A carminative is a substance or preparation that helps prevent the formation of gas in the gastrointestinal tract or facilitates the expulsion of gas from the gastrointestinal tract, thereby relieving flatulence, abdominal pain, or distension. Carminatives are often mixtures of essential oils and herbal spices with a tradition in folk medicine for this use. The word "carminative" comes from the Latin word "carminare," which means "to card wool," in the sense of "purifying and cleaning by elimination".
Carminatives work by stimulating the digestive system to work properly and with ease by coordinating and regulating gut contractions. The main action of carminatives is to soothe and settle the gut wall, thereby easing gripping pains and helping in the removal of gas from the digestive tract. The mode of action of carminative herbs is largely a result of the volatile oils they contain. These compounds help increase gastric emptying and are mildly irritating to the gastric mucosa so that peristalsis is increased, thereby relieving cramping and expelling gas.
Some examples of carminative herbs and spices include:
- Agasyllis
- Angelica
- Ajwain
- Anise seed
- Asafoetida
- Basil
- Calamus
- Caraway
- Cardamom
- Cinnamon
- Coriander
- Coscoll
- Cnidium monnieri (She Huangzi)
- Cumin
- Dill
- Epazote
- Eucalyptus
- Fennel
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Goldenrod
- Haritaki
- Hops
- Lemon balm
- Liquorice
- Lovage
- Marjoram
- Motherwort
- Muña
- Mustard
- Oregano
- Parsley
- Peppermint
- Rosemary
- Sage
- Star anise
- Tarragon
- Thyme
Carminative foods can also be easily incorporated into your daily diet. Among the main carminative foods, we can find cumin, fennel, cardamom, coriander, star anise, ginger, and peppermint. Almost all of the aromatic herbs have positive effects, so do not hesitate to sprinkle your meals with parsley, sage, oregano, thyme, rosemary, tarragon, basil, dill, caraway, cinnamon, and mustard.
