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Natural Heartburn Remedy

Heartburn affects up to 20 percent of the population at least once or more per week. Many people suffer from it infrequently and do not require treatment. For some, though, heartburn is accompanied by severe chest pains, regurgitation of what they have eaten or drunk, and a sour taste left in the mouth. A trip to the doctor or pharmacy may be in order, but there are many natural heartburn remedies that can be utilized first.

  1. Aloe Vera Juice

    • Aloe vera juice is a natural heartburn remedy that has the ability to soothe an esophagus that has been irritated by heartburn. Aloe vera extract can be found in pill or gel forms in most drugstores and health food stores. It should be taken 20 minutes before a meal is eaten for maximum efficacy.

    Slippery Elm

    • Slippery elm is a natural remedy for heartburn, and is also used in many sore throat lozenges found in the herbal section of the drugstore. Slippery elm comes from the inner bark of the slippery elm tree and contains an ingredient called mucilage. This is a gel-like ingredient that swells up when it is mixed with water, and will coat the inflamed esophagus, reducing the irritation of heartburn.

    Marshmallow

    • The herbal marshmallow, Althaea officinalis, also contains mucilage, making it another natural remedy for heartburn. Marshmallow root tea is sometimes recommended by herbalists, and can be made with a tablespoon of dried marshmallow root and boiling water. Drinking three cups of this tea a day is recommended for those who suffer from heartburn frequently.

      Marshmallow shouldn't be used by those who have diabetes, are pregnant or are nursing.

    Other Suggestions

    • Those who smoke are actually weakening the lower esophageal sphincter by inhaling the nicotine in cigarettes. Quitting smoking or cutting back as much as possible can help those who suffer from heartburn.

      Foods that can cause heartburn more than others should be avoided as well, including chocolate, citrus fruit, tomatoes, vinegar, coffee and spicy foods. Many alcohols can cause heartburn, especially those that contain fruit or citrus flavorings. Keeping a diary of what you eat and what subsequently causes heartburn can help identify a problem food.

      Stress can also aggravate heartburn, according to the National Heartburn Alliance. Those with high stress levels should strive to reduce their stress with medication, yoga or another form of stress relief.

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