Acid reflux remedies are natural and effective in relieving heartburn without any side effects. They are safe compared to chemically formulated drugs that cause some or the other side effects. The most feared symptom of this condition is heartburn, which is the symptom of persistent burning in the chest, which is annoying and gives a headache. There are many medications specifically to treat this condition, but those medications are not safe and are associated with adverse side effects if taken for a longer period of time. Natural home remedies are safe compared to chemically formulated drugs and can be taken even by pregnant women and children. Before moving on to these remedies, let us understand this condition.
Acid reflux is one of the most common yet uncomfortable problems that can happen to anyone. It is a medical condition in which the food pipe becomes irritated due to regurgitation of stomach acid. Acid reflux is characterized by symptoms such as heartburn, acid or food regurgitation, bad breath, and sore throat. Chronic acid reflux can erode the lining of the stomach wall and cause ulcers or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). Therefore, it is important to take care of these symptoms early on by taking home remedies and corrective measures to treat and prevent their recurrence.
Some of the effective remedies for acid reflux are:
1. Apple Cider Vinegar – This is a quick remedy that works during acute bouts of acid reflux. Mix a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in half a glass of water and drink immediately. This calms heartburn and gives relief. You can also slowly sip this water with your dinner to prevent heartburn.
2. Ginger: This natural herb has great absorbent properties. It absorbs all the excess acid in the stomach and calms the nerves. You can take ginger root capsules daily after dinner or a ginger solution (crushed ginger in half a glass of water and then strain the liquid).
3. Fennel seeds: Fennel seeds are effective remedies for acid reflux as they help in digestive conditions. Fennel seeds contain anethole which helps control cramps or spasms in the stomach. You can chew these aromatic seeds directly after dinner.
4. Aloe Vera Juice – Aloe vera has a calming effect and is used to treat a number of digestive ailments including indigestion, diarrhea and ulcerative colitis. Drink a glass of aloe vera juice in the morning on an empty stomach.
5. Licorice Root: Licorice root is a popular herbal remedy used for centuries to treat gastrointestinal ailments. Licorice works by forming a protective gel layer in the stomach that helps prevent acid attack. It is available in the form of a tincture or tea.
6. Herbal tea: Drinking chamomile tea soothes the inflamed mucosal lining of the stomach and esophagus. Instead of consuming tea in a few gulps, sip the tea slowly to increase its therapeutic effects.
7. Pineapple: Pineapple contains bromelain, which aids in digestion and relieves acid reflux.
8. Anise and Lavender Tea: This herbal tea helps reduce the amount of acid in the stomach. To prepare this tea, take equal amounts of lavender and anise and mix them in 2 cups of boiling water. Strain it and add a teaspoon of honey to sweeten it. Drink a cup of this tea every day in the morning to relieve acid reflux.
9. Baking soda: Baking soda is a natural antacid that provides immediate relief. Simply add a teaspoon of baking soda to a glass of water and drink it before the fizz wears off.
10. Preventive Remedies for Acid Reflux: Apart from natural remedies for acid reflux, some corrective measures should be taken to prevent recurrence of heartburn. Make some dietary changes, such as avoiding processed junk food and sugar, eating larger portions, and going to bed right after dinner. Modify your meal times and go for a walk after dinner. Drink plenty of water as it helps in proper digestion and keeps your body hydrated.
Dealing with uncomfortable feelings is not that difficult. Making few lifestyle and diet changes and using holistic acid reflux remedies can help to get rid of heartburn.