You can be pretty sure that when you need over-the-counter medications such as something for an upset stomach, you've run out - and the drugstore will be closed. But you won't have to put up with the discomfort; the answer is probably in your kitchen. Natural remedies can be just as good as commercial products …
1 Chamomile Tea
You've probably got some chamomile tea bags in the cupboard, so make yourself a cup. It's good for relaxation, so will help calm your insides. It's also an anti-inflammatory, so good for upset tummies. You're more likely to have the tea bags, but if you have dried chamomile you can make a tea with one or two teaspoons.
Frequently asked questions
2 Ginger
Ginger is a popular remedy for soothing nausea and stomach aches. Chop up a small piece of ginger root and steep in boiling water to make a tea. If you only have dried ginger, use half a teaspoon. If you prefer your tea sweetened, add a little honey or sugar.
3 Rice Water
If your tummy is really upset and you don't feel like eating much, rice makes a good (if bland) meal. But the water you cook the rice in doesn't have to go to waste; it makes a good remedy to soothe an upset stomach. Cook the rice in more water than you'd normally use, and drink the water warm. Add a little honey if you like.
4 Fennel Seeds
Many Indians chew fennel seeds as an aid to digestion after meals. So if you have some in your kitchen cupboard, use them to soothe your upset stomach. All you need to do is chew the seeds (up to one teaspoon will do the trick). But if you're pregnant, avoid this remedy, as there is a risk of miscarriage. It can also interact with some medications.
5 Mint
Mints are often chewed to help indigestion, and if you have some fresh mint growing in your garden you can use it to make a tea. A handful of leaves should be enough. If you only have dried mint, use one or two teaspoons for your tea. Or mint tea bags will do just as well.
6 Burnt Toast
The one time you actually want to burn your toast is when you have an upset stomach. It works because charcoal absorbs the excess stomach acid that is making you so uncomfortable. But don't spread lots of jam or butter on your toast, or you'll make yourself feel worse!
7 Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is useful for all kinds of household needs such as cleaning and making salad dressing - and it's also good for sorting out an upset tum. Simply mix one teaspoon in a glass of water and add a little honey. It's the pectin in the apples that helps.
8 Live Yogurt
Reach for some plain, unsweetened live yoghurt when you have an upset stomach, the live bacteria acts as a probiotic to balance out your stomach.
9 Heat
If you don't have any of these remedies at hand, try holding a heat pad or hot water bottle against your stomach.
It's wise to check before using these remedies, as natural doesn't always mean safe to use. Some natural remedies can interact with medication. But generally these simple home remedies are a good way of soothing your upset stomach if you don't have any antacids.
