Acid reflux, also called gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is brought on when liquid contents of the stomach--which include digestive acids--back up, or reflux, into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest. If you have heartburn two or three times a week for more than a month, you should see your doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Also see your doctor before trying any home remedies for relief from acid reflux.
Apple Cider VInegar
Sip a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in 4 oz. of water during a meal. It may be counterintuitive to drink something acidic as a cure for acid indigestion, but according to the Mothernature.com, apple cider vinegar is a "good" acid. Heartburn may be caused by a shortage of hydrochloric acid and pepsin; the acidic apple cider vinegar may help to remedy this.
Fennel Seeds
Chew 1/2 tsp. of fennel seeds after meals. Fennel seeds contain anethole and fenchone, both known to suppress spasms of the stomach.
Chamomile Tea
Drink chamomile tea after meals. Chamomile's high content of bisabilol gives it anti-inflammatory qualities, making it a useful ally against dyspepsia and heartburn. It is also a carminative, which means it can reduce gas, bloating and nausea. Herbs2000.com explains that chamomile also promotes peristalsis.
Apples
Eat a red delicious apple after meals. Apples contain tartaric acid, which may help neutralize stomach acids, as well as stomach-soothing pectin and glycine.
Manuka Honey
Eat 1 tsp. of manuka honey on a cracker or a small piece of bread after a meal, and refrain from drinking anything for the next five minutes to avoid dilution. Airborne.co.nz cites studies suggesting that manuka honey--made from the manuka bush of New Zealand--may destroy H. pylori bacteria, which can cause heartburn. In addition, manuka honey has demulcent properties, which cause it to coat and protect the esophagus.
Ginger Root
Take 2 capsules of ginger root extract after dinner, or simply chew on a piece of fresh ginger root. Psychopharmacologist Daniel B. Mowrey notes that ginger root absorbs stomach acid and helps calm nerves that can contribute to acid reflux. In addition, the ginger contains volatile oils that have an antibacterial effect. According to the Botanical-online.com, ginger combats the H. pylori bacteria. Additionally, ginger can increase peristalsis.
Chewing Gum
Chew gum for acid reflux relief. Chewing gum stimulates the production of saliva, which naturally contains bicarbonate. When swallowed, this helps neutralize acid in the esophagus.
