Heartburn usually erupts from eating too fast, too much—or both. When it occurs, acid forced from the stomach up and into the esophagus causes a severe burning sensation in the chest. Whereas over-the-counter remedies often control an attack of heartburn, some natural varieties are just as effective.
Milk, Gum, Candy, Bananas, Pineapples
Cold milk straight from the refrigerator is an excellent natural option. Chewing gum stimulates saliva that neutralizes the acid and may help drain irritants from the esophagus back into the stomach. Stimulating saliva with a few pieces of hard candy may serve the same purpose. Bananas have an antacid effect, and pineapples are rich in enzymes that can neutralize the acids of heartburn.
Licorice Chamomile Tea
Prepare tea by simmering 1 teaspoon of licorice root in 1¼ cups of water for 10 minutes in a covered pot. Add 2 teaspoons of dried chamomile, cover and let steep for 10 minutes. Strain and drink.
Sarsparilla, Ginger, Chicory Root
Sarsaparilla root and ginger root calm the stomach. Some root beers contain natural sarsaparilla, and some ginger ales and cookies contain real ginger. Chicory root is another natural remedy for heartburn for its blend of escarole and endive.
Cloves, Peppermint, Anise, Lavender
Shake a few drops of oil of clove into a glass of water and sip slowly. Mix peppermint, anise and lavender in equal amounts and stir into tea. Sip slowly.
Heartburn Prevention
Stop smoking. It decreases the capability of the lower esophageal sphincter to function properly. Maintain a healthy weight. Excess weight pressures the abdomen, pushing the stomach upward and forcing acid to back into the esophagus. Wear loosely-fitting clothes. Garments tight at the waistline constrict the abdomen and stomach. Avoid foods and drinks that in the past have triggered attacks of heartburn.
Heartburn Prevention II
Prepare smaller meals and eat slowly to allow enzymes of the mouth to begin the digestive process. Wait at least 2 to 3 hours after eating before lying down or going to bed, allowing time for food to digest adequately. Elevate the head of the bed. Do not lie down with heartburn—stomach acids may flow farther back into the esophagus.
