How to instantly get relief from Stomach Ache

1. Bitters and soda

A bar is probably the last place you’d think to look for relief from nausea, but many people swear by five or six drops of cocktail bitters mixed into a cold glass of tonic, club soda, or ginger ale.

Most common bitters brands contain a blend of herbs such as cinnamon, fennel, mint, and ginger. These ingredients may be why bitters help ease nausea in some people.

2. Ginger

Since ancient times, people have turned to ginger as a cure-all for everything from pain to nausea. It’s not just an old wives’ tale, either. Studies have shown that ginger can be a very effective treatment for some kinds of stomach upset.

A natural anti-inflammatory, ginger is available in many forms, all of which can help. Ginger chews and supplements are easy to take, while other people prefer their ginger in beverage form. Try an all-natural ginger ale or chop up some fresh ginger root and make a tea.

3. Chamomile tea

A nice cup of chamomile tea can help ease the pain of an upset stomach by acting as an anti-inflammatory. These anti-inflammatory properties help your stomach muscles relax, which can reduce the pain of cramping and spasms.

4. BRAT diet

Every parent of a toddler knows about the bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (BRAT) diet to calm an upset stomach. It can help nausea or diarrhea.

BRAT contains low-fiber, high-binding foods. None of these foods contain salt or spices, which can further aggravate symptoms. This bland diet is a go-to for when you’re feeling sick but still have to eat something. Try overcooking the toast — the charred bread is thought to reduce nausea.

5. Peppermint

Peppermint is often cited as a helpful fix for nausea and upset stomach because the menthol in its leaves is a natural analgesic, or pain reliever.

Try:

• brewing a cup of peppermint or spearmint tea
• sniffing peppermint extract
• sucking on a minty candy
• chewing on the leaves themselves

This should keep stomach pangs at bay and alleviate feelings of nausea.

6. Apple cider vinegar

If you can stomach it, try taking this acidic pantry staple by the tablespoon to neutralize an upset stomach. Too strong? Mix a tablespoon with a cup of water and a teaspoon of honey, and sip it slowly.

The acids in apple cider vinegar may help decrease starch digestion, allowing the starch to get to the intestines and keep the bacteria in the gut healthy. Some people take a spoonful each day as a preventive measure.

7. Heating pad

You might find a heating pad or hot water bottle soothing when you’re feeling sick, so cuddle up to your electric blanket and take it easy until your symptoms pass.

The warmth on your stomach will distract you from any cramping or pain, and the heat can help to relax your muscles and reduce your nausea. Don’t leave it on too long, however, as you can damage your skin from overuse.