The most effective Ayurvedic medicines and remedies for gas

The roots of Ayurveda can be traced back to the 2nd Century B.C. in the Indian subcontinent. It is one of the oldest medicinal science fields existing in the world. Ayurveda is a Sanskrit word that combines two other words – ‘Ayus’, meaning longevity, and ‘Veda’ meaning knowledge. So the term Ayurveda means the ‘Knowledge of Longevity’.

Ayurvedic treatment consists of using herbal and natural ingredients as medicines and finding the root cause of the problems and treating that first. It categorizes the three elements or ‘doshas’ as vāta, pitta, and kapha. Recent practitioners and doctors of Ayurveda have also tried to understand these elements as air, water, fire, and earth. A balance of these elements results in a healthy body and any fluctuation or imbalance can result in health problems or illnesses.

What causes gas and acidity?

Gas and acidity can be caused by an array of factors, such as eating certain foods, taking certain medications, or having a medical condition. Common culprits of gas include beans, lentils, cruciferous vegetables (like broccoli and cauliflower), onions, garlic, dairy products, artificial sweeteners, sugar alcohols (such as xylitol), carbonated drinks, and processed meats. Eating too quickly or drinking through a straw can also lead to air swallowing which causes gas. Acidity can be triggered by eating spicy foods and fatty or fried foods; drinking alcohol or caffeine; smoking cigarettes; consuming tomato-based products; stress; or certain medical conditions like gastritis or peptic ulcers. Taking antacids may provide temporary relief from acidity but it is important to speak with your doctor if the symptoms persist.

What causes gas according to Ayurveda?

Gas is a result of indigestion. In Ayurveda, it is when the vāta dosha is imbalanced. According to Ayurveda, the digestive system is the fire element of the body that keeps it going, and when the fire is disrupted, it causes problems. These problems include the problems of gas, acidity, constipation, etc. Gas problems can be caused due to a variety of issues like improper eating habits, now chewing the food enough, excess eating of fatty or fried food, eating uncooked or undercooked food, lack of body movement and exercise, etc.

Very often people are quick to reach out to quick sodas, syrups, or drinks that claim to treat gas problems. While they may work as a temporary solution, the problem in your stomach may not be completely solved with them.

Here are a few Ayurvedic remedies for gas problems.

Cumin Seeds (Jeera)

Cumin seeds, popularly known as Jeera are an ingredient that is found in every Indian household and is used for several dishes. It has a fresh, yet slightly bitter flavor that enhances any dish it goes into. Cumin seeds are enriched with Vitamin A, Calcium, and Iron and are a great remedy for indigestion. It is said to boost the process of digestion by helping the liver release Bile, which is one of the prominent digestive enzymes along with several other digestive enzymes. The seeds can be consumed directly or can be boiled in a small amount of water for consumption.

Asafoetida (Hing)

Asafoetida or Hing is an ingredient that is used in most dals (a form of Indian lentil soup) in India. It brings a slight flavor of garlic and onion to the dish without those ingredients being present there. It is also said to boost the production of digestive enzymes including Bile which results in quicker digestion of food in the body. It is often consumed mixed with warm water. Asafoetida is also mixed with oil and rubbed on the belly near the belly button to provide instant pain relief that is caused due to bloating and indigestion.

Fennel Seeds (Saunf or Mishreya)

Fennel seeds are used in and as ‘Mukhwas’, meaning the smell of the mouth (Mukh – mouth, vaas – smell). It is used as a mouth freshener after meals. However, it is shown to have more benefits than a mouth freshener. It has a rich potassium content that helps the food process quickly in the intestines and helps bowel movements. It also consists of a good amount of fiber in it that helps the passing of the gas at a quicker rate. Apart from that, fennel seeds are enriched with vitamins and other nutrients. When consumed, they leave a long-lasting natural cooling effect on the stomach.

Ginger

Ginger is an ingredient that is used as a remedy for cold, cough, or sore throat, but it also works excellently to fix indigestion and gas-related problems. It consists of nutrients that force the food to be broken down and passed out, instead of staying in your stomach. Ginger tea, ginger ale, juice, etc are various ways of consuming ginger naturally. It has a strong flavor so eating it directly may not be preferable.

Curd (Dahi)

Dahi is filled with probiotics, that is good bacteria that stimulate bodily functions. It improves the activities in the guts and quickie helps in getting rid of any inflammation in the stomach or stomach ache. It also leaves a cooling effect in the stomach after consumption. Dahi can be easily made at home and barely costs anything. Yogurt can also be used as an alternative to dahi. Just a spoon or two of dahi after meals can act as medicine for indigestion and gas.

Triphala powder

Triphala powder is a natural remedy for gas, flatulence, heartburn and acidity. It is a combination of three fruits, Amalaki, Bibhitaki, and Haritaki. Triphala powder helps to reduce bloating and abdominal discomfort caused by gas and acidity. It works by balancing the digestive system and improving digestion. Studies have shown that it has anti-inflammatory properties which can help to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract. Moreover, Triphala powder is rich in antioxidants which can help to protect your cells against oxidative damage caused by free radicals. This makes it a great choice for anyone looking to improve their overall health and well-being. Additionally, its gentle laxative effect can help to ease constipation while also aiding digestion. All in all, Triphala powder is an excellent choice for anyone looking for natural relief from gas and acidity-related symptoms.

Mint leaves

Mint leaves are a popular remedy for treating gas. They contain menthol, which helps relax the muscles of the digestive system and reduce uncomfortable bloating. Mint leaves can be consumed either as an herbal tea or as part of any meal. When using mint leaves for the treatment of gastric problems, it is important to remember that too much mint can have side effects such as heartburn and indigestion. To prevent this from happening, it is best to start with a smaller amount and gradually increase the dosage until you find the right amount that works for you. Additionally, if you experience any negative side effects from the use of mint leaves for gas, then it is best to discontinue their use.

Cold milk

Cold milk is another great remedy for gas. It helps reduce the swelling and pain caused by gas while providing much-needed relief to those suffering from this uncomfortable condition. Cold milk can be taken as a drink as It works by calming down the digestive system, which in turn reduces gas. Cold milk also helps improve digestion and can be taken with other foods such as oatmeal or yogurt to help increase its effectiveness. Taking cold milk regularly can provide long-term relief from gas while providing essential vitamins and minerals necessary for good health. But beware people who are lactose intolerant should stay from milk and any other milk products.

Lime juice combined with baking powder

This remedy works like a wonder. Gas is formed generally because of indigestion. So drinking lime juice with a combination of 1/2 tablespoon baking powder will provide you relief against this problem. This is because sodium bicarbonate present in baking soda and citric acid present in lime juice react with each other to form sodium citrate and this sodium citrate creates the balance acting like a buffer to provide relief against gas and acidity.

Jaggery

Jaggery is an excellent remedy for gas. It helps to balance the air and moisture in the intestines, which helps in reducing bloating and cramping caused by gas. Jaggery contains iron, which can help improve digestion and reduce flatulence. It also contains minerals like magnesium, potassium and phosphorus that help break down complex carbohydrates in the body and prevent the fermentation of food particles in the stomach. The fiber present in jaggery helps to bulk up stools, thus aiding in the easy passage of stool through the intestines. Moreover, jaggery has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that aid in protecting the digestive system from damage caused by gastric acidity or other irritants. Therefore, adding a small amount of jaggery to your daily diet is an effective way to prevent the gas formation and keep your digestive system healthy.

5 Best Ayurvedic medicines for gas and acidity

So after clarifying the best Ayurvedic remedies for gastritis and acidity, here are some suggested Ayurvedic medicines for gastritis and acidity that are readily available in the Indian markets. Let’s begin.

1. Dabur Gastrina

Dabur Gastrina is an ayurvedic remedy that may help to cure gas. It contains natural ingredients like citrus lemon, ferula asafetida and black salt which have antispasmodic properties, helping to reduce flatulence and digestive issues. Additionally, it helps to strengthen the digestive system by improving gut flora and increasing nutrient absorption. It also stimulates bile production in the liver, which helps digestion and helps prevent further gas formation in the stomach. Furthermore, its anti-inflammatory action helps soothe the irritated mucous membranes of the intestines, reducing inflammation and relieving pain caused by gas. All these actions combined help to provide relief from symptoms of gas such as bloating and abdominal discomfort.

2. Baidyanath Gaisantak tablets

Baidyanath Gaisantak Bati tablet is a powerful ayurvedic capsule that helps to cure gas. It contains a combination of herbs and spices such as ginger, ajwain, hing, and kala namak. These ingredients help to reduce flatulence and bloating by stimulating digestion and improving the absorption of nutrients from food. Baidyanath Gaisantak Bati also helps to soothe the stomach lining by reducing inflammation and relieving abdominal discomfort caused by gas. Furthermore, it can help reduce acidity which is another common symptom of gas. Taking these tablets regularly can help provide relief from excess gas and improve overall digestive health.

3. Zandu Pancharishta Ayurvedic tonic

Zandu Pancharishta is an ayurvedic tonic that is made from natural ingredients like Lavang, Ghrit Kumari, Ajwain, Draksha, and many other Ayurvedic ingredients. Zandu Pancharishta helps improve digestion, boosts appetite, relieves abdominal discomfort and acidity, and prevents constipation. It also helps in reducing flatulence and bloating. The syrup contains several essential minerals and vitamins that help to balance the body’s doshas, thereby promoting overall health. Furthermore, it is an effective tonic for acid reflux and helps improve the absorption of nutrients from food. Additionally, it helps reduce stress levels by calming the mind and body. All these benefits make Zandu Pancharishta an excellent choice for anyone looking to maintain their digestive health.

4. Himalaya Gasex tablets

The Himalaya Gasex tablets are an all-natural dietary supplement that offers relief from digestive issues and gastritis. They contain natural ingredients such as Vidanga, Sunthi, and Triphala which have been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine to support digestion, reduce bloating and abdominal discomfort and promote regularity. The tablets also contain a combination of herbs that help reduce inflammation and improve the absorption of nutrients from food. Himalaya Gasex tablets can be taken daily to maintain a healthy digestive system or as needed for immediate relief from occasional digestive disturbances. Additionally, these tablets are free from any artificial colors, flavors, preservatives and sugar so they are safe to use for adults and children alike.

5. Maharishi Ayurveda Amlant

Maharishi Ayurveda Amlant is a 100% herbal tablet that focuses on reducing heartburn, providing relief against gas, acidity and bloating, and maintaining stomach pH level. It is made up of Ayurvedic ingredients like Amla, Methi, Sunthi, Haritaki and Vaidang. Most importantly it is a scientifically researched formulation that focuses on balancing the Pitta Dosha. Compared to the other Ayurvedic medications mentioned in this list, it is very new in the market but has gained immense popularity because of their effectiveness.

Conclusion

Apart from these, several more such household ingredients can be used as medicines to cure gas. There are many herbal Ayurvedic mixes too that are available in the market that can be used to help with gas. But making a hot tea with just ginger, lemon juice, mint leaves, fennel, etc in itself can be sufficient to fix your stomach and indigestion issues.

Along with this, maintaining good scheduled eating habits, exercise, etc. can go a long way while taking care of your stomach and health. Most of the problems in our body are said to stem from the digestive system, hence, there has to be a good amount of attention and care given to it. And instead of the consumption of outside chemical-based medicines, their household Ayurvedic alternatives should be preferred.

However, it is important to know that all remedies do not work for everyone. It is necessary to reach out to a doctor if any issue, even if it is as tiny as gas occurs frequently. It could be a symptom of a bigger problem or a disease.