GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a chronic condition that creates a burning sensation in your chest and throat. Since constant inflammation and acid contact erode the esophageal tissues, the condition can be more than uncomfortable; it can be damaging. There are natural remedies for GERD that can help ease the discomfort, putting out the fire for many people.
GERD Symptoms
Although heartburn is the most prevalent symptom of GERD, other symptoms might also arise. The following are some examples:
· Belching
· Food regurgitation
· Chronic wheezing and cough
· Sore throat
· Chest pain
· Difficulty swallowing
Any person can get GERD. In fact, the condition is common among young children and even infants.
Helpful Herbs
Commonly used herbs for GERD include licorice, slippery elm, marshmallow, and chamomile. The following are some of the ways in which these herbs work to reduce acid and ease GERD symptoms:
- Licorice contains substances that help reduce inflammation, promote healing of irritated tissues, and protect the throat and stomach.
- Slippery Elm is a mucilage herb that coats irritating tissues, offering relief and protection against erosive acid.
- Marshmallow is similar to slippery elm and also contains throat-soothing mucilage.
- Chamomile, especially when consumed in tea, is very calming and helpful for stress relief. It can also reduce nausea and decrease symptoms related to digestive disorders.
- Aloe Vera is one of my favorites for healing and relieving inflammation throughout the digestive system.
Other Remedies
In conjunction with herbs, you can control GERD with simple natural remedies and dietary changes. Avoiding acidic foods and beverages is the first step. Coffee, tomato juice, carbonated drinks, and orange juice are often problematic. However, the size of your meals is just as important as their content because too much food can cause acid to churn in the stomach, leading to GERD symptoms. Therefore, eating small, non-acidic, low-fat foods is ideal. Since smoking and drinking alcohol aggravate GERD, quitting smoking or reducing your consumption of alcohol can improve your GERD condition.
Stress-Reduction for GERD
Because stress exacerbates GERD, stress-reduction techniques are a helpful treatment for some people. Yoga, deep breathing, and meditation are some methods for relaxing. Raising the head of your bed also helps keep acid from rising in the throat at night.
Learn more about other remedies that are useful for overall gut health and managing stress.
References: MayoClinic.com; GERD: Symptoms; May 2011 http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/gerd/DS00967/DSECTION=symptoms
MayoClinic.com; GERD: Alternative Medicine; May 2011
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/gerd/DS00967/DSECTION=alternative-medicine
University of Maryland Medical Center: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/gastroesophageal-reflux-000068.htm