A peptic ulcer is a sore in the lining of the stomach or the small intestine. It is caused by irritation over a period of time. Ulcers may cause pain in the upper part of the belly, bloating, and nausea. Bleeding can happen in with severe ulcers. The most common causes of irritation are:

  • Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection
  • Regular use of Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)

Antibiotics will treat H. pylori. NSAID medicine will be stopped. Acid reducers can ease irritation of ulcer until it heals.

P1

Some natural therapy may help with ulcers related to H. pylori infection. The supplements below work best with standard medicine.

Likely effective

  • Cranberry juice or capsules—may make it hard for H pylori bacteria to stick to the stomach lining.A1-A3
  • Probiotics —increase good bacteria in gut. May help to get rid of H. pylori.B1-B10

Possibly effective

Editorial process and description of evidence categories can be found at EBSCO NAT Editorial Process.

Caution

Talk to your doctor about all herbs or pills you are taking. Some may get in the way of your treatment or other health problems you may have. Some supplements discussed here have certain concerns such as:

  • Cranberry may increase the effect of blood thinners.
  • Vitamin C—Too much vitamin C can cause kidney stones. Do not take vitamin C with iron supplements or blood thinners. Use caution when taking vitamin C and acetaminophen.
  • Vitamin E—Too much vitamin E may cause problems for people who take blood thinners, are diabetic, or are taking chemotherapy for cancer treatment.