Acid reflux, or reflux esophagitis, is a condition that is characterized by a backward flow of the stomach contents into the esophagus. This irritates the cell tissue lining the esophagus, causing heartburn, inflammation and scarring. While many people use over-the-counter treatments for acid reflux, a number of herbs can be used as a natural alternative to treat and prevent this condition.
Licorice (Glycyrrhiza Glabra)
Often described as a natural antacid, licorice has long been used to treat acid reflux. Melissa Metcalfe, a naturopathic doctor, notes that licorice has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the inflamed mucous tissue lining the esophagus. It also helps prevent further inflammation from the refluxed stomach contents. Metcalfe recommends using a chewable form of licorice called deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL). Take two 250mg DGL capsules 20 minutes before each meal for four weeks.
Gentian (Gentiana Officinalis)
Gentian is a centuries-old herbal digestive aid. Herbal pharmacologist Daniel Mowry recommends using gentian as a preventive remedy for heartburn, a common symptom of acid reflux. Brew a cup of gentian herbal tea by simmering 1 tsp. of gentian in a cup of water for 30 minutes. Sprinkle a pinch of ginger and cayenne into the tea and drink it 1/2 hour before you eat.
Cardamom (Elettaria Cardamomum)
Cardamom has gas-relieving properties that help prevent or relieve excessive stomach gas, which is a common trigger for acid reflux. James A. Duke notes that cardamom can be substituted with cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum), as a less expensive herb that also has gas-relieving properties. The University of Michigan Health System lists peppermint and fennel as other gas-relieving herbs that can be used for the same purpose.
Slippery Elm (Ulmus Rubra)
Slippery elm alleviates symptoms of acid reflux by healing and protecting the delicate lining of the esophagus, according to Pamela Jeanne, a naturopathic doctor. The mucilage content in this herb serves as a protective barrier against the damaging effects of the acidic stomach contents. Slippery elm is often available in tablet or capsule form, typically 400mg to 500 mg each. The University of Michigan Health System recommends taking one or two capsules three or four times a day.
Chamomile (Matricaria Recutita)
Often referred to as "mother of the gut" by European herbalists, chamomile has traditionally been prescribed as a natural remedy for digestive conditions. The University of Michigan Health System lists it as a gas-relieving herb and also notes that its anti-inflammatory properties are useful for relieving irritated or inflamed mucous membranes in the esophagus. Drink a cup of chamomile tea three or four times a day between meals.
References
- "Nature's Medicines: From Asthma to Weight Gain, from Colds to High Cholesterol"; Gayle Maleskey; 1999
- "The Green Pharmacy"; James A. Duke, Ph.D.; 1997
- University of Michigan Health System: Healthwise Knowledgebase
- Alternative Cures: The Most Effective Natural Home Remedies for 160 Health Problems"; Bill Gottlieb; 2008
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