Home Remedies For Reflux With Ginger

Reflux is a symptom of heartburn characterized by a burning sensation in the esophagus below or behind the breast. The muscle band at the end of the lower esophagus does not close tight enough, causing acid and partially digested food to come back up from the stomach, according to MedlinePlus. Although occasional episodes of heartburn are normal, a persistent problem may indicate an underlying condition requiring medical attention. Taking home remedies with ginger may help quell the discomfort, although there is little scientific data to illustrate this herb's efficacy.

Ginger Tea

Ginger is a commonly used herb for treating digestive problems, including heartburn and acid reflux. It functions by the chemicals gingerols and shogaols, which help to soothe the gut but also help in digestion by increasing the wavelike muscle contractions that move food through the intestine and lessen the likelihood of reflux, according to James Duke in his book "The Green Pharmacy." Duke recommends using a fresh stalk of ginger root and slicing it into a one-inch piece, removing the peel. Boil the herb in two to three cups of water and drink it twice a day. You may add honey to make the beverage sweeter.

Flat Ginger Ale

You have probably used flat ginger ale to help with a myriad of stomach and reflux conditions, as the ginger helps to both ease and prevent the occurrence of heartburn. Authors George Halpern and Peter Weverka attest to the calming properties of flat ginger ale in their book "The Healing Trail." The authors also say that drinking flat ginger ale prior to a meal or during an episode of reflux can effectively help to reduce splashing of stomach acids into the esophagus. It may also help to protect against stomach ulcers caused by harmful bacteria.

Powdered Ginger

Powdered ginger is generally available in the spice section in your local supermarket, or you can purchase it in supplements for relieving symptoms of acid reflux. The University of Maryland Medical Center says that a standard dosing of powdered ginger root should be between .25 g and 1 g for indigestion, gas or nausea. The combination of both ginger's volatile oils and pungent phenol compounds, as noted previously, make ginger a useful aid in several other conditions disrupting the digestive system, such as pregnancy-related nausea and vomiting, chemotherapy nausea and post-operative nausea.