Relief From Gastroesophageal Reflux With Natural Remedies
There is an interesting list of herbs and supplements that can offer quick relief from gastroesophageal reflux. While you need to get your doctor’s advice to give, taking these remedies can go a long way in alleviating symptoms.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease generally causes gastric juices to rise towards the esophagus. Sufferers tend to experience burning, stabbing pain in the throat and irritation. Indeed, in severe cases it can contribute to the appearance of mucosal lesions, laryngitis and cancer.
Therapy may include over-the-counter antacids or prescription drugs to block excessive secretion of gastric juices. However – as far as possible – we try to keep gastroesophageal reflux under control through diet and natural solutions. Let’s see some tips.
How to get quick relief from gastroesophageal reflux
Changing your eating habits is one of the ways to quickly get relief from gastroesophageal reflux. Also, it is the first step to take before taking specific medications. In this sense, before any conventional or herbal remedy, the ideal is to correct your eating habits.
Then there are specific herbal remedies and supplements that help to offer a greater feeling of relief, especially when acidity occurs at specific times. Although more scientific studies are needed to test their effects, in principle taking them is safe and has positive effects.
Ginger root
A moderate amount of ginger root can help keep gastroesophageal reflux under control. In fact, this spice has always been used to improve digestion. Its properties are attributable to an element called gingerol, which acts as an anti-inflammatory.
How to take it?
Ginger can be taken in the form of infusions or extracts. Since excessive amounts can cause the opposite effect, the ideal is to take a teaspoon diluted in a cup of hot water, once a day.
Chamomile and gastroesophageal reflux
This soothing remedy is a good alternative to get quick relief from gastroesophageal reflux and to relieve throat irritation. This plant has anti-inflammatory, digestive and soothing properties, which reduce the damaging effects of gastric juices on the walls of the esophagus.
How to take it?
- Add a tablespoon of chamomile tea to a cup of boiling water.
- Once you have the infusion, filter it and drink it hot.
- Repeat the intake 2 or 3 times a day.
Mint oil for gastroesophageal reflux
Some studies show that the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux can decrease following the consumption of peppermint oil. This product is contained in mint supplements and tea. Furthermore, it is available in pure form, although it must be diluted before consuming it.
How to take it?
- Pour 5 drops of peppermint oil into a cup of hot water. If you prefer, add some lemon juice.
- Once this is done, drink in sips. Take this remedy twice a day.
Antioxidant supplements for quick relief from gastroesophageal reflux
Fruits and vegetables contain a high concentration of antioxidants that contribute to health. However, when you suffer from reflux, it is ideal to take it in the form of quality supplements as well. Vitamins such as A, C and E are being studied for their ability to provide relief from this disease.
How to take them?
First of all, consult your doctor or pharmacist. A professional will be able to help you choose the best supplement with antioxidant or multivitamin content.
Aloe vera gel
One of the most popular natural supplements for getting quick relief from gastroesophageal reflux is aloe vera gel. Although it should not be taken in excess due to its laxative effects, in moderate quantities it helps to soothe irritation and burning. In addition, it is an anti-inflammatory and helps repair tissues in the event of an injury or ulcer.
How to take it?
- Extract a tablespoon of aloe vera gel and dilute it in a glass of water. Drink on an empty stomach or at the first symptom of reflux.
- If you prefer, add a tablespoon of honey and a drop of lemon juice.
- If symptoms persist, repeat.
Warning! Avoid drinking more than three glasses a day to prevent unwanted effects such as diarrhea.
To keep in mind!
Herbal remedies and supplements do not have miraculous properties or mitigate the effects of habits that affect gastroesophageal reflux. For this reason, part of the success of the treatment depends on the lifestyle. Avoiding smoking, alcohol, excess weight and irritating meals are basic precautionary measures.
