Almost everyone will experience a bout of heartburn at one point or another. Whether due to questionable dietary choices, lifestyle factors or an underlying medical condition, it is an incredibly common malady. Heartburn can be extremely uncomfortable and symptoms include pain, a burning sensation and bloating. Over the counter medication is one of the most often used sources of relief and natural calcium is often one of the main ingredients. There are also other natural remedies for heartburn for those that dislike the chalky consistency of calcium based remedies. Herbs found in nature can help to lessen the pain, discomfort and burning associated with heartburn. A tea for acid reflux can be used with these herbs and can provide a soothing and comforting form of relief. If a hot, brewed beverage is not on your to-do list, consider pouring the freshly brewed tea over ice for cooling and soothing relief.
We have compiled a list of the best herbal remedies for acid reflux. They can help to ease digestion and counteract some of the causes of acid reflux like acid production. Many of these selections can be used in herbal tea recipes alongside other digestion friendly herbs for a more potent concoction. However, before sampling any of the herbs on our top 7 list and brewing them up with your favorite flavors, consult a health care professional. There are many health conditions that can lead to acid reflux, and masking symptoms with medications and herbal remedies can delay needed treatment. Consultation is also important for people with existing conditions and those who are taking certain medications. A tea for acid reflux could interact negatively in these cases.
1. Turmeric
Turmeric is known as a natural pain reliever amongst other things commonly used for conditions that involve pain. The active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin, which is very powerful medicinally. Occasional use in the form of a tea for acid reflux will typically cause few problems but it is worth noting that overuse can possibly lead to stomach problems. The spice also has traditionally be used in Ayurvedic medicine as a form of birth control, and women considering turmeric in herbal tea recipes should be cognizant of this before using.
2. Licorice Root
Licorice is one of the most unique flavors found on the planet, and as a result people tend to either love it or downright hate it. For the latter group of individuals, licorice can serve as a sweet treat to help quell the symptoms of heartburn. Some believe that licorice can help reduce inflammation in the abdomen, soothe ulcer related ailments and keep the lining of the stomach in tip top shape. People with high blood pressure should not use licorice in a tea for acid reflux however as a component found in it can be unsafe.
3. Marshmallow Root
Marshmallows can make just about anything better, but this root does not refer to the poofy, sweet pillows that are known for topping hot chocolate. Marshmallow root is useful medicinally for a wide range of ailments. It can help to coat the stomach lining and esophagus, both of which can become very irritated when heartburn is present, thanks to mucilage found in the root. This same contained component is also thought to help form a barrier to protect the lining of the stomach from volatile acid. It works well as a cold infusion tea for acid reflux and is said to have a sweet yet bitter flavor that many people find delightful.
4. Sweet Basil
Basil is an incredibly popular herb and is used heavily in cooking for its sweet and delicious flavor. Basil also is thought to have many medicinal benefits as well, and in Ayurvedic medicine it was used as a remedy for the symptoms of heartburn. It can be used in a tea for acid reflux, and is purported to be able to soothe the digestive tract and relieve discomfort.
5. Indian Gooseberry
An edible, raw herb, the Indian gooseberry is known for its positive effects on the digestive tract. It works by coating and protecting the digestive tract against an abundance of stomach acid. Indian gooseberry can be an effective form of natural relief for heartburn and adds a delicious and complex flavor to any tea for acid reflux. In abundance, Indian gooseberry can potentially lead to diarrhea, so moderate and practical use is recommended when using it alone or in herbal tea recipes.
6. Slippery Elm Bark
You may have a hard time getting your hands on dried slippery elm bark to incorporate into a tea for acid reflux, however the end result could be well worth it, especially if you encounter heartburn more than just occasionally. Slippery elm bark can help absorb stomach acid, which is what is responsible for the symptoms of heartburn in the first place. Slippery elm bark is also thought to be safe for use by people taking medications for G.E.R.D., but since these vary, talk to your healthcare provider first.
7. Chamomile
Chamomile is associated with helping people fall asleep fast and comfortably, but the tranquil herb is also thought to be effective in the battle against stomach acid production. Chamomile is easy to incorporate into a tea for acid reflux and can provide soothing relief to even the most tumultuous tummy.
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