When it comes to matters relating to health, things keeps evolving with time. At one point of time it was a routine practice for medical professionals to prescribe charcoal tablets and simethicone to reduce the occurrence of abdominal gas. Though these are safe medications, they have to be taken under medical supervision. They are both palliatives and have no lasting benefits.

Plus, there is some chance that regular intake of charcoal could reduce the absorption of some other medication or possibly even some micronutrients.

There are more effective ways of handling flatulence. In fact, charcoal and simethicone are rarely seen on any prescription these days. The reason: it is now understood that altered bacterial flora or faulty lifestyles are the main culprit.

Diet strategies to keep the air down were mentioned last week. I believe some home remedies need to be mentioned as well.

Aniseed (Saunf) has always been valued for its property to relieve flatulence. One teaspoon of aniseed should be boiled in a cup of water and should then be left as such overnight. After straining the seeds in the morning, the infusion can be stored for the day's consumption. As and when required, a quarter glass of the infusion can be taken with a teaspoon of honey.

Mint and ginger are known for the benefits they bring to the digestive system. You may try this easy home remedy for tackling flatulence problem: One teaspoon of honey should be mixed with 1 teaspoon of mint leaf juice and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice as well as half teaspoon of ginger juice. One teaspoon of the mixture should be taken after three main meals.

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