The two commonest digestive disorders that have a strong interrelation are acid reflux and heartburn. Many people during their lives experience these issues. Antacids are usually the first thing to get rid of heartburn and acid reflux, but very often these antacids bring unwanted side effects with them, including aluminum, which is known to be linked with neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease. Fortunately, there are other alternative natural treatments for the conditions to provide relief without risk. Some of the effective natural remedies of acid reflux and heartburn are discussed here.
Herbal Teas: Anise, Peppermint, and Lavender
What can be better than having a mild, easily drinkable herbal tea to neutralize stomach acid and heartburn? A combination of anise, peppermint, and lavender seems to work quite nicely at easing stomach acid and calming digestion. Here’s how you prepare the herbal tea:
- In an extra-large pot, add 2½ cups distilled water and bring to a boil.
- Pour in a slow boil over a teaspoon of the following mixed herbal ingredients: anise seed, peppermint, and lavender-all in equal parts.
- Allow the mixture steep for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Strain the tea upon steeping and add a dash of honey, if desired, for sweetness.
- Place tea into thermos for convenience.
It is recommended to drink this herbal tea in the morning and at night with up to 8 ounces each for better efficacy.
A Little More About the Ingredients
Anise (Aniseed): The herb of anise is held in high esteem because of its properties being good for digestion and health. Since there may be confusion over plants referred to as star anise and caraway, only green anise, also called European or sweet anise, should be used.
Peppermint: It is known for its digestion abilities and helps in mitigating a few stomach-related problems, such as cramps, stomach distension, and gas gathering. Due to its cooling action, it can calm heartburn.
Lavender: Although very well-known for its pleasant fragrance, lavender has great therapeutic properties, too, for soothing the stomach and helping in reducing the acid production.
Digestive Enzymes: Betain, Pepsin, and Papaya
As individuals age, the stomach may not be as proficient in its role of producing hydrochloric acid, thereby reducing the capability to digest proteins. Poor digestion can exacerbate any number of disorders, including acid reflux and heartburn. For more thorough digestion of proteins, try adding a supplement of digestive enzymes that includes Betain, pepsin, or hydrochloric acid (HCl) at mealtimes. These can help in the digestion of proteins and aid in reducing symptoms of reflux.
Other than that, papaya enzymes with the inner content of papain serve excellently for protein digestion processes. Herein, the dosage of 500 mg or more of the papaya enzymes taken with a meal would be of immense help in digestion.
Power of Pineapples
Besides being a tasty and pulpy tropical fruit, pineapples are a rich source of enzymes, especially bromelain. It works in the digestion process by breaking down protein and, as such, helps digestion and, by extension, can reduce inflammation of the body. Eating fresh pineapple or drinking its juice provides this helpful enzyme to reduce symptoms of acid reflux. Bromelain can also be taken as a supplement; the dosage is usually from 200 to 500 mg per meal.
Chicory Root Tea
Chicory belongs to the large family of bitter greens, including endive and escarole. Preparation for Chicory Root Tea: Take 1½ cups of chicory root and boil it in water until about 5 to 10 minutes. Let this decoction cool down to room temperature before drinking. This may correct any acid reflux or heartburn symptoms.
Moreover, adding chicory and other bitter herbs in salads have prevention benefits from acid reflux. Consuming alkaline-based foods is also a precautionary step in dealing with acid reflux and heartburn.
Conclusion
The above remedies may help the sufferer to a large extent. Along with the above natural remedies, taking salads and other alkaline-rich foods daily will help them with acid reflux and heartburn problems. This diet adjustment can, to a certain extent, reduce the incidence of acid reflux and might contribute to overall digestive health as well.
These strategies, if well implemented, could give relief not only to acid reflux but also contribute to a healthy digestion system in the long run. Make sure to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new course of treatment or supplement, especially if you happen to have other health conditions or ongoing medications.
