An ulcer is an open sore that forms when the lining of the gut is corroded by acidic digestive juices. Peptic ulcers can form in the lining of the stomach (gastric ulcers), duodenum (the first part of the small bowel or intestine) or the esophagus (gullet or swallowing tube). Peptic ulcers are quite common; it is known that 5-10% of the world’s population suffer from peptic ulcers at least once. Peptic ulcer disease is a constitutional disease that finds its local expression at the level of the digestive system. Being a constitutional disorder, it calls for constitutional approach towards treatment. Homoeopathic approach towards the management of Peptic ulcer disease involves the evaluation of the complaint in details while taking into account individual factors such as one’s personal and family history while planning a long-term treatment. Since the treatment targets the root cause, Homeopathy offers long-term cure instead of temporary relief. It treats at a deeper level of immunity and enhances the healing capacity of the body. Homeopathy can also help to prevent complications of Peptic ulcers.

There are two types of peptic ulcer problems in humans – acute and chronic ulcers. Acute peptic ulcers may arise suddenly in the digestive tract. Their pains are much more severe and are immediately felt whenever any spicy or gassy food is eaten. These types of ulcers usually cause nausea and vomiting. The other type of ulcers – chronic ulcer – is a long lasting condition, which cannot be treated easily. They cause continuous pain whenever any type of food is eaten. Burning sensation is common, leading to nausea and vomiting.

A customized treatment is required based on age, condition and the extent of the ulcer, and the person’s compatibility with drugs. Generally, doctors prescribe some antacids, or inhibitors of the proton pump. If H. Pylori causes the ulcer, the patient will be prescribed some antibiotic drugs too. Apart from drugs; few lifestyle changes are also recommended. Smoking and drinking alcohol and coffee must be totally abandoned. Avoid taking foods that causes pain and burning in the gut. The person should lose excess weight, if overweight. In case medicinal treatment is not effective, then surgery is the ultimate solution. Daily massages and deep breathing exercises also help. Above all, the patient must try to rid himself of worries and stay cheerful. He should also cultivate regularity in his habit be it work, exercise or rest. Asanas which are beneficial in the treatment of hyperacidity and ulcers are vajrasana, uttanpadasana, pavanarnuktasana, bhujangasana, paschimottanasana. Yogic kriyas like Jalneti and pranayamas tike anuloma-viloma, shitali and sitkari are also beneficial.

Home Remedies for Peptic Ulcers

• Cut some fresh amalaki and remove their seeds. Dry them by heating on an open iron pan. Use a low fire so that black soot is formed and the amalaki turn into black colored charcoal. You can crush it into a powder not. Mix this powder with some sugar and psyllium husk. Preserve this mixture in a glass jar. This mixture must be taken in doses of one teaspoon thrice a day. This mixture reduces the acid content of the stomach and helps heal the ulcer. It is also a laxative to flush out the toxic wastes from the stomach.

• Take some aniseed in a quantity of one teaspoon. Put it in a cupful of water and boil it. When it reaches boiling point, shut the flame and keep it covered for the night. In the morning, filter the mixture and take it with honey. This is a good medicine for reducing gas problems and indigestion related with peptic ulcers.