Effective Home Remedies For Stomach Ulcers: 17 Natural Treatments

Stomach ulcers, also known as peptic or gastric ulcers, are open sores that develop on the lining of the stomach, upper small intestine, or esophagus. These can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, indigestion, heartburn, nausea, and even serious complications if left untreated. While medical treatment—including antibiotics and acid-suppressing drugs—is often required, many individuals seek additional support through home remedies and lifestyle changes. Below you’ll find 17 natural, evidence-based remedies and tips to help soothe, support, and promote healing from stomach ulcers.

Table of Contents

• What Are Stomach Ulcers?
• Causes and Risk Factors
• Symptoms of Stomach Ulcers
• Dietary and Natural Home Remedies
• Lifestyle Changes and Supportive Therapies
• Foods To Eat and Avoid
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What Are Stomach Ulcers?

Stomach ulcers are lesions in the stomach lining or upper part of the small intestine. These open sores occur when stomach acid damages the protective mucous layer of the gastrointestinal lining. If the protective barrier is compromised—due to bacteria, medications, or other causes—stomach acid can erode the tissue and cause an ulcer to form.

Causes and Risk Factors

The two primary causes of stomach ulcers are:

• Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection: This bacteria disrupts the mucous layer and is responsible for a significant proportion of ulcers worldwide.
• Use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Medications such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin can weaken the stomach lining when used regularly or at high doses.

Other potential risk factors include excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, high-stress levels, and medical conditions that increase stomach acid production.

Symptoms of Stomach Ulcers

• Burning or gnawing pain in the abdomen, especially when the stomach is empty
• Bloating and indigestion
• Nausea or vomiting
• Loss of appetite and unintentional weight loss
• Dark or tarry stools (in severe cases, indicating bleeding)

Dietary and Natural Home Remedies

Scientific studies and traditional wisdom highlight several natural ingredients and practices that can help soothe and support healing of stomach ulcers. Below are the most trusted options, including how to use them and how often.

1. Coconut Milk and Coconut Water

Coconut milk and coconut water boast strong antimicrobial properties, believed to inhibit ulcer-causing bacteria. They are also soothing to stomach tissue and may reduce inflammation.

• Drink fresh coconut water or coconut milk 1–2 times daily to help reduce discomfort and promote healing.
• Consider taking 1 tablespoon of coconut oil morning and evening several times a week for added digestive support.

2. Yogurt and Probiotic Foods

Yogurt is high in probiotics—live beneficial bacteria that help restore balance in the gut and can support the treatment of H. pylori. Regular consumption may enhance the healing process and reduce recurrence of ulcers.

• Eat plain, unsweetened yogurt daily.
• Other probiotic-rich foods: kefir, fermented vegetables, and miso.

3. Garlic

Garlic contains powerful antioxidant and antimicrobial compounds, especially effective against H. pylori.

• Crush and consume 2–3 cloves of raw garlic daily, preferably with meals.
• If raw garlic is too strong, consider adding it to your food or infusing in water or honey.

4. Ginger

Ginger root offers protective, anti-inflammatory, and digestive benefits. Research shows it may reduce the severity and risk of ulcers, especially those caused by NSAIDs or bacteria.

• Ginger tea: Add 1 teaspoon of grated fresh ginger to 1 cup of water. Bring to boil, simmer 5 minutes, strain, and add a little honey. Drink 3 times a day.

5. Turmeric

The active compound in turmeric, curcumin, exhibits strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity. It supports mucous layer repair and can help reduce ulcer-related inflammation.

• Add 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder to a glass of warm water and stir well. Drink 2–3 times daily.
• You may add honey to improve taste and absorption.

6. Honey

Honey has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties. It may help inhibit H. pylori growth and speed up ulcer recovery.

• Take 1–2 tablespoons of raw honey (preferably Manuka honey) daily—add to warm water, herbal tea, or take directly.

7. Flavonoid-Rich Foods

Flavonoids are plant compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Foods rich in flavonoids can protect the gastrointestinal lining and inhibit H. pylori.

• Include apples, berries, soybeans, legumes, tea, broccoli, and kale in your daily diet.

8. Plantain Bananas

Plantain bananas (unripe or green bananas) contain compounds that help strengthen the stomach lining and increase cell proliferation, supporting ulcer healing.

• Eat 2–3 ripe bananas daily.
• Dry banana peels, crush them into a powder, and mix 2 parts powder with 1 part honey; take this mixture 3 times daily.

9. Cabbage Juice

Cabbage is rich in glutamine and vitamin U, both of which have been shown to repair and nourish the gastric mucosa. Cabbage juice is a traditional home remedy for ulcers.

• Wash, chop, and juice ½ head of raw cabbage. Drink the fresh juice once daily, preferably before meals.

10. Cayenne Pepper

Though spicy food is often blamed for causing discomfort, capsaicin in cayenne pepper may suppress stomach acid and increase protective mucus, aiding ulcer healing.

• Mix ½ teaspoon of powdered cayenne pepper into a glass of warm water, add honey if desired, and drink twice daily.

11. Licorice Root

Licorice root (not licorice candy) boosts mucus production in the stomach, forming a barrier against acid and pathogens. It has been traditionally used for ulcer treatment.

• Dissolve licorice root powder in water with honey, and drink once daily. Note: Avoid if you have high blood pressure or heart issues, as licorice can raise blood pressure.

12. Aloe Vera

Fresh aloe vera gel soothes inflammation, reduces excess acid, and supports gastrointestinal healing.

• Extract the gel from fresh aloe vera leaves and consume 2 tablespoons of the juice twice daily for 2–3 weeks.

13. Slippery Elm

Slippery elm bark contains mucilage that coats and protects the esophagus and stomach lining, reducing pain and inflammation.

• Mix 1–2 tablespoons of slippery elm powder in a glass of warm water and consume before meals.

14. Mastic Gum

Mastic gum, a resin from the mastic tree, has been shown in research to fight H. pylori and protect the stomach lining.

• Chew mastic gum or take in supplement form as directed on the label.

15. Perilla Leaves

Perilla leaves, rich in tannins and glycosides, help reduce stomach acidity and support healing of ulcers.

• Boil fresh or dried perilla leaves in water, let cool, and drink as needed throughout the day.

16. Abdominal Massage

Gentle abdominal massage in a clockwise direction may help relieve bloating, indigestion, and other discomfort associated with ulcers.

• Warm your hands and use gentle circular motions over your abdomen for 5–10 minutes, especially when feeling pain or tension.

17. Warm Compress

Applying a warm or hot compress to your abdomen can help relax muscles and increase circulation, reducing pain and cramping.

• Use a warm towel or heating pad for 10–15 minutes at a time, but be careful not to overheat to avoid skin burns.

Lifestyle Changes and Supportive Therapies

In addition to natural remedies, certain lifestyle modifications are crucial in managing stomach ulcers and promoting gut health:

• Avoid NSAIDs and aspirin: If you need pain relief, choose acetaminophen or consult your doctor for alternatives.
• Stop smoking: Smoking inhibits ulcer healing and increases recurrence risk.
• Limit alcohol: Alcohol irritates the stomach lining and interferes with recovery.
• Reduce stress: Practice relaxation exercises, yoga, or meditation to help prevent symptom flare-ups.
• Eat smaller, more frequent meals: Large meals can aggravate stomach symptoms.

Foods To Eat and Avoid

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How long does it take for a stomach ulcer to heal at home?

A: With medical care and supportive home remedies, most ulcers begin to show improvement within 1–2 weeks. Complete healing can take up to 6–8 weeks, depending on severity and adherence to treatment.

Q: Can stomach ulcers heal without medication?

A: Mild ulcers may improve with dietary and lifestyle changes, but most require prescription therapy for eradication of H. pylori or acid suppression. Home remedies are considered supportive and should not replace medical care.

Q: Are home remedies safe for everyone?

A: Most remedies are safe for adults, but consult your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have chronic illnesses, or are on medication (some, such as licorice, should be avoided with high blood pressure).

Q: What warning signs need immediate medical help?

A: Seek urgent medical attention if you experience severe abdominal pain, vomiting blood, black or tarry stools, or sudden weight loss, as these may indicate serious complications.

Q: Can diet alone cure stomach ulcers?

A: Diet can support healing, but H. pylori infection and severe ulcers typically require medication. Use home remedies as an adjunct to professional treatment for best results.

Author

Sneha TeteBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

 

Sneha is a relationships and lifestyle writer with a strong foundation in applied linguistics and certified training in relationship coaching. She brings over five years of writing experience to thebridalbox, crafting thoughtful, research-driven content that empowers readers to build healthier relationships, boost emotional well-being, and embrace holistic living.

Read full bio of Sneha Tete