Acid reflux occurs when digestive fluids from the stomach splash up into your esophagus, causing burning sensations in your chest and a bitter taste in your mouth. According to MayoClinic. com, acid reflux can progress to GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease. Homeopathic medicine is an alternative therapy in which practitioners treat symptoms by giving infinitesimal amounts of a substance that, in larger doses, would cause the same symptoms in a healthy person. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine says that homeopathic medicine is generally considered safe, if highly diluted remedies are taken under the guidance of trained professionals. Consult your doctor if you have frequent heartburn and before trying homeopathic remedies for reflux.
Arsenicum Album
Arsenicum album is made from arsenic trioxide, extracted from the mineral arsenopyrite. The many dilutions of homeopathic preparation allow the use of substances that would otherwise be toxic or even deadly, and renders the poison harmless. Homeopaths often recommend Arsenicum album for acid indigestion, particularly when it arises from overeating. Blue Shield Complementary and Alternative Health says that this remedy is particularly indicated when the burning sensations center in the esophagus. Homeopaths believe that for a remedy to be effective, it must fit the patient's personality type. According to Beneforce, the person who would benefit from Arsenicum album is organized and intolerant of clutter, and tends toward exhaustion when needs for order are not met. If acid reflux symptoms worsen after midnight, or in the cold, and improve with warm drinks and sitting up, this is an even stronger indication for Arsenicum album. Consult your doctor before using Arsenicum album.
Nux Vomica
Nux vomica, made from highly diluted strychnine, is a popular homeopathic remedy for acid reflux and indigestion, especially if the homeopath believes the condition has been caused by overindulgence in alcohol or stimulants. According to Beneforce, the personality type that would benefit from Nux vomica is ambitious, aggressive, hard-driving and prone to self-pity. If the patient is irritable and feels worse under cold conditions and in the mornings, but feels better when warm and rested, this is another indication that Nux vomica is the right remedy. Blue Shield Complementary and Alternative Health says that another strong indication for Nux vomica is sensitivity to odors, light and sounds. Check with a medical health professional before taking Nux vomica.
Pulsatilla Nigricans
Pulsatilla nigricans is made from the meadow anemone, a perennial flowering plant native to Northern Europe. The plant is harvested while in bloom, and all parts of it are used. Homeopaths may prescribe this remedy for acid reflux, particularly if it is accompanied by a bitter taste in the mouth. Beneforce says that this remedy is suited to gentle, mild, emotional people who are easily moved to tears. If symptoms are worse at night and after eating rich food, but improve with fresh air and mild exercise, this is another indication for the pulsatilla remedy. Get approval from your physician before trying pulsatilla.
