Natural Treatments For GERD

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The full form of GERD is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. When active flux happens regularly, it is termed as GERD. It is also commonly known as heartburn. It is caused when digestive acids get inside esophagus and cause burning sensation. It happens when Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES) fails to contract while swallowing food.

Apart from this, person affected with GERD faces other problems like gas, hoarseness, cough, wheezing, blood in vomiting, weight loss, coarseness in throat, nausea etc.

It may result from yeast infection, overeating, consuming alcohol, caffeine etc. To cure GERD, it is required to neutralize the effect of stomach acids or remove the excessive acids from the body. There are numerous natural ways through which it can be treated effectively but it is always recommended to consult the doctor before taking any step.

Himalayan Salt

Using high quality table salt like Himalayan crystal salt instead of the normal table salt helps in the production of hydrochloric acids. It is a sea salt that acts as an alkalizer. It also regulates blood pressure. 1 teaspoon of Himalayan salt solution taken per day is good for getting relief from acid reflux.

It contains a number of minerals which are good for health. Furthermore, it detoxifies kidney and help in digestive processes. Taking Betaine HCL supplements also prevent GERD. Consuming too much salt in excess is risky.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar in the raw organic form helps in digestion and keeps the stomach relaxed. 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in the raw organic form mixed in 4 ounces of water can be consumed before meal. It is a very popular method of curing acid reflux. One should use organic or raw form of apple cider vinegar if possible.

Baking Soda

1 tablespoon of baking soda mixed in a glass of water can be used. But those who have high blood pressure problem should not consume it. Since baking soda is alkaline in nature, it can neutralize excessive amount of acid present in the stomach. Before thinking of consuming it, doctor should be consulted. Small amount of sugar or honey can also be added for taste. The person sensitive to sodium should not consume it as it may cause high blood pressure. It should not be consumed for more than 7 half teaspoons and should not be used for more than 14 days.

Ginger Root

It is good to soothe stomach problems by absorbing stomach acids. It contains gingerol which is very effective against acid flux. It contains volatile oils and resins that have therapeutic properties and pungent smell. It is helpful for indigestion and heartburn. It can also be taken in the form of capsule, tincture and powder. Peeled and sliced ginger can be added in water and boiled for 20 minutes. Strain and drink the warm liquid. 1 ginger capsule can be taken daily after the dinner..

Honey

1 teaspoon of honey taken before going to bed is helpful. Honey helps in curing recurring cough which is one of the symptoms of GERD. It has anti-bacterial properties due to which it prevents skin ulcers. Honey can also be mixed with apple cider vinegar that helps in better digestion. It also reduces inflammation and soothes the skin. It coats the esophagus and prevents from irritation caused by acid formation.

Chewing Gum

It helps in acid neutralization by increasing saliva production. It reduces heartburn but does not stop acid to enter esophagus. Eat only sugar free chewing gum. Also, sugarless bicarbonate chewing gum is better than that of sugarless one.

Chewing gum is good for pregnant women suffering from GERD. It can be chewed after half an hour of taking the meal. Chewing gums of cubical in shapes are better as they provide more saliva according to their large sizes.

Slippery Elm

Slippery elm is a natural herb used for medicinal purposes. After mixing it with water, it becomes a gel. It creates a coating on esophagus and thus protects it from acid. It contains mucilage that forms a protective layer in the throat, mouth and stomach. It helps in reducing irritation. It should be consumed 2 hours before or after taking other medicines.

Inner bark powder is the natural form of slippery elm which when mixed with water provides a protective coating along the digestive tracts. It can be taken as a tablet and be mixed with milk or yogurt for giving it a good taste. It is available in the form of tablet, capsule, tea etc. 400-500 mg of slippery elm capsule can be consumed 3-4 times a day for 4 to 8 weeks.

Turmeric

It protects esophagus from the acid entering along the lining. It also decreases inflammation. The roots are mainly used for medicinal purposes. It is used for treatment of heartburn and stomach pain. Consuming turmeric can help in curing upset stomach. It contains curcumin which is a good antioxidant that destroys free radicals and prevents cell damage. Before consuming it, one should consult the doctor.

Carrot Juice

1 cup of carrot juice can be consumed per day for treating acid reflux. 4 ounces of aloe vera in the liquid form added in the juice is even more beneficial for health.

Mastic gum

Mastic gum is a resin extract prepared from mastic tree which is required to treat stomach related problems. It is also available in the form of capsule. 500 mg of mastic gum can be consumed two times in a day for its effective use.

Lemon Juice

½ lemon squeezed in 8 ounces of water is beneficial for acid reflux and can be consumed in the morning before having breakfast. Consuming lemon in the form of lemon juice or essential oil reduces the amount of digestive acids in the stomach which further helps in the treatment of heartburn. 1 glass of lemon water consumed in the evening on daily basis is also good for health.

Licorice

DGL is a type of licorice which is found to be very effective in curing licorice. It does not have side effects and is safe for consumption. 1 stick of natural licorice can be chewed before having meal on daily basis or one can also consume 500 mg-1g of DGL supplement every day.

Melatonin

3-6 mg of melatonin consumed at bedtime on daily basis helps in reducing GERD symptoms. Melatonin also reduces stomach acids but should not be taken by pregnant women and children.