Various herbal remedies may offer relief for digestive upsets like acid reflux, stomach bloating and Barrett's esophagus. Many people prefer using natural remedies rather than conventional drugs to resolve both acute and chronic digestive problems. Herbal remedies can cause side effects, so consult a health practitioner before using unfamiliar herbs.
Peppermint
Peppermint, or mint, is known to settle the stomach, soothe esophageal spasms and relieve burning pains from acid reflux and peptic ulcers, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Peppermint is widely available in many forms; however, the best way to use mint is by either chewing the raw, fresh leaves or by making herbal tea. If you have a mint plant growing on your kitchen counter or in your garden, it's easy to remove a leaf or two and simply chew it when your stomach is upset. Some people are sensitive to mint and it may weaken the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing acid reflux to worsen. If you use mint and experience a worsening of your reflux symptoms, stop taking it and contact your health practitioner.
Licorice Root
Licorice root may relieve stomach upsets, soothe heartburn pain and protect the esophagus against stomach acids that back up as a result of acid reflux, according to "The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook." Licorice root helps the body produce a thin film of mucus that protects the throat and esophagus from being burned by excess stomach acids that sometimes appear where they don't belong. Licorice root is available as a dried herb, which makes excellent tea. It is also available in handy, prepared teabags. Licorice root is naturally sweet, so prepare it in boiling water and drink it without additional sweeteners. Licorice root may raise the blood pressure when consumed in large quantities for an extended period. In general, drinking licorice root tea is considered safe; however, if you have hypertension or take medicines for high blood pressure, speak with your health practitioner before using licorice root.
Ginger
Ginger promotes healthy digestion by stimulating the digestive juices to act more effectively. It is also an excellent herbal treatment for nausea from any source, including flu, overeating, motion or morning sickness, and food poisoning. Ginger soothes the stomach and protects the esophagus from damage due to acid reflux. There are many ways to use ginger, including drinking ginger tea, eating candied ginger, adding fresh ginger to foods and drinking ginger ale as long as it contains real ginger. Ginger can thin the blood, so contact a health practitioner or herbal specialist before using ginger if you take blood thinners.
Green Tea
Green tea contains compounds high in polyphenols, which are antioxidants that protect the lining of the esophagus and may prevent esophageal cancer and Barrett's esophagus, according to LifeExtension.org. Green tea is available as a loose dried herb and in prepared teabags. It is important to use the freshest herb possible to benefit from its curative properties. Buy your tea from a store with high turnover so you can be sure that you purchase fresh products. Green tea is generally caffeinated. Caffeine can produce irritability, nervousness and sleeplessness. If you are sensitive to caffeine, buy decaffeinated green tea. Most health food stores carry both versions. If you are using green tea to treat advanced esophageal problems, consult a health practitioner before starting the tea to be sure it is right for your condition.
References
- "The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook: Your Everyday Reference to the Best Herbs for Healing"; James Duke; 2002
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Gastroesophageal Reflux
- LifeExtension.org: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
- "The People's Pharmacy Guide to Home and Herbal Remedies"; Joe Graedon, MS, and Sifu Teresa Graedon; 2002
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