Acid reflux, heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease is a painful condition, also known by the acronym, GERD. Discomfort is felt when liquid content of the stomach is regurgitated back up into the esophagus, causing an unpleasant burning sensation at the top of the chest. Anti-acid preparations can help the condition temporarily, but do not generally work in severe cases and, in some patients, can exacerbate the condition by stimulating acid rebound. Herbal remedies can be used to help treat acid reflux.
Chamomile
Chamomile is an extremely versatile herb that has anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, sedative, wound healing and antibacterial properties. It is also a carminative, which indicates it is able to prevent gas from forming in the gastrointestinal tract; or if gas has already formed, it can help to dispel the gas. German herbal specialist Rudolf Fritz Weiss, M.D. claims there is no better remedy for stomach ulcers, including drugs. Therefore chamomile is often used for digestive problems, and when taken as an infusion for acid reflux, can quickly diminish symptoms, without any side effects. Usually sold in teabag form, chamomile is widely available and can be bought in most mainstream supermarkets and health stores.
Licorice
Long before licorice was a popular choice of candy, it was thought of as an herb, with numerous uses as a remedy for various ailments. Licorice is an amazing antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral, anti-ulcer and antispasmodic herb. According to American botanist, Dr. James Duke, licorice also has anti-depressant properties. in her book "Healthy Herbs" author Linda Woolven claims she completely cured her own stomach ulcer with licorice, and it has been shown to be more effective than many drugs in the treatment of both ulcers and acid reflux. Licorice should be taken regularly as a preventive measure for acid reflux, and can also be taken when an attack occurs to reduce symptoms. Licorice can be drank as an infusion by making a tea from licorice root, it can be eaten in candy form, and is also sold in capsules or as a liquid in health stores.
Caraway
Dr. Duke claims caraway is a herb with important healing properties that is often overlooked as an effective remedy for many conditions. Duke claims that although caraway is considered an annoying weed by many, it has cancer fighting properties similar to those found in chemotherapy. It also reduces asthma attacks caused by living in polluted areas.
It has a remarkable ability to neutralize gastric acid is therefore effective in the relief of acid reflux. As with licorice, it should be used as a preventive measure, and also as a remedy when an attack of heartburn occurs. Seeds from the caraway herb are commonly sold in stores that sell baking and cooking ingredients or health stores.
Aloe Vera
The aloe vera plant has many medicinal uses due to its soothing, anti-inflammatory healing properties. It is often used topically for skin wounds and burns, but ingested in capsule or liquid form also makes it an efficient remedy for heartburn.
Marshmallow
The marshmallow plant was originally found in Europe, but now also grows in the United States. Both the leaves and roots are used medicinally. It is helpful as a remedy against asthma and the common cold. Marshmallow also relieves symptoms of many conditions related to the stomach, including Crohn's disease, diarrhea, peptic ulcers and acid reflux.
References
- University of Michigan: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
- Health: Antacids
- Learn About Tea: Organic Herbal Tea
- Green Pharmacy: Caraway
- "Healthy Herbs"; Linda Woolven; M.H., C.A.c.; 2006
