A burning sensation in your chest and throat is a common indicator of GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease. The chronic condition is more than uncomfortable, it is also potentially damaging as constant inflammation and acidic contact can erode healthy esophageal tissues. Among the many alternative treatments for GERD is Ayurveda, a whole-health system that focuses on balance for optimal health. Consult your doctor for more information.
Ayurveda Defined
Ayurveda is a term combining the words "ayus," or life, and "veda," meaning knowledge. It is based on the principles of balance. A healthy body, free from disease and illness, is a mentally, physically and spiritually balanced body. Achieving this balance requires consciousness and adherence to a proper diet and lifestyle. When GERD or other ailments arise, a person's balance must be restored to cure the condition.
Ayurvedic Use
Ayurveda is an ancient medical system that has been in use in India for thousands of years. Today, 80 percent of the Indian population relies on Ayurveda, using it exclusively or in conjunction with other modern approaches. It is also becoming popular in the Western world, with more than 200,000 annual users documented in 2007, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. The holistic practices are used to both treat and prevent an array of medical conditions, including GERD.
Ayurvedic GERD Treatments
Herbs, diet and yoga are among the many natural remedies that encompass Ayurvedic medicine. Herbal remedies are useful for restoring the dosha balance, or the life force that influences the energies in the body. According to Mayo Clinic, herbs for GERD include slippery elm, licorice, marshmallow and chamomile. Because these herbs can interfere with medications or cause serious side effects in some users, it's best to consult a professional before experimenting with herbal remedies. An Ayurvedic practitioner may also prescribe yoga and diet modifications to treat GERD.
Considerations
Consult your doctor before using Ayurvedic treatments to relieve GERD, particularly if your symptoms are uncontrolled or seem to worsen overtime. A doctor can perform tests to check for early warning signs of esophageal cancer. Another complication related to GERD includes a narrowing of the esophagus, which results from chronic acid exposure and the formation of scar tissue. This leads to difficulty swallowing. Additionally, esophageal ulcers may form when stomach acid erodes the tissues in the esophagus.
