome patients, those who took a yarrow supplement showed reduced symptom severity. A study with a larger sample size is warranted. From: Derakhshande, P., Navabi, S. J., Shokoohinia, Y., Rouhi-Broujeni, H., Deris, F., Behbood, L., … & Farzaei, M. H. (2019). Efficacy and safety of Achillea wilhelmsii C. Koch capsules on symptom severity and quality of life in patients with irritable bowel syndrome: a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine.
The following methanol extracts showed activity against Helicobacter pylori which causes gastrointestinal disorders: Myristica fragrans (nutmeg seed), Zingiber officinale (ginger root), Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary leaf), Achillea millefolium (yarrow), Foeniculum vulgare (fennel seed), Passiflora incarnata (passionflower), Origanum majorana (oregano), and others. From: Mahady, G. B., Pendland, S. L., Stoia, A., Hamill, F. A., Fabricant, D., Dietz, B. M., & Chadwick, L. R. (2005). In vitro susceptibility of Helicobacter pylori to botanical extracts used traditionally for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. Phytotherapy research, 19(11), 988-991.
Oral administration of yarrow extracts had a gastroprotective effect in vivo. From: Potrich, F. B., Allemand, A., da Silva, L. M., dos Santos, A. C., Baggio, C. H., Freitas, C. S., … & Marques, M. C. A. (2010). Antiulcerogenic activity of hydroalcoholic extract of Achillea millefolium L.: involvement of the antioxidant system. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 130(1), 85-92.
Yarrow showed anti-ulcer potential without toxicity, even after very long exposure. From: Cavalcanti, A. M., Baggio, C. H., Freitas, C. S., Rieck, L., De Sousa, R. S., Da Silva-Santos, J. E., … & Marques, M. C. A. (2006). Safety and antiulcer efficacy studies of Achillea millefolium L. after chronic treatment in Wistar rats. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 107(2), 277-284.
The following plant extracts were gastroprotective against H. pylori gastric infections in vitro: Achillea millefolium, Berberis aristata, Coriandrum sativum, Foeniculum vulgare, Matricaria chamomilla and Prunus domestica From: Zaidi, S. F., Muhammad, J. S., Shahryar, S., Usmanghani, K., Gilani, A. H., Jafri, W., & Sugiyama, T. (2012). Anti-inflammatory and cytoprotective effects of selected Pakistani medicinal plants in Helicobacter pylori-infected gastric epithelial cells. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 141(1), 403-410.
Flavonoids from a tea preparation of yarrow had a spasmolytic effect on guinea pig ilea. From: Lemmens-Gruber, R., Marchart, E., Rawnduzi, P., Engel, N., Benedek, B., & Kopp, B. (2006). Investigation of the spasmolytic activity of the flavonoid fraction of Achillea millefolium sl on isolated guinea-pig ilea. Arzneimittelforschung, 56(08), 582-588.
Yarrow extracts had a relaxatory effect on rat ileum. From: Moradi, M., Rafieian-Koupaei, M., Imani-Rastabi, R., Nasiri, J., Shahrani, M., Rabiei, Z., & Alibabaei, Z. (2013). Antispasmodic effects of yarrow (Achillea millefolium L.) extract in the isolated ileum of rat. African Journal of Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicines, 10(6), 499-503.

By: Kathy Sadowski

Updated: 3/6/2020