Problems with Wind (Belching and Flatulence)

Belching

Aerophagy (meaning 'eating air') results in the accumulation of too much air in the stomach. Air is normally swallowed during eating and usually escapes of its own accord, but sometimes accumulates as a pocket of compressed gas. Belching then occurs in isolation, or may occur along with bloating and a feeling of fullness in the stomach. Belching is most often the result of eating too much food containing a lot of air (ice cream, croissants, meringues, scrambled egg, soft bread, souffles), or carbonated or mineral waters. People who chew gum or are under stress may also take in abnormal amounts of air. Those who suffer from aerophagy should avoid foods that tend to be swallowed without chewing: mashed potato, stew, soup, compote, whipped cream desserts.

Belching is good news for baby after breast-feeding, reassuring to the mother who awaits or even provokes it. In the Middle East it is considered polite, a sign of contentment showing that the meal has been appreciated. However, we find it unacceptable, especially in public.

Homeopathy

Carbo vegetabilis, China

Carbo vegetabilis

- Vegetable origin: wood charcoal
- Homeopathic remedy for flatulence in the pit of the stomach
- Characteristic sign: relieved by belching

China

- Vegetable origin: cinchona bark
- Homeopathic remedy for distension throughout the intestine
- Characteristic sign: not relieved by belching

• You can take Lehning@ Basilicum Complex 96, which contains China 3x, and Lycopodium 4x:
  - Available in 30ml bottles of oral solution - Take 20 drops in a little water 15 minutes after meals and when the condition is troublesome
• You should also add a constitutional remedy decided upon after consultation with your homeopath; in this case it will often be Argentum nitricum, Kalium carbonicum, Lycopodium

Herbal treatment

Artichoke, boldo, fumitory activate the gall bladder, assist digestion and so help avoid the formation of gas.

Possible Prescription: Ask your herbalist to prepare a 30ml bottle of a mother tincture of artichoke. Twenty-five drops to be taken in a little water when digestion seems sluggish.

Artichoke

Used since antiquity for its many medicinal properties, artichoke is particularly active in eliminating liver toxins. It encourages digestion by stimulating the secretion of bile. Its depurative and diuretic properties permit its use in slimming diets.

Fumitory

Fumitory is also called widows' weed because its sharp aroma readily brings tears to the eyes. It also stimulates the secretion of bile and is depurative, diuretic and laxative.

• You could finish your meal with a mint tea, provided it is not too sweet and not accompanied by highly calorific pine nuts