While a balanced diet and timely meals are vital for good health, overall wellbeing is ensured only when one major function in the body takes place properly – digestion. For only when the food that is eaten is broken down into essential nutrients which are assimilated by the cells and organs for their routine tasks is the upkeep of the human system ensured. And among the myriad digestive disorders that trouble the tummy, flatulence is by far one of the most common and frequently encountered issues.

Generally known as gas or wind and colloquially termed as farting, flatulence refers to the build-up of gaseous substances in the gastrointestinal tract, predominantly the stomach and intestines. Passing gas that emits a subtle hissing sound or loud noise, mild smell or foul stench, whether at work or home, are all equally embarrassing instances, but in fact, the release of moderately odourless gas from the digestive tract up to 18 – 20 times in a day is considered normal for healthy people. However, if you are suffering from excessive flatulence, then fret not, as there are some wonderful natural remedies known as carminatives.

Also Read: Digestive Health: Easy Ways To Reduce Bloating

So What Exactly Are Carminatives?

Also referred to as carminativa, carminatives are flatus-relieving herbs and spices that aid in the discharge of accrued gas from the gut and resolve the problem of recurring flatulence. They possess remarkable anti-inflammatory properties and help in maintaining optimal functions of the digestive system. The chief bioactive compounds in carminatives are volatile oils, which stimulate gastrointestinal muscle contractions and the subsequent movement of substances along the stomach and intestines i.e. peristalsis. In this manner, they pacify stomach cramps, ease bloating and dispel excess gas from the abdomen, thereby effectively alleviating flatulence. Read on, to discover some splendid carminative herbs to get rid of surplus gas in the body, promote smooth digestion and enhance gut health.

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Amazing Carminative Herbs As Home Remedies For Gas And Flatulence:

1. Ginger

Ginger is a time-tested remedy not only for effectively treating excess flatulence, but also to heal numerous other gut problems such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), bloating and heartburn. The terpenoid oil compound zingiberene is ginger holds pro-motility properties, aiding in expelling excess gas from the gut. Having a cup of ginger tea post meals is a wonderful remedy for flatulence.

Also Read: Ginger: The Magic Root For Monsoon

2. Cinnamon

Bestowed with powerful anti-flatulence traits due to several organic oil components such as phenyl propanoids, monoterpenes and cinnamaldehyde, cinnamon is a superb remedy for releasing trapped gas from the abdomen. Before eating rich, oily foods, sipping on some warm water infused with cinnamon powder or bark extract activates the gut muscles and digestive secretions and prevents surplus gas, bloating.

3. Cumin

Cumin comprises noteworthy cooling qualities that calm an irritated tummy and promote digestion. The wealth of volatile oils in cumin seeds such as cuminaldehyde, cymene and other terpenoid compounds are packed with anti-bloating features that instantly provide relief from gas and stomach cramps. Drinking a glass of jeera water prepared by adding 1 tsp cumin seeds to a hot solution along with food bolsters the functioning of the salivary glands and gastric acids to enhance digestion.

4. Coriander

Besides lending an invigorating aroma and enticing flavour to plenty of traditional Indian dishes and soups, salads, beverages in the form of fresh leaves, fragrant seeds or piquant spice powders, coriander is a miraculous natural solution for relieving excess gas from the gut. To a glass of buttermilk, add a fistful of chopped coriander leaves or 1 tsp coriander seeds, cool it in the fridge for 30 minutes and consume the chilled drink to cure indigestion, stomach aches and flatulence.

5. Fennel

Fennel is touted for its brilliant antimicrobial and emetic properties which mend infections in the gut, relieve nausea, augment digestive processes and aid in eliminating undigested food, trapped gas from the body. Chewing on some fennel seeds after meals helps in facilitating the breakdown and absorption of food particles by the stomach, intestines and other cells in the body, while also thwarting excess gas in the gastrointestinal passages and resolving flatulence.

6. Jeera (Cumin Seeds):

Jeera enhances digestion by stimulating the secretion of digestive enzymes.  It helps reduce flatulence and bloating. The anti-inflammatory effects of jeera have a positive impact on the digestive system.

7. Ajwain (Carom Seeds):

Ajwain contains thymol, which stimulates the release of gastric juices, aiding digestion. Ajwain acts as an antispasmodic, easing stomach cramps. The abundance of carminative properties in these seeds helps relieve bloating and gas and prevent stomach troubles. 

8. Pudina (Mint):

Mint has a soothing effect on the digestive tract, reducing indigestion. It acts as an antispasmodic, relieving stomach cramps. Mint can stimulate appetite and aid in digestion.

Note: These herbs can be incorporated into daily meals, herbal teas, or taken in supplement form. It's recommended to consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner or healthcare professional to determine the best approach for your individual digestive needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a carminative herb?

A carminative herb helps alleviate gas and bloating by facilitating the expulsion of gas from the intestines, promoting digestive comfort.

What is the best carminative?

Fennel is often regarded as one of the best carminatives, known for its potent ability to relieve gas and soothe the digestive tract.

What herb is good for gas relief?

Peppermint is widely recognized for its effectiveness in relieving gas and bloating, thanks to its antispasmodic and digestive properties.

What foods are carminative?

Foods such as ginger, garlic, and cinnamon possess carminative properties, helping to ease digestion and reduce the formation of gas.

References:

May 20209(3):142-145

Authors: Sadhana Jagannathrao Virshette, Matsyagandha Kishanrao Patil, Junaid R Shaikh

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/343398856_A_review_on_pharmacological_properties_and_phytoconstituents_of_indigenous_carminative_agents

Authors: Elakkiya M. and Sagaya Giri R

https://www.wjpmr.com/download/article/38082018/1535708200.pdf

3. The Use of Medicinal Plants in Digestive System Related Disorders: A Systematic Review Harveer Singh Cheema1*, Mitra Pal Singh2 

chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.ayurvedjournal.com/JAHM_202173_03.pdf