Herbal Remedies for Acid Reflux

If you are one of the 20% of Americans who suffer from frequent heartburn at least once a week, you may feel like you are destined to a life of over the counter or prescription medicines to ease your pain.  However, there are several herbal remedies for acid reflux that have been proven helpful for many people.

Chamomile tea is a great way to soothe and upset stomach and promote digestive health.  It is also decaffeinated, which makes it an ideal beverage for heartburn sufferers.

Licorice, in its natural form, has been used for decades as a treatment to heartburn.  However, licorice can also cause high blood pressure.  DGL is a specific type of licorice extract that has had its harmful side effects removed, and is safe to use.  Both licorice and DGL should not be used if you are pregnant or nursing.  Although scientific evidence does not exist to prove licorice and DGL’s benefit against acid reflux, his herb has been highly praised by its users.

While probiotics, found in many yogurt brands or as a supplement, have not been proven to effectively treat acid reflux, it is an effective supplement for general digestive health.  Making this supplement a part of your diet can help aid in weight loss and bowel regularity.  This will greatly help in making your stomach for effective in digestion, and may reduce excess stomach acid.

Calcium is another supplement often used to prevent and treat acid reflux.  While studies have not conclusively shown its effectiveness, calcium is the main ingredient in most over the counter antacids, and also helps build strong bones.  Calcium supplements are most essential for women age 40 and up.  Taking a calcium supplement, or getting your recommended daily allowance of calcium through low fat milk should be part of a healthy diet.

While herbal remedies for acid reflux are a healthy alternative to over the counter and prescription medicines, they cannot replace a healthy diet and exercise in the treatment and prevention of heartburn.  Before taking any supplement, you should check with your doctor to make sure they don’t counteract any of your current medications.