8 Natural stomach coating agents to protect and soothe the stomach

What is a stomach coating agent?

A stomach coating agent is a swallowable preparation designed to protect the gastric mucosa.

This substance generally acts by lining the stomach and creating a temporary barrier on the inner walls to relieve the burning, pain or discomfort associated with excessive acidity.

This type of product can be useful in the event of temporary stomach pains, reflux or difficult digestion, or after a copious or excessively fatty meal.

There are 2 main categories of stomach coating agents:

• medicated stomach coating agents, available in pharmacies, generally made up of substances of mineral or chemical origin, and medically supervised
• natural stomach coating agents, derived from food or plants, which can offer gentle relief

Stomach coating agents have an almost immediate effect, but the effects are short-lived.

The 8 best natural stomach coating agents

1. Ultra-ventilated green clay: an exceptional natural coating?

Ultra-ventilated montmorillonite green clay is commonly recommended by naturopaths to promote digestive comfort.

It absorbs excess acidity and gas in the stomach, helping to reduce bloating and digestive discomfort.

At the same time, it forms a protective layer on the stomach walls, helping to soothe occasional burning and discomfort.

However, this potentially powerful gastric coating should be used at least 2 hours before taking medication, as it may interfere with their absorption.

2. Aloe vera gel: an emollient for mucous membranes

Aloe vera gel, which comes from the inner pulp and therefore contains no aloin (an irritant substance found in the plant's skin), is traditionally used for its emollient and soothing effects on mucous membranes, including the stomach (1).

It also helps to support digestion, thanks in particular to its mucilage, which facilitates the passage of food through the digestive tract and helps to gently regulate transit.

It is available in liquid form for drinking, often as a course of treatment lasting several weeks.

3. Lithothamnion: a remineralising anti-acidity algae?

Lithothamnion (Lithothamnium calcareum) is a small calcareous seaweed naturally rich in calcium and magnesium, which is thought to have a strong buffering effect against excess stomach acid.

Its action is gentle and gradual, and it is recommended for sensitive stomachs or those with acidic stomachs.

It is commonly used in naturopathy to improve the digestive system over the long term.

4. Marshmallow root: the ultimate plant-based soothing agent

Marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis) contains mucilage which can form a protective film on irritated mucous membranes.

Marshmallow is traditionally used to soothe stomach pains and reduce inflammation of the digestive tract.

It can be found, for example, in infusions or as a powder to be diluted in lukewarm water.

5. DGL liquorice: a powerful shield for the gastric mucosa

Liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) is a herbaceous plant that helps to maintain the normal functioning of the mucous membranes of the stomach and small intestine.

More specifically, it works by stimulating the production of protective mucus, which helps line the stomach lining and soothe acid-related irritations.

Opt for deglycyrrhizinated liquorice (DGL), a special form of liquorice from which glycyrrhizin, a molecule that can increase blood pressure, has been removed.

Discover the DGL 500 deglycyrrhizinated liquorice supplement, a concentrated formula to support your stomach every day.

6. Chios mastic: a resin known since time immemorial

Chios mastic or mastiha (Pistacia lentiscus) is a resin from the pistachio tree, used since ancient times to prevent and relieve digestive problems.

Thanks to its resinous texture, it is thought to form a protective layer on the gastric mucosa, helping to soothe burns and irritations.

What's more, some recent studies suggest that it may limit the adhesion and proliferation of Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium frequently associated with gastric imbalances (2).

Discover the Mastic Gum food supplement, derived from the Chios mastic tree and standardised to 12% masticonic acids.

7. L-carnosine zinc: a complex particularly appreciated in cases of reflux

Zinc-L-carnosine is a chelated complex that combines zinc with L-carnosine, a small peptide naturally present in the body.

This complex is often appreciated in cases of reflux, irritation or chronic gastric problems.

Studies suggest that zinc-L-carnosine acts:

• by binding directly to the gastric mucosa, where it forms a protective barrier
• by promoting cell repair, as zinc contributes to normal cell division, a process that is essential for tissue renewal
• by reducing inflammation linked to oxidative stress (3)

Discover the Zinc-L-Carnosine dietary supplement.

8. Sodium bicarbonate: ideal for neutralising acidity?

Long used to treat heartburn, sodium bicarbonate is renowned for its alkalising effect.

It is thought to work by neutralising excess stomach acid, which can provide rapid relief after an overly rich or acidic meal.

Studies indicate that it may even reduce gastric irritation induced by aspirin or excessive acidity (4).

Without being directly a stomach coating agent, sodium bicarbonate therefore acts as an immediate antacid rather than as a protector of the mucous membrane.

However, it is preferable to use it only occasionally and with caution, as regular use can unbalance the pH of the stomach or cause an acid rebound effect.

Synergistic formulas for complete stomach support

Ingredients to combat gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

Some formulas intelligently combine several active ingredients to act synergistically on gastric imbalances.

For example, they may be dedicated to combating acid reflux, the cause of heartburn and irritation of the oesophagus.

These supplements combine several ingredients that could limit acid reflux while strengthening the gastric barrier: zinc-L-carnosine, liquorice extract, potassium bicarbonate, etc.

Discover the Anti-Acid Reflux Formula food supplement, which combines these different natural ingredients tested against gastric reflux.

Natural compounds effective against Helicobacter pylori?

Helicobacter pylori is a bacterium commonly present in the body, but which can, in certain cases, disturb the balance of the gastric mucosa.

Certain substances have been studied for their ability to bind to H. pylori or reduce its adhesion to the stomach wall (5).

They have been used in specific supplements:

Discover the H. Pylori Fight dietary supplement, a postbiotic tested against Helicobacter pylori, or its enriched version H. Pylori Fight Advanced Formula.