Some people often experience heartburn caused by spicy, acidic or fatty foods. Heartburn is characterized by a burning sensation in the chest and throat and this causes discomfort. We will discuss some of the natural remedies that will help relieve you from discomfort caused by heartburn.
Heartburn, also called acid reflux happens when the stomach acid goes back into the oesophagus, a tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. This causes a painful, burning sensation in the chest and throat.
The symptoms of heartburn include acidic taste at the back of the mouth, coughing, a burning sensation in the throat and chest and inflammation in the sinuses to name a few.
Heartburn can be treated with medications, however, certain natural remedies can help provide instant relief.
Chamomile has been traditionally used for a number of gastrointestinal conditions, which include digestive disorders, gastrointestinal irritation, gas and upset stomach. It can help lower gastric acidity by soothing the stomach and relaxing the muscles [1].
Baking soda can provide temporary relief from acid reflux because it has an alkaline pH, which helps to counteract the acidity in your stomach. Baking soda does a similar job of an antacid [2].
Note: Consult your physician before consuming baking soda as it can hinder the absorption of many medications. Baking soda is recommended for acute periods of acid reflux lasting for less than two weeks.
Licorice root has been used as a traditional remedy to treat heartburn. It is known to increase the mucous lining in the oesophagus, which may protect the oesophagus from damage caused by stomach acid.
Drink it.
Aloe vera juice extracted from the aloe vera plant has a soothing effect on the stomach and can lower the symptoms of acid reflux. A study showed that aloe vera is a safe and effective treatment for lowering the symptoms of GERD (gastro-oesophageal reflux disease), which occurs when you have constant acid reflux [3].
Bananas are a low-acidic fruit that can help people with acid reflux. Upon consumption, it coats the oesophageal lining and helps in relieving discomfort in the stomach.
To reduce the occurrence of acid reflux after a meal and to lower the frequency of acid reflux symptoms chew a gum. It can aid in reducing acid reflux by stimulating saliva and swallowing it, thus improving the burning sensation in the chest [4].
Honey is known to have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. According to a study, honey being a viscous liquid can bring relief from heartburn. In addition, honey is also helpful in preventing GERD [5].
Marshmallow root contains mucilage, a thick gluey like substance that coats the lining of the oesophagus, which may lower the burning sensation caused by acid reflux.
Drinking milk can temporarily reduce stomach acid, however, the fat present in milk can trigger the production of more acid in the stomach. Instead, try consuming fat-free skimmed cold milk to relieve heartburn.
Drinking water can help treat heartburn by increasing the stomach pH level, diluting the acid and clearing the oesophagus, thereby bringing instant relief.
Yoghurt, when consumed has a soothing effect on the stomach that can help ease heartburn. It contains probiotics, which help in feeding the good bacteria in the gut, which in turn, keeps your digestive tract healthy.
Caffeinated drinks such as tea and coffee should be avoided completely as it may further increase the production of stomach acid, causing discomfort in the stomach.
