Numerous herbs may be helpful for treating gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, or NIDDK, the persistent reflux of acid from your stomach into your esophagus that occurs more than twice per week is considered GERD and it can affect people of all ages. If left untreated, GERD can lead to serious health problems. Before taking herbs for GERD, talk with your doctor about possible side effects and proper dosage.
Marshmallow
Marshmallow may be an effective herb for GERD. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC, marshmallow, also known as Althea officinalis, has been used for over 2,000 years as both a food and a medicine. Marshmallow has been used to treat numerous health conditions, including asthma, bronchitis, common cold, cough, inflammatory bowel diseases, stomach ulcers and indigestion. Dr. Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician and author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," states that marshmallow is an antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory that is effective for soothing mucus membrane irritation in your gastrointestinal tract, respiratory tract and urinary tract. Marshmallow may help reduce inflammation associated with acid reflux. Before taking marshmallow to treat your GERD, talk with your doctor about possible side effects and proper dosage.
Slippery Elm
Slippery elm may be an effective herb to treat your GERD. The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, or MSKCC, states that slippery elm, also known Ulmus rubra or Indian elm, has been used to treat numerous health conditions, including gastrointestinal disorders, skin ulcers, cancers, fevers and inflammation. Slippery elm is derived from the inner bark of the tree. The principle constituent in slippery elm is mucilage, which accounts for its ability to sooth and heal your mucus membranes and protect your irritated or inflamed mucosa. According to Tilgner, slippery elm is a demulcent, diuretic and anti-inflammatory. When consumed in dry form, notes Tilgner, slippery elm should always be taken with water. Before taking slippery elm to help treat your GERD, talk with your doctor about possible side effects, potential drug interactions and proper dosage.
Turmeric
Turmeric is an herb that may be an effective for treating your GERD. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, or NCCAM, turmeric, also known as Curcuma longa, is a shrub related to ginger and is grown throughout India, other parts of Asia and Africa. The NCCAM states that turmeric is known for its warm, bitter taste and golden color. Turmeric is often used in fabric dyes and foods such as curry powders, mustards and cheeses. Tilgner states that turmeric is an anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-fungal, carminative, digestive enzyme stimulant and hypotensive. Turmeric helps stimulate the normal flow of digestion, protects your digestive tract and decreases digestive tract irritation and inflammation. Before taking turmeric to help treat your GERD, talk with your doctor about possible side effects and proper dosage.
