9 Home Remedies To Get Quick Relief From Acid Reflux

Heartburn, or acid reflux, is a common digestive issue that affects approximately 20% of the Western population. This prevalence is a reflection of the irregular dietary and lifestyle habits prevalent in today's society. If you're looking for ways to alleviate heartburn, we've got you covered.

A fast-paced, technology-driven, and busy lifestyle can lead to unhealthy eating habits at irregular times to satisfy hunger. Unfortunately, this behavior can have a direct impact on your digestive system, as many of these foods are processed and provide little nutritional value. Over time, this can result in indigestion, acidity, and heartburn.

While making lifestyle changes and adopting healthy eating habits are crucial for preventing acidity and heartburn, the following home remedies can also provide some relief. Keep reading to learn more.

Acid reflux, commonly known as heartburn, is a condition related to the gastrointestinal tract. Your stomach contains potent acids that aid in digesting the food you consume.

On occasion, these acids can flow back into your esophagus, causing a burning sensation in your digestive tract. This burning sensation is often felt in your chest, which is why it's referred to as heartburn.

In some instances, individuals may experience acid reflux more than twice a week. This could be a sign of a condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which requires immediate medical attention.

# Baking Soda

Sodium bicarbonate, commonly known as baking soda, can serve as an antacid to relieve symptoms associated with acid reflux, such as indigestion, bloating, and nausea.

To use it, take a glass of water and add one teaspoon of baking soda powder, stirring thoroughly before consumption.

Important cautions to keep in mind include avoiding the consumption of baking soda on a full stomach and refraining from its extended use for more than two weeks, unless otherwise advised by your physician. Additionally, if you are currently taking antacids, aspirin, iron, lithium, vitamins, or any other medications, or if you have high blood pressure, heart problems, or kidney disease, it is essential to consult your doctor before attempting this remedy.

# Licorice Root

Licorice is a herbal remedy often employed for the treatment of gastric inflammation due to its ability to inhibit the synthesis of prostaglandins and lipoxygenase, factors that can otherwise contribute to acid reflux.

To prepare licorice tea, heat a cup of water in a saucepan and add several slices of dried licorice root. Bring the water to a boil and then let it simmer for 5-10 minutes. Consuming this tea once a day can help alleviate acid reflux.

It's important to note that prolonged use of licorice may lead to side effects such as decreased potassium levels, elevated blood pressure, weakness, and even paralysis. If you are currently taking medications for blood clotting, blood pressure regulation, inflammation, or diuretics, it's advisable to avoid this remedy, as licorice is known to interact with these medications, potentially reducing their effectiveness.

# Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a commonly employed botanical in traditional medicine, known for its potential to alleviate inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, which can be a contributing factor to acid reflux. Additionally, it possesses soothing properties for the digestive system.

To benefit from aloe vera's effects, you can drink half a cup of aloe vera juice 30 minutes before meals, two times a day, until you experience relief.

# Ginger

Ginger possesses antacid and carminative properties and has a rich history of use spanning thousands of years in the alleviation of various gastric issues, including bloating, dyspepsia, and gastritis. Furthermore, it facilitates the quicker emptying of the stomach, potentially providing relief from acidity and heartburn.

To prepare ginger tea, grate an inch-sized piece of ginger and add it to a cup of boiling water, allowing it to steep for 10 minutes. You can incorporate this ginger tea into your daily routine by consuming it before your meals.

It's essential to note that if you are taking medications for conditions such as diabetes, blood clotting, or high blood pressure, it's advisable to consult with your healthcare provider before using this remedy.

# Slippery Elm

Research indicates that slippery elm contains an abundance of phytochemicals that possess demulcent properties, which can be beneficial in mitigating the discomfort associated with acid reflux and excessive acidity.

To prepare a soothing remedy, start by boiling a cup of water. Next, incorporate a tablespoon of powdered slippery elm bark into the boiling water, ensuring thorough mixing. Consume this warm tea to experience its potential benefits.

Please be aware that slippery elm may interfere with the effectiveness of your medications. Therefore, it's advisable to consume it approximately one hour after taking your medications.

# Caraway Seeds

Caraway seeds have a long history of being employed for the treatment of indigestion. They are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can effectively suppress the overproduction of gastric acids, ultimately serving as a preventive measure against acid reflux.

To create a remedy, steep a teaspoon of caraway seeds in a glass of boiling water, strain the infusion, and consume it while it is still warm. Incorporating this tea into your routine before and after meals can contribute to improved digestion.

# Chamomile

Chamomile has a longstanding history of traditional use in addressing a variety of gastrointestinal issues, including flatulence, ulcers, and gastrointestinal irritation (8). Its soothing properties make it effective as a digestive relaxant.

To harness the benefits of chamomile, steep a chamomile tea bag in a cup of hot boiling water, and enjoy the tea while it's still warm. You can consume this tea 2-3 times a day.

Please be cautious if you have allergies to plants belonging to the daisy family, such as daisies, marigolds, chrysanthemums, and ragweed, as chamomile may also trigger an allergic reaction in such cases.

# Lemon Balm

Lemon balm leaves are valued for their carminative, digestive, and analgesic properties, often employed to alleviate gastrointestinal issues. Consequently, lemon balm can potentially offer relief from heartburn.

To create a remedy, simply place 5-6 lemon balm leaves in a glass of hot boiling water, cover it, and let the leaves steep for approximately 5 minutes. Sip on the warm tea.

It's important to exercise caution if you are taking medication for diabetes or thyroid conditions. It is advisable to consult your doctor before attempting this remedy.

# Angelica Root

Angelica root possesses carminative properties and has the potential to alleviate dyspepsia. These properties could also be beneficial in mitigating heartburn.

To make a remedy, incorporate a teaspoon of dried angelica root into a glass of boiling water. Let it steep and then strain the infusion. Enjoy the warm tea.