21 Effective Home Remedies For Gastritis

Gastritis is a common medical condition that involves the inflammation of the stomach lining, which can occur in various ways. Depending on the possible cause behind your condition and the symptoms you are experiencing, you may benefit from applying one or more home remedies for gastritis. Infection, injury, long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and excessive alcohol use are all possible causes of gastritis. Upper stomach pain, a burning sensation in the throat, nausea, and vomiting are common symptoms. Discover some effective home remedies that can help relieve symptoms and support healing for gastritis in this article. These remedies are based on research, making them a natural option for dealing with this common issue. Keep scrolling!

What Is Gastritis?

Gastritis is essentially an inflammation of the stomach’s inner lining. This inner lining can get eroded leading to an ulcer. The stomach lining is responsible for producing the stomach acids and different enzymes for digestion. In an inflamed state, it produces lesser quantities of these chemicals, hence causing the various symptoms (1, 2).

According to recent reports by NCBI, H. pylori gastritis cases are declining in developed countries, while autoimmune gastritis is more common, with a 2-5% prevalence. The incidence of H.pylori infection in children is about 10% in Western countries, compared to 50% in developing countries. The overall prevalence of H.pylori infection is 69% in Africa, 78% in South America, and 51% in Asia.

Gastritis Types

Gastritis is mainly of two types. These are –

(i) Acute Gastritis – This starts suddenly and lasts only for a short period.

(ii) Chronic Gastritis – When the issue is not treated, it becomes an ongoing problem that can last for years (1, 2).

It is important to know the difference between each of these types, as their treatment options may differ to some extent. Acute gastritis usually gets better on its own with the right care, while chronic gastritis often needs ongoing management and changes in lifestyle.

Let us now look at the causes of this ailment of the digestive system.

Causes For Gastritis

The primary cause of gastritis is when the stomach lining gets damaged. This can happen due to various reasons –

• Unhealthy eating
• Excessive smoking and drinking
• Unchecked popping of painkiller medicines like ibuprofen and aspirin
• Helicobacter pylori infection (bacterial infection)
• Autoimmune disorders
• Extreme stress
• Viral infections like the herpes simplex virus (seen in people with low immunity levels) (1, 2)

Quick Tip

Older adults need to be extra careful and should not ignore these symptoms as the stomach lining becomes thin with age and is more at risk of gastritis.

Signs And Symptoms Of Gastritis

The symptoms can range from mild irritation in the abdomen that we can easily ignore to severe pain that could be indicative of perforations in the lining. The other common symptoms of gastritis include –

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Abdominal pain and bloating
• Incessant hiccups
• Tarry stools
• Vomiting blood

The last two signs can prove to be dangerous and require immediate medical attention (1, 2). It is not as gloomy as it sounds to be! If you don’t actively ignore the signs your body is giving you about the battered stomach lining, you should be able to combat the problem quite well. Instead of resorting to over the counter medicines when gastritis rears its ugly head, try these time-tested home remedies that can fight gastritis effectively.

Home Remedies For Gastritis

1. Apple Cider Vinegar
2. Aloe Vera
3. Baking Soda
4. Coconut Water
5. Cabbage Juice
6. Coconut Oil
7. Green Tea
8. Ginger
9. Yogurt
10. Honey
11. Jeera Water
12. Kefir
13. Oatmeal
14. Pineapple
15. Slippery Elm
16. Turmeric
17. Marshmallow Root / Licorice Root
18. Mastic Gum
19. Potato Juice
20. Rosemary
21. Vitamin C

Get Relief From Gastritis With These Remedies

1. Apple Cider Vinegar For Gastritis

You Will Need

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• A glass of water

What You Have To Do

1. Add the honey and vinegar to the water and mix well.
2. Drink this.

How Often You Should Do This

Have this once or twice a day.

Why This Works

Apple cider vinegar reduces the excess acid production in the stomach and restores the balance.

It also kills the microorganisms that are causing damage to the stomach lining (3). Honey in this drink helps to soothe the damaged stomach lining.

2. Aloe Vera For Gastritis

You Will Need

• 2 teaspoons fresh aloe vera gel
• A glass of water

What You Have To Do

Blend the aloe gel with the water and drink it.

How Often You Should Do This

You can have 1-2 glasses of this every day.

Why This Works

Aloe vera juice is extremely soothing for the irritated stomach. It also reduces the inflammation of the stomach lining with its anti-inflammatory activity. Being an antiseptic agent, it can also inhibit the infection-causing bacteria (4).

3. Baking Soda For Gastritis

You Will Need

• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• A glass of water

What You Have To Do

1. Stir the baking soda in the water until the mixture is not cloudy anymore.
2. Drink this.

How Often You Should Do This

Use this remedy as and when required.

Why This Works

The burning sensation in the stomach that can entail gastritis can be gotten rid off with this remedy. Baking soda acts as an antacid and brings down the acid levels in the stomach (5).

4. Coconut Water For Gastritis

You Will Need

Coconut water

What You Have To Do

Drink a glass of this in between meals.

How Often You Should Do This

Drink 3-4 glasses of tender coconut water a day.

Why This Works

Both young and mature coconut water possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can be beneficial in soothing your inflamed stomach lining (6).

Caution

Be sure that the coconut water is not tangy as that can cause acid reflux.

5. Cabbage Juice For Gastritis

You Will Need

Green cabbage

What You Have To Do

1. Cut the cabbage in pieces big enough to feed through your juicer.
2. Extract a cup of fresh cabbage juice and drink it.

Add some carrot juice, coriander, artichoke extract, or celery stalks to make this juice healthier and tastier.

How Often You Should Do This

Drink cabbage juice 3-4 times a day.

Why This Works

Cabbage contains the ulcer healing factor known as vitamin U, that can heal the stomach lining and get rid of gastritis within a few days

(7). This juice also has a cleansing effect on the stomach and intestines (8).

6. Coconut Oil For Gastritis

You Will Need

Virgin coconut oil

What You Have To Do

Ingest the oil of your choice by itself or as part of your meals.

How Often You Should Do This

Have 2-3 teaspoons of these oils in a day.

Why This Works

Coconut oil contains antioxidants that can help reduce the oxidative stress being exerted on the stomach lining due to gastritis. It also possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can offer relief from gastritis symptoms (9).

Caution

Do not ingest pine nut oil unless you are sure that you are not allergic to it.

7. Green Tea For Gastritis

You Will Need

• 1 teaspoon green tea herb
• 1 teaspoon honey
• A cup of hot water

What You Have To Do

1. Steep the green tea herb in hot water for a few minutes.
2. Strain this and add honey to it. Mix well.
3. Sip on this tea.

How Often You Should Do This

Have two cups of green tea in a day.

Why This Works

Green tea contains plenty of antioxidants that exert a protective effect on the stomach lining and alleviate gastritis symptoms. Drinking this tea regularly can also help in treating the chronic form of gastritis (10).

Note: According to anecdotal evidence chamomile tea or dandelion tea can also benefit your gastritis due to their anti-inflammatory properties. You can also add 1-2 drops of chamomile oil or peppermint oil to your green tea for a soothing effect.

8. Ginger For Gastritis

You Will Need

• An inch-long piece of ginger
• A cup of water

What You Have To Do

1. Chew on the ginger piece for a few minutes.
2. Gulp it down with water.

Another Ayurvedic remedy for gastritis is a cocktail of ginger powder, rock salt, and asafoetida—a pinch of each in a cup of warm water. Drink this ginger tea for immediate relief from gastritis.

How Often You Should Do This

Repeat this every morning for best results.

Why This Works

This super herb can immensely benefit patients suffering from gastritis (11). It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that suppress the inflammation caused by Helicobacter pylori (12).

Trivia

The ancient recipes of Iranian traditional medicine used ginger as an effective tonic for the digestive system.

9. Yogurt For Gastritis

You Will Need

Plain yogurt

What You Have To Do

Have yogurt along with your meals or as a snack.

How Often You Should Do This

It is recommended to have 1-2 cups of yogurt daily for gastritis.

Why This Works

Yogurt is an excellent probiotic. Probiotics are known to accelerate healing of gastric ulcers while also helping with the eradication of H.pylori, one of the main causes of gastritis (13).

10. Honey For Gastritis

You Will Need

• 2 tablespoons honey
• A glass of warm water

What You Have To Do

1. Add the honey to the water and mix well.
2. Drink this on an empty stomach.

How Often You Should Do This

Do this daily in the mornings.

Why This Works

Honey can effectively kill the harmful bacteria in the stomach as it is bactericidal in nature. It also possesses anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants that can help with the healing process of the stomach lining (14). You can also add cloves or a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom powder to it for enhanced relief from gastritis.

11. Jeera Water For Gastritis

You Will Need

• 1 tablespoon cumin seeds (jeera)
• A glass of warm water

What You Have To Do

1. Roast the cumin seeds and grind them to get a chunky powder.
2. Mix this with water and drink it.

How Often You Should Do This

Drink this with meals, twice or thrice a day.

Why This Works

The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties exhibited by cumin seeds can help alleviate the symptoms of gastritis and can also speed your recovery from the disease (15), (16).

12. Kefir For Gastritis

This fermented milk beverage contains a large number of microorganisms that make it a natural probiotic drink. Consuming kefir can help improve the digestion process and also bring back the acid balance in the stomach. It also exerts antimicrobial effects in the body. This property proves beneficial when the gastritis is being caused by a bacterial infection (17). Purchase organic kefir from the market and drink it daily.

13. Oatmeal For Gastritis

You Will Need

• 1/2 cup oatmeal
• 1/2-1 cup water or milk

What You Have To Do

Cook the oatmeal with either water or milk (according to your preference) and eat it. You can add some fresh non-acidic fruits like bananas, pears, and apples.

How Often You Should Do This

Eat a cup of oatmeal every day.

Why This Works

Oatmeal is rich in fiber and minerals that can regulate the digestive process. It also soothes the stomach lining with its alkalinity (18).

14. Pineapple For Gastritis

You Will Need

1 cup ripe pineapple

What You Have To Do

Eat this as part of your breakfast or as a snack.

How Often You Should Do This

Have a cup of pineapple every day to aid the digestion process.

Why This Works

Pineapple contains digestive enzymes such as bromelain that help in digesting protein without causing any irritation to the stomach lining. If you suffer from gastritis, try and consume this fruit as it is alkaline in nature and can counteract the increased acid levels in your stomach (19).

Caution

Be sure to eat very ripe pineapples because unripe pineapples sometimes aggravate the problem of gastritis.

15. Slippery Elm For Gastritis

You Will Need

• 1 teaspoon slippery elm powder
• Water

What You Have To Do

Ingest the herbal powder with water.

How Often You Should Do This

Do this twice a day, preferably once in the morning and then again in the afternoon.

Why This Works

Slippery elm is demulcentⁱ  An agent that forms a protective film over a mucous membrane to help relieve inflammation and irritation. herb which means that it contains a high amount of mucilageⁱ  A thick, sticky substance that contains proteins and polysaccharides produced by plants and microorganisms. . This mucilage is beneficial for gastritis treatment as it soothes the irritated and inflamed stomach lining (20).

16. Turmeric For Gastritis

You Will Need

• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• Water
• Yogurt OR banana

What You Have To Do

Make a paste by adding some water to the turmeric powder.

How Often You Should Do This

Repeat this every day.

Why This Works

Turmeric

contains curcumin, an anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial polyphenolⁱ  A family of naturally occurring micronutrients, commonly found in fruits, teas, spices, and vegetables, with antioxidant properties. , which soothes the gastric mucosa and reduces irritation in the gastrointestinal tract (21).

17. Marshmallow Root / Licorice Root

You Will Need

• 1 teaspoon marshmallow root powder OR DGL licorice root powder
• A glass of hot water

What You Have To Do

1. Add either of the root powders to the hot water and leave it to steep for 10-15 minutes.
2. Strain and drink this.

How Often You Should Do This

Have this once daily.

Why This Works

No, by marshmallow we don’t mean the gooey sweet treat, but the herb Althaea officinalis. Marshmallow is beneficial in soothing the inner lining of the digestive tract and stomach. This herb contains a lot of mucilage, which makes the tract slippery and allows easy passage of food, and treats reflux and heartburn as well (22). Licorice, especially its root, also protects your stomach’s inner lining and reduces chances of ulcer from gastritis by stabilizing the stomach acids (23). DGL licorice is recommended for best results.

18. Mastic Gum For Gastritis

You Will Need

Mastic gum

What You Have To Do

Simply chew on a piece of the gum whenever you feel any symptoms of gastritis.

How Often You Should Do This

Use this remedy as and when required during the course of the day.

Why This Works

This remedy works well in the case of non–H.pylori gastritis. Mastic gum is often used to treat gastric ulcers as it can help to stabilize the stomach acids and also protect the lining of the stomach (24).

19. Potato Juice For Gastritis

You Will Need

• 2-3 raw potatoes
• Warm water

What You Have To Do

1. Peel and grate the potatoes.
2. Squeeze out the juice and drink half a glass of this mixed with some warm water, half an hour before a meal.

How Often You Should Do This

You can have a glass of this juice twice daily.

Why This Works

Potato juice is a rich source of alkaline salts which react with the excessive acid present in the stomach (25). It also reduces the stomach lining’s inflammation (26).

20. Rosemary For Gastritis

You Will Need

• 1 teaspoon rosemary herb
• A cup of boiling water

What You Have To Do

1. Steep the herb in hot water for a few minutes.
2. Strain the decoction and drink this herbal tea.

If you cannot find the herb, you can consume rosemary in the form of capsules or tincture.

How Often You Should Do This

Two cups of rosemary tea per day are recommended for gastritis.

Why This Works

Rosemary is blessed with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which work well to prevent as well as treat stomach ulcers that may lead to the development of gastritis if left untreated (27).

21. Vitamin C For Gastritis

Vitamin C is associated with the immune response of the body. That is why people suffering from gastritis often take over-the-counter vitamin C supplements. This helps the body to fight the infection better and faster. It also heals and protects the stomach and intestinal lining from damage and ulcers (28). The dosage of this vitamin should be decided by consulting your doctor. This is to ensure that the appropriate dosage is ingested for a faster recovery.

After trying home remedies to soothe gastritis, it’s time for targeted treatment including medication and dietary adjustments for effective gastritis management. Let’s explore the next steps towards lasting relief and improved digestive health.

Treatment For Gastritis

Gastritis can cause severe discomfort and pain in some individuals, so it is important to consult a healthcare specialist for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. Some ways of treating gastritis are as follows:

1. Start with dietary adjustments. Avoid spicy, acidic, and fatty foods and opt for smaller, more frequent meals, while staying hydrated.

2. Over-the-counter antacids and syrups can provide temporary relief. If the issue is caused by Helicobacter pylori infection, consult a doctor and take prescription antibiotics.

3. Antacids and prescription medications like proton pump inhibitors or H2 blockers may help reduce stomach acid production, thus healing the stomach lining (29).

Apart from these, try to reduce stress through relaxation techniques like meditation and yoga, as stress exacerbates gastritis symptoms.

Infographic: Easily Available Remedies For Gastritis

Gastritis is a common health condition that may require immediate medical attention. However, the symptoms can be managed by some home remedies. Though we have already listed several remedies, there are a few we would like to stress.

Check out the infographic below to learn the most effective and easily available remedies you can use for immediate relief from gastritis symptoms.

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use essential oils for gastritis?

Rory Batt, MSc, a nutritionist, says “As some cases of gastritis are due to underlying infections/bacteria/parasites (like H.pylori in the stomach), selecting essential oils can be helpful. However, they are not to be used in the normal form but as capsules that are safe to ingest.”

He adds, “The most common essential oils used for this purpose are oregano and thyme oils. These treatments are known as antimicrobial treatments and can help eliminate bacterial imbalances either in the stomach and/or in the intestine that may be interfering with gastric function.”

Tips To Prevent Gastritis

• Keep a tab on the medications that you are taking. Any of them could be irritating your stomach lining and is best substituted for a milder medicine.
• Try to identify which food item may be irritating your stomach. Spicy and fried foods are common culprits, so look out for them and keep them to a minimum.
• Quit smoking and reduce alcohol intake as these are known to easily cause both acute and chronic gastritis.
• Relax your mind and body by practicing meditation and yoga. This will help to relieve stress, which is a common reason behind gastritis.
• Drink 6-8 glasses of water daily.
• Exercise for 30 minutes at least 3-4 times in a week.

Are there any yoga poses for relieving gastritis?

There are some Yoga poses that you can practice every morning for relieving gastrointestinal stress. The Pavanamuktasana helps in releasing gases that are trapped in your body. The Viparit Karani yoga pose strengthens the back and abdominal muscles and helps pass accumulated gases. Ulcers and aggravated gastritis can also be alleviated by Ardha Sirsana.

What foods can help soothe gastritis?

• Food rich in antioxidants like flavonoids can help soothe the inflamed stomach lining. Some recommendations are as follows –
• Fruits like apples, bananas, coconuts, and pineapples
Jane, blogger, shares her ongoing struggle with related health issues, specifically gastritis and recently diagnosed IBS, narrating the challenges of finding the right foods and doctor: “Meanwhile, I alternate between feeling hopeful and hopeless. When will this torture end? Is this going to be my life from now on? Is this my new normal?” Nevertheless, she also reflects on the positive aspects, such as weight loss and the opportunity to make healthier food choices, “I eat fruits and vegetables every day. In the past I wasn’t as vigilant. Some fruits and vegetables give me a little problem so I have to constantly try to see what my stomach likes. That gets me to eat a variety of fruits. This experience with my food sensitivity might just end up helping me make better food choices (i).”
• Vegetable recommendations include onions, kale, squash, bell pepper, potatoes, spinach, and beans
• Herbs like garlic, ginger, cumin, fennel, fenugreek, caraway seeds, peppermint and turmeric are also beneficial
• Whole grains and brown rice

What foods to avoid for gastritis?

Some food groups increase the secretion of acids in your stomach and these must be consumed in small amounts or better still, avoided altogether. Some of these foods include –
• Red meat and processed meat
• Oily food and fried food such as French fries, onion rings, and margarine
• Foods containing distilled vinegar
• Sugary treats like cakes, cookies, and donuts
• Carbonated and caffeinated drinks
• Citric fruits

Gastritis vs. Ulcer: what is the difference?

Gastritis involves inflammation of the stomach lining and can progress into an ulcer, which is an open sore in the lining. An ulcer can also form in the duodenum. The symptoms and causes of these two digestive system ailments are very similar. Your doctor can help you to diagnose and differentiate between the two.

How to identify gastritis pain?

The pain experienced during gastritis is located in the upper abdomen. It often comes on with contact or shortly after consuming a food and drink.

How long does it take for gastritis to heal?

Without appropriate treatment and changes in the diet, gastritis will not heal by itself. It keeps progressing and may form ulcers in the stomach.

What are the long-term effects of gastritis?

Acute gastritis can progress to its chronic form and can last for years, if not treated.

Is lemon good for gastritis?

No. Due to its acidic nature, lemon or lemon juice may aggravate acid reflux. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid it.

How to cure gastritis permanently?

To permanently cure gastritis, it’s important to address the underlying causes. Make lifestyle adjustments, such as staying away from triggers like alcohol, smoking, caffeine, and spicy foods. Get enough sleep, maintain a nutritious diet with frequent meals, and reduce stress levels. Additionally, seek advice and accurate diagnosis from a healthcare professional.

Illustration: Effective Home Remedies For Gastritis That Give Instant Relief

Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team

Want to get quick relief from the discomfort of gastritis and start feeling better right away? Click on this video and learn the top seven effective remedies to relieve gastritis naturally.

If you are careful about your diet and follow a healthy lifestyle, you are less likely to encounter gastritis. But with stress becoming synonymous with urban life, gastritis has become a common grievance. But you can try resolving the issue with some of the home remedies for gastritis presented above. They are less invasive and have no side effects. A lot of people have found relief by adhering to these remedies. With discipline and healthy eating habits, you will too.

Have you tried any of these gastritis home remedies? Or have you benefited from some concoction of your own? Tell us your success story of beating gastritis with home remedies!

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Reviewer Expert Author Editor Fact Checker

Dr. Millie LytleND, MPH

     

Dr. Millie Lytle has 8 years of experience in naturopathic medicine, is a member of the New York Association of Naturopathic Physicians (NYANP), and sits on the Medical Advisory Board for the School of Applied Functional Medicine.

Read full bio of Dr. Millie Lytle

• 
  Rory BattMS Rory Batt, MS, is a nutritionist who uses functional medicine to establish the root cause of illness to achieve optimal health. He has a bachelor's degree in Sports and Exercise Sciences from the University of Exeter and a master's degree in Personalized Nutrition from the Centre for Nutrition Education & Lifestyle Management.
  
  Rory Batt, MS, is a nutritionist who uses functional medicine to establish the root cause of illness to achieve optimal health. He has a bachelor's degree in Sports and Exercise Sciences from the University of Exeter and a master's degree in Personalized Nutrition from the Centre for Nutrition Education & Lifestyle Management.

Kushneet KukrejaHealth & Wellness Writer

 

Kushneet holds a postgraduate degree in biotechnology from Kingston University, London, and is an ISSA Certified Specialist in Fitness & Nutrition with 2 years of experience. Her scientific background, coupled with her passion for writing, propelled her towards content writing.

Read full bio of Kushneet Kukreja

Arshiya SyedaCo-Editor-in-Chief

Arshiya Syeda is the Co-Editor-in-Chief of StyleCraze with 8 years of experience. Prior to that, she was a content writer who combined her writing and research skills to write over 200 high-performing articles on hairstyles, hair care, and skin care.

Read full bio of Arshiya Syeda

Dipti SharmaBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

Dipti is a health and wellness writer specializing in holistic health practices. She graduated from Maharishi Dayanand University, Haryana, and has worked closely with Ayurvedic doctors, which has given her a deep understanding of traditional remedies and their applications.

Read full bio of Dipti Sharma