| | Herbal Medicine: Flatulence | |
Flatulence is a common problem that might be associated with a pathology or be simply related an inappropriate
diet. The production of excessive gas by the digestive system has many causes, but the Green world abounds in herbs that can alleviate the
discomfort of flatulence and rather than knowing all of the individual species, we can generalize about relevant actions for the various
processes involved. However the processes in this case are very closely interrelated. Inflammation of the lining of the intestinal
tract will usually lead to flatulence, but as with all inflammation it is important to identify the cause. Of the range of anti-inflammatory
herbs available to the herbalist, those containing volatile oils are the most relevant. Inflammation and flatulence might be caused by some
variety of infection, making the anti-microbials relevant. Problems with digestion and possible malabsorption should be considered and thus
bitters are indicated. Where muscular cramping in the gut or anxiety and tension are involved the nervine and anti-spasmodic herbs should
be considered.
We are blessed the existence of a group of herbs that actually posses most of the these actions. They are known
as carminatives, and most of the commonly used culinary and mild medicinal herbs possess this property. Well known examples are
Chamomile, Peppermint, Balm, Sage, Marjoram etc..