Acid reflux or heartburn is caused by pushing back of food into the oesophagus by the muscles of stomach; this causes a sensation of burning or pain in chest. This reflux action of the gastric juice is often followed after taking meals. Resorting to herbal remedies is in such a case can be quiet useful and relieve from the annoying pain within a short period of time. Most of the remedies are easily prepared and are readily available in your kitchen.
Baking Soda: One of the effective methods that can give temporary relief from the condition is the use of baking soda, an excellent antacid. Add a tablespoon of soda in half glass of water and to it add a few drops of lemon juice. Baking soda creates an effervescence that is effective in fighting against the acid. So, it is advisable to drink the solution as soon as it is prepared. Taking it long after preparing will not have the desired result.
Aloe Vera: The herbal properties of Aloe Vera play a significant role in minimising the pain caused due to heartburn. Taking it one or two times daily can be useful. It is generally ingested in the form of juice or gel capsules that are easily available in market. In some cases, it causes diarrhoea; so you can take along with mint or lemon balm. The anti-bacterial properties of Aloe Vera also help in keeping oesophagus free of decadence caused by bacteria.
Water: If you suffer from heartburn too frequently, then increase your water intake. Having 8-10 glasses of pure water daily and a single glass half an hour just before meal can help alleviate heartburn symptoms.
Garlic: To have the quick relief, you can chew garlic cloves; the antibiotic nature of garlic plays havoc on the bacterial micro organisms in the gastrointestinal tract; thus relieving you of the pain.
Banana: The anti-acidic nature of banana may also be useful in soothing heartburn symptoms.
Papaya: The fruit aids in digestion of the stomach by the enzymatic activity of papain. It would be better if you take it just before meal or just after having the burning sensation. A word of caution for those suffering from latex allergy- it is better if you avoid papaya altogether or consult your doctor. The fruit should not be used by pregnant woman.
Herbs: There are many herbs that aid in digestion and hence lessen the chances of heartburn. Aniseed and peppermint have anti-acidic properties; they boost digestion and regulate the acidity of the stomach. Lavender is another herb that is known to have a calming effect on heartburn.
Almonds: These are known to contain alkaline oil and hence neutralises the acid. If you are allergic t nuts, it is better to avoid it.
Cider Vinegar: Another effective way to get relieved from the ailment is taking apple cider vinegar. A teaspoonful of it is enough for a day. To increase the effectiveness, you can add a pinch of baking soda in order to make it fizzy. Add sugar according to improve the taste.
Chamomile Tea: Take the extracts of chamomile tea and add them to hot water. Keep the mixture aside for about 15 minutes and then take it. This herb acts as a relaxing agent and helps in reducing stress levels of the body.
Pomegranate: To get rid of the acidic reflux, a good remedy is to chew the dried peel of pomegranate.
Mustard Seeds: Another way to get quick relief from the burning sensation is to swallow mustard seeds or take with water.
Calcium: This works wonders for the patients of heartburn; it is good I you have it in the form of milk or yoghurt.
Vinegar: Sometimes, our stomach is unable to produce enough acid and this results in indigestion and hence the heartburn. To counteract this, vinegar or acetic acid proves beneficial. It normalises the amount of acid and hence decreases the alkalinity.
Sugarless Gum: The alkaline nature of saliva in our mouth aids in counteracting the effects of excessive stomach acid. In order to swallow more saliva, it is avoidable to chew a gum or a candy.
Vegetable Juices: Many vegetables secret alkaline juices; cucumber, radish, and carrot are such vegetables. Taking these juices frequently can cure your acidic reflux problem in no time. Taking them raw is also useful.
Marshmallow Root: One of the traditional herbal remedy is marshmallow; its main component is mucilage which guards the oesophagus. Grind its root to make powder and then add water. Take it 2-3 times in a day.
Elm: It works similar to marshmallow. Powder it and mix with water; take as and when need arises.
Cardamom: Crush it and boil with water. You can also have cinnamon in place of cardamom.
Licorice Extract: The extract protects the gastrointestinal tracts by raising the number of mucosal cells and boosting your digestion power. It helps by improving blood circulation through the tract and lessens the chances of ulcer formation. Have it at least 15-20 minutes before each meal; continue the intake for about a month.
Other Useful Substances: Raisins, pepperoncini, and pine needles are a few other herbs that you can have the calming effect on digestion. Honey is also recommended as it not only minimises bacterial proliferation in the gut but also improves circulation of blood. It can be taken three times a day and just before sleeping.
Low Fat and Fiber-Rich Diet: Fat can play havoc and can worsen the burning sensation. So, you should restrict your diet to low fat; it is good to take fibre-rich diet in order to neutralise the acidity of the stomach. Spicy food should be completely avoided. Cut the levels of alcohol, nicotine and caffeine from your diet. Avoid sleeping just after eating. To prevent the reverse peristalsis, it is good if you sleep on your left.
Heartburn is a common condition that all of us have experienced at some of time. Herbal remedies can mitigate the pain caused by it by stimulating digestion and protecting the gut from bacterial growth.
Caution: Please use Home Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.