Herbal Gut Health: Natural Therapies to Promote Healthy Digestion, Boost Your Microbiome, and Support Gut Repair

This comprehensive guide from herbalist Groves (Herbal Remedies for Sleep) shows readers how to harness the power of herbs and supplements to support their digestive health. Gut health is the foundation for overall vitality, Groves explains, noting an out-of-balance digestive system can lead to gas, heartburn, ulcers, and other forms of discomfort, as well as have broader implications for one’s mood and immune system. While pharmaceuticals for digestive problems often work by suppressing the body’s function, herbal therapies, she says, help by healing the damaged area. Groves walks readers through herbs and their uses, starting with those that support digestion, such as artichoke leaf, chamomile, fennel, and dill, and those that help regulate bowel movements, like yellow dock, cinnamon, and rose petals. Some herbs offer antimicrobial benefits, such as oregano, thyme, yarrow, and alder bark, while others support gut repair, like marsh mallow and plantain. Throughout, Groves provides easy to follow recipes for teas, bitters, seltzers, and snacks, and sensibly cautions readers that herbs alone may not be enough to fix their issues (“You can almost always improve your current status with herbs, but you may not be able to resolve it completely without medical intervention”). Those seeking natural support for their ailments will find this a boon. (Jan.)