Numerous supplements may help treat acid reflux disease. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, or NIDDK, acid reflux disease, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD, is a condition in which refluxed stomach acid touches the lining of your esophagus, causing a burning sensation in your chest or throat called heartburn or acid indigestion. Before taking supplements to treat your acid reflux disease, talk with your doctor about possible side effects and proper dosage.
Licorice
Licorice is a natural supplement that may help treat your acid reflux disease. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, or NCCAM, licorice root, also known as Glycyrrhiza glabra, has been used as a dietary supplement for stomach ulcers, bronchitis, sore throat and infections caused by viruses, such as hepatitis. Dr. Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician and author of the book "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," states that licorice is most known for its soothing effect on inflamed mucus membranes in your throat, lungs, stomach and intestines. Tilgner notes that the saponin known as glycyrrhizin is the main ingredient in licorice root responsible for its health effects. Before taking licorice root to treat your acid reflux disease, meet with your physician to discuss possible side effects and proper dosage.
Marshmallow
Marshmallow may be an effective natural supplement for acid reflux disease. The University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC, states that marshmallow, also known as Althea officinalis, is an herb that has been used for centuries as both a food and a medicine. According to the UMMC, the Romans, Chinese, Egyptians and Syrians used marshmallow as a food source, while the Arabs made poultices from its leaves to reduce inflammation. When mixed with water, the mucilage contained in marshmallow's roots and leaves forms a gel that coats your throat and stomach, reducing inflammation. Tilgner states that marshmallow is used for soothing mucus membrane irritation in your gastrointestinal tract, respiratory tract and urinary tract. Before taking marshmallow to treat your acid reflux disease, consult with your physician for possible side effects and proper dosage.
Slippery Elm
Slippery elm is a natural supplement that may help treat your acid reflux disease. According to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, or MSKCC, slippery elm, also known as Ulmus rubra, has been used to treat gastrointestinal disorders, skin ulcers or abscesses, certain types of cancer, cough, fevers and inflammation. The MSKCC states that the principal constituent in slippery elm is mucilage, which is believed to account for its demulcent effects. A demulcent soothes or heals mucus membranes by forming a protective coating over the irritated or inflamed mucosa. According to Tilgner, slippery elm tastes and smells similar to maple syrup but without the sweetness. Slippery elm may help reduce inflammation in your mouth, throat, stomach, intestines, bladder and urethra. Before taking slippery elm, talk with your doctor about possible side effects and proper dosage.
References
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: What is GERD?
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Licorice Root
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Marshmallow
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Slippery Elm
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
