Acid reflux or heartburn occurs when stomach acids come back up into your esophagus and cause discomfort in your throat and chest. This condition is common, affecting one out of every five people.
Thankfully, there are numerous natural remedies that can provide temporary relief without medication. Some of them have even been scientifically proven to work.
Aloe Vera
If you’re searching for a natural remedy to acid reflux, aloe vera is an ideal choice. The gel of this succulent plant has been known to reduce stomach acidity and soothe the lining of the esophagus.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD for short, occurs when the muscles that control food and liquid flow between your stomach and esophagus fail to work properly. Signs may include heartburn, chest pain, difficulty swallowing or breathing.
Many people treat GERD with medications, such as H2 receptor blockers like Pepcid and proton pump inhibitors like omeprazole. Unfortunately, these drugs may have undesirable side effects.
Aloe juice, made from the nutrient-rich gel of aloe vera plants, can be beneficial for acid reflux symptoms as well. Drinking aloe juice regularly will reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with acid reflux.
Bananas
Bananas, a low-acid fruit, are one of the best natural remedies for acid reflux since they can soothe an irritated esophageal lining and make stomach acids less likely to cause heartburn. Furthermore, bananas contain potassium which helps maintain a healthy pH balance in your system.
Carrots are an excellent source of fiber, which can improve digestive health. Furthermore, they contain resistant starch – a type of fiber which helps lower blood sugar levels and keep your bowels regular.
They’re also an excellent source of vitamins A, B6 and C. Additionally, they contain antioxidants which can boost your immunity and lower the risk of heart disease and certain cancers. Furthermore, bananas contain high amounts of potassium which helps safeguard bones and the heart.
Peppermint
Peppermint is an herb that can be used to treat acid reflux. It acts as a numbing agent, relaxing the muscles in your stomach and improving digestion, plus it may reduce bloating and flatulence.
Peppermint oil can be taken orally in capsule form or as a tincture (an alcohol solution containing peppermint oil). For adults and children over 12, the usual dose for adults is one capsule three times daily until symptoms have cleared up.
However, do not use it if you have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), as it may cause heartburn.
Peppermint is a perennial herb found in Europe and North America along rivers and moist wastelands, as well as being cultivated. It has medicinal uses too; the leaves and stems contain menthol which acts as a numbing agent to relieve pain; it has also been used for nausea, diarrhea, menstrual cramps, and flatulence.
Baking Soda
Baking soda offers numerous health advantages, from neutralizing stomach acid to relieving indigestion and heartburn. It may even be used as an effective remedy for urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Studies have suggested that baking soda may be effective for treating urinary tract infections (UTIs) with acidic urine, due to its ability to bind acids and reduce burning sensation. As such, this natural remedy has no known negative effects and can be used without fear of adverse reactions.
Similar to baking soda, a small amount of it dissolved in water can help relieve heartburn symptoms. However, it should be taken slowly to avoid side effects like gas and diarrhoea.
It is essential to be aware that baking soda can hinder the body’s ability to absorb some medications, so avoid taking it within two hours of taking other medicines. Furthermore, consulting a doctor before using baking soda as an acid reflux treatment is advised as not everyone responds positively.