Acid Reflux Holistic Treatment

Acid reflux disease, formally called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a condition characterized by frequent heartburn. When the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) fails to seal properly, the digestive juices of the stomach rise up into the esophagus, causing a burning feeling in the chest or throat. Acid reflux disease can cause serious problems, including bleeding or ulcers in the esophagus. Esophageal cancer can also occur in some acid reflux patients due to the cells developing abnormally. While there are many over-the-counter, prescription and surgical treatments available for acid reflux disease, many people have a great deal of success treating the condition with holistic remedies. (See Reference 1.)

Dietary Changes

• Dietary changes help many acid reflux sufferers considerably. Many foods irritate the stomach, causing an overproduction of acid and leading to more serious heartburn episodes. Acid reflux patients often experience relief by eliminating spicy and acidic foods, such as citrus fruits and tomatoes. Oily and fatty foods can also irritate the stomach lining. Caffeine causes more frequent heartburn attacks in many patients, so avoiding coffee, soda and chocolate may also help reduce acid reflux symptoms. Though peppermint is sometimes recommended to soothe the stomach, it actually relaxes the LES and may make heartburn worse in some patients. (See References 1 and 3.)

Apple Cider Vinegar

• Apple cider vinegar is one of the most popular holistic treatments for acid reflux disease. Its natural bacteria-fighting properties can help soothe the stomach and balance acid production. Apple cider vinegar is available in liquid and caplet forms, though the liquid form is more potent and generally more effective. Home Remedies Web recommends 1 tbsp. in half a glass of water every day. (See Reference 2.)

Ginger Root

• Ginger root is purported to absorb stomach acid and have a general calming effect. Since stress often causes heartburn episodes, many patients have reported symptom relief from taking ginger root capsules after meals. Ginger root tablets and capsules can be found at most organic health food and supplement stores. (See Reference 2.)

Fennel Seeds

• Fennel seeds contain anethole, which may reduce stomach and gastrointestinal tract spasms. Many acid reflux disease patients have heartburn attacks when the stomach spasms and the LES flaps or does not close fully. Fennel seeds may help reduce these types of attacks. Home Remedies Web recommends slowly chewing ½ tsp. of the seeds after meals. (See Reference 2.)

Other Natural Remedies

• Several other natural remedies may provide relief from heartburn caused by acid reflux disease. Many people report relief after drinking pickle juice. Others swear by slippery elm bark, an herb that helps soothe irritated mucous membranes such as the esophagus. Aniseed and lavender teas may reduce the amount of stomach acid, thereby relieving heartburn. Orange peel extract is another popular holistic treatment, and some patients have reported complete relief of acid reflux symptoms after using it daily. (See References 2 and 3.)