Burning, gnawing pain above my belly button

You feel it in the soft spot just above your belly button. It can burn, gnaw, or ache in a slow way. Some people say it feels hollow, almost like hunger.

That spot sits right over your stomach. Doctors often call this kind of pain indigestion, or dyspepsia. It can come with bloating, burping, or feeling full too fast.

Big meals, fatty or spicy food, coffee and alcohol are common triggers. Stress, rushed eating, and pills like aspirin can add to it. Less often, an ulcer or acid reflux sits behind the pain.

When to see someone

Call a doctor if this pain lasts more than two weeks. Get help now for bloody vomit, black tarry stools, trouble swallowing, or weight loss you did not plan. Chest pain with sweating, or pain in the jaw or arm, means call 911.

Below is a list of traditional remedies used for indigestion. Each has a grade that shows how much research backs it. A grade is not a promise, so ask your doctor or pharmacist before you try one.

Indigestion (Dyspepsia): natural remedies and the evidence behind them

11 options · 1 graded A · 4 graded B · 6 traditional or ungraded

What does my indigestion mainly feel like?

It's been dragging on, and my appetite or energy is low too

  1. Acupuncture

    Supported by controlled trials (Evidence grade A · No traditional record)

    Meta-analysis support for functional dyspepsia

    Why this matches
    Acupuncture works on the gut-brain connection, a good fit when stress or tension drives your digestive symptoms, and pooled trial evidence supports its use for indigestion.
    Why try it
    A meta-analysis of randomized trials found that acupuncture probably improves functional dyspepsia symptoms and quality of life compared with sham treatment, with few side effects.
    Dose or use
    Seek a licensed acupuncturist; typically a course of weekly sessions.
    Time to results
    Typically 4–8 weeks of regular sessions
    Key study
    Systematic Review (2026, PMID 41737400): an updated meta-analysis of 23 randomized trials (2,454 participants) found high-to-moderate-certainty evidence that acupuncture improves functional dyspepsia symptoms and quality of life versus sham acupuncture, without an increase in adverse events.
    Caution
    Seek a licensed acupuncturist; mention any blood-thinning medications.
  2. Curcumin

    Supported by smaller clinical studies (Evidence grade B · No traditional record)

    Eased dyspepsia symptoms in a randomized trial

    Why this matches
    Curcumin fits the after-meal fullness, bloating, and upper-abdominal discomfort of indigestion, where a randomized trial found it eased symptoms.
    Why try it
    In a randomized, double-blind trial in people with functional dyspepsia, curcumin taken on its own improved dyspepsia symptom scores over 4-8 weeks, about as much as a standard acid-reducing medication.
    Dose or use
    Follow product labeling; consult a healthcare practitioner.
    Time to results
    Typically 2–6 weeks
    Key study
    Randomized Controlled Trial (2023, PMID 37696679): curcumin alone, omeprazole alone, or both were compared in patients with functional dyspepsia; the curcumin-alone group showed significant improvement in Severity of Dyspepsia Assessment scores at days 28 and 56, comparable to omeprazole.
    Caution
    May interact with blood thinners; use cautiously if you have gallbladder issues.
  3. Vitamin B3 (Niacin) Deficiency

    Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple

    Low niacin can show up as early indigestion

    Why this matches
    If your after-meal discomfort comes with fatigue and low appetite, it is worth knowing that indigestion is one of the early signs of low vitamin B3 (niacin).
    Why try it
    This is educational: niacin deficiency is uncommon on a varied diet, but recognizing it can help you and your clinician rule out a simple, correctable cause.
    Dose or use
    Not a product to take, but a prompt to consider dietary niacin (poultry, fish, peanuts, whole grains) and to ask your clinician if you suspect a deficiency.
    Time to results
    Varies; discuss testing with your clinician
    Key study
    Educational entry: the library notes fatigue, indigestion, and loss of appetite as early symptoms of niacin deficiency. This is not a treatment claim.
    Caution
    Do not self-treat with high-dose niacin, which can cause flushing and liver strain; confirm any deficiency with a clinician first.

Stress and tension seem to set it off or make it worse

  1. Acupuncture

    Supported by controlled trials (Evidence grade A · No traditional record)

    Meta-analysis support for functional dyspepsia

    Why this matches
    Acupuncture works on the gut-brain connection, a good fit when stress or tension drives your digestive symptoms, and pooled trial evidence supports its use for indigestion.
    Why try it
    A meta-analysis of randomized trials found that acupuncture probably improves functional dyspepsia symptoms and quality of life compared with sham treatment, with few side effects.
    Dose or use
    Seek a licensed acupuncturist; typically a course of weekly sessions.
    Time to results
    Typically 4–8 weeks of regular sessions
    Key study
    Systematic Review (2026, PMID 41737400): an updated meta-analysis of 23 randomized trials (2,454 participants) found high-to-moderate-certainty evidence that acupuncture improves functional dyspepsia symptoms and quality of life versus sham acupuncture, without an increase in adverse events.
    Caution
    Seek a licensed acupuncturist; mention any blood-thinning medications.
  2. PC6 (Neiguan) - Pericardium 6

    Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple

    Wrist point traditionally used for nausea & tension

    Why this matches
    When stress winds up your stomach, this inner-wrist point is a traditional go-to for calming nausea and the tension-linked queasiness that stress can bring on.
    Why try it
    Neiguan (PC6) is one of the best-known points for nausea and is traditionally used to calm the stomach and ease stress-related upset.
    Dose or use
    Press the inner forearm about three finger-widths above the wrist crease, between the tendons, for 2-3 min each side, as needed.
    Time to results
    Often felt within minutes
    Key study
    Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
    Caution
    Avoid pressing over broken or irritated skin; ease off if it feels sharp or numb.
  3. Acupressure

    Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple

    Traditionally eases tension-related stomach discomfort

    Why this matches
    Acupressure offers an at-home way to address stress-triggered indigestion by stimulating digestive and calming pressure points.
    Why try it
    Traditionally used to relieve nausea and stomach discomfort by pressing points such as PC6 (inner wrist) and ST36 (below the knee).
    Dose or use
    Press firmly 2–3 min, both sides, 1–2x daily.
    Time to results
    Typically days to weeks with consistent use
    Key study
    Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
    Caution
    Check with your healthcare provider before starting, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, take prescription medication, or manage a chronic condition.

I feel heavy, bloated, or uncomfortably full after eating

  1. Ban Xia Xie Xin Tang

    Supported by smaller clinical studies (Evidence grade B · No traditional record)

    Studied in clinical trials for post-meal dyspepsia symptoms

    Why this matches
    This traditional herbal formula is best suited for the classic after-meal heaviness, bloating, and nausea pattern of functional dyspepsia.
    Why try it
    A systematic review and meta-analysis suggests this herbal formula may help ease functional dyspepsia symptoms, though many of the included trials were small and of mixed quality.
    Dose or use
    Follow product labeling; consult a healthcare practitioner.
    Time to results
    Typically 2–6 weeks
    Key study
    Systematic review and meta-analysis (2023, PMID 37274096) pooled randomized trials of Banxia-xiexin tang for functional dyspepsia and reported symptom improvement, while noting that the included trials were small and of limited methodological quality.
    Caution
    Consult a practitioner if pregnant, on medications, or if symptoms persist.
  2. Ginger

    Supported by smaller clinical studies (Evidence grade B · No traditional record)

    Improved indigestion scores in a randomized trial

    Why this matches
    If nausea, heaviness, and after-meal fullness are your main symptoms, ginger is a well-known stomach-settler, and a randomized trial found a standardized ginger extract eased indigestion.
    Why try it
    Ginger is long used for nausea and digestion, and a randomized, placebo-controlled trial of a standardized steamed-ginger extract found it improved indigestion and other gut-symptom scores over 12 weeks.
    Dose or use
    As a tea, fresh root, or capsules with or after meals; follow product labeling and consult a practitioner.
    Time to results
    Often within an hour for nausea
    Key study
    Randomized Controlled Trial (2025, PMID 40878144): a standardized steamed ginger extract (480 mg/day) significantly improved Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale scores, including the indigestion sub-score, versus placebo in adults with mild-to-moderate functional dyspepsia.
    Caution
    May interact with blood thinners; large amounts can aggravate heartburn in some people.
  3. Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

    Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple

    Soothing herb traditionally used for indigestion

    Why this matches
    When bloating and an unsettled stomach follow meals, peppermint is a long-standing herbal choice for calming that queasy, gassy, over-full feeling.
    Why try it
    Peppermint has a long tradition of use for indigestion, stomach aches, and bloating, and is often taken as a tea or in enteric-coated oil capsules.
    Dose or use
    As a tea after meals, or enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules per the product label; consult a practitioner.
    Time to results
    Often within an hour for acute symptoms
    Key study
    Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
    Caution
    Can worsen heartburn or reflux in some people; avoid if you have significant GERD or a hiatal hernia.
  4. REN12 (Zhongwan)

    Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple

    Belly point traditionally eased after-meal bloating

    Why this matches
    When heaviness and bloating settle in after meals, this midline-abdomen point sits right over the stomach and is a traditional go-to for that full, distended feeling.
    Why try it
    In traditional Chinese medicine, Zhongwan (REN12) is one of the main points used for bloating, indigestion, and stomach discomfort.
    Dose or use
    Press gently on the midline of your upper belly, halfway between navel and breastbone, for 2-3 min, 1-2x daily.
    Time to results
    Often felt within minutes; best with regular use
    Key study
    Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
    Caution
    Avoid firm pressure if pregnant or over broken or tender skin; ease off if it feels sharp.
  5. ST36 (Zusanli)

    Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple

    Classic stomach-meridian point for digestion

    Why this matches
    For that sluggish, heavy feeling after eating, this point below the knee is one of the most-used digestive points and is traditionally worked to settle the stomach.
    Why try it
    Zusanli (ST36) is a classic Stomach-meridian point traditionally used for bloating, indigestion, and nausea and to support healthy digestion.
    Dose or use
    Find the point about four finger-widths below the kneecap, just outside the shinbone; press firmly 2-3 min on each leg, 1-2x daily.
    Time to results
    Often felt within minutes; best with regular use
    Key study
    Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
    Caution
    Skip firm pressure during pregnancy; avoid pressing over injured or inflamed skin.

Nausea or a queasy stomach is my biggest complaint

  1. Ban Xia Xie Xin Tang

    Supported by smaller clinical studies (Evidence grade B · No traditional record)

    Studied in clinical trials for post-meal dyspepsia symptoms

    Why this matches
    This traditional herbal formula is best suited for the classic after-meal heaviness, bloating, and nausea pattern of functional dyspepsia.
    Why try it
    A systematic review and meta-analysis suggests this herbal formula may help ease functional dyspepsia symptoms, though many of the included trials were small and of mixed quality.
    Dose or use
    Follow product labeling; consult a healthcare practitioner.
    Time to results
    Typically 2–6 weeks
    Key study
    Systematic review and meta-analysis (2023, PMID 37274096) pooled randomized trials of Banxia-xiexin tang for functional dyspepsia and reported symptom improvement, while noting that the included trials were small and of limited methodological quality.
    Caution
    Consult a practitioner if pregnant, on medications, or if symptoms persist.
  2. Ginger

    Supported by smaller clinical studies (Evidence grade B · No traditional record)

    Improved indigestion scores in a randomized trial

    Why this matches
    If nausea, heaviness, and after-meal fullness are your main symptoms, ginger is a well-known stomach-settler, and a randomized trial found a standardized ginger extract eased indigestion.
    Why try it
    Ginger is long used for nausea and digestion, and a randomized, placebo-controlled trial of a standardized steamed-ginger extract found it improved indigestion and other gut-symptom scores over 12 weeks.
    Dose or use
    As a tea, fresh root, or capsules with or after meals; follow product labeling and consult a practitioner.
    Time to results
    Often within an hour for nausea
    Key study
    Randomized Controlled Trial (2025, PMID 40878144): a standardized steamed ginger extract (480 mg/day) significantly improved Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale scores, including the indigestion sub-score, versus placebo in adults with mild-to-moderate functional dyspepsia.
    Caution
    May interact with blood thinners; large amounts can aggravate heartburn in some people.
  3. PC6 (Neiguan) - Pericardium 6

    Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple

    Wrist point traditionally used for nausea & tension

    Why this matches
    When stress winds up your stomach, this inner-wrist point is a traditional go-to for calming nausea and the tension-linked queasiness that stress can bring on.
    Why try it
    Neiguan (PC6) is one of the best-known points for nausea and is traditionally used to calm the stomach and ease stress-related upset.
    Dose or use
    Press the inner forearm about three finger-widths above the wrist crease, between the tendons, for 2-3 min each side, as needed.
    Time to results
    Often felt within minutes
    Key study
    Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
    Caution
    Avoid pressing over broken or irritated skin; ease off if it feels sharp or numb.
  4. Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

    Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple

    Soothing herb traditionally used for indigestion

    Why this matches
    When bloating and an unsettled stomach follow meals, peppermint is a long-standing herbal choice for calming that queasy, gassy, over-full feeling.
    Why try it
    Peppermint has a long tradition of use for indigestion, stomach aches, and bloating, and is often taken as a tea or in enteric-coated oil capsules.
    Dose or use
    As a tea after meals, or enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules per the product label; consult a practitioner.
    Time to results
    Often within an hour for acute symptoms
    Key study
    Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
    Caution
    Can worsen heartburn or reflux in some people; avoid if you have significant GERD or a hiatal hernia.

Rich or fatty meals really don't sit well with me

  1. Artichoke extract

    Supported by smaller clinical studies (Evidence grade B · No traditional record)

    Eased dyspepsia symptoms in a randomized trial

    Why this matches
    For fullness and sluggish digestion after richer, fattier meals, artichoke supports bile flow, and a randomized trial found artichoke leaf extract eased dyspepsia symptoms.
    Why try it
    Artichoke leaf extract is used for indigestion and works by supporting bile production; a randomized, placebo-controlled trial found it significantly improved dyspepsia symptoms and quality of life over 6 weeks.
    Dose or use
    Standardized artichoke leaf extract per the product label, usually with meals; consult a practitioner.
    Time to results
    Typically 2-4 weeks of regular use
    Key study
    Randomized Controlled Trial (2003, PMID 14653829): in 244 patients with functional dyspepsia, artichoke leaf extract significantly improved overall dyspeptic symptom scores and disease-specific quality of life compared with placebo over 6 weeks.
    Caution
    Avoid if you have gallstones or a bile-duct blockage; check with your clinician first.
  2. Curcumin

    Supported by smaller clinical studies (Evidence grade B · No traditional record)

    Eased dyspepsia symptoms in a randomized trial

    Why this matches
    Curcumin fits the after-meal fullness, bloating, and upper-abdominal discomfort of indigestion, where a randomized trial found it eased symptoms.
    Why try it
    In a randomized, double-blind trial in people with functional dyspepsia, curcumin taken on its own improved dyspepsia symptom scores over 4-8 weeks, about as much as a standard acid-reducing medication.
    Dose or use
    Follow product labeling; consult a healthcare practitioner.
    Time to results
    Typically 2–6 weeks
    Key study
    Randomized Controlled Trial (2023, PMID 37696679): curcumin alone, omeprazole alone, or both were compared in patients with functional dyspepsia; the curcumin-alone group showed significant improvement in Severity of Dyspepsia Assessment scores at days 28 and 56, comparable to omeprazole.
    Caution
    May interact with blood thinners; use cautiously if you have gallbladder issues.
  3. ST36 (Zusanli)

    Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple

    Classic stomach-meridian point for digestion

    Why this matches
    For that sluggish, heavy feeling after eating, this point below the knee is one of the most-used digestive points and is traditionally worked to settle the stomach.
    Why try it
    Zusanli (ST36) is a classic Stomach-meridian point traditionally used for bloating, indigestion, and nausea and to support healthy digestion.
    Dose or use
    Find the point about four finger-widths below the kneecap, just outside the shinbone; press firmly 2-3 min on each leg, 1-2x daily.
    Time to results
    Often felt within minutes; best with regular use
    Key study
    Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
    Caution
    Skip firm pressure during pregnancy; avoid pressing over injured or inflamed skin.

What kind of help would I rather try first?

I'm open to seeing a practitioner or checking for an underlying cause

  1. Acupuncture

    Supported by controlled trials (Evidence grade A · No traditional record)

    Meta-analysis support for functional dyspepsia

    Why this matches
    Acupuncture works on the gut-brain connection, a good fit when stress or tension drives your digestive symptoms, and pooled trial evidence supports its use for indigestion.
    Why try it
    A meta-analysis of randomized trials found that acupuncture probably improves functional dyspepsia symptoms and quality of life compared with sham treatment, with few side effects.
    Dose or use
    Seek a licensed acupuncturist; typically a course of weekly sessions.
    Time to results
    Typically 4–8 weeks of regular sessions
    Key study
    Systematic Review (2026, PMID 41737400): an updated meta-analysis of 23 randomized trials (2,454 participants) found high-to-moderate-certainty evidence that acupuncture improves functional dyspepsia symptoms and quality of life versus sham acupuncture, without an increase in adverse events.
    Caution
    Seek a licensed acupuncturist; mention any blood-thinning medications.
  2. Ban Xia Xie Xin Tang

    Supported by smaller clinical studies (Evidence grade B · No traditional record)

    Studied in clinical trials for post-meal dyspepsia symptoms

    Why this matches
    This traditional herbal formula is best suited for the classic after-meal heaviness, bloating, and nausea pattern of functional dyspepsia.
    Why try it
    A systematic review and meta-analysis suggests this herbal formula may help ease functional dyspepsia symptoms, though many of the included trials were small and of mixed quality.
    Dose or use
    Follow product labeling; consult a healthcare practitioner.
    Time to results
    Typically 2–6 weeks
    Key study
    Systematic review and meta-analysis (2023, PMID 37274096) pooled randomized trials of Banxia-xiexin tang for functional dyspepsia and reported symptom improvement, while noting that the included trials were small and of limited methodological quality.
    Caution
    Consult a practitioner if pregnant, on medications, or if symptoms persist.
  3. Vitamin B3 (Niacin) Deficiency

    Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple

    Low niacin can show up as early indigestion

    Why this matches
    If your after-meal discomfort comes with fatigue and low appetite, it is worth knowing that indigestion is one of the early signs of low vitamin B3 (niacin).
    Why try it
    This is educational: niacin deficiency is uncommon on a varied diet, but recognizing it can help you and your clinician rule out a simple, correctable cause.
    Dose or use
    Not a product to take, but a prompt to consider dietary niacin (poultry, fish, peanuts, whole grains) and to ask your clinician if you suspect a deficiency.
    Time to results
    Varies; discuss testing with your clinician
    Key study
    Educational entry: the library notes fatigue, indigestion, and loss of appetite as early symptoms of niacin deficiency. This is not a treatment claim.
    Caution
    Do not self-treat with high-dose niacin, which can cause flushing and liver strain; confirm any deficiency with a clinician first.

I'd rather take an herb or supplement that's been studied for indigestion

  1. Ban Xia Xie Xin Tang

    Supported by smaller clinical studies (Evidence grade B · No traditional record)

    Studied in clinical trials for post-meal dyspepsia symptoms

    Why this matches
    This traditional herbal formula is best suited for the classic after-meal heaviness, bloating, and nausea pattern of functional dyspepsia.
    Why try it
    A systematic review and meta-analysis suggests this herbal formula may help ease functional dyspepsia symptoms, though many of the included trials were small and of mixed quality.
    Dose or use
    Follow product labeling; consult a healthcare practitioner.
    Time to results
    Typically 2–6 weeks
    Key study
    Systematic review and meta-analysis (2023, PMID 37274096) pooled randomized trials of Banxia-xiexin tang for functional dyspepsia and reported symptom improvement, while noting that the included trials were small and of limited methodological quality.
    Caution
    Consult a practitioner if pregnant, on medications, or if symptoms persist.
  2. Artichoke extract

    Supported by smaller clinical studies (Evidence grade B · No traditional record)

    Eased dyspepsia symptoms in a randomized trial

    Why this matches
    For fullness and sluggish digestion after richer, fattier meals, artichoke supports bile flow, and a randomized trial found artichoke leaf extract eased dyspepsia symptoms.
    Why try it
    Artichoke leaf extract is used for indigestion and works by supporting bile production; a randomized, placebo-controlled trial found it significantly improved dyspepsia symptoms and quality of life over 6 weeks.
    Dose or use
    Standardized artichoke leaf extract per the product label, usually with meals; consult a practitioner.
    Time to results
    Typically 2-4 weeks of regular use
    Key study
    Randomized Controlled Trial (2003, PMID 14653829): in 244 patients with functional dyspepsia, artichoke leaf extract significantly improved overall dyspeptic symptom scores and disease-specific quality of life compared with placebo over 6 weeks.
    Caution
    Avoid if you have gallstones or a bile-duct blockage; check with your clinician first.
  3. Ginger

    Supported by smaller clinical studies (Evidence grade B · No traditional record)

    Improved indigestion scores in a randomized trial

    Why this matches
    If nausea, heaviness, and after-meal fullness are your main symptoms, ginger is a well-known stomach-settler, and a randomized trial found a standardized ginger extract eased indigestion.
    Why try it
    Ginger is long used for nausea and digestion, and a randomized, placebo-controlled trial of a standardized steamed-ginger extract found it improved indigestion and other gut-symptom scores over 12 weeks.
    Dose or use
    As a tea, fresh root, or capsules with or after meals; follow product labeling and consult a practitioner.
    Time to results
    Often within an hour for nausea
    Key study
    Randomized Controlled Trial (2025, PMID 40878144): a standardized steamed ginger extract (480 mg/day) significantly improved Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale scores, including the indigestion sub-score, versus placebo in adults with mild-to-moderate functional dyspepsia.
    Caution
    May interact with blood thinners; large amounts can aggravate heartburn in some people.
  4. Curcumin

    Supported by smaller clinical studies (Evidence grade B · No traditional record)

    Eased dyspepsia symptoms in a randomized trial

    Why this matches
    Curcumin fits the after-meal fullness, bloating, and upper-abdominal discomfort of indigestion, where a randomized trial found it eased symptoms.
    Why try it
    In a randomized, double-blind trial in people with functional dyspepsia, curcumin taken on its own improved dyspepsia symptom scores over 4-8 weeks, about as much as a standard acid-reducing medication.
    Dose or use
    Follow product labeling; consult a healthcare practitioner.
    Time to results
    Typically 2–6 weeks
    Key study
    Randomized Controlled Trial (2023, PMID 37696679): curcumin alone, omeprazole alone, or both were compared in patients with functional dyspepsia; the curcumin-alone group showed significant improvement in Severity of Dyspepsia Assessment scores at days 28 and 56, comparable to omeprazole.
    Caution
    May interact with blood thinners; use cautiously if you have gallbladder issues.
  5. Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

    Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple

    Soothing herb traditionally used for indigestion

    Why this matches
    When bloating and an unsettled stomach follow meals, peppermint is a long-standing herbal choice for calming that queasy, gassy, over-full feeling.
    Why try it
    Peppermint has a long tradition of use for indigestion, stomach aches, and bloating, and is often taken as a tea or in enteric-coated oil capsules.
    Dose or use
    As a tea after meals, or enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules per the product label; consult a practitioner.
    Time to results
    Often within an hour for acute symptoms
    Key study
    Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
    Caution
    Can worsen heartburn or reflux in some people; avoid if you have significant GERD or a hiatal hernia.

I'd like simple pressure points I can press myself when my stomach acts up

  1. PC6 (Neiguan) - Pericardium 6

    Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple

    Wrist point traditionally used for nausea & tension

    Why this matches
    When stress winds up your stomach, this inner-wrist point is a traditional go-to for calming nausea and the tension-linked queasiness that stress can bring on.
    Why try it
    Neiguan (PC6) is one of the best-known points for nausea and is traditionally used to calm the stomach and ease stress-related upset.
    Dose or use
    Press the inner forearm about three finger-widths above the wrist crease, between the tendons, for 2-3 min each side, as needed.
    Time to results
    Often felt within minutes
    Key study
    Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
    Caution
    Avoid pressing over broken or irritated skin; ease off if it feels sharp or numb.
  2. REN12 (Zhongwan)

    Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple

    Belly point traditionally eased after-meal bloating

    Why this matches
    When heaviness and bloating settle in after meals, this midline-abdomen point sits right over the stomach and is a traditional go-to for that full, distended feeling.
    Why try it
    In traditional Chinese medicine, Zhongwan (REN12) is one of the main points used for bloating, indigestion, and stomach discomfort.
    Dose or use
    Press gently on the midline of your upper belly, halfway between navel and breastbone, for 2-3 min, 1-2x daily.
    Time to results
    Often felt within minutes; best with regular use
    Key study
    Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
    Caution
    Avoid firm pressure if pregnant or over broken or tender skin; ease off if it feels sharp.
  3. ST36 (Zusanli)

    Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple

    Classic stomach-meridian point for digestion

    Why this matches
    For that sluggish, heavy feeling after eating, this point below the knee is one of the most-used digestive points and is traditionally worked to settle the stomach.
    Why try it
    Zusanli (ST36) is a classic Stomach-meridian point traditionally used for bloating, indigestion, and nausea and to support healthy digestion.
    Dose or use
    Find the point about four finger-widths below the kneecap, just outside the shinbone; press firmly 2-3 min on each leg, 1-2x daily.
    Time to results
    Often felt within minutes; best with regular use
    Key study
    Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
    Caution
    Skip firm pressure during pregnancy; avoid pressing over injured or inflamed skin.
  4. Acupressure

    Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple

    Traditionally eases tension-related stomach discomfort

    Why this matches
    Acupressure offers an at-home way to address stress-triggered indigestion by stimulating digestive and calming pressure points.
    Why try it
    Traditionally used to relieve nausea and stomach discomfort by pressing points such as PC6 (inner wrist) and ST36 (below the knee).
    Dose or use
    Press firmly 2–3 min, both sides, 1–2x daily.
    Time to results
    Typically days to weeks with consistent use
    Key study
    Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
    Caution
    Check with your healthcare provider before starting, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, take prescription medication, or manage a chronic condition.

Evidence grades describe the strength of published research for Indigestion (Dyspepsia), not a promise of results. Nothing here is medical advice — talk to your clinician before starting anything, especially alongside prescription medication.

These suggestions come from our full page on Indigestion (Dyspepsia), where you can see every option and how it is graded. Evidence grades are explained in our methodology, and every phrasing we cover is listed under health topics.

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