When I think of indigestion, heartburn and nausea, the popular ad campaign for Pepto Bismol with the dancing symptoms starts playing in my head. Then the pink chalky residue comes to mind, ew. So what is a natural health girl to do when she has a stomach ache? Consult the herbalists and alternative medicine gurus, of course.

The main symptoms of indigestion include abdominal pain, a burning feeling in the upper abdomen, nausea, heartburn, bloating, belching, vomiting and flatulence. Sounds like a good time, eh? Please do consult with your alternative medicine practitioner if you have a chronic problem, but if it is just the occasional malady, here are a few natural remedies that may help:

Indigestion Prevention Drink a mixture of one teaspoon ginger and two tablespoons baking soda in cold water before eating to avoid indigestion altogether.

Bananas Ripe bananas are actually natural antacids that help to soothe the lining of your stomach. I guess that is why pediatricians often recommend them when the little ones are not feeling well.

Cider Vinegar or Lemon Juice Add either of these to hot water and drink to alkalize the acid in your stomach if you do not have a banana handy.

Tea The following teas are excellent for indigestion: ginger, peppermint, fennel, lemon balm, cinnamon, slippery elm powder.

Why water=bad with a meal Yes, the glass is on the table at dinner, but you shouldnt drink while eating according to experts. Water can dilute the gastric acid in your stomach which causes indigestion.