Ginger root is a widely used herbal remedy for acid reflux. Acid reflux refers to the backward flow, or reflux, of stomach contents back into the esophagus, where they irritate the delicate tissue lining and cause heartburn. Ginger tea is a common formulation that folk healers use to prepare this herb for acid reflux.
Ginger History
Ginger tea has historically been used as a soothing digestive aid. In his book "The New Healing Herbs," Michael Castleman writes that ginger root has a healing history that dates back to 3000 B.C., when it featured in the "Pen Tsao Ching," or Classic Book of Herbs. He notes that its traditional uses as an herbal remedy for gastric conditions have been supported by modern clinical studies.
Active Compounds
Ginger is rich in gingerol, an active compound that is beneficial for treating acid reflux. In a 2007 research article, K.C. Patrick-Iwuanyanwu et al. report that gingerol is made up of a number of volatile oils that give this herb its aromatic and therapeutic properties. They identify these oils as zingiberone, camphene, geranial, linalool, bisabolene and borneol.
Herbal Decoction
Ginger tea is prepared from the rhizome of the ginger plant. When used as a remedy for acid reflux, it has traditionally been prepared in the form of a decoction. A decoction is the most effective method for extracting the active medicinal constituents from tougher fibrous herb materials such as the ginger rhizome. It involves simmering rather than simply steeping the herb material in water to prepare an herbal tea.
Preparation
You can prepare a ginger-tea decoction from fresh or powdered ginger. Measure 250 ml into a saucepan and bring it to a boil. Add 10 ml of freshly grated or chopped ginger root. Cover the pan and lower the heat to a simmer for 10 minutes. Strain the ginger tea and sip it while it is still warm. Drink a cup of ginger tea every 2 to 2 1/2 hours. You can substitute 2 tsp. of powdered ginger root for the fresh ginger.
Warning
The Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine cautions against taking ginger in dosages over 6 g, which can cause gastric complications including ulcers. It also notes that ginger may inhibit blood-clotting rates, which can be harmful to people taking anticoagulant medication. People with gallstones should avoid taking ginger tea. Consult with a licensed healthcare professional on dosages and drug interactions before taking ginger tea for your acid reflux.
References
- "The New Healing Herbs: The Classic Guide to Nature's Best Medicines Featuring the Top 100 Time-Tested Herbs"; Michael Castleman; 2001
- Science Alert: The Protective Nature of Garlic, Ginger and Vitamin E on CCl4-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Rats
- Ecomii: Tea (Decoction/Infusion)
- HealthLine: Ginger Extract
- "The Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine"; Jacqueline L. Longe; 2004
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