Home Remedies for Heartburn

Heartburn typically refers to the pain and burning sensation felt in the chest, just below the breastbone. Contrary to its name, the condition has nothing to do with the human heart, instead it is related to the esophagus, which is a long tube-like structure that connects mouth to the stomach. The pain and burning sensation produced by heartburn is not limited to the chest only, as it often radiates to other parts like neck, throat and jaw. Heartburn is actually a symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and is generally accompanied by bloating and an acidic taste in the mouth.

Causes of Heartburn
As mentioned already, the esophagus is a tube-like structure that connects the mouth and stomach. So, the food that we consume reaches the stomach through the esophagus. Once the foods reach the stomach, their backward flow towards esophagus is prevented by a circular muscle structure located at the junction of esophagus and stomach. This is known as lower esophageal sphincter or LES. But occasionally, either due to the weakness of the esophageal muscle, inherent defects in the structure of the sphincter, or build up of excess acid in the stomach, the stomach acids to flow back to the esophagus.

Our stomach has a lining or coating that protects it from the digestive or gastric acids, but such a lining is not present in the esophagus. So whenever acids from the stomach enter the esophagus, they cause inflammation of its lining resulting in heartburn. The risk factors for heartburn include consumption of highly acidic foods, caffeine, alcohol, carbonated beverages, etc. Conditions like obesity and pregnancy can put excess pressure on the stomach and thereby affect the functions of the esophageal sphincter. Diseases like scleroderma, sarcoidosis, certain medications like aspirin and ibuprofen and hiatal hernia are some other risk factors or causes of acid reflux and heartburn.

Home Remedies for Heartburn and Acid Reflux
The medications that are usually prescribed for heartburn include antacids, omeprazole, famotidine (pepcid), H2-receptor antagonists, alginates, proton-pump inhibitors, etc. But over dependence on such medications may not be good for health in the long run. On the other hand, home remedies are very effective in alleviating heartburn and acid reflux in a natural way, thereby reducing the dependence on medications. The simplest of all home remedies for heartburn relief is drinking a glass of water at the onset of the initial symptoms. Water washes away acids from the esophagus to where it belongs, i.e. the stomach.

Some fruits like papaya, banana and almonds are other natural heartburn cures. Papaya contains an enzyme known as papain that aids in digestion. Fresh papaya is the best medicine for people suffering from frequent heartburn. It should be taken before meals to prevent acidity and indigestion. However, pregnant women and people with latex allergy may not be able to take papaya, and so always consult a health expert before taking it. Banana is an easily available fruit that can act like natural antacids and provide relief in heartburn. It also coats the stomach and thereby shields it from the gastric acids.

Vinegar and sodium carbonate or baking powder can be found in almost every household, but very few people are aware of the fact that they can be excellent home remedies for heartburn relief. Vinegar is actually a base that helps to neutralize the stomach acids. However, its frequent use can damage the tooth enamel and to avoid such a problem, its intake should be followed by a glass of water. On the other hand, sodium carbonate can provide quick relief, though excessive use can raise blood pressure and cause other health related problems. A solution of apple cider vinegar and water is another natural treatment for acid reflux and heartburn.

Many people with acid reflux and heartburn have benefited from aloe vera juice, and almond and licorice extract. Aloe vera juice can be effective in healing the intestinal tract, while almonds with its rich oil contents can neutralize acids. Licorice, on the other hand contains a compound, known as glycyrrhizin, which has anti-inflammatory properties and can be beneficial for both stomach and esophagus ulcers.

Though an occasional bout of heartburn is quite normal, recurrent and frequent occurrence can irritate and inflame the lining of the esophagus leading to ulcers as well as bleeding caused by their rupture. In the long run, it can bring about a change in the cells of the esophageal lining and can increase the risk of esophageal cancer. So, in addition to the home remedies for heartburn, also avoid or reduce the intake of the potential irritants like caffeine, nicotine, acidic foods, alcoholic and carbonated beverages, as well as spicy and oily foods. Also, eat several frequent meals, instead of two or three heavy meals, and avoid eating before bedtime if you are having frequent bouts of heartburn and acid reflux.