Indian Home Remedies For Acidity

While there are numerous pharmaceutical remedies for stomach acidity caused by certain foods or overeating, not everyone finds these remedies to be effective, and using them regularly has potential side effects in many cases. However, there are a variety of Indian home remedies, based on Ayurvedic medicine, that can help fight acidity and stop the pain. Of course, long-term acidity problems should be checked by a doctor, and these natural remedies should not be used for more than a few weeks at a time unless your doctor says it is okay.

Holy Basil

According to Vasant Lad, author of "The Complete Book of Ayurvedic Home Remedies," holy basil, commonly referred to as tulsi, is often taken to help relieve stomach acidity. Lad recommends chewing several leaves of holy basil before each meal for regular sufferers, and he also claims that holy basil can be used to help fight pain from acidity after a meal as well. Holy basil can commonly be found in farmer's markets or in Indian specialty shops as well.

Coconut Water and Fresh Cucumber

According to Reenita Malholtra, author of "Ayurveda: A Holistic Approach To Health," a mixture of coconut water and fresh cucumber can be consumed to help fight stomach acidity. To make this mixture, combine 6 oz. of coconut water and the fruit of ¼ peeled cucumber in a blender or food processor. Puree on high speed for 15 to 20 seconds or until a thin, drinkable liquid is formed.

Drink this mixture 10 to 15 minutes after a meal or at the first signs of discomfort. This remedy can be used after every meal as necessary, and larger portions can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours.

Ginger and Ground Coriander Tea

According to Vasant Lad, author of "The Complete Book of Ayurvedic Home Remedies," a hot, brewed tea made of fresh ginger and ground coriander can be extremely helpful for getting rid of acidity caused by certain foods or occasional overeating. To make this mixture, steep 2 tbsp. freshly ground ginger in a disposable tea bag and place into in 8 oz. of hot water for 4 to 5 minutes before squeezing and discarding the tea bag.

Add ½ tsp. ground coriander powder to the cup and stir vigorously to combine the ginger tea and coriander. Let the mixture cool to just above room temperature and drink at the onset of discomfort.

This remedy can be used as much as needed as long as it doesn't cause the symptoms to get worse. If you make a large batch of this tea, unused portions of it can be stored in the refrigerator for 96 hours for later use if the remedy is helpful.