Herbal remedies for heartburn

If heartburn is disrupting your day, you might be interested in trying herbal remedies for relief. Many people find natural options like herbs helpful for managing the burning discomfort of acid reflux.

However, unlike FDA-approved medications, herbal products don't undergo the same rigorous testing for safety or effectiveness, which means they may vary in potency or purity.

That said, many herbal remedies have a long history of use and may help calm acid reflux symptoms. Here are some popular herbs and natural approaches worth considering for heartburn relief.

Chamomile. A cup of chamomile tea may have a soothing effect on the digestive tract. People with ragweed allergy may have reactions to chamomile.

Ginger. The root of the ginger plant is another well-known herbal digestive aid. It has been used for centuries as a folk remedy for heartburn.

Licorice. Licorice is said to increase the mucous coating of the esophageal lining, helping it resist the irritating effects of stomach acid. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice, or DGL, is available in pill or liquid form. It should not be used regularly because excessive ingestion of licorice can raise blood pressure.

Other natural remedies. Many other "natural" remedies have been used to treat heartburn over the centuries, but there is little scientific evidence to confirm their effectiveness. Catnip, fennel, marshmallow root, and papaya tea have all been said to aid in digestion and stop heartburn. Some people eat fresh papaya as a digestive aid. Others swear by raw potato juice three times a day. 

To learn more about GERD and heartburn, read Harvard Medical School Guide: Cooling Heartburn.

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