GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, is caused by a backward flow of stomach acid into the esophagus that irritates the cell tissues. It is characterized by frequent heartburn that recurs more than twice a week. Other symptoms include sore throat, painful swallowing, wheezing, hoarseness, bad breath and gingivitis. Left untreated, GERD can cause changes in the cell tissue lining the esophagus and may eventually develop into cancer. There are a number of herbal remedies that can be used to treat GERD.
Licorice
Licorice is has soothing properties that are effective in curing and preventing GERD. It coats the cell tissue lining the esophagus, helping protect against further damage from the acidic contents of the stomach. Jacqueline L. Longe suggests taking two to four chewable 380mg wafers about 20 minutes before you eat a meal. Licorice is also available as deglycyrrhizinated licorice capsules or tablets and as an herbal tea.
Orange Peel Extract
Also referred to as d-limonene, orange peel extract has been shown to be effective as a remedy for GERD, according to K. Husnu Can Baser and Gerhard Buchbauer, authors of the book "Handbook of Essential Oils: Science, Technology and Applications." They cite two clinical studies in which participants were administered 1,000mg doses of d-limonene once a day to determine its effect on the frequency and severity of their symptoms. More than 80 percent of the participants in each study reported a significant reduction in their symptoms after 14 days.
Fennel Seed
Eat 1/2 teaspoon of fennel seed after each meal. An active chemical constituent in fennel seed called anethole is an anti-spasmodic that helps prevent muscle spasms of the stomach muscles. You can also brew an herbal tea by steeping 1/2 teaspoon of crushed fennel seed in a cup of water for 15 minutes. Drink a cup after each meal.
Ginger Root
In the book "Nature's Medicines," author Gale Maleskey recommends treating GERD with a decoction of ginger. Thinly slice and grate 1/2 inch of ginger into 1 cup of water. Microwave this for two to three minutes, strain and drink a cup 20 minutes before each meal. You may also chew on candied ginger.
Turmeric Powder
Turmeric helps alleviate gas and bloating, which often trigger acid reflux. Stir 1 to 3g of powdered turmeric in a glass of warm water and drink it once a day. Alternatively, spice up your food with 1 to 3g of turmeric.
References
- "The Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine"; Jacqueline L. Longe; 2004
- "Handbook of Essential Oils: Science, Technology and Applications"; K. Husnu Can Baser, Gerhard Buchbauer; 2009
- Nature's Medicines: Heartburn
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