Whether it's a mild case of heartburn or severe intestinal discomfort, those of us who eat food, have, at one point or another, experienced unpleasant cases of indigestion. But fortunately, of all the things Mother Nature is really good at, providing us with herbal remedies for upset tummies is one of her specialties.

When using herbs, always consult with your primary care physician first, especially since there could be contraindications with certain prescription medicines. Get herbal formulas from your local natural food market rather than the pharmacy or supermarket—they'll have higher quality products at the natural food store and that's important when it comes to efficacy. Some products are available in tea form (Traditional Medicinals is your best bet for high quality herbal teas) and others you'll find in tincture or extract (pill) form (I trust Herb Pharm and Gaia's quality).

If you've overeaten, or eaten something too spicy or that doesn't agree with you, that lingering feeling in your stomach can make you feel awful. Try these herbs to stimulate digestion in the stomach, reduce gas and bloating and help speed up the digestive process. Some, like licorice, may sooth inflammation in the bowels that can come from frequent digestive disturbances. 

1. Dandelion
2. Gentian
3. Barberry Root
4. Fennel
5. Cardamom
6. Lemon Balm
7. Licorice
8. Peppermint
9. Ginger

For Heartburn or mild acid reflux:

10. Marshmallow root
11. Slippery elm
12. Calendula
13. Fenugreek

Skip the Pepto and give these anti-diarrheal herbs a try:

14. Raspberry leaf
15. Peppermint leaf
16. Oregon grape root
17. Goldenseal
18. Clove oil

And when constipation sets in:

19. Senna leaf
20. Aloe leaf
21. Cascara sagrada
22. Chicory
23. Chickweed

Keep in touch with Jill on Twitter @jillettinger

Image: stevendepolo