Acid Reflux Alternative Treatment

Acid reflux disease is a chronic health condition where the stomach acids that help us in the digestion of the food gets pushed into the esophagus or food pipe. These acids cause damage to the lining of the esophagus and gives rise to a burning sensation in the chest region. It is often accompanied by other symptoms like bloating, belching, nausea, etc. The medical treatment of acid reflux involves the use of medicines like antacids, proton pump inhibitors, etc. The treatment for acid reflux has to be continued for a long period of time. When these medicines are continued for a longer duration, they may give rise to some side effects in the future. For this reason, people look for acid reflux alternative treatment.

Herbal Treatments for Acid Reflux

There are different types of herbs available which when taken regularly can have an excellent effect on the symptoms of acid reflux. Here we have listed few of the most important herbs that can be utilized as an alternative treatment for acid reflux.

Aloe Vera Juice: This helps in reducing the irritating sensation and inflammation of the esophagus. When you are getting the symptoms of acid reflux very frequently, take one or two teaspoons of aloe vera juice daily after eating your breakfast in the morning. Make sure you take it only after eating.

Licorice Root: The essential ingredients that are present in the licorice root helps to control the stomach acid. It promotes the production of a certain substance called mucin which can form a barrier against the stomach acid and reduce its production. Licorice roots are available in the form of tablets and should be chewed before every meals to obtain the best results.

Chamomile: This is mostly taken in the form of tea. Chamomile helps in proper digestion of the food and thus helps in fighting the symptoms of acid reflux. It should be taken after the meals. However, those people who are allergic towards plants of the daisy family should not use this herbal medicine.

Herbal Tea: A herbal tea using peppermint, aniseed, and lavender herbs can help in lowering the stomach acids. Mix well equal quantities of these three herbs and add two cups of boiling water into it. Keep the herbs in soaked condition for about ten minutes. Then strain the tea and add some honey into it. Drink one cup of this herbal tea once in the morning and once after the dinner.

Home Remedies for Acid Reflux

You may be surprised to know that some of the commonly available ingredients that are found in our homes can be used for treatment. They are as follows:

• Water: When the symptoms of acid reflux are mild then it can be treated by drinking plenty of water. It dissolves the excess of stomach acid and helps in flushing them out of the system
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Even though it is an acidic substance, it is an effective home remedy for acid reflux. One teaspoon of apple cider vinegar should be mixed in half a glass of water and it should be taken in small sips during eating of meals.
• Almonds: Chew a few almonds every morning in order to get rid of the symptoms. However, you have to chew them properly or else it can act adversely
• Baking soda: Baking soda is basic in nature which helps in neutralization of the stomach acids. Mix well one tablespoon of baking soda in a glass of water and drink the mixture

Acid reflux alternative treatments can give you the desired results if they are accompanied by certain lifestyle changes in order to improve digestion. You have to strictly follow a GERD diet. Avoid spicy foods, citrus fruits, chewing gums, and beverages like tea, coffee, etc., as they tend to worsen the condition. While eating your food, take small bites and chew them properly for proper digestion of the food. Have your dinner at least two hours before going to bed.