Stomachache Treatment: Causes, Remedies, and Fast Relief Options

If you’ve ever clutched your belly in discomfort after a heavy meal or woken up in the middle of the night with a sharp abdominal pain, you’re not alone. Stomachaches are incredibly common — especially in India, where our diverse cuisine (read: spicy, tangy, and sometimes street-side delicious) can be both a blessing and a curse. From kids to elders, everyone at some point complains of dard in the pet. And while some tummy troubles go away on their own, others might need quick action or even medical attention.

In this article, we'll explore practical stomachache treatment options — from home remedies to when you really need to see a doctor. We’ll also answer some popular questions people search for, like "How can I settle my stomach in 5 minutes?" or "What’s the fastest remedy for stomach pain?" Let’s dive in.

Understanding Stomachache – Common Causes

Stomach pain can range from a mild discomfort to a crampy, gnawing feeling that won’t go away. The causes? Well, there’s a bunch of them — and sometimes, it’s more than just “bad food.”

Indigestion and Overeating

It’s hard to resist that second helping of biryani, we get it. But overeating or eating too fast can overwhelm your digestive system, leading to bloating, burping, and a heavy, achy stomach.

Gas and Acidity

This is probably the most common reason for a stomachache in Indian households. That burning sensation in your chest or upper abdomen? That’s acid reflux or hyperacidity. Spicy foods, oily dishes, tea on an empty stomach — all common culprits.

Food Poisoning or Contaminated Water

Street food is delicious, but sometimes comes with unwanted guests — bacteria. Consuming unhygienic food or drinking unfiltered water can cause food poisoning, diarrhea, and stomach cramps.

Constipation

Let’s be real, not going to the loo for days can be painful. Constipation can lead to pressure, bloating, and a dull pain that stays for hours.

Stress and Anxiety

Not all stomachaches are physical. Ever noticed your stomach churn before an exam or a big presentation? The gut-brain connection is real, and stress can mess with your digestive system.

Common Causes of Stomachache in Children

Kids are especially prone to stomachaches, and not always for obvious reasons.

Eating Too Much Sweets or Junk

Too many chocolates or fried snacks can trigger gas or even diarrhea in children.

Worm Infections

Sadly, worm infestations are still common in parts of India where hygiene is a concern. Symptoms include stomach pain, poor appetite, and itchy bum (especially at night).

Constipation

Just like adults, kids also suffer from irregular bowel movements. Lack of fiber, low water intake, and sedentary lifestyle can lead to constipation-related tummy pain.

Stomach Flu (Gastroenteritis)

This viral infection spreads easily — especially in school environments. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, fever, and stomach cramps. Often, it goes away in 2–3 days, but can make children pretty miserable.

Home Remedies for Stomachache Relief

When it comes to minor stomach pains, Indian kitchens are literally treasure chests of natural remedies. Before you pop a pill, it’s worth trying these tried-and-tested home remedies — passed down by dads, mums, and that nosy but helpful aunty next door.

Stomachache Treatment at Home Using Indian Ingredients

Let’s start with some go-to fixes.

• Ajwain (Carom Seeds) – This one’s a lifesaver. Roast a teaspoon of ajwain, add a pinch of salt, and chew it with warm water. It helps break down food and reduces gas instantly.

• Jeera (Cumin) Water – Boil cumin seeds in water, cool, and sip it slowly. Cumin helps improve digestion and reduces bloating.

• Ginger-Honey Mix – Grate a bit of fresh ginger, mix it with honey, and take a spoonful. Works wonders for nausea and mild pain.

• Hing (Asafoetida) – Dissolve a pinch of hing in warm water and drink. Or even apply a paste on the belly for gas relief — yes, really.

• Lemon Water with Rock Salt – This can give quick relief from indigestion and helps flush out toxins.

These remedies are simple, affordable, and don’t usually have side effects — unless you go totally overboard. Which, please don’t.

How Can I Settle My Stomach in 5 Minutes?

We’ve all had that moment — an urgent meeting, a bus ride, or an exam — and BAM, your stomach starts misbehaving. Here are a few “5-minute fixes”:

• Sip Warm Water – It calms your stomach and kickstarts digestion.

• Use a Hot Water Bag – A warm compress relaxes muscles and reduces cramping.

• Do Deep Breathing – Especially if stress is the trigger. Try slow inhales and exhales for 2–3 minutes.

• Ajwain + Salt Chew – Quick, portable, and effective for gas or bloating.

• Walk a Little – Gentle movement can get things going inside your gut.

These may not always cure the issue, but they’ll help make you feel wayyy better in the moment.

Best Foods to Eat During a Stomachache

During a tummy episode, eating the wrong food is like adding fuel to fire. Stick to light, gentle meals that your body won’t hate you for later.

• Khichdi – The OG comfort food. Easy on the stomach and loaded with warmth.

• Curd & Banana – Probiotics plus potassium, perfect combo to settle your gut.

• Boiled Potatoes / Steamed Veggies – No masala, no oil — just plain, simple fuel.

• Coconut Water – Hydrating and rich in electrolytes. Great for diarrhea too.

• Moong Dal Soup – Protein-rich, light, and filling.

Foods to Avoid When You Have a Stomachache

Just as there are “do’s,” there are definite “don’ts”:

• ❌ Spicy curries (you knew this)

• ❌ Carbonated drinks and soda

• ❌ Oily pakoras and deep-fried snacks

• ❌ Tea or coffee on an empty stomach

• ❌ Milk products (if you’re lactose intolerant — many are, unknowingly!)

Sometimes, we make the mistake of “treating” stomach pain with comfort food like maggi or samosas... don’t. Your stomach needs rest, not revenge 😅

Over-the-Counter and Medical Treatments

When home remedies don’t work or the pain is more than just a passing issue, medicines step in.

What Is the Best Medicine for Stomach Pain?

There’s no single “best” medicine — it depends on the cause. But here are some widely used and easily available treatments in India:

• Antacids (like Gelusil, Digene): Great for acidity, gas, and indigestion.

• Meftal-Spas or Cyclopam: For cramping pain, especially during periods.

• Domstal or Ondem: Used to relieve nausea and vomiting.

• ORS Sachets: Perfect if dehydration is a concern, especially in diarrhea.

• Pre & Probiotics: Help improve gut health after food poisoning or antibiotics.

Always read the label, dosage, and try to avoid self-medicating for more than 1–2 days. If the pain persists or worsens... well, it's time for a doctor visit.

Stomachache Treatment for Kids

Children often struggle to describe pain properly — so it’s crucial to watch for signs like irritability, crying, or refusal to eat.

Safe Remedies for Kids

• Ajwain water (mild) — Just a few drops in warm water.

• Light massages — Clockwise belly rubs can release trapped gas.

• Pediatric syrups — Like Colicaid for infants, prescribed by a doctor.

When to See a Pediatrician

• Continuous vomiting

• Pain lasting more than 24 hours

• Swollen belly or fever

• Bloody stool or dehydration signs

Kids' stomachaches may sometimes seem harmless but can quickly escalate. Always better to check if in doubt.

Ayurvedic and Natural Alternatives

Ayurveda in India has long offered holistic remedies that go beyond symptom control.

Popular Ayurvedic Remedies

• Hingvastak Churna – Often taken with warm water for gas and digestion.

• Triphala – Helps in relieving constipation and cleansing the gut.

• Avipattikar Churna – Used for acidity and indigestion relief.

Yoga for Digestive Health

Gentle yoga can seriously help with digestion and even stress-related tummy aches.

• Pawanmuktasana – Releases gas and bloating.

• Vajrasana – Best pose to sit in after eating.

• Apanasana – Known to reduce abdominal tension.

Try doing these on an empty stomach and under guidance if you're new to yoga.

FAQs 

What is the best treatment for tummy ache?

Mild tummy aches can be treated with ajwain water or a warm compress. If it doesn’t settle, an antacid or digestive tablet may help.

How can I settle my stomach in 5 minutes?

Drink warm jeera or ajwain water, apply a hot water bag, or just lie down calmly — don’t panic. Stress makes it worse.

What is the best medicine for stomach pain?

For gas or acidity: Digene. For cramps: Meftal-Spas. For vomiting: Ondem. Always consult a doctor before giving anything to kids.

What is the fastest remedy for stomach pain?

A pinch of hing in warm water or chewing ajwain + salt often works like magic, especially for gas-related pain.

Conclusion: Trust Your Gut — Literally

Stomachaches are annoying, sometimes scary, but most often — treatable. With the right mix of home care, safe meds, and doctor guidance, you can handle most situations calmly. In India, we’re lucky to have both modern medicine and traditional wisdom to turn to. So whether you’re reaching for ajwain or allopathy, listen to your body.

And hey, maybe take it easy on that third plate of chole bhature next time... or not 😄.