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Herbs for Laryngopharyngeal Reflux

Jul 7, 2011 | By Joel Le Blanc
Herbs for Laryngopharyngeal Reflux
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If you are seeking support for the symptoms of laryngopharyngeal reflux, herbal medicines may offer effective options for complementary treatment. Many medicinal plants can improve general digestion, tone stomach sphincters, and reduce inflammation and discomfort associated with your condition. Consult your health care professional before combining herbal medicines with prescription medications, as they may cause undesirable side effects.

Gentian Lutea

Gentian lutea is a medicinal herb and edible vegetable native to Europe and Asia and has been used for centuries as a digestive aid in Western herbal medicine. According to the German Commission E, the root of gentian lutea is rich in active bitter substances that exert both a stimulating and tonic effect on the tissues, muscles and sphincters of the digestive tract. Gentian luta root is also a primary ingredient in the traditional digestive herbal formula known as Swedish bitters. Taking extracts of gentian lutea may help to improve the tone and function of sphincters in the stomach that are essential to preventing the entry of acidic juices into the esophagus and larynx. Check with your doctor before taking gentian lutea to address laryngopharyngeal reflux.

Althea Officinalis

Althea officinalis is the botanical name for the marshmallow plant -- a medicinal herb that yields high amounts of chemicals called mucopolysaccharides when extracted in water or tincture. In traditional Western herbal medicine, the root of althea officinalis has been used extensively for treating coughs, colds, inflammation, gastric ulcers, acid reflux and inflammation of the lower digestive tract. According to a study published in "The Journal of Ethnopharmacology" by the German Institute for Pharmaceutical Biology and Phytochemistry in 2010, the mucopolysaccharides found in althea officinalis root reduce inflammation, stimulate cell regeneration and form protective coatings on cellular tissues, confirming the usage of althea officinalis root as a complementary treatment for diseases of the mucous membranes. Talk to your doctor before using althea officinalis to treat laryngopharyngeal reflux.

Chamomila Recutita

Chamomila recutita is a common garden herb used as an herbal tea, essential oil and plant medicine for insomnia, anxiety, inflammation, wound healing and digestion. According to a review of research published in "Molecular Medicines Report" in 2010 by Case Western Reserve University, in Cleveland, Ohio, chemicals from chamomila recutita flowers reduce inflammation of the digestive tract, promote the cellular regeneration of wounds and ulcers, and are more effective in reducing hyperacidity in the stomach compared to some commercial antacid medications. Taking chamomila recutita tea or liquid extracts regularly may help to reduce damage to the esophagus and larynx while reducing the level of acidity in the stomach naturally. Discuss taking chamomila recutita with your doctor to determine whether it would be beneficial for you.

Slippery Elm

The name of the slippery elm comes from the gooey substance that it exudes when the mucopolysaccharides of the inner bark of the tree are combined with water. Extracts of slippery elm are used in Western herbal medicine to treat conditions both inside and outside the body. Slippery elm is widely used for its cooling, healing properties. According to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, slippery elm is used for treating sore throats, coughs, ulcers, inflammation and digestive disorders. Powdered slippery elm can be combined with cold water to make a soothing drink that coats the throat and esophagus and calms symptoms of laryngopharyngeal reflux. Contact a health practitioner familiar with its use for dosing guidelines for your individual needs.

References

Article reviewed by Christine Brncik Last updated on: Jul 7, 2011

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