Gastritis: natural remedies and the evidence behind them
Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining that can cause burning pain, nausea, and discomfort.
15 options1 graded B1 graded C13 traditional or ungraded
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Live cultures studied to calm digestion and lower H. pylori
Why it may be relevant
If nausea or an unsettled stomach after eating is your main issue, probiotics may help rebalance your gut, and they have been studied for the H. pylori infection that commonly drives gastritis.
Probiotics are beneficial live cultures. In pooled randomized trials of people with H. pylori, taking probiotics on their own modestly lowered the bacterial load and eased digestive symptoms, though they rarely clear the infection completely by themselves.
Dose or use Commonly taken as a daily supplement (strains such as Lactobacillus); follow product labeling and consult your practitioner.
Key study Meta-Analysis (2026, PMID 41581709): Evaluating probiotic monotherapy in Helicobacter pylori infection: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials with trial sequential analysis. Pooling 28 RCTs, probiotic monotherapy significantly reduced H. pylori colonization and gave moderate gastrointestinal symptom relief (moderate-certainty evidence), although full eradication on its own was uncommon.
EvidenceSupported by smaller clinical studies · Recognised traditional useTime to resultsOften used over about 4 weeksTraditional useRecognised traditional use
Caution: Generally well tolerated; if you are immunocompromised or seriously ill, check with your doctor first. Probiotics are not a substitute for prescribed H. pylori treatment.
Sulforaphane source studied against H. pylori gastritis
Why it may be relevant
If a persistent burning pain points to H. pylori-related gastritis, broccoli sprouts are a rich source of sulforaphane, which has been studied for lowering H. pylori activity in the stomach lining.
Broccoli sprouts are unusually rich in sulforaphane. In small randomized trials, a daily serving reduced markers of H. pylori colonization and stomach-lining inflammation, though the benefit tended to fade after people stopped taking it.
Dose or use Taken as broccoli sprout extract capsules or a daily serving of fresh sprouts; follow product labeling.
Key study Randomized Controlled Trial (2009, PMID 19349290): Dietary sulforaphane-rich broccoli sprouts reduce colonization and attenuate gastritis in Helicobacter pylori-infected mice and humans. In the human arm, a daily serving of broccoli sprouts lowered markers of H. pylori colonization and a marker of gastric inflammation versus control, though the effect was not sustained after stopping.
EvidenceLimited human trials so far · Most of the research is laboratory or animal workTime to resultsStudied over about 4-8 weeks
Caution: Generally well tolerated as a food; it is not a replacement for prescribed H. pylori therapy. Check with your doctor if pregnant or on medication.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Traditional resin for dyspepsia and stomach upset
Why it may be relevant
If you get nausea or an unsettled stomach after eating, mastic gum is traditionally used for dyspepsia and post-meal stomach discomfort.
Mastic gum, a resin from the mastic tree, is well known for dyspeptic symptoms and has been explored for H. pylori (a common cause of gastritis), though a definitive gastritis trial is not cited here.
Dose or use Taken as capsules or chewed resin; follow product labeling.
Key study Traditionally used for dyspepsia and explored for H. pylori; this specific use for gastritis has not been confirmed in a definitive controlled trial cited here.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsOften used over a few weeksTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Generally well tolerated; avoid if allergic to mastic or related trees. Check with your doctor if pregnant or on medication.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Helps stabilize and protect the stomach lining
Why it may be relevant
If persistent burning points to an irritated lining, zinc-carnosine is used to help stabilize and protect the gastric mucosa where the discomfort starts.
Zinc-L-carnosine (polaprezinc) is used specifically for gastric mucosal support and has been studied for stomach-lining protection, though a definitive gastritis trial is not cited here.
Dose or use Typically taken as a supplement, often split into two daily doses with food; follow product labeling.
Key study Used for gastric mucosal support and studied in stomach-lining injury; this specific use for gastritis has not been confirmed in a definitive controlled trial cited here.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsOften used over several weeksTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Generally well tolerated; high zinc intake over time can affect copper balance. Check with your doctor if on other supplements or medication.
Live cultures studied to calm digestion and lower H. pylori
Why it may be relevant
If nausea or an unsettled stomach after eating is your main issue, probiotics may help rebalance your gut, and they have been studied for the H. pylori infection that commonly drives gastritis.
Probiotics are beneficial live cultures. In pooled randomized trials of people with H. pylori, taking probiotics on their own modestly lowered the bacterial load and eased digestive symptoms, though they rarely clear the infection completely by themselves.
Dose or use Commonly taken as a daily supplement (strains such as Lactobacillus); follow product labeling and consult your practitioner.
Key study Meta-Analysis (2026, PMID 41581709): Evaluating probiotic monotherapy in Helicobacter pylori infection: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials with trial sequential analysis. Pooling 28 RCTs, probiotic monotherapy significantly reduced H. pylori colonization and gave moderate gastrointestinal symptom relief (moderate-certainty evidence), although full eradication on its own was uncommon.
EvidenceSupported by smaller clinical studies · Recognised traditional useTime to resultsOften used over about 4 weeksTraditional useRecognised traditional use
Caution: Generally well tolerated; if you are immunocompromised or seriously ill, check with your doctor first. Probiotics are not a substitute for prescribed H. pylori treatment.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Traditional resin for dyspepsia and stomach upset
Why it may be relevant
If you get nausea or an unsettled stomach after eating, mastic gum is traditionally used for dyspepsia and post-meal stomach discomfort.
Mastic gum, a resin from the mastic tree, is well known for dyspeptic symptoms and has been explored for H. pylori (a common cause of gastritis), though a definitive gastritis trial is not cited here.
Dose or use Taken as capsules or chewed resin; follow product labeling.
Key study Traditionally used for dyspepsia and explored for H. pylori; this specific use for gastritis has not been confirmed in a definitive controlled trial cited here.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsOften used over a few weeksTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Generally well tolerated; avoid if allergic to mastic or related trees. Check with your doctor if pregnant or on medication.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Best-known acupressure point for nausea
Why it may be relevant
If nausea or an unsettled stomach is your main issue, PC6 on the inner forearm is the best-known acupressure point for calming queasiness.
PC6 (Neiguan) is widely used for nausea from motion sickness, pregnancy and other causes, and it is an easy point you can press yourself.
Dose or use Press firmly on the inner forearm, about three finger-widths above the wrist crease, for 1-2 minutes on each arm.
Key study A widely used traditional point for nausea; this use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials cited here.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsMay ease nausea within minutesTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Use gentle to firm pressure; avoid on broken or irritated skin. Consult a professional if pregnant.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Mucilage coats and soothes an unsettled gut
Why it may be relevant
When your stomach feels unsettled after eating, slippery elm's mucilage coats the digestive tract and can soothe irritation and excess acidity.
Slippery elm's inner bark is a classic demulcent; its mucilage forms a soothing, protective layer over irritated tissue, a traditional use for reflux and GI irritation.
Dose or use Taken as a tea, powder stirred into water, or capsules; follow product labeling.
Key study Traditionally used to soothe the digestive tract and reflux; this specific use for gastritis has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials cited here.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsMay soothe fairly quickly; often used ongoingTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: May slow absorption of other medications; take a couple of hours apart. Consult your doctor if pregnant or on prescription drugs.
Live cultures studied to calm digestion and lower H. pylori
Why it may be relevant
If nausea or an unsettled stomach after eating is your main issue, probiotics may help rebalance your gut, and they have been studied for the H. pylori infection that commonly drives gastritis.
Probiotics are beneficial live cultures. In pooled randomized trials of people with H. pylori, taking probiotics on their own modestly lowered the bacterial load and eased digestive symptoms, though they rarely clear the infection completely by themselves.
Dose or use Commonly taken as a daily supplement (strains such as Lactobacillus); follow product labeling and consult your practitioner.
Key study Meta-Analysis (2026, PMID 41581709): Evaluating probiotic monotherapy in Helicobacter pylori infection: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials with trial sequential analysis. Pooling 28 RCTs, probiotic monotherapy significantly reduced H. pylori colonization and gave moderate gastrointestinal symptom relief (moderate-certainty evidence), although full eradication on its own was uncommon.
EvidenceSupported by smaller clinical studies · Recognised traditional useTime to resultsOften used over about 4 weeksTraditional useRecognised traditional use
Caution: Generally well tolerated; if you are immunocompromised or seriously ill, check with your doctor first. Probiotics are not a substitute for prescribed H. pylori treatment.
Sulforaphane source studied against H. pylori gastritis
Why it may be relevant
If a persistent burning pain points to H. pylori-related gastritis, broccoli sprouts are a rich source of sulforaphane, which has been studied for lowering H. pylori activity in the stomach lining.
Broccoli sprouts are unusually rich in sulforaphane. In small randomized trials, a daily serving reduced markers of H. pylori colonization and stomach-lining inflammation, though the benefit tended to fade after people stopped taking it.
Dose or use Taken as broccoli sprout extract capsules or a daily serving of fresh sprouts; follow product labeling.
Key study Randomized Controlled Trial (2009, PMID 19349290): Dietary sulforaphane-rich broccoli sprouts reduce colonization and attenuate gastritis in Helicobacter pylori-infected mice and humans. In the human arm, a daily serving of broccoli sprouts lowered markers of H. pylori colonization and a marker of gastric inflammation versus control, though the effect was not sustained after stopping.
EvidenceLimited human trials so far · Most of the research is laboratory or animal workTime to resultsStudied over about 4-8 weeks
Caution: Generally well tolerated as a food; it is not a replacement for prescribed H. pylori therapy. Check with your doctor if pregnant or on medication.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Traditionally used to support energy and resilience
Why it may be relevant
If stress and low energy seem to be fueling your gastritis, Korean Red Ginseng is traditionally valued for its adaptogenic properties that help the body cope with physical and mental stress.
Traditionally used to restore vitality and help the body adapt to stress, which may indirectly support stomach health when stress is a contributing factor.
Dose or use Follow product labeling; consult a healthcare practitioner.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsTypically 4–8 weeksTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: May interact with blood thinners or stimulants; use cautiously if you have hormone-sensitive conditions or high blood pressure.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Helps stabilize and protect the stomach lining
Why it may be relevant
If persistent burning points to an irritated lining, zinc-carnosine is used to help stabilize and protect the gastric mucosa where the discomfort starts.
Zinc-L-carnosine (polaprezinc) is used specifically for gastric mucosal support and has been studied for stomach-lining protection, though a definitive gastritis trial is not cited here.
Dose or use Typically taken as a supplement, often split into two daily doses with food; follow product labeling.
Key study Used for gastric mucosal support and studied in stomach-lining injury; this specific use for gastritis has not been confirmed in a definitive controlled trial cited here.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsOften used over several weeksTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Generally well tolerated; high zinc intake over time can affect copper balance. Check with your doctor if on other supplements or medication.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Traditionally used for chronic stomach discomfort
Why it may be relevant
If a persistent burning or gnawing pain is your main complaint, acupuncture is a traditional option that some people turn to for ongoing stomach discomfort.
In traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture stimulates specific points with the aim of easing pain and calming the stomach. This is a traditional rationale rather than a proven mechanism.
Dose or use Work with a qualified, licensed practitioner; ask them how many sessions and how often are right for you.
Key study Used traditionally for chronic stomach complaints. A definitive efficacy trial for gastritis has not been established; current published work is largely methodological (developing standardized outcome measures) rather than confirmed benefit.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsTypically 4–8 weeks of regular sessionsTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Seek a licensed acupuncturist; tell your practitioner about any blood-thinning medications.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use classical
Supports the stomach's protective mucus lining
Why it may be relevant
If you get a persistent burning or gnawing pain, DGL is traditionally used to support the stomach's own protective mucus layer, which can help settle an irritated lining.
Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) is a classic traditional remedy for stomach irritation and ulcers. The glycyrrhizin is removed, so it avoids the blood-pressure effect of whole licorice.
Dose or use Chewable DGL tablets are typically taken before meals; follow product labeling and consult a practitioner.
Key study Traditionally used for gastritis and gastric ulcers; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials cited here.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use across more than one tradition · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsOften used over several weeksTraditional useClassical use across multiple traditions
Caution: Choose the DGL (deglycyrrhizinated) form; whole licorice can raise blood pressure and lower potassium. Check with your doctor if pregnant or on medication.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Demulcent that soothes an irritated lining
Why it may be relevant
For ongoing burning or gnawing discomfort, marshmallow root's mucilage forms a soothing, protective film over irritated tissue in the digestive tract.
A classic mucilaginous demulcent used for centuries to coat and calm inflamed mucous membranes. Its soothing action is a traditional use.
Dose or use Commonly taken as a tea, capsule, or cold infusion; follow product labeling.
Key study Traditionally used to soothe irritated mucous membranes; this specific use for gastritis has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials cited here.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsMay soothe fairly quickly; often used ongoingTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: May slow absorption of other medications; take a couple of hours apart. Consult your doctor if pregnant or on prescription drugs.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Abdominal point traditionally used for gastritis
Why it may be relevant
For a persistent, gnawing stomach ache, REN12 sits on the midline right over the stomach and is traditionally used for stomach cramps and gastric discomfort.
In traditional Chinese medicine, REN12 (Zhongwan) is used for bloating, acid reflux, gastritis and indigestion, and it is a point you can press yourself.
Dose or use Apply gentle, steady pressure to the point midway between the navel and breastbone for 1-2 minutes; avoid right after a large meal.
Key study A traditional acupressure point used for gastric complaints; this use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials cited here.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsMay ease discomfort during or shortly after pressingTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Use gentle pressure; avoid on broken skin or if pregnant without professional guidance.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Mucilage coats and soothes an unsettled gut
Why it may be relevant
When your stomach feels unsettled after eating, slippery elm's mucilage coats the digestive tract and can soothe irritation and excess acidity.
Slippery elm's inner bark is a classic demulcent; its mucilage forms a soothing, protective layer over irritated tissue, a traditional use for reflux and GI irritation.
Dose or use Taken as a tea, powder stirred into water, or capsules; follow product labeling.
Key study Traditionally used to soothe the digestive tract and reflux; this specific use for gastritis has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials cited here.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsMay soothe fairly quickly; often used ongoingTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: May slow absorption of other medications; take a couple of hours apart. Consult your doctor if pregnant or on prescription drugs.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Helps stabilize and protect the stomach lining
Why it may be relevant
If persistent burning points to an irritated lining, zinc-carnosine is used to help stabilize and protect the gastric mucosa where the discomfort starts.
Zinc-L-carnosine (polaprezinc) is used specifically for gastric mucosal support and has been studied for stomach-lining protection, though a definitive gastritis trial is not cited here.
Dose or use Typically taken as a supplement, often split into two daily doses with food; follow product labeling.
Key study Used for gastric mucosal support and studied in stomach-lining injury; this specific use for gastritis has not been confirmed in a definitive controlled trial cited here.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsOften used over several weeksTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Generally well tolerated; high zinc intake over time can affect copper balance. Check with your doctor if on other supplements or medication.
I feel run-down and tired, and stress seems to make my stomach worse
–
Nutrient gap worth checking
Iron Deficiency
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use recognised
Chronic gastritis can lead to low iron
Why it may be relevant
If you feel run-down and tired, chronic gastritis and H. pylori can impair iron absorption, making iron-deficiency anemia a common, fatigue-producing consequence.
This guide explains the recognized link between chronic gastritis and low iron, and how iron-deficiency anemia can present as fatigue and low energy.
Dose or use Educational guide; ask your doctor about a simple blood test if fatigue persists.
Key study Chronic and atrophic gastritis are recognized causes of impaired iron absorption; this is an educational guide, not a treatment claim.
EvidenceNot yet assessed · We have not reviewed the literature for this oneTime to resultsInformational guide, not a treatmentTraditional useRecognised traditional use
Caution: Not a treatment; don't start iron supplements without testing, as excess iron can be harmful. Have low iron confirmed by your doctor.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Traditionally used to support energy and resilience
Why it may be relevant
If stress and low energy seem to be fueling your gastritis, Korean Red Ginseng is traditionally valued for its adaptogenic properties that help the body cope with physical and mental stress.
Traditionally used to restore vitality and help the body adapt to stress, which may indirectly support stomach health when stress is a contributing factor.
Dose or use Follow product labeling; consult a healthcare practitioner.
Key study Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsTypically 4–8 weeksTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: May interact with blood thinners or stimulants; use cautiously if you have hormone-sensitive conditions or high blood pressure.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Stomach-meridian point for digestion and energy
Why it may be relevant
If you feel run-down and stress or low energy worsens your stomach, ST36 is a traditional point used to support digestion and overall vitality.
ST36 (Zusanli), below the knee on the Stomach meridian, is one of the most-used points for digestive support and building energy, a self-care option for run-down states.
Dose or use Press firmly about four finger-widths below the kneecap, just outside the shinbone, for 1-2 minutes on each leg.
Key study A traditional point widely used for digestive support; this use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials cited here.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsMay feel settling during or after pressing; often used regularlyTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Use gentle to firm pressure; avoid on broken skin. Consult a professional if pregnant.
–
Nutrient gap worth checking
Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) Deficiency
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use recognised
Chronic gastritis can lead to low B12
Why it may be relevant
If you're run-down and low on energy, it's worth knowing that chronic (atrophic) gastritis can damage the cells that help you absorb vitamin B12, leading to deficiency and fatigue.
This guide explains the well-recognized link between chronic gastritis and B12 malabsorption, and how low B12 can show up as tiredness and low energy.
Dose or use Educational guide; ask your doctor about a simple blood test if fatigue persists.
Key study Chronic atrophic gastritis is a recognized cause of B12 malabsorption; this is an educational guide, not a treatment claim.
EvidenceNot yet assessed · We have not reviewed the literature for this oneTime to resultsInformational guide, not a treatmentTraditional useRecognised traditional use
Caution: Not a treatment; persistent fatigue or neurological symptoms should be evaluated by a doctor, who can confirm and treat B12 deficiency.
What kind of help sounds most doable for you?
Gentle herbal remedies that coat and calm my stomach lining
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use classical
Supports the stomach's protective mucus lining
Why it may be relevant
If you get a persistent burning or gnawing pain, DGL is traditionally used to support the stomach's own protective mucus layer, which can help settle an irritated lining.
Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) is a classic traditional remedy for stomach irritation and ulcers. The glycyrrhizin is removed, so it avoids the blood-pressure effect of whole licorice.
Dose or use Chewable DGL tablets are typically taken before meals; follow product labeling and consult a practitioner.
Key study Traditionally used for gastritis and gastric ulcers; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials cited here.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use across more than one tradition · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsOften used over several weeksTraditional useClassical use across multiple traditions
Caution: Choose the DGL (deglycyrrhizinated) form; whole licorice can raise blood pressure and lower potassium. Check with your doctor if pregnant or on medication.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Demulcent that soothes an irritated lining
Why it may be relevant
For ongoing burning or gnawing discomfort, marshmallow root's mucilage forms a soothing, protective film over irritated tissue in the digestive tract.
A classic mucilaginous demulcent used for centuries to coat and calm inflamed mucous membranes. Its soothing action is a traditional use.
Dose or use Commonly taken as a tea, capsule, or cold infusion; follow product labeling.
Key study Traditionally used to soothe irritated mucous membranes; this specific use for gastritis has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials cited here.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsMay soothe fairly quickly; often used ongoingTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: May slow absorption of other medications; take a couple of hours apart. Consult your doctor if pregnant or on prescription drugs.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Traditional resin for dyspepsia and stomach upset
Why it may be relevant
If you get nausea or an unsettled stomach after eating, mastic gum is traditionally used for dyspepsia and post-meal stomach discomfort.
Mastic gum, a resin from the mastic tree, is well known for dyspeptic symptoms and has been explored for H. pylori (a common cause of gastritis), though a definitive gastritis trial is not cited here.
Dose or use Taken as capsules or chewed resin; follow product labeling.
Key study Traditionally used for dyspepsia and explored for H. pylori; this specific use for gastritis has not been confirmed in a definitive controlled trial cited here.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsOften used over a few weeksTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Generally well tolerated; avoid if allergic to mastic or related trees. Check with your doctor if pregnant or on medication.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Mucilage coats and soothes an unsettled gut
Why it may be relevant
When your stomach feels unsettled after eating, slippery elm's mucilage coats the digestive tract and can soothe irritation and excess acidity.
Slippery elm's inner bark is a classic demulcent; its mucilage forms a soothing, protective layer over irritated tissue, a traditional use for reflux and GI irritation.
Dose or use Taken as a tea, powder stirred into water, or capsules; follow product labeling.
Key study Traditionally used to soothe the digestive tract and reflux; this specific use for gastritis has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials cited here.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsMay soothe fairly quickly; often used ongoingTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: May slow absorption of other medications; take a couple of hours apart. Consult your doctor if pregnant or on prescription drugs.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Traditionally used for chronic stomach discomfort
Why it may be relevant
If a persistent burning or gnawing pain is your main complaint, acupuncture is a traditional option that some people turn to for ongoing stomach discomfort.
In traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture stimulates specific points with the aim of easing pain and calming the stomach. This is a traditional rationale rather than a proven mechanism.
Dose or use Work with a qualified, licensed practitioner; ask them how many sessions and how often are right for you.
Key study Used traditionally for chronic stomach complaints. A definitive efficacy trial for gastritis has not been established; current published work is largely methodological (developing standardized outcome measures) rather than confirmed benefit.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsTypically 4–8 weeks of regular sessionsTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Seek a licensed acupuncturist; tell your practitioner about any blood-thinning medications.
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Best-known acupressure point for nausea
Why it may be relevant
If nausea or an unsettled stomach is your main issue, PC6 on the inner forearm is the best-known acupressure point for calming queasiness.
PC6 (Neiguan) is widely used for nausea from motion sickness, pregnancy and other causes, and it is an easy point you can press yourself.
Dose or use Press firmly on the inner forearm, about three finger-widths above the wrist crease, for 1-2 minutes on each arm.
Key study A widely used traditional point for nausea; this use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials cited here.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsMay ease nausea within minutesTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Use gentle to firm pressure; avoid on broken or irritated skin. Consult a professional if pregnant.
–
Pressure point
REN12 (Zhongwan)
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Abdominal point traditionally used for gastritis
Why it may be relevant
For a persistent, gnawing stomach ache, REN12 sits on the midline right over the stomach and is traditionally used for stomach cramps and gastric discomfort.
In traditional Chinese medicine, REN12 (Zhongwan) is used for bloating, acid reflux, gastritis and indigestion, and it is a point you can press yourself.
Dose or use Apply gentle, steady pressure to the point midway between the navel and breastbone for 1-2 minutes; avoid right after a large meal.
Key study A traditional acupressure point used for gastric complaints; this use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials cited here.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsMay ease discomfort during or shortly after pressingTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Use gentle pressure; avoid on broken skin or if pregnant without professional guidance.
–
Pressure point
ST36 (Zusanli)
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing
Stomach-meridian point for digestion and energy
Why it may be relevant
If you feel run-down and stress or low energy worsens your stomach, ST36 is a traditional point used to support digestion and overall vitality.
ST36 (Zusanli), below the knee on the Stomach meridian, is one of the most-used points for digestive support and building energy, a self-care option for run-down states.
Dose or use Press firmly about four finger-widths below the kneecap, just outside the shinbone, for 1-2 minutes on each leg.
Key study A traditional point widely used for digestive support; this use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials cited here.
EvidenceCenturies of traditional use · Human evidence not yet assessedTime to resultsMay feel settling during or after pressing; often used regularlyTraditional useLong-standing traditional staple
Caution: Use gentle to firm pressure; avoid on broken skin. Consult a professional if pregnant.
What kind of help sounds most doable for you?
I'd rather understand what my gastritis might be doing to my body first
–
Nutrient gap worth checking
Iron Deficiency
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use recognised
Chronic gastritis can lead to low iron
Why it may be relevant
If you feel run-down and tired, chronic gastritis and H. pylori can impair iron absorption, making iron-deficiency anemia a common, fatigue-producing consequence.
This guide explains the recognized link between chronic gastritis and low iron, and how iron-deficiency anemia can present as fatigue and low energy.
Dose or use Educational guide; ask your doctor about a simple blood test if fatigue persists.
Key study Chronic and atrophic gastritis are recognized causes of impaired iron absorption; this is an educational guide, not a treatment claim.
EvidenceNot yet assessed · We have not reviewed the literature for this oneTime to resultsInformational guide, not a treatmentTraditional useRecognised traditional use
Caution: Not a treatment; don't start iron supplements without testing, as excess iron can be harmful. Have low iron confirmed by your doctor.
–
Nutrient gap worth checking
Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) Deficiency
Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use recognised
Chronic gastritis can lead to low B12
Why it may be relevant
If you're run-down and low on energy, it's worth knowing that chronic (atrophic) gastritis can damage the cells that help you absorb vitamin B12, leading to deficiency and fatigue.
This guide explains the well-recognized link between chronic gastritis and B12 malabsorption, and how low B12 can show up as tiredness and low energy.
Dose or use Educational guide; ask your doctor about a simple blood test if fatigue persists.
Key study Chronic atrophic gastritis is a recognized cause of B12 malabsorption; this is an educational guide, not a treatment claim.
EvidenceNot yet assessed · We have not reviewed the literature for this oneTime to resultsInformational guide, not a treatmentTraditional useRecognised traditional use
Caution: Not a treatment; persistent fatigue or neurological symptoms should be evaluated by a doctor, who can confirm and treat B12 deficiency.
Evidence grades describe the strength of published research for Gastritis, not a promise of results. A higher grade is not a personal recommendation. Nothing here is medical advice — talk to your clinician before starting anything, especially alongside prescription medication.
Related pressure points
Hands-on options you can try yourself.
Acupressure is a comfort measure, not a treatment for Gastritis itself. Each page shows where the point is and how to press it.
