Top 8 natural remedies for gas and bloating

According to Ayurveda, gas and bloating are commonly associated with an imbalance in the Vata dosha, which governs movement and flow in the body. When Vata becomes aggravated, it can disrupt the natural digestive process, leading to the accumulation of gas and bloating.

Gas, known as “Apana Vayu” in Ayurveda, is the result of improper digestion and metabolism, causing the formation of undigested food particles (ama) and the production of excessive gas in the gastrointestinal tract. Bloating, known as “Ama Vata,” occurs when the accumulated gas gets trapped and causes distention and discomfort.

Ayurveda views gas and bloating as signs of impaired Agni (digestive fire) and weak digestive capacity. This can be caused by various factors, including irregular eating habits, overeating, consumption of heavy or incompatible foods, excessive stress, and weakened digestive function. Ayurveda and yoga offer various natural remedies to help alleviate these symptoms. Here are eight effective remedies:

Cumin seeds

• Chew on half a tablespoon of (jeera) seeds (until it becomes paste in your mouth).
• Now swallow it with a glass of warm water.

Ginger slice

• Slowly chew a very thin slice of ginger with a pinch of rock salt.
• 5 to 10 minutes before eating food.

Fennel seeds

Swallow and chew 1 teaspoon of fennel seeds after meals.

Cook your vegetables

• Salads might be thought of as healthy, but raw vegetables are actually pretty difficult to digest.
• If you’re dealing with gas and bloating, try steaming, sautéing, or cooking your vegetables in healthy fats.

Drink CCF Tea

A warm, nourishing tea made with three herbs:
cumin, coriander, and fennel.

• 1⁄2 tsp. cumin seeds
• 1⁄2 tsp. coriander seeds
• 1⁄2 tsp. fennel seeds
• 4-5 cups of water

Heat water in a stainless steel vessel on high heat. Add seeds. Allow the tea to steep for 5 to 10 minutes, depending on preferred strength. Strain the seeds, store them in an insulated thermos, and drink throughout the day.

Wind releasing pose

• Practise Pawanmuktasana, or wind-releasing pose, in the morning to push out trapped air.
• To practise, lie on your back. Hug your right knee into your chest.
• Inhale deeply, then exhale and reach your knee towards your nose.
• Hold this position for a few seconds, then inhale and release.

Practise vajrasana after meals

• Vajrasana also helps us get rid of flatulence (gas) and acidity. It ensures better absorption of nutrients by our body.
• Normally, any kind of exercise or yoga is not performed immediately after meals. But it is good to perform Vajrasana after meals since it helps with indigestion.

No Cold, Raw & Stale Food

Cold, raw, and stale foods are difficult to digest. The undigested food becomes toxic and accumulates gases in the lower abdomen, hence, bloating.

Other Ayurvedic dietary recommendations:

Peppermint tea:

Peppermint has antispasmodic properties that can help relax the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract, reducing gas and bloating. Drink a peppermint tea cup after meals.

Chamomile tea:

Chamomile tea has carminative properties, which can help soothe the digestive system and relieve gas and bloating. Enjoy a cup of chamomile tea before or after meals.

Activated charcoal:

Activated charcoal can absorb gas in the digestive system and provide relief from bloating. Take activated charcoal capsules as directed by the manufacturer or healthcare professional.

• Eat mindfully and in a calm environment, avoiding distractions.
• Avoid overeating and eating too quickly.
• Consume warm, freshly cooked meals rather than cold or leftover foods.
• Include spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric in your cooking to enhance digestion.
• By drinking warm water, you stay hydrated all day.