Acid reflux occurs when stomach acids back up into the esophagus causing painful burning sensations in the chest. Other accompanying symptoms may be belching, bloating, backache and a sour taste in your mouth. Overeating and obesity are two of several causes for acid reflux. Taking Ayurvedic herbal remedies may help relieve the symptoms. However, herbs may produce side effects. Consult your health practitioner before using herbal products to treat a condition.
Ayurveda and Herbs
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian holistic medical practice that seeks to create balance through the use of herbs, food and other non-invasive treatments. Fasting, lifestyle changes and herbal treatments consisting of one or several herbs in combination are the hallmark of Ayurvedic treatment for acid reflux.
Amla
One of the Ayurvedic herbs recommended for the treatment of acid reflux is amla, which is used for a variety of digestive problems. In addition, amla may be helpful for the heart. Amla can be taken with warm milk or eaten with vegetables to help settle the stomach. The culinary herb and spice coriander is also an effective treatment for acidity. Ayrurvedic practitioners also recommend taking 1 tbsp. coriander juice with 4 oz. butter milk to reduce acidity in the stomach. Herbs used in Ayurvedic medicine may produce side effects. Consult a trained practitioner before using any new treatments.
Mint
The mint family consists of peppermint, spearmint and basil, or tulsi; their natural oils can relieve heartburn and concomitant symptoms. For the treatment of acid reflux, Ayurvedic practitioners may prescribe Tulsi or Holy basil to reduce acid production and lessen the tendency for reflux and heartburn. Chewing on a few fresh leaves of tulsi relieves the burning pain of reflux. These herbs can be used both fresh and dried, and they come in a variety of forms ranging from teabags to powdered capsules and supplements. Sometimes, mint can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing reflux to become aggravated. If this occurs, stop taking the herb and consult you health practitioner.
DGL-Licorice
Deglycyrrhizinated licorice is an extract that is treated to remove the chemical glycyrrhizin, which may be responsible for side effects from taking licorice root. Ayurvedic medicine uses licorice root and DGL-licorice to relieve heartburn. The best way to use DGL-licorice is to chew it either one hour before or two hours after eating. This protects the stomach and esophageal lining. DGL-licorice produces a thin film of mucus that coats the digestive tract lining protecting it from the acid erosion from reflux. If you prefer to use licorice root, making an herbal tea provides relief from burning pain and other symptoms of acid reflux. Licorice can cause side effects, even the less reactive DGL-licorice. It thins the blood and can raise blood pressure. Consult your health practitioner before using it.
Green Tea
Green tea may act protectively toward the lining of your esophagus, preventing Barrett's esophagus and esophageal cancer. Green tea is high in antioxidants called polyphenols, which are responsible for its potent medicinal qualities. Green tea has been used for centuries by Asian cultures as well as in India by Ayurvedic practitioners to relieve digestive disorders. Choose loose, dried tea for its freshness, rather than prepared teabags, which may sit on shelves for too long. Green tea is caffeinated and may cause jitteriness, nervousness and insomnia. To avoid these side effects, drink the decaffeainated versions available in health food stores and Chinese markets. Do not use green tea if you are pregnant or nursing. Consult your health practitioner for guidance if you use green tea for cancer treatment.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Gastroesophageal Reflux
- "The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook: Your Everyday Reference to the Best Herbs for Healing"; James Duke; 2002
- "Ayurvedic Medicine: The Principles of Traditional Practice"; Sebastian Pole: 2006
- LifeExtension.org: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
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