Acid reflux is the backward flow of stomach acid into the esophagus. This common ailment is also frequently associated with heartburn and GERD. The natural herbal remedies covered in this article can be applied to either a single one of these conditions or to all three of them. The goal of these remedies is to alleviate symptoms by strengthening the digestive system.
1. Lemons
Lemons are beneficial in many ways. They can directly help with acid reflux by rebalancing acidity levels in the stomach. Lemons are also antibacterial and can help eliminate another cause of acid reflux, h.pylori bacteria.
Additionally, lemons are great cleansing agents inside the body. They can help cleanse the kidneys and keep them healthy. Kidney failure is not directly associated with acid reflux. However, the kidneys are responsible for: filtering out toxins, creating some hormones, maintaining levels of: electrolytes, minerals, and blood pressure. When kidney failure occurs, toxins can build up, anemia may occur, blood pressure may spike, electrolytes will not be balanced, and the gastrointestinal system will be affected.
Drinking lemon juice, or lemon oil drops, in water can help keep the kidneys clear and healthy and is beneficial to the rest of the body as well.
2. Ginger
Fresh raw ginger, steeped in warm water, is one of the easiest and most reliable natural remedies for acid reflux. This remedy is best utilized for cases of acid reflux caused by indigestion. Ginger stimulates digestive enzymes and bile to help you digest better; it also helps eliminate gas.
It’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties help reduce inflammation cause by the reflux of acid. If you experience bloating, indigestion, and/or acid reflux after eating protein, try chewing on some raw, peeled ginger. It’s protein-digesting enzyme, zingibain, will help break down protein and facilitate digestion as well as absorption. Ginger capsules can also be taken before meals to help stimulate the production of enzymes for better digestion. Additionally, these capsules can also be opened and mixed with hot water to make ginger tea.
3. Leafy greens
An unbalanced diet can also be a cause for acid reflux. Eating more leafy greens can help balance out a diet and keep the intestinal system clear. Keeping a colon clear of obstructions is especially important because obstructions in the intestines can lead to disease. The longer food stays in the colon the more ammonia it produces and it’s more susceptible to the growth of harmful bacteria.
Leafy greens also contain chlorophyll which is highly beneficial when dealing with acid reflux. Chlorophyll cleanses and alkalizes the blood. Most leafy greens, like spinach, collard greens, and kale, are also rich in vitamins, and minerals like iron, calcium, and magnesium which can help the lower esophageal sphincter to relax and contract properly.
4. Safflower
Safflower is one of the best herbal remedies for acid reflux. It works quickly and efficiently. Safflower naturally helps rebalance acid levels in the stomach and cleansing the gallbladder. The gallbladder plays and important role in digestion by secreting bile, for this reason, it’s important to keep it clear and strong. Safflower can also help eliminate crystallized shards of acidity caused by uric acid. This type of acidity is what causes painful attacks of gout.
sources: dailyrx.com, sunshinenaturalhealing.com, nature.com