Acid reflux occurs when acid in your stomach flows back into your esophagus, which is the connecting tube between your stomach and throat. This condition is also referred to as gastroesophageal reflux. When acid reflux occurs, you may taste food or sour liquid at the rear portion of your mouth. In addition, you may experience heartburn, a burning feeling in your chest. Acid reflux can lead to gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. This is a more severe condition characterized by heartburn, difficulty swallowing, coughing, wheezing, or chest pain. Certain lifestyle changes and medications may help ease acid reflux. In addition, specific herbal remedies may help you relieve or control symptoms. Always consult a doctor before taking any herbal supplements and never replace other forms of treatment with herbs.
Peppermint Combined With Other Herbs
Peppermint may help reduce acid reflux symptoms. Consuming peppermint in combination with caraway oil has been shown to decrease gastrointestinal spasms in people. In addition, commercial products exist that may help reduce symptoms of heartburn, stomachache, and cramping. Such products can contain a combination of peppermint, milk thistle, licorice, caraway, German chamomile, clown's mustard plant, lemon balm, celandine, and angelica.
Licorice
Licorice is a herb that has been used for acid reflux and GERD. This herb, in combination with peppermint and chamomile may effectively lessen your symptoms of indigestion and heartburn. You can also find licorice in some commercial products where it acts in combination with other herbs to provide relief from acid reflux symptoms.
Slippery Elm
Slippery elm is a herbal remedy that has been used for symptoms of GERD. Therefore, you may find this herb to effectively help acid reflux. This herb helps to coat the mouth, throat, and stomach and stimulates nerve endings in your gastrointestinal tract that raises mucus secretion. This increased mucus may help protect your gastrointestinal tract from the harmful effects of acid and ulcers.
Marshmallow
Marshmallow is another herb that may effectively reduce acid reflux symptoms. This herb may help coat and sooth your throat and decrease irritation that can occur there. It may also be effective for indigestion, cough, and sore throat. You might consider consulting your doctor about this herb to see if it would be effective for you.
