Gastritis is an inflammation of the lining of the stomach. It is a mild irritation, inflammation, or infection of the stomach lining. It may be a sudden attack or chronic.

Gastritis may be caused by:

• Bacterial or viral infection (infection by a virus is contagious)
• Excess stomach acid caused by heavy smoking, alcohol use, caffeine, improper diet such as spicy, greasy foods
• Use of drugs such as Aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, cortisone
• Stress

Signs and symptoms

• Abdominal cramping and pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Belching or gas
• Loss of appetite

Herbal Remedies:

Amla (Indian Goosbery): Amla is the richest natural source of Vitamin C. It prevents Indigestion and controls acidity as well as it’s a natural source of anti-ageing. It is one of the supplement used in hyperacidity and Liver disorders. Amla is found to be one of the strongest rejuvenatives in Indian pharmacopoeia.

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) – In India, ginger has been used to aid digestion and treat stomach upset as well as nausea for more than 5,000 years. This herb is also thought to reduce inflammation.

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) - this herb is a demulcent (soothing, coating agent) that has long been valued for its use in food and medicinal remedies, including treatments for stomach ailments.

Diet: Fruits and vegetables are particularly protective sources of fiber and seem to reduce the amount of inflammation in the lining of the stomach; fruit juice appears to have this benefit as well. Consumption of foods and beverages that irritate the lining of the stomach or increase the stomach acids should be avoided completely or reduced, and known allergens eliminated.

Lifestyle: The cure for gastritis caused by ingesting irritating substances is to stop the long-term use of these substances, which may include:

• Alcohol
• Tobacco
  Acidic beverages such as coffee (both caffeinated and decaffeinated), carbonated beverages, and fruit juices with citric acid
• NSAIDS, such as aspirin and ibuprofen – switch to other pain relievers (like acetominophen)
• high fat foods ( high fat foods incresase inflammation in the stomach lining)

Advice:

• Have plenty of water and juices, especially lemon juice laced with a pinch of salt
• Drinking water gives immediate relief to symptoms like distended stomach and gas.
• Chewing a small piece of fresh ginger with salt, five to ten minutes before meals, stimulates digestion.
• A teaspoon of seeds of Ajwain with a little rock salt is a good remedy for this ailment