9 Medicine-Free Stomach Ache Remedies You Never Knew

Whether you're gassy, constipated, nauseous, or have indigestion, try these natural remedies to make an upset stomach feel better without medicine.

1 / 9
9 natural upset stomach remedies carrot juice
iStock/merc67

Carrot and Mint “Juice” Helps an Upset Stomach

It might sound iffy, but this is one of the stomach ache remedies that’s super helpful if you’re suffering from the winter flu; the carrot provides nourishment and peppermint soothes your upset stomach. Boil four sliced carrots, four cups of water, and one teaspoon of dried peppermint or one peppermint teabag. Turn the heat to medium-low and cook about 15 minutes or until carrots are soft. If you’re using a teabag, remove it, then blend the mixture until smooth and enjoy! You can also add a pinch of ground ginger to further soothe, or a squeeze of lemon juice for flavour.

2 / 9
iStock/Barcin

Rice Tea Alleviates an Upset Stomach

To settle an upset stomach or stop diarrhea, make a rice “tea.” Boil 1/2 cup of rice in six cups of water for about 15 minutes. Strain out the rice, then flavour the water with a dash of honey or sugar and drink warm. Try these 11 other home remedies for diarrhea.

3 / 9
iStock/robynleigh

Burnt Toast Settles an Upset Stomach

You know that toast is one of the best stomach ache remedies, but burnt toast is even better because the char absorbs toxins that are making you feel ill. Add a smear of jelly to make it more palatable.

Here’s what happens to your body one hour after drinking a can of pop.

4 / 9
iStock/Christine Glade

Apple Cider Vinegar Soothes an Upset Stomach

Whether easing hiccups or soothing a sore throat, is there anything apple cider vinegar can’t do? This popular home remedy may also calm an angry tummy. A mixture of one tablespoon apple cider vinegar, one cup warm water, and one tablespoon honey will ease indigestion and may alleviate cramping and gas in your upset stomach. It can also lessen discomfort caused by heartburn. While apple cider vinegar does have amazing benefits, make sure you don’t drink it like this.

5 / 9
iStock/Chris Gramly

CRAP Diet Is Good for an Upset Stomach

If you’re feeling constipated, try the CRAP diet: It stands for “cherries, raisins, apricots, and prunes,” all fiber-friendly foods that should get your system moving and ease your upset stomach. Plus, these healthy high-carb foods can totally change how you eat.

6 / 9
iStock/LOVE_LIFE

Yogurt Reduces Discomfort from an Upset Stomach

You probably don’t crave anything dairy when you have a stomach ache, but the probiotic qualities of yogurt—aka live bacteria—make it a good cure as it eases digestive discomfort and boosts your immune system. Just make sure to choose non-fat plain yogurt without added sugar or flavours when you have an upset stomach. And don’t miss these foods high in natural probiotics.

7 / 9
iStock/eskaylim

Caraway Seeds Ease an Upset Stomach

Caraway seeds are packed with vitamins and minerals, which inhibit the growth of bad bacteria that causes indigestion, gas, or bloating and contributes to an upset stomach. Nibble on a handful after eating your meal, or if you feel gassy. Here’s what can happen if you drink apple cider vinegar every day.

8 / 9
iStock/MarkSkalny

Fennel Makes an Upset Stomach Feel Better

Whether it’s indigestion or gas and bloating, fennel is also one of the best stomach ache remedies. Sip a fennel tea, chew on a few fennel seeds or crunch on some raw. It supports digestion, reduces gas, helps with cramping, and reduces nausea from an upset stomach.

Here’s the trick to having a good relationship with “junk food.”

9 / 9
Image: iStock/SolStock

Heat Helps an Upset Stomach

Another great addition to the list of medicine-free stomach ache remedies is placing a hot water bottle or heating pad on your upset stomach. The heat increases blood flow to the skin surface and transfers the perception of pain from inside your stomach to the outside. Next, find out the worst foods for your stomach.

Reader's Digest
Originally Published in Reader's Digest

Newsletter Unit