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Page 43
| litis and other symptoms of indigestion are an accurate indication, most of us suffer after every meal. |
| Much of our discomfort stems directly from the foods we eat, which are usually overprocessed, stripped of nutrients, low in fiber, high in fats that are difficult to digest and otherwise deficient. For a review of appropriate dietary changes and herbs that support them, see my book Herbs for Improved Digestion. |
| All of the tonic herbs (page 61) and herbs that improve circulation (page 30) are helpful because they increase the flow of digestive fluids, improve the flow of blood and support all of the body's organs. In addition, the following are considered specifics for digestion. |
| Ginger (Zingiber officinale) |
| The familiar culinary spice can be used fresh or dried, in teas, capsules, tablets, tinctures or in foods, alone or in combination with other herbs, to treat digestive disorders, improve circulation and prevent nausea. To prevent motion sickness, take enough powdered ginger in capsules (as many as 6 or 8) to cause a mild heartburn sensation, half an hour to an hour before setting sail or taking off. In tests, ginger outperformed Dramamine, a motion sickness drug that, unlike ginger, causes drowsiness. On long flights or ocean cruises, repeat as needed every 4 to 6 hours. |
| Like other aromatic herbs and spices, ginger helps prevent and relieve flatulence and other symptoms of digestive distress. A catalyst or stimulant herb, ginger is often added to tea blends to improve the performance of other ingredients. |
| Lemon Balm or Balm (Melissa officinalis) |
| This cheerful mint with a pronounced lemon fragrance is one of the world's favorite herbs. Revered throughout Eu- |
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