Abdominal pain also called stomach ache is very common amongst children and adults alike. The intensity of the pain differs in all cases. Some people even experience pain in the lower left abdomen which causes a lot of discomfort and stiffness in the lower part of the abdomen. The reasons for lower left abdominal pain differ than those of abdominal pain. Lower left abdominal pain could be chronic in many cases and may require immediate medical assistance.
Abdominal pains, however, are usually mild and the causes are inflammation or stretching of an organ or a low supply of blood to an organ. The symptoms in most cases are common such as bloating, indigestion, gas, diarrhea or constipation.
Luckily there are a few natural therapies that may reduce or cure the abdominal pain.
#1. Rice tea or hot rice compresses
Rice tea works well for things like gas, bloating and indigestion which is a symptom of abdominal pain. Replacing regular black tea or milk tea with rice tea works great for those who suffer from abdominal pain quite frequently.
To prepare rice tea, boil 1 cup rice in 3 cups of water. When the water reaches the maximum boiling point, strain it and collect it in a cup. Add a tablespoon of honey to this and consume every night after dinner.
Rice contains antioxidants and vitamins that neutralize the acidity in the stomach, thus normalizing the pH and giving relief from the pain.
Applying heat is also a useful remedy to cure abdominal pain. Hot rice compress helps with improving the blood flow to the abdomen and provide relief from pain. To prepare a hot rice compress, heat rice for 30 – 60 seconds, in a sock, inside a microwave. Put this rice in a large plastic bag and then wrap it in a cloth. Applying this on the abdomen gives a soothing effect.
#2. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a harmless, natural remedy to cure abdominal pain. It helps alkalize the body pH thereby relieving stomach aches. To use this remedy mix one tablespoon ACV, one tablespoon honey in 1 cup warm water.
Honey will enhance the benefits of apple cider vinegar as it is rich in essential nutrients. Be sure to consume apple cider vinegar after consulting a health professional to avoid health risks or interaction with other medications.
#3. Yogurt
Yogurt (with no added sugar) is usually used as a treatment to cure food poisoning and diarrhea, in turn, providing relief from abdominal pain. Greek yogurt to be specific contains probiotics that are good bacterias for the gut.
Yogurt has bifidobacterium and lactobacilli which are useful in reducing bloating and belly pain. Research shows that a daily dose of bifidobacterium significantly decreased gut pain and discomfort amongst the patients.
#4. Fennel seeds
One of the symptoms/cause of stomach pain is gas. Commonly fennel seeds are used as a remedy for gas. Constituents present in fennel seeds are beneficial for the digestive system. Fennel seeds are also the main ingredients found in gripe water given to infants for colic.
According to a study conducted in 2003, infants who were given fennel seed oil experienced a significant reduction in colic symptoms.
The recommended dosage of fennel seeds for adults is 1 to 1.5 teaspoon.
#5. Hot castor oil compress
Castor oil is the king of all natural remedies. It is a household analgesic. Castor oil can be used as a regular course of treatment for abdominal pain accompanying symptoms like constipation or diarrhea.
To use this remedy, lie down in a comfortable space. Spread the castor oil in palms and rub them against each other to warm it. Apply the castor oil on the abdomen and massage well. Place a flannel on that area and wrap it around the abdomen with a plastic wrap. Place a hot water bottle over the wrap and place some weight on it to distribute the heat equally. Let this pack stay for 45 minutes.
Castor oil can also be consumed orally to get rid of the abdominal pain.
#6. Mint
Spearmint and peppermint are beneficial natural therapies for treating abdominal pain. These herbs have calming properties that block the increase of calcium ions that cause cramps. It allows gas to pass up and down through the track easing indigestion.
Consuming fresh mint tea is very useful. Mix a few fresh mints leaves in a cup of warm water to make a cup mint tea. Drinking three cups a day helps relieve stomach ache. Likewise, peppermint oil can also be applied to cure the abdominal pain.
#7. Ginger
Ginger is commonly used to treat various abdominal problems. Ginger improves the digestive system and also reduces inflammation as it contains anti-inflammatory properties. There are many ways in which ginger can be consumed to relieve abdominal pain.
It can be taken in the form of ginger tea. To prepare the tea grate peeled ginger and add a half teaspoon of it to a cup of boiling water. Let it brew for almost three minutes, strain out the ginger and consume the tea.
It can also be consumed in the form of ginger juice. To make the juice, add ginger, carrots and lemon, sugar and water in a blender. Strain the ingredients and drink. Ginger can also be taken in the form of ginger candy or ginger capsules.
The above natural therapies are very useful in providing relief from pain. However, if the pain is severe and unbearable, you should immediately consult a medical professional.