Eating certain foods, such as beans and some fruits and vegetables, can lead to flatulence (gas or air in the stomach or intestine that is expelled through the anus). Fortunately, dozens of carminative (gas-reducing) herbs can help relieve flatulence. Use them one at a time or in combination. Best choices...
Chamomile relaxes the bowel, which reduces intestinal spasms. Steep a teabag in hot water for about 10 minutes. Drink one cup before bedtime.
Ginger is an antispasmodic that reduces the force and frequency of intestinal contractions. It's good for most digestive complaints, including gas. Peel and slice one inch of ginger root and boil in three cups of water for 20 minutes. Drink one to three cups daily. Or take 500 mg of ginger capsules or powder three times a day.
Fennel seeds calm an upset stomach and reduce gas. Munch on a handful of seeds to ease or prevent gas. They're available at health-food stores.
For additional relief...
Massage your abdomen when you have painful gas. \7ith moderate pressure, use your palms to massage your abdomen clockwise—the direction that food moves through the gastrointestinal tract—for five to 10 minutes. Massage pushes out gas and relieves discomfort.
Try a simple yoga posture to help purge gas from your intestine.
What to do: Lie on your back, pull your knees to your chest and rock in a circular motion.
Perform daily exercise to help move gas out of the intestine and reduce painful pressure.
Best: Walking, tai chi and bicycling.
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