Ulcer
Contents
Description & Causes
An ulcer is an open sore on the skin or mucous membrane. Ulcerated sores often form pus and are identified by the deteriation of the tissue and the resistance to healing. Peptic ulcers are painful sores found in the lining of the stomach or in the first part of the small intestines, called the duodenum.
Many times ulcers are caused by an imbalance between the digestive fluids and the duodenum. They can also be experienced as a result of the bacterial infection Helicobacter Pylori (H-Pylori).
Frequent use of non-steroidal and anti-inflammatory painkillers (NSAIDS), such as naproxen, aspirin, ibuprofen and prescription medications are a common cause of ulcers.
Excessive acid production from gastrinomas tumors of the acid-producing cells of the stomach and increasing acid output as seen in Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, are all symptoms which are ulcer related.
Symptoms
Some common symptoms of ulcers ar darkened or black stools, vomiting blood, weight-loss, severe pain in the mid-upper abdomen, bleeding and perforations (holes) in the wall of the stomach.
Nutrients
Some vitamins and nutrients that may benefit those suffering from ulcers are as follows:
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin B-complex
- Vitamin B2
- Vitamin B12
- Folic acid
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
- Vitamin K
- Bioflavonoids
- Iron
- Protein
- Bee propolis
- Chlorella
- Manuka honey
Herbs
Some of the herbs that may help with ulcers are listed below.
- Alfalfa
- Aloe
- Burdock
- Chamomile
- Dandelion
- Eucalyptus (external)
- Fenugreek
- Ginseng
- Goldenseal (skin)
- Hops
- Licorice
- Mullein
- Myrrh (leg)
- Pau D' Arco
- Prickly Ash
- Red Clover (skin)
- Raspberry
- Sage (mouth and throat)
- Slippery Elm
- White Willow
- Yellow Dock
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