Acid reflux, or heartburn, is characterized by burning in the chest, belching, coughing, and sometimes difficulty sleeping due to acid regurgitation into the esophagus. Heartburn sufferers may find relief from some or all of their symptoms using home remedies found in grocery or health food stores. Although home remedies are no replacement for medical attention if reflux pain is severe and unremitting, many people do experience relief from occasional symptoms using simple treatments prepared at home.
Licorice Root Extract
Licorice root protects the lining of the digestive tract by creating a mucosal barrier. Making a tea by steeping dried licorice root in boiling water and sipping throughout the day is one of the best ways to consume this herb. Additionally, the extract may be taken by placing several drops in water or juice. Licorice root is available in health food stores. Using licorice root can raise the blood pressure, so an herbalist or health care practitioner should be consulted before starting treatment and for dosage instructions.
Ginger
Ginger is a naturally calming herb that helps prevent acids from building up in the stomach and refluxing into the esophagus. It soothes the lining of the stomach and esophagus and works to settle the stomach, relieving stomachaches and pain, according to David Conway in his book. “The Magic of Herbs.” Ginger may be consumed in a variety of ways such as in tea, in sodas made with real ginger, as candied ginger or in powder form as capsules. Ginger consumed in its candied form may feel quite hot on the tongue or in the stomach, so care should be taken if this occurs.
Homeopathic Nux Vomica
The homeopathic remedy Nux Vomica is well known for relieving a variety of digestive ailments including acid reflux and stomach pain. Renowned homeopath, Dr. Margaret Tyler recommends Nux Vomica for acid indigestion in her book, "Homeopathic Drug Pictures." Nux Vomica can be used when there is intense pain in the stomach or esophagus with burning sensations, belching and bloating, especially after eating spicy, rich foods or from consuming too much alcohol. The person needing Nux may be aggressive, demanding and chilly. Homeopathic remedies are available at health food stores and from online homeopathic pharmacies.
Apples
Eating apples in all forms can be helpful for some people who suffer from acid reflux. Eating sweet red apples or applesauce after meals and before bed to reduce the incidence of reflux attacks and lessen pain. Apples help to change the body's pH, which plays a role in digestion and acid production, according to the Drs. Young, in their book “The pH Miracle.”
References
- “The pH Miracle”; Robert O. Young, Ph.D. and Shelley Redford Young, 2003
- “The Magic of Herbs”; David Conway, 1973
- Life Extension: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
