Turmeric for Ulcers: How Does It Help?
Scientists suggest that turmeric polysaccharides can reduce gastric ulcers by protecting the mucus lining of the stomach and inhibiting the growth of ulcer-causing bacteria.
Cellular oxidative stress and Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infections are the two most common causes of gastric ulcer. They increase the acid secretion in the stomach that erodes the mucous lining resulting in stomach inflammation, peptic ulcer, and certain types of stomach cancers.
Existing drugs stop bacterial infection and control acid secretion in the stomach but they have harmful side-effects. However, turmeric can increase the levels of free-radical-scavenging enzymes like catalase, glutathione, and superoxide dismutase to reduce the effects of oxidative stress in the stomach. Therefore, turmeric could potentially be used for treating gastric ulcers without any side-effects.
An ulcer is an important health problem affecting a large number of people worldwide. Read on to learn how turmeric works for various types of ulcers.
Turmeric for Acid Reflux and Ulcer
The backup or reflux of stomach acids and juices into the esophagus occurs in gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD. The refluxed acids can erode the linings of the esophagus resulting in inflammation and sores. In severe cases, patches of the esophagus linings wear away completely and may develop into ulcers.
According to a study, acid reflux in GERD may be caused by inflammation and oxidative stress. The study suggests treating the acid reflux associated with GERD with antioxidants and anti-inflammatories.
Turmeric is a powerful antioxidant and has strong anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, turmeric is recognized as an alternative treatment for acid reflux and ulcers.
Ulcers can develop due to long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and aspirin. These medicines work by blocking the COX-1 enzyme and disrupting the production of prostaglandins in the stomach which can lead to bleeding and increase the risk of ulcers.
While turmeric for stomach ulcer is a proven remedy, it protects the gut damage from NSAIDs and other noxious medicines, and also helps in healing ulcers and killing the cancer cells in the gut.
The formation of new blood vessels is important for gastric ulcer healing. According to a study, curcumin may promote the formation of new blood vessels around healing tissues.
The curcumin in turmeric restores the collagen fibers that add structural strength to the body parts. NSAIDs medicines like indomethacin damage blood vessel networks in the stomach tissues and also disrupt collagen fibers.
Taking curcumin can help in regulating the levels of MMP – 2 and MMP – 9 enzymes that play an important role in the formation of new blood vessels. Curcumin increases the levels of MMP – 2 which should be present in the system and simultaneously lower the MMP – 9 levels which are not required by the body.
Turmeric is a useful supplement to reduce inflammation and prevent carcinogenic changes in patients with gastritis. Regularly taking curcumin can help ease symptoms of gastritis including burning pain, indigestion, and nausea. If untreated, chronic gastritis can lead to sores in the stomach lining or ulcers.
The infection caused by H. pylori bacteria is also linked to cancer. Bacteria can easily infect the open sore of ulcers which in longer duration can cause DNA mutation and cell damage. Chronic inflammation of the stomach ulcer can lead to cancer. Several scientific studies report that turmeric can slow down the growth of cancer cells and can even prevent cancer.
Turmeric for Mouth Ulcers
Mouth ulcers are painful and make it difficult for people to eat, drink, and brush their teeth. The pain and sensitivity in mouth ulcers can last for days and weeks. Turmeric is an age-old remedy for mouth ulcers.
Also, the scientific study suggests that the application of curcumin improves the wound healing process in mouth ulcers. Another advantage of using turmeric for mouth ulcers is that it is safer for oral use compared to chemical-based oral gels.
Does Turmeric Increase Stomach Acid?
Turmeric is safe for most people and it does not increase stomach acid. Though some people may experience acid reflux due to their allergy to turmeric or curcumin.
Quality of turmeric is also important as contaminated or turmeric mixed with chemicals can lead to side-effects. Consuming too much of anything is not a good thing. Check your turmeric dose if you experience any of these symptoms.
Is Turmeric Acidic?
No, turmeric is not acidic, it is alkaline. Turmeric is used to treat gastrointestinal problems like gastritis and acidity. It is a widely used treatment for stomach ulcers, heartburn, and inflammations.
How to Use Turmeric for Treating Ulcers
Turmeric has been used to heal wounds and treat skin problems for generations. While the traditional way of using turmeric for ulcers may not give you quick relief.
This is because natural turmeric is less soluble in water. Due to low bioavailability curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric is partially absorbed by the body and full benefits of turmeric are never seen.
To get rapid results, ARBRO pharma has formulated Self-Nano Emulsifying Curcumin that has high bioavailability. SNEC 30 capsules contain curcumin for rapid absorption and work in various health conditions including ulcers, GERD, and gastritis.
Also, SNEC 30 oral gel is a useful remedy for mouth ulcers and safe for oral use. Additionally, the SNEC-P curcumin drops have very good taste and boost the immunity of kids. Regularly taking SNEC 30 curcumin supplements can heal various types of ulcers as well as prevent them.
In addition to turmeric supplementation, follow a healthy lifestyle to prevent ulcers. With better food habits like avoiding spicy, fried foods, and including easily digestible foods like green vegetables, yogurt, and butter in your meal can help in treating ulcers. Also, if you have a stomach ulcer, avoid overeating, and eat small quantities every 3-4 hours. It’s always recommended to consult your doctor for an effective treatment.