Help control gastrointestinal symptoms

Preparations based on medicinal plants and nutritional supplements are available on the market, which can help control gastrointestinal symptoms. Common conditions of the gastrointestinal tract are considered below, characterised by different symptoms. Reference is made to gastroesophageal reflux, bloating and constipation.

Gastroesophageal reflux consists in the dysfunction of the oesophageal sphincter, causing the stomach acid to flow back into the oesophagus. The release of acid vapours from the droplets of gastric juice irritates the mucosa of the oesophagus and upper respiratory tract. It is manifested with oesophageal symptoms (retrosternal burning after meals or when bending forward, regurgitation, pain swallowing) and extraoesophageal symptoms (retrosternal pain, bronchial asthma, coughing, hoarseness, chronic laryngitis, dental lesions).

Several medicinal plants and nutritional supplements able to help control disorders resulting from gastroesophageal reflux: Mastic (a plant resin obtained from the mastic tree, which promotes the integrity of the oesophageal and gastric mucosa), Altea and Mallow (medicinal plants with anti-inflammatory and soothing properties on the mucosa), Banana (antacid action), and Hyaluronic acid (promotes the mucosa repair process).

Constipation can be a consequence of reduced faecal mass (poor diet, low dietary fibre intake, electrolytic alterations), functional bowel disorders such as chronic slow transit constipation or colonic atony, or organic colon diseases that mechanically impede the passage of faeces.

In the case of occasional constipation, the expulsion of faeces can be encouraged using preparations based on medicinal plants that stimulate intestinal peristalsis, such as Senna, Frangula, Aloe, Cascara, Fennel.

Bloating is the accumulation of gas in the stomach and intestine. Stressful conditions and poor eating habits can accentuate bloating.

Certain phytocomplexes are endowed with anti-fermentation properties (Fennel, Green Anise) or spasmolytic properties (Chamomile). Enzymes obtained from fermented cereals work in synergy with the medicinal plants, helping to eliminate abdominal bloating.