Stomach Remedies for Pain & Indigestion

Stomach aches and pains can be triggered by a variety of factors — this makes diagnosing the cause of the discomfort extremely difficult. Fortunately, most abdominal problems are minor and can be treated at home. If stomach pain is severe or lasts more than a few days, you should seek immediate medical attention.

The location, severity and accompanying symptoms of abdominal pain can often help you determine the cause.

Generalized pain (like indigestion and the stomach flu) will occur in half of the abdomen or more. This type of discomfort can occur with many different illnesses, but will usually disappear without any medical treatment. A generalized pain that worsens or begins to cramp is an indicator of a blockage in the intestines.

Localized pain is confined to one area of the stomach. If you experience localized pain that comes on suddenly and gets worse, you may have a serious problem.

Appendicitis: May start as a generalized pain, but typically restricts to one area

Gallbladder and Peptic Ulcer Disease: Pain usually starts and stays in one confined location

Inflammation of an Abdominal Organ: Often indicated by a gradual pain that drastically worsens

Cramping pain can either be intermittent or change in location and severity. While usually no cause for concern, cramping pain that localizes, lasts for longer than 24 hours, or worsens should be examined by a medical professional.

Natural Remedies for Stomach Aches and Indigestion

For gas — Combine 1 tsp. of baking soda with ½ cup warm water and drink. This mixture will often bring about a large belch.

For stomach aches — Slowly sip pickle juice to soothe stomach pain.

Eat yogurt. Many stomach aches are due to a lack of digestive enzymes to break down food — this means stomach acids are working over-time which can cause pain, cramping, and acid reflux. Yogurt is full of "good bacteria" and can often ease the pain of a stomach ache.

Chew on and swallow the juices of a small piece of ginger root. This natural remedy has been used for thousands of years to cure nausea, stomach pain and aid digestion.

Drink the juice of a fresh lemon mixed with warm water. The lemon juice will help to break down food while the water flushes out the stomach.

Sip chamomile tea. This is perfect for anyone suffering from abdominal pain that is causing gas and/or diarrhea. This natural remedy is recognized by the National Institute of Health and has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Matricaria chamomilla and Anthemis nobilis, the two species of chamomile, can both provide comfort for those suffering from abdominal discomfort. The essential oils and flavonoids present in the plant help chamomile to act as a mild sedative for the pain while relaxing cramping muscles.

Mix apple cider vinegar with mineral water and honey. This common natural remedy can quickly relieve stomach pain.