Peptic ulcer

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.
Ulcers were at one time supposed to be the
diseases from which industrialists,
politicians and intellectually active persons,
beset with worries, suffered, but lately it
has been detected among manual labourers
too.
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.
Other causes are the ingestion of certain
drugs, food poisoning, certain infections
like influenza, septicaemia and toxins like
uraemia and gout, emotional disturbances,
stress, and nervous tension.
Usually the patient complains of upper
abdominal pain – variously described as
gnawing, burning, cramp-like or boring. 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.
It is advisable to avoid foods which
stimulate excessive acid secretion – such as
tea, coffee, cola drinks and alcohol. Meals,
however, should be regular and frequent to
neutralize the acid that is produced.
The natural remedies are
aimed at reducing over-secretion of the
digestive juices, to neutralize 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.
Above all, the patient must try to rid himself
of worries and stay cheerful. He should also
cultivate regularity in his habits – be it
work, exercise, or rest. It has to be
remembered that hyper-acidity does not
come up suddenly.
suggestion for
total cure of peptic ulcer is a combination of
natural extracts of Capsicum frutescens,
Entandrophragma utile, Glycyrrhiza glabra
and Musa paradisiaca.