Digestive Disorders

Digestive Disorders can be confusing! Here are some definitions.

Remember that it is always best to consult your doctor for advice on chronic digestive problems that do not respond to changes in diet and lifestyle.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) - also known as 'spastic colon' is one of the most common chronic health disorders in the world and affects up to 20% of the population. It is a dysfunction of the bowel and large intestine, causing lower abdominal pain, cramping, constipation and diarrhea. Causes have not been conclusively identified, but are thought to involve problems in communication between the bowel and the brain.

Crohn's Disease - is one of the Inflammatory Bowel Diseases. It causes inflammation in the digestive tract (usually the small intestine), resulting in chronic pain and diarrhea. There may also be rectal bleeding, weight loss and even fever. There are different theories about what causes Crohn's Disease, but many doctors believe that the immune system reacts to a virus or a bacterium, causing chronic inflammation in the intestine. Crohn's Disease tends to run in families.

Diverticulosis - is a condition in which 'pockets' or diverticula form on the wall of the colon or the large intestine, usually on the left side. This is a result of weaknesses in the bowel wall. Symptoms include left lower abdominal pain, diarrhea, cramps, changes in bowel habits or even rectal bleeding . Diverticulosis is associated with a diet high in processed foods and low in fibre and fluids. Diverticulitis occurs when there is an infection in the 'pockets' or diverticula of the intestinal wall. Diverticulosis can be effectively treated by increasing dietary fibre and fluid intake and using herbs to soothe and tone the lining of the digestive tract.

Ulcerative Colitis - is also an Inflammatory Bowel Disease and is associated with inflammation and ulcers in the inner lining of the colon and rectum. People who suffer from ulcerative colitis usually alternate between periods of flare ups and remission, often influenced by stress, diet or illness. Symptoms include rectal bleeding, diarrhea, abdominal pain and cramping and an urgent need to empty the bowels.

Gastritis - is an inflammation of the stomach lining. It may be caused by eating spoiled food, by bacteria, viruses, by certain chemicals, as well as by stress and lifestyle factors. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, fever, diarrhea and cramps. Gastritis may be acute or chronic. People who suffer from chronic gastritis should investigate dietary changes, stress management and removal of alcohol, cigarettes and spices.

GERD - or Acid Reflux Disease - is a condition in which the stomach acid 'backs up' or refluxes into the oesophagus due to dysfunction of the lower esophageal sphincter. This causes pain and burning, often called heartburn - although it has nothing to do with the heart. While we all have heartburn at some stage, persistent heartburn (more than two or three episodes a week) may suggest Acid Reflux Disease. Other symptoms include a sour taste in the mouth, swallowing difficulties, upset stomach and even coughing and hoarseness. Some causes of Acid Reflux Disease, or GERD, include a hiatal hernia, obesity, smoking, alcohol abuse and certain foods. Symptoms can be greatly relieved or prevented by lifestyle and dietary changes as well as the use of herbs known to promote healthy digestion. If symptoms persist, it is always wise to consult your doctor to prevent further complications.

Heartburn, Indigestion, acid reflux, gas, bloating, diarrhea, constipation - are all symptoms which we experience from time to time. If you are occasionally troubled by these symptoms, you can obtain quick relief by using Native Remedies DigestAssist Drops, especially formulated for rapid relief of uncomfortable digestive complaints. If you have these symptoms regularly, this may indicate incorrect diet, unhealthy lifestyle or one of the conditions described above.

Why try natural remedies like herbs to treat
digestive disorders?

There are many synthetic over the counter and prescription medicines to treat digestive complaints and disorders like IBS, Crohn's Disease, Gastritis, Acid Reflux Disease (GERD), Diverticulosis and Ulcerative Colitis.

These include anti-inflammatories like Sulfasalazine, Asacol, Pentasa and Dipentum, corticosteroids, drugs that suppress the immune system, antibiotics and other medication for symptomatic relief.

While these synthetic medications may make a big difference to quality of life for people suffering from digestive disorders and dysfunction, many also come with side effects like nausea, vomiting, heartburn, headache, diarrhea and even greater risk of infection.

Immunosuppressant drugs may also lower the body's natural resistance to illness.

Naturopaths recognize that the whole person must be treated in order to maximize health and reduce symptoms of imbalance in the system.

Research has indicated that a combination of natural remedies, regular exercise and dietary changes can make a significant difference to the lives of people suffering from digestive disorders and complaints.

While many of these problems are strongly linked to modern eating habits, digestive disorders have been around since the dawn of time. This means that the natural approach has a long history of excellent results without side effects and further damage to the system.

What are Gastronic Dr. and DigestAssist?

Recognizing the need for a healthier and more effective approach, without the side effects of the prescription drugs, Native Remedies has developed Gastronic Dr. and DigestAssist - both 100% herbal remedies containing well researched ingredients and manufactured in therapeutic dosage according to the highest pharmaceutical standards.

Gastronic Dr is a capsule which is used every day for the digestive tract and as a preventative for flare ups of stomach and digestive disorders such as IBS, Crohn's Disease, Gastritis, Acid Reflux (GERD), Ulcerative Colitis and Diverticulosis. Gastronic Dr. safely and effectively acts to improve digestive health, reduce inflammation and reduce and prevent digestive disorders.

DigestAssist, the perfect companion to Gastronic Dr., comes in fast-acting and convenient drop form, and can be taken as needed to quickly put an end to symptoms of heartburn, nausea, gas, indigestion, and acid reflux. If symptoms such as gas/cramps/heartburn flare up (e.g. after eating the wrong food) a few drops of DigestAssist will soothe the symptoms away.

Gastronic Dr. contains the following

therapeutic herbs in a 100% vege-capsule

Matricaria recutita, also known as German Chamomile, is a medicinal herb which has been used by European naturopaths for centuries. Its anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic and calming properties make it an extremely effective treatment for digestive disorders.

Filipendula ulmaria, or Meadowsweet, is an anti-inflammatory, soothing digestive remedy which helps to protect the digestive tract and reduce stomach acid secretions. It is also effective in reducing the pain of digestive disorders and ulcers and is similar in structure to the synthetic drug called acetylsalicylate, or aspirin - without the side effects commonly associated with aspirin.

Ulmus fulva, or Slippery Elm, is one of the most effective herbs used in reducing digestive pain and irritation and also protects and soothes the lining of the stomach and digestive tract due to its high mucilage content. Only bark from top quality Slippery Elm is used in Gastronic Dr.

Sutherlandia frutescens, also known as 'Cancer Bush' or 'Kankerbossie' is a medicinal herb exclusively found in Southern Africa and has been used by indigenous people for thousands of years to treat chronic and acute digestive complaints, internal cancers and as a powerful tonic. Recent research has confirmed its adaptogenic properties. Sutherlandia contains a number of highly active compounds, including pinitol, L-canavanine and the amino acid, GABA. L-canavanine is a strong L-argine antagonist that has documented anti-cancer and anti-viral activity (Swaffer et al. 1995, Crooks and Rosenthal, 1994, Ostlund and Sherman, 1996)

DigestAssist contains the following therapeutic

herbs in convenient and fast-acting drop format.

Zingiber officinale, commonly known as Ginger, has a long history of medicinal use in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic (Indian) medicine. Modern research confirms its effectiveness in relieving the symptoms of nausea, vomiting, indigestion, flatulence and dizziness. Working mainly in the digestive tract, Zinziber boosts digestive fluids and neutralises acids, making it an effective alternative to anti-nausea medication, but without the usual unpleasant side effects. Zinziber has strong anti-inflammatory and pain relieving properties and is also used to treat arthritis and other inflammatory diseases .

Foeniculum vulgare, also called fennel, was a favorite herb in medieval times and was used to stop stomach rumbles and colic. It was commonly used after meals to prevent flatulence, indigestion, colic and other digestive problems. Fennel has strong calmative and anti-inflammatory properties.

Mentha piperita, one of the most effective of the mint herbs, has been used for centuries to relieve indigestion, nausea and heartburn. Modern research has demonstrated its effectiveness in soothing the symptoms of diverticulosis, IBS and other digestive disorders. Mentha piperita is widely cultivated for medicinal uses and also has anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties. It relaxes the muscles of the digestive tract and stimulates the flow of natural digestive juices and bile, thereby assisting healthy digestion.

Pelargoneum graveolens, also known as 'maagpyn bossie' (stomach pain bush) is a traditional medicinal herb used by indigenous people of South Africa. It has a wide variety of uses and is an effective calmative and anti-spasmodic herb, reducing stomach cramps and pain.

Can I use DigestAssist and Gastronic Dr. along with

my prescription and over the counter medication?

The herbs used in Gastronic Dr. and DigestAssist have a high safety profile and there is no evidence to suggest any negative interaction with prescription and over the counter medication for digestive disorders.

You may find that you need far smaller doses of your usual medicine and may even be able to discontinue it altogether as flare ups become less frequent.

As always, consult your doctor before discontinuing or changing any prescription medicine.

How long do these remedies take to work?

Gastronic Dr. - Used regularly, Gastronic Dr. will show improved symptoms within 3 - 6 weeks, although some people respond much sooner. Over time, acute flare ups of chronic digestive disorders will decrease in frequency and intensity.

DigestAssist - The ingredients of DigestAssist have been especially chosen to provide rapid relief from symptoms of digestive distress. Take your DigestAssist Drops with you to use directly after meals for fast and effective relief and at the first signs of digestive pain or discomfort.

Caution: Safety in pregnancy has not yet been established.

How Do I use Gastronic Dr. and DigestAssist?

Gastronic Dr. - Dosage: One to two capsules two or three times daily. Use regularly as a preventative and digestive tonic

DigestAssist - Dosage: 15 - 20 drops as needed for gastric distress. (Dilute in appr. 1/4 cup water or juice)

How long does a bottle last?

Gastronic Dr.(60 capsules)- Typically the higher recommended dosage of Gastronic Dr is taken at the beginning of treatment (in which case a bottle will last about 10 days), while the lower dosage is taken as a maintenance program once symptoms have stabilized. At the maintenance dosage, one bottle of Gastronic Dr lasts about a month.

DigestAssist (50 ml) - One bottle of DigestAssist will also last approximately a month or longer, depending on severity and frequency of symptoms.