Though acidity is a common issue, it is an uncomfortable condition, leading to a burning sensation above the stomach or under the breastbone kown as heartburn. On the other hand, GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) is a chronic and more severe form of acid reflux that occurs frequently. Certain food habits and stress can trigger GERD symptoms for which home remedies can work wonderfully. However, you can follow safe and effective acid reflux natural remedies that can help you manage the symptoms. It is important to remember that you should use these remedies alongside medical advice. In this blog, you can get insights on the top 10 natural remedies for acid reflux and GERD conditions.
Also Read: Importance of gastroenterologists for stomach & digestive issues
Let's Know What Acidity and GERD Are
Acidity, also known as acid reflux or heartburn, is a condition that involves your stomach acid flowing back into esophagaus making you feel a burning sensation in the chest and throat. This condition is often caused by a problem with the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES), a valve that stops stomach contents from moving back to the oesophagus. When this condition becomes chronic, it is termed GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease). Though this is a common condition, if left untreated, it can turn severe, often leading to serious complications like esophagitis, Barrett’s esophagus or even oesophageal cancer. Therefore, managing this condition with safe home remedies is crucial, along with medical treatment.
Learn the Top 10 Natural Remedies for Acid Reflux and GERD Relief
While antacids provide quick relief, long-term use may result in experiencing side effects like constipation, nutrient malabsorption and dependence. On the other hand, natural remedies offer holistic support to cure hyperacidity naturally without affecting the body’s natural balance. These remedies not only provide relief for the symptomsbut also promote better digestion and long-term gut health, making them a sustainable option for you.
To help with your acid reflux and GERD, here are the top 10 natural remedies for you :
- Ginger: One of the best natural remediesfor acid reflux in treating acid issues, ginger or Zingiber officinale, works wonders. Ginger is also used in traditional methods to reduce intestinal gas and flatulence, soothe the stomach lining, and decrease acid production. It contains compounds like gingerol thar reduces inflammation and alleviate nausea, alleviating discomfort caused by acidity. You can consume ginger by adding small slices to hot water, preparing ginger tea, or even chewing raw ginger. Sipping ginger tea or water before and after a meal help neutralise stomach acid, supporting healthy digestion.
- Tulsi Leaves: Revered by holy basil, Tulsi leave has been an age-old natural remedy for various issues, offering medicinal benefits. Tulsi leaves contain potent compounds like eugenol and carminatives, which anti-inflamamtory and antibacterial properties, enabling them to combat and regulate stomach acids. Eugenol significantly eases inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, and carminatives cure digestive issues and prevent excessive gas from trapping inside the stomach. You can incorporate tulsi leaves in your daily routine by drinking tulsi tea and chewing some fresh tulsi leaves. It will help alleviate your stomach lining, reduce acid reflux, and other acid-related symptoms.
- Bananas: Containing a significant amount of potassium and alkaline, bananas or Musa paradisiaca Linn help neutralise acid reflux naturally. This works as a natural antacid that can help coat the stomach lining, diminishing the burning sensation of acidity. Also, bananas promote mucus production proetecting stomach lining from acid damage. You should eat ripe bananas daily, either only or with meals. Incorporating this simple fruit into your diet can naturally balance stomach acid levels and promote healthy digestion.
- Cold Milk: Calcium in cold milk helps ease stomach acid, instantly reducing the production of excess stomach acid. Drink half a glass of cold, unsweetened milk when the symptoms strike, and it can be the fastest way to get instant relief from acidity at home. The impact of consuming cold milk may differ from one person to another. While some may find relief other may experience worsened symptoms, especially due to lactose intolerance.
- Aloe vera juice: Drinking half a cup of aloe vera juice, preferably before mela, helps coat the stomach lining, reducing acid irritation. It is one of the most significant home remedies for treating hyoeracidity especially in cases of chronic symptoms. It contains anti-inflammatory compounds that soothe the burning sensation associated with acidity.
- Apple Cider Vinegar:Despite being acidic in nature, apple cider vinegar (ACV) is considered to help balance acid levels in the stomach. This contains acetic acid, which can enhance the production of bile and digestive juice, helping the body digest food more efficiently and preventing acid reflux and GERD. You can take 1-2 tablespoons of ACV mixed in a glass of warm water before meals. Make sure you dilute it to avoid throat and stomach liningirritation.
- Fennel Seeds: These seeds contain compounds like anethole, known for their beneficial effects on digestion and ability to provide relief by reducing acid reflux in the gastrointestinal lining. You can consume fennel by taking a spoonful of these seeds by adding them into fennel tea or by soaking them overnight and drinking the water in th morning. Fennel aids in preventing acid reflux and provides relief from bloating and gas.
- Chamomile Tea: Chamomile has anti-inflammatory properties that alleviate inflammation in the oesophagus and stomach lining. It contains flavonoids and antioxidants that ease the digestive system by soothing the symptoms of acidity. It also helps promote relaxation and reduce stress-induced acid reflux. Boil some chamomile tea and enjoy it after meals or before bed to support your stomach with a soothing effect and digestion.
- Coconut Water: Coconut water is hydrating and helps in maintaining a healthy pH balance in the stomach. It promotes healthy digestion and relieves symptoms of acid reflux due to the electrolytes present in it, along with potassium and magnesium. Drinking a glass of fresh coconut water when you are experiencing acidity can help you maintain hydration and neutralise stomach acid.
- Ajwain Seeds:This is also a renowned natural remedy for treating digestive problems. Ajawain contains anti-acidic properties and compounds like thymol that help secrete gastric juices, providing instant relief. Taking a spoonful of ajwain seed along with a pinch of salt and chewing it helps in digestion and treats acidity. Also, you can roast it and add in a glass of warm water, which is an effective home remedy for reducing acidity.
Final Words
There are plenty of home remedies for treating acid reflux and GERD symptoms naturally. However, the effects of these remedies depend on the individual’s condition. While some remedies are helpful for some people, others may find them ineffective and worsen the experience of the acidity. Therefore, you should consult renowned gastroenterologist Dr Pinakee Sundar Kar in Siliguri for an effective solution for managing acid reflux and GERD condition.
