10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Gastroparesis

Herbal decoctions for gastroparesis are a natural remedy that combines dried herbs with hot water to create a soothing, nutrient-rich liquid that can help alleviate symptoms of gastroparesis.

These herbal concoctions work by relaxing the muscles in the digestive tract, improving gut motility, and reducing inflammation, which can ease abdominal pain, bloating, and nausea often experienced by individuals with gastroparesis.

Examples of herbal decoctions that have shown promise include ginger, peppermint, and fennel, which can help to improve digestion and reduce symptoms, allowing individuals to live a more comfortable and normal life.

The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for gastroparesis, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Gymnema sylvestre

Guduchi decoctions helps with gastroparesis because its bioactive compounds, such as glycosides and alkaloids, possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that soothe and protect the stomach lining.

This relief from inflammation reduces spasms and slows down gastric motility, allowing food to digest more efficiently and alleviating symptoms of gastroparesis like bloating, nausea, and vomiting.

Additionally, Guduchi's adaptogenic nature helps regulate digestive enzymes and hormones, promoting a healthy gut microbiome and overall digestion.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Gymnema sylvestre decoctions that help with gastroparesis.

• Gymnemic acid: It helps with gastroparesis by inhibiting the release of acetylcholine from the nerve terminals, thereby reducing gastric contractions and improving gastric emptying.
• Gymneminic acid: It helps with gastroparesis by binding to the taste buds and inhibiting the release of glucose, thereby reducing glucose absorption and alleviating symptoms associated with gastroparesis.
• Saponins: They help with gastroparesis by reducing inflammation and improving gastric motility, which can help alleviate symptoms associated with gastroparesis such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of guduchi used to make decoctions for gastroparesis.

• Leaves: They are rich in gymnemic acid, which is believed to help regulate blood sugar levels and alleviate symptoms associated with gastroparesis.
• Roots: They are a common source of gymnemic acid and harman alkaloids, which have been traditionally used to treat digestive issues, including gastroparesis.
• Stems: They contain gymnemic acid and other bioactive compounds that may help stimulate digestive enzymes and improve gastrointestinal motility in individuals with gastroparesis.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic guduchi for gastroparesis.

1. Collect 30 to 60 grams of dried gymnema sylvestre leaves.
2. Grind the collected gymnema sylvestre leaves into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
3. Boil one liter of water and add the powdered gymnema sylvestre to the boiling water.
4. Reduce heat to a simmer and let the mixture steep for 10 to 15 minutes.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine mesh sieve into a clean container.

2. Withania somnifera

Ashwagandha decoctions help with gastroparesis because they stimulate digestion, improve gut motility, and reduce inflammation.

The herb's adaptogenic properties allow it to calm the nervous system, alleviating symptoms of gastroparesis such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

Additionally, ashwagandha's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects help heal and protect the gastrointestinal lining, promoting a healthy gut environment that supports normal digestion and absorption of nutrients.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Withania somnifera decoctions that help with gastroparesis.

• Withanolides: These steroidal lactone compounds are known to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the gastrointestinal tract, alleviating symptoms of gastroparesis.
• Withaferin a: As a major withanolide constituent, Withaferin A has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and pro-apoptotic properties, which may help reduce gastric inflammation and improve gastric motility in individuals with gastroparesis.
• Withanoside a: This saponin glycoside has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help protect the gastrointestinal tract from damage and promote the healing of gastric mucosa, potentially alleviating symptoms of gastroparesis.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ashwagandha used to make decoctions for gastroparesis.

• Roots: Used due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, including withanolides, which have potential therapeutic effects on the digestive system.
• Leaves: Utilized for their adaptogenic properties and ability to stimulate digestive enzymes, which can aid in improving nutrient absorption and digestion.
• Seeds: Employed for their potential to stimulate gastric secretions and enhance gut motility, which can be beneficial in treating gastroparesis.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ashwagandha for gastroparesis.

1. Weigh 1-2 grams of dried withania somnifera roots and separate them from any debris.
2. Boil 200ml of water in a saucepan and pour it over the roots in a heat-resistant glass or ceramic container.
3. Allow the mixture to steep for 10-15 minutes to release the active constituents of the roots.
4. Strain the liquid using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass container discarding the solids.
5. Store the decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and consume it as needed.

3. Piper methysticum

Kava decoctions helps with gastroparesis because of its unique ability to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, reducing the likelihood of food getting stuck or moving too slowly.

The kavalactones present in the decoction also have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation and irritation in the stomach and small intestine, making it easier for food to pass through and alleviating symptoms such as nausea and vomiting.

Additionally, kava's sedative effects can promote a sense of calm, which is often lost due to the discomfort and anxiety associated with gastroparesis.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Piper methysticum decoctions that help with gastroparesis.

• Steroids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and relaxant properties, helping to alleviate gastric spasms and improve digestion in patients with gastroparesis.
• Saponins: Saponins have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help reduce inflammation and improve gut motility in individuals with gastroparesis.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds have been found to possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help protect the stomach lining and improve digestion in patients with gastroparesis.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of kava used to make decoctions for gastroparesis.

• Roots: The roots of Piper methysticum are commonly used to make decoctions due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, particularly kavalactones.
• Leaves: Piper methysticum leaves are used in decoctions due to their kavalactone content, which may help alleviate symptoms of gastroparesis, such as nausea and digestive discomfort.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kava for gastroparesis.

1. Harvest 50 grams of dried piper methysticum roots from a trusted supplier or local source.
2. Grind the roots into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 10 minutes.
3. Combine 5 grams of the ground powder with 1 liter of boiling water in a saucepan.
4. Simmer the mixture at a low heat for 20-30 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a cup or glass container.

4. Zingiber officinale

Ginger decoctions helps with gastroparesis because of its potent anti-inflammatory and digestive properties.

The bioactive compounds in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, have been shown to relax the muscles in the stomach and intestines, improving gastric motility and reducing symptoms of nausea and vomiting. Additionally, ginger has been found to increase the production of digestive enzymes and reduce inflammation in the gut, further alleviating gastroparesis symptoms.

By stimulating digestion and reducing inflammation, ginger decoctions can help regulate bowel movements and improve overall gastrointestinal health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale decoctions that help with gastroparesis.

• Gingerols: These compounds help with gastroparesis by stimulating gastric motility and reducing nausea and vomiting through their action on gastric smooth muscle and central nervous system.
• Shogaols: Similar to gingerols, shogaols have been found to have gastroprotective effects by reducing inflammation and improving gastric emptying in individuals with gastroparesis.
• 6-gingerol: This compound has been shown to have a direct effect on gastric motility, increasing the frequency and amplitude of gastric contractions, thereby helping to alleviate gastroparesis symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make decoctions for gastroparesis.

• Roots: The roots of Zingiber officinale are used in decoctions to provide relief from gastroparesis symptoms, as they contain a combination of gingerols and shogaols that help regulate digestive function.
• Stems: Some traditional remedies use the stems of Zingiber officinale to make decoctions, as they contain volatile oils and other compounds that can help alleviate nausea and promote digestive health.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for gastroparesis.

1. Gather fresh roots of zingiber officinale and clean them thoroughly with water to remove dirt and debris.
2. Chop the cleaned roots into small pieces weighing about 5-10 grams per 250 milliliters of water.
3. Boil the chopped roots in water for 5-7 minutes or until the liquid reduces slightly.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a separate container to remove the solids.
5. Store the prepared decoction in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before consumption.

5. Paeonia lactiflora

Chinese peony decoctions helps with gastroparesis because its unique combination of bioactive compounds, particularly isoflavones and saponins, exerts a synergistic effect on the digestive system.

The decoction's anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce inflammation in the stomach and small intestine, alleviating symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

Additionally, Chinese peony's stimulant effect on digestive enzymes enhances gastric motility, facilitating food digestion and absorption, which can improve nutrient uptake and reduce symptoms of gastroparesis.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Paeonia lactiflora decoctions that help with gastroparesis.

• Alkaloids: Alkaloids in Paeonia lactiflora, particularly paeonol, paeoniflorin, and paeonifloline, may help alleviate gastroparesis by promoting gastrointestinal motility and relaxation of smooth muscles.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, including quercetin and kaempferol, present in Paeonia lactiflora, may contribute to the management of gastroparesis by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the gastrointestinal tract.
• Saponins: Saponins in Paeonia lactiflora, such as paeoniflorin, may also help alleviate gastroparesis symptoms by stimulating gastric emptying, improving gastrointestinal motility, and modulating the gut-brain axis.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of chinese peony used to make decoctions for gastroparesis.

• Roots: They are used due to their potential anti-inflammatory properties and ability to stimulate digestive system function.
• Leaves: They are used due to their possible antispasmodic effects, which can help alleviate symptoms of gastroparesis.
• Flowers: They are used due to their potential to stimulate digestion and alleviate nausea associated with gastroparesis.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chinese peony for gastroparesis.

1. Gather 1-2 teaspoons of dried root of paeonia lactiflora and 1 quart of water for decoction.
2. Combine the dried root with water in a saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer the mixture for 30-40 minutes or until the liquid reduces by half.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove solids.
5. Store the prepared decoction in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

6. Foeniculum vulgare

Fennel decoctions helps with gastroparesis because of its natural ability to stimulate digestion and alleviate symptoms associated with this condition.

The anti-inflammatory properties of fennel work to reduce inflammation in the stomach, which can help to improve gut motility and ease bloating and discomfort.

Additionally, fennel's carminative effects help to eliminate gas and bloating from the digestive tract, allowing food to pass through the system more smoothly and reducing symptoms such as nausea and vomiting.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare decoctions that help with gastroparesis.

• Anethole: Anethole is a terpene that helps to relax the muscles in the stomach, improving digestion and reducing symptoms of gastroparesis by facilitating gastric emptying.
• Foeniculin: Foeniculin, a phenolic compound, has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to reduce inflammation in the stomach and alleviate gastroparesis symptoms.
• Trans-anethole: Trans-Anethole, another terpene, has been found to have a positive effect on gastrointestinal motility, which may help to regulate digestive processes and alleviate gastroparesis symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make decoctions for gastroparesis.

• Seeds: Used due to their high content of essential oils, particularly anethole, which helps to stimulate digestive enzymes and alleviate symptoms of gastroparesis.
• Roots: Utilized for their carminative and antispasmodic properties, which help to reduce inflammation and alleviate nausea and vomiting associated with gastroparesis.
• Leaves: Employed for their soothing and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help to calm the digestive system and reduce symptoms of gastroparesis such as bloating and abdominal pain.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for gastroparesis.

1. Gather 5-10 grams of dried foeniculum vulgare roots and leaves for herbal decoction preparation.
2. Combine the gathered plant material with 500 milliliters of water in a medium-sized saucepan.
3. Boil the mixture over high heat for 5-10 minutes or until the liquid is reduced by half.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
5. Allow the decoction to cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing it for later use.

7. Matricaria chamomilla

Chamomile decoctions helps with gastroparesis because of its soothing properties that calm the muscles in the digestive tract, reducing spasms and contractions that can slow down digestion.

The anti-inflammatory compounds found in chamomile also help to reduce inflammation in the stomach and intestines, which can contribute to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

By promoting a healthy gut environment, chamomile decoctions can help alleviate gastroparesis symptoms, allowing for more efficient and comfortable digestion.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla decoctions that help with gastroparesis.

• Apigenin: This flavonoid helps alleviate gastroparesis symptoms by reducing inflammation and modulating the gut-brain axis, promoting a balance in digestive functions.
• Apollinarin: This sesquiterpene lactone exhibits anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, helping to calm down intestinal spasms and ease digestion in individuals with gastroparesis.
• Luteolin: This flavonoid exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, protecting the stomach lining from irritation and inflammation, thereby alleviating gastroparesis symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make decoctions for gastroparesis.

• Flowers: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of apigenin and luteolin, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the digestive system.
• Leaves: The leaves of the plant contain similar compounds to the flowers, but in smaller quantities, and are used in decoctions for their calming effects on the stomach and intestines.
• (optional) seeds: While not as commonly used as the flowers, the seeds of Matricaria chamomilla contain a higher concentration of apigenin and may be used in some decoctions for their anti-inflammatory properties, but more research is needed to confirm their effectiveness.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for gastroparesis.

1. Measure out 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers per 8 ounces of water for a standard decoction.
2. Combine the dried flowers with water in a saucepan and bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to a simmer and allow the mixture to steep for 5 to 10 minutes.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a cup or another container.
5. Discard the solids and let the decoction cool to room temperature before consumption or storage.

8. Urtica dioica

Stinging nettle decoctions helps with gastroparesis because of its ability to stimulate digestion and alleviate symptoms of delayed gastric emptying.

The decoction's anti-inflammatory properties help soothe the stomach lining, reducing inflammation and irritation that can exacerbate gastroparesis. Additionally, stinging nettle's natural musculotropic properties help relax the muscles in the digestive tract, allowing food to move more efficiently through the digestive system and improving overall gut motility.

This holistic approach helps alleviate symptoms such as bloating, nausea, and vomiting associated with gastroparesis.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica decoctions that help with gastroparesis.

• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly quercetin and kaempferol, help with gastroparesis by reducing inflammation and improving gut motility, which can alleviate symptoms such as nausea and vomiting.
• Saponins: Saponins in Urtica dioica decoctions have been shown to stimulate gut contractions and improve gastric emptying, thereby alleviating gastroparesis symptoms.
• Steroids: Beta-sitosterol, a steroid found in Urtica dioica, has been found to have a direct stimulatory effect on smooth muscle contractions in the gut, which can help improve gastroparesis symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make decoctions for gastroparesis.

• Leaves: Urtica dioica leaves are rich in histamine, which can stimulate the stomach to contract and improve digestive function.
• Roots: The roots of Urtica dioica contain iridoid glycosides, which can help to regulate digestive enzymes and improve gastric motility.
• Stems: Urtica dioica stems are a source of flavonoids, which can help to protect the stomach lining and improve digestion by reducing inflammation.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for gastroparesis.

1. Harvest 1 to 2 pounds of fresh or dried urtica dioica leaves and stems in the spring or fall season.
2. Chop the urtica dioica leaves and stems into small pieces using a sharp knife or herb cutter.
3. Combine 1 teaspoon of chopped urtica dioica with 1 cup of boiling water in a heat-resistant glass or ceramic container.
4. Steep the urtica dioica mixture for 5 to 10 minutes then strain the liquid using a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve.
5. Store the urtica dioica decoction in a glass bottle in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

9. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion decoctions helps with gastroparesis because of its ability to stimulate digestion and improve gut motility.

The plant's natural compounds, including inulin and taraxasterol, have been shown to increase the contractions of the stomach muscles, which can help move food through the digestive system more efficiently. Additionally, dandelion decoctions may also help to reduce inflammation in the gut, a common contributor to gastroparesis symptoms.

By addressing these underlying issues, dandelion decoctions may provide relief from gastroparesis symptoms such as bloating, nausea, and abdominal pain.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale decoctions that help with gastroparesis.

• Saponins: These compounds have been shown to stimulate gastric motility and improve gut function, which can help alleviate symptoms of gastroparesis.
• Phenolic acids: These antioxidants have been found to inhibit the growth of H. pylori bacteria, a common cause of gastroparesis, and also have anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe the digestive tract.
• Flavonoids: Quercetin has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the digestive tract, which can contribute to gastroparesis symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make decoctions for gastroparesis.

• Leaves: They are commonly used due to their high concentration of inulin, which helps stimulate digestion and relieve symptoms of gastroparesis.
• Roots: The roots contain inulin and other compounds that help to stimulate digestion and improve gut motility.
• Seeds: The seeds of Taraxacum officinale contain inulin and other bioactive compounds that may help to regulate gut function and alleviate gastroparesis symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for gastroparesis.

1. Gather 1-2 cups of fresh taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers or 1/2 cup of dried material.
2. Combine the collected taraxacum officinale with 8 cups of water in a large pot.
3. Heat the mixture over medium heat for 10-15 minutes or until it reaches a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the liquid has reduced.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

10. Rosmarinus officinalis

Rosemary decoctions helps with gastroparesis because it has a natural ability to stimulate digestion and alleviate symptoms of delayed gastric emptying.

The essential oils present in rosemary have been shown to improve gut motility, reducing the risk of constipation and nausea associated with gastroparesis. Additionally, rosemary's anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, further alleviating symptoms and improving overall digestion.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to soothe stomach issues and promote a healthy gut.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosmarinus officinalis decoctions that help with gastroparesis.

• Carnosic acid: This terpene helps with gastroparesis by improving gut motility and reducing inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.
• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic acid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help alleviate symptoms of gastroparesis by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the stomach and intestines.
• Rosmarinus extract's essential oil terpene fraction: These terpenes have a cholinergic effect, which helps stimulate stomach contractions and improve gut motility in individuals with gastroparesis.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of rosemary used to make decoctions for gastroparesis.

• Leaves: The leaves of Rosmarinus officinalis are commonly used due to their high concentration of carnosic acid, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and gastroprotective properties.
• Stems: The stems of the plant are also used due to their rich content of rosmarinic acid, which has been found to improve digestion and reduce inflammation in the stomach.
• Flowers: The flowers of Rosmarinus officinalis are utilized for their rosmarinic acid and essential oil content, which can help to stimulate digestion and alleviate symptoms associated with gastroparesis.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rosemary for gastroparesis.

1. Harvest 5-10 grams of rosmarinus officinalis leaves from a reliable source.
2. Rinse the leaves with filtered water to remove any impurities gently.
3. Combine the rosmarinus officinalis leaves with 200ml of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
4. Allow the mixture to steep for 5-10 minutes or until the liquid cools slightly.
5. Strain the decoction using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove solids.

What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for gastroparesis?

The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with gastroparesis is a blend of ginger, peppermint, and chamomile.

Ginger has natural anti-inflammatory properties that aid digestion, while peppermint helps to relax the stomach muscles and improve digestion. Chamomile, with its calming effects, reduces stress and discomfort associated with gastroparesis. Additionally, licorice root and slippery elm can be added to support stomach lining health and promote smooth digestion.

This combination may help alleviate symptoms of gastroparesis and promote overall gastrointestinal well-being.

What ailments similar to gastroparesis are treated with herbal decoctions?

Ailments similar to gastroparesis/decoctions.html">gastroparesis/decoctions.html">gastroparesis that are treated with herbal decoctions are irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), chronic constipation, and slow digestion.

Herbal decoctions such as those made from licorice root, fennel seeds, and ginger have been used to alleviate symptoms of these conditions by improving gut motility, reducing inflammation, and soothing the digestive tract.

These herbal remedies can help regulate bowel movements, reduce abdominal pain, and improve overall digestive health.