Home remedies to treat digestive issues: Fennel seeds, ginger tea, mint leaves, more

Fennel seeds help in digestion by stimulating the production of digestive juices and reducing bloating. (Image: Canva)

During the monsoon season, digestive issues often escalate due to several factors. The increased humidity and temperature fluctuations create an environment conducive to bacterial growth, leading to water and food contamination. This contamination can cause gastrointestinal infections, resulting in symptoms like diarrhoea, stomach cramps, nausea, and bloating.

Moreover, people tend to consume more street food and indulge in spicy or oily dishes during the rainy season, which can further exacerbate digestive problems. Poor sanitation and hygiene practices also contribute to the spread of illnesses like cholera and typhoid, which affect the digestive system.

To mitigate these issues, it's crucial to prioritise hygiene by washing hands frequently, drinking boiled or filtered water, and opting for freshly cooked meals over raw or leftover food. Incorporating probiotics like yoghurt into your diet can help maintain gut health, while herbal remedies such as ginger tea or ajwain water can alleviate symptoms.

By being mindful of these factors and adopting preventive measures, individuals can minimise the risk of digestive disturbances during the monsoon and enjoy a healthier season. If the problem persists, here are nine effective home remedies to treat digestive issues during the monsoon season suggested by Delhi-based nutritionist Priyal Rastogi.

Ginger tea: Ginger is known for its digestive properties. Boil a few slices of fresh ginger in water to make ginger tea. Drink it warm to help soothe the stomach and relieve indigestion.

Ajwain (Carom seeds) water: Ajwain seeds are commonly used in Indian cuisine and have carminative properties that aid digestion. Boil a teaspoon of ajwain seeds in a cup of water, strain, and drink it lukewarm.

Fennel seeds: Chew on a teaspoon of fennel seeds (Saunf) after meals. Fennel seeds help in digestion by stimulating the production of digestive juices and reducing bloating.

Lemon water: Squeeze half a lemon into a glass of warm water and add a pinch of salt. Drink this mixture in the morning on an empty stomach to stimulate digestion and detoxify the body.

Buttermilk: Buttermilk is a natural probiotic that aids digestion. Drink a glass of buttermilk with a pinch of roasted cumin powder and a little salt after meals to soothe the stomach.

Bananas: Bananas are easy to digest and help in replenishing electrolytes. Eat a ripe banana when experiencing digestive discomfort to settle the stomach.

Mint leaves: Mint leaves (pudina) have cooling properties and can relieve indigestion and nausea. Chew on a few fresh mint leaves or steep them in hot water to make mint tea.

Cumin water: Cumin (jeera) seeds are known for their digestive benefits. Boil a teaspoon of cumin seeds in a cup of water, strain, and drink it warm to alleviate gas and bloating.

Aloe vera juice: Aloe vera juice can soothe and heal the digestive tract. Drink a small amount of aloe vera juice (about 2-3 tablespoons) mixed with water once daily to promote digestive health.