calm the burn: home remedies and natural strategies for acid reflux

dealing with acid reflux can be such a pain - quite literally! 

acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing discomfort and pain. this happens when the lower esophageal sphincter (les), a muscle separating the esophagus and stomach, relaxes or weakens, allowing acid to flow upward.

factors contributing to acid reflux include overeating, consuming trigger foods like citrus fruits, tomatoes, chocolate, and spicy or fatty foods, as well as drinking caffeine, alcohol, or carbonated beverages. additionally, obesity or pregnancy can put pressure on the stomach, while smoking weakens the les, and certain medications like sedatives or antidepressants can exacerbate the issue.

underlying conditions such as hiatal hernia or gastroparesis can also increase the risk of acid reflux, making it essential to understand these causes to prevent and alleviate symptoms.

but don't worry, we have got some effective home remedies to share with you that can help alleviate heartburn and reduce acidity.

lifestyle modifications:

before we dive into specific remedies, let's talk about some simple lifestyle changes that can make a big difference:

eat smaller, more frequent meals: avoid overloading your stomach with large meals.

avoid trigger foods: common culprits include outside/junk foods, citrus fruits, tomatoes, chocolate, spicy foods, and fatty or fried foods.

raise the head of your bed: elevate the head of your bed by 6-8 inches to prevent stomach acid from flowing up into your esophagus while sleeping.

lose weight: excess weight can put pressure on your stomach, worsening acid reflux.

quit smoking: smoking weakens the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing stomach acid to flow back up.

natural remedies:

now, let's explore some natural remedies to soothe heartburn:

herbal teas:

1. ginger tea: ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms.

2. peppermint tea: peppermint oil relaxes the muscles in your stomach and esophagus, easing digestion.

3. chamomile tea: chamomile calms the digestive system and reduces stress.

ayurvedic herbs:

1. aloe vera juice: aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe the esophagus and reduce inflammation. can be taken 30 ml daily in the morning on an empty stomach.

2. haritaki: known for its anti-inflammatory properties, haritaki supports gut health and digestive well-being. 2 tablets before breakfast and dinner 

3. ashwagandha: this adaptogenic herb reduces stress-related stomach issues. 2 tablets before going to bed.

4. triphala: a blend of three herbs (amla, haritaki, and bibhitaki), triphala supports digestive health. 1 tsp with warm milk or warm water early in the morning 

5. guduchi (tinospora cordifolia): its anti-inflammatory properties aid in digestive well-being. can be taken in tablet or powder form

6. yashtimadhu (glycyrrhiza glabra): it helps to soothe the stomach lining

although all herbs suggested above are generally safe to consume, it would be best to consult an ayurvedic physician to understand what would suit best for your body and symptoms. 

dietary additions:

1. probiotics: add probiotic-rich foods like yogurt or take supplements to support your gut health.

2. honey: honey has antibacterial properties that can help soothe the digestive system.

additional tips:

1. avoid lying down after eating: post meals wait at least 2-3 hours before you lie down

2. manage stress: stress can exacerbate acid reflux; try relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation.

3. stay hydrated: drink plenty of water to help with digestion.

remember, if your symptoms persist or worsen, consult with your doctor or healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

try these home remedies and lifestyle modifications to alleviate acid reflux and heartburn.

lavi can support you by offering personalized advice and recommendations addressed towards managing acidity, helping you achieve a healthier gut and improve your overall well-being. you can schedule a consultation to talk to our experts.