Peptic Ulcers

PEPTIC ulcers are erosions in the lining of
the digestive system; especially the lower
part of the oesophagus, the stomach and
the first part of the duodenum, caused by
the action of digestive juices (hydrochloric
acid and pepsin) secreted by the stomach.
Under normal circumstances, the lining of
the gut is able to withstand the action of the
digestive secretions. But when the natural
defence mechanisms of the body are
weakened by drugs, alcoholism, smoking,
poor nutrition, stress and anxiety,
malfunctioning and ulceration of the
digestive tract may occur. Dietetic
indiscretion such as overeating, taking of
heavy meals or highly spiced foods, coffee,
alcohol and smoking are the main factors
contributing to this condition.
Symptoms may start at any age, but usually
begin in young adulthood. Males are
affected four times as frequent as females.
Usually the patient complains of upper
abdominal pain – variously described as
gnawing, burning, cramp-like or boring.
Typically, the pain starts an hour or two
after a meal and is relieved in about half an
hour by food or milk. As the disease
progresses, there is distension of the
stomach due to excessive flatulence, mental
tension, insomnia, bad temper and gradual
weakening of the body. Blood may also be
detected in the stool.
The natural remedies are
aimed at reducing over-secretion of the
digestive juices, to neutralise the excess
acid after it has been secreted and to
increase the resistance of the gastro-
intestinal lining to the action of pepsin and
acid.
It is advisable to avoid foods which
stimulate excessive acid secretion – such as
tea, coffee, cola drinks and alcohol. Smoking
encourages ulceration and delays healing.
So, it should be avoided. Milky diets and
antacids do not speed healing but they may
help to relieve the symptoms. Meals,
however, should be regular and frequent to
neutralise the acid that is produced.
The remedy being suggested for
total cure of peptic ulcer is a combination of
natural extracts of Capsicum frutescens,
Entandrophragma utile, Glycyrrhiza glabra
and Musa paradisiaca.