With a total surface area of almost 200 m2, our intestine represents a vast zone of exchange, with the mucosa as its front line. This mucosa plays an essential role in the absorption of nutrients from our diet, in digestion, but also in protecting our body. More or less permeable, the intestinal mucosa must therefore be selective.
In certain pathologies, such as irritable bowel syndrome, or under the effect of chronic stress, the intestinal mucosa can experience inflammatory episodes, become excessively permeable, and be the cause of intestinal pain and discomfort.
In this article, we present the best phytotherapy plants for preserving your intestinal mucosa, and supporting your digestive comfort.
The importance of a healthy intestinal mucosa
The intestinal mucosa that lines our intestines forms an important physical barrier
on several levels.
On the one hand, it is a permeable exchange wall, ensuring the passage of nutrients from our digestive tract into the bloodstream. It is thanks to this wall that we can assimilate nutrients and enjoy the nutritional benefits of our food.
The intestinal mucosa also acts as a physical barrier to undesirable substances. Firstly, the intestinal cells that make up the mucosa are linked together by tight protein junctions. Secondly, these cells form a surface epithelium lined with a protective mucus, itself colonized by the intestinal microbiota (or intestinal flora). Together, the tight junctions, mucus and intestinal microbiota prevent the adhesion and passage of microorganisms through the intestinal wall.
A healthy intestinal mucosa is selectively permeable, allowing only the right nutrients to pass through, while blocking toxins, digestive waste and pathogens to protect the body and limit the risk of infection.
Intestinal hyper-permeability, a source of digestive discomfort
In some cases, particularly those suffering from irritable bowel syndrome, the intestinal barrier can be weakened and become hyper-permeable. This is known as leaky gut syndrome.
By being too permeable, the intestinal mucosa is likely to allow toxins, metabolic waste or undigested bacteria and compounds to pass into the bloodstream. This is usually accompanied by inflammation of the intestinal wall, leading to digestive disorders and discomfort.
The best plants to care for the intestinal mucosa
Phytotherapy refers to the use of plants for medicinal purposes. Drawing its benefits from nature, phytotherapy offers a multitude of remedies to care for our bodies. Over the millennia, numerous traditional uses have highlighted the benefits of plants for the digestive sphere, and more specifically for intestinal comfort and mucous membrane care.
- Aloe Vera (Aloe Barbadens): In addition to its beneficial effects on intestinal transit, scientific studies show the anti-inflammatory benefits of aloe vera, particularly for irritated intestines. To be taken as a drinkable gel.
- Star anise (Illicium verum): Star anise is a spice recognized in traditional Chinese medicine for its comprehensive benefits for the digestive system: antioxidant, antibacterial, antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties. Use as an essential oil or in infusions.
- Turmeric (Curcuma longa): Turmeric is a spice renowned and documented for its soothing benefits. It is thanks to its curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties, that it is indicated in the care of the intestinal mucosa. Clinical studies have shown a reduction in inflammation in patients suffering from irritable bowel syndrome. To be consumed in extract form, in food supplements for example. An indication of curcumin dosage is a guarantee of extract quality.
- Ginger (Zingiber officinalis): Widely used in Ayurvedic medicine, ginger owes its soothing benefits to its anti-inflammatory compounds of interest, the sesquiterpenes found in particularly high concentrations in its essential oil. Consume as essential oil, decoction, mother tincture, fresh or candied.
- Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis): In addition to its recognized use for soothing dry coughs and throat irritations, marshmallow root is also indicated for soothing irritable bowels thanks to the soothing properties of its mucilage. Take dried root infusions, cold macerations, decoctions or chew sticks.
- Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis): Listed in the French Pharmacopoeia, lemon balm is recognized for its benefits in contributing to normal intestinal function and digestive comfort. This medicinal plant helps reduce intestinal irritability thanks to the anti-inflammatory rosmarinic acid it contains. To be taken as an infusion, mother tincture or essential oil.
- Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra): Licorice contains compounds of interest such as glycyrrhizin, known for its anti-inflammatory activity. The benefits of licorice root for digestive comfort are widely recognized in traditional Chinese medicine and validated in scientific literature. Consume as infusions, decoctions, extracts or chew sticks.
- Calendula (Calendula officinalis): Calendula is renowned for its benefits on inflammation of the skin and mucous membranes. In particular, it acts on the intestinal mucosa, helping to improve digestive comfort. Take dried flower infusions, liquid extracts or mother tinctures.
In addition to the benefits of these plants, glutamine supplementation is an interesting option. Glutamine is an amino acid that our body can synthesize from certain foods. Scientific literature shows the benefits of glutamine intake in maintaining the integrity of the intestinal wall.
In addition to naturally promoting chronic inflammation of the mucosa, severe stress also reduces glutamine levels, further weakening the intestinal mucosa. For effective management of intestinal hyper-permeability, it's essential to manage stress too. To help you find the right solutions for managing stress, read our article Stress: mechanisms, effects and natural active ingredients.