The best plants to care for the intestinal mucosa
With a total surface area of almost 200 m2, our intestines represent a huge exchange zone, the first line of which is the mucous membrane. This mucous membrane plays an essential role in absorbing nutrients from our food, in digestion, but also in protecting our body. The more or less permeable intestinal mucosa must therefore be selective.
In certain diseases such as irritable bowel syndrome or under the influence of severe chronic stress, the intestinal lining can experience inflammatory episodes, become excessively permeable and cause pain and intestinal discomfort.
In this article we will introduce you to the best herbal medicinal plants that protect the intestinal mucosa and support your digestive comfort.
The importance of a healthy intestinal lining
The intestinal mucosa that lines our intestines provides a physical barrier
important on several levels.
Due to its permeability, it is, on the one hand, an exchange wall that ensures the transfer of nutrients from our digestion into the bloodstream. This allows us to absorb nutrients and benefit from the nutritional benefits of our food.
On the other hand, the intestinal mucosa also represents a physical barrier to possible undesirable substances. Firstly, the intestinal cells that make it up are connected to each other by tight connections made of proteins. On the other hand, these cells, which form a surface epithelium, are lined with a protective mucus, which in turn is populated by the intestinal microbiota (or intestinal flora). Tight junctions, mucus and intestinal microbiota work together to prevent adhesion and passage of microorganisms through the intestinal wall.
A healthy intestinal lining therefore has a selective permeability that allows only the right nutrients to pass through and blocks toxins, digestive waste or even pathogens to protect our body and limit the risk of infection.
Overpermeability of the intestine, source of digestive problems
In some cases, particularly in people with irritable bowel syndrome, the intestinal barrier may be weakened and become over-permeable. This is then referred to as leaky gut syndrome or “leaky gut syndrome”.
Because the intestinal lining is too permeable, toxins, waste products from our metabolism, or even bacteria and undigested compounds can enter the bloodstream. This phenomenon is generally accompanied by inflammation of the intestinal wall, which leads to significant digestive problems and discomfort.
The best plants to care for the intestinal mucosa
Phytotherapy is the use of plants for medicinal purposes. Since herbal medicine derives its benefits from nature, it has a variety of remedies to care for our bodies. For thousands of years, many traditional uses have emphasized the benefits of plants for digestion, more specifically for intestinal comfort and mucosal care.
- Aloe vera (Aloe Barbadens): In addition to its positive effects on intestinal transit, scientific studies prove the anti-inflammatory effects of aloe vera, especially for irritated intestines. To be consumed in the form of a drinking gel.
- Star anise or star anise (Illicium verum): Star anise is a spice known in traditional Chinese medicine for its comprehensive effects on the digestive tract: antioxidant, antibacterial, antispasmodic, but also anti-inflammatory properties. Consume in the form of essential oil or in the form of infusions.
- turmeric (Curcuma longa): Turmeric is a spice known and documented for its calming effects. Thanks to its curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties, it is suitable for the care of the intestinal mucosa. Clinical studies show a reduction in inflammation in patients with irritable bowel syndrome. For consumption in the form of extracts, for example in dietary supplements. An indication of the curcumin dosage is a guarantee of the quality of the extract.
- Ginger (Zingiber officinalis): Ginger is widely used in Ayurvedic medicine and owes its calming effect to its anti-inflammatory compounds, the sesquiterpenes, which are found in particularly high concentrations in its essential oil. To be consumed in the form of essential oils, decoctions, mother tinctures or even in fresh or candied form.
- The marshmallow (Althaea officinalis): In addition to its recognized use for relieving dry coughs and sore throats, marshmallow root is also useful for relieving irritable bowel syndrome due to the soothing properties of its mucilage. To be consumed in the form of infusions of the dried root, cold macerations or even decoctions and chews.
- Melissa (Melissa officinalis): Listed in the French Pharmacopoeia, lemon balm is valued for its benefits in contributing to normal intestinal function and digestive comfort. Thanks to the anti-inflammatory rosmarinic acid it contains, the medicinal plant particularly helps to reduce intestinal irritation. To be consumed in the form of infusions, mother tinctures or essential oils.
- liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra): Licorice contains interesting compounds such as glycyrrhizin, which is known for its anti-inflammatory effects. Licorice root’s digestive comfort benefits are popular in traditional Chinese medicine and supported in scientific literature. Consume in the form of infusions, decoctions, extracts or chewing sticks.
- The worry (Calendula officinalis): Calendula, also known as marigold, is known for its beneficial effects on inflammation of the skin and mucous membranes of the body. It has a particular effect on the intestinal mucosa and thus contributes to improving digestive comfort. Consume in the form of dried flower infusions, liquid extracts or mother tinctures.
In addition to the benefits of these plants, supplementing with glutamine is interesting. Glutamine is an amino acid that our body can synthesize from certain foods. The scientific literature shows the benefits of taking glutamine for maintaining the integrity of the intestinal wall.
In addition to naturally promoting chronic inflammation of the intestinal lining, severe stress also reduces glutamine levels, contributing to further weakening of the intestinal lining. For effective treatment of intestinal hyperpermeability, it is important to also manage stress. To help you find solutions to manage stress, read our dedicated article Stress: mechanisms, effects and natural active ingredients.
