Written by Overview of heartburn
Heartburn is a common condition that is characterized by a burning sensation in the chest and throat. It is caused by the stomach acid that flows back into the oesophagus, the tube that connects the throat to the stomach. Let’s take a look at 15 proven home remedies for heartburn
The symptoms of heartburn include a burning sensation in the chest, sour taste in the mouth, difficulty swallowing, and a feeling of food being stuck in the throat. Heartburn is usually triggered by certain foods and drinks, such as spicy or fatty foods, caffeine, alcohol, and citrus fruits. Other triggers include smoking, stress, and obesity.
Heartburn can usually be managed with lifestyle changes such as avoiding triggers, eating smaller and more frequent meals, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding lying down or bending over after eating. Antacids and other over-the-counter medications can also provide relief. In some cases, prescription medications or surgery may be necessary to manage severe or chronic heartburn.
While heartburn is generally a benign condition, it can cause complications if left untreated, such as esophagitis (inflammation of the oesophagus), ulcers, and strictures (narrowing of the oesophagus). It is important to seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen despite lifestyle changes and over-the-counter treatments.
15 Proven Home Remedies For Heartburn
Heartburn is a common digestive problem that can cause discomfort and pain. Here are 15 home remedies for heartburn that you can try:
- Baking Soda; Baking soda is a natural antacid that can neutralize stomach acid.
Method of preparation: Mix 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water.
How to use: Drink the mixture slowly.
Side effects: Baking soda can cause nausea, vomiting, and headaches if consumed in large quantities.
- Ginger; Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce inflammation in the oesophagus and relieve heartburn symptoms.
Method of preparation: Grate ginger and mix it in hot water.
How to use: Drink the ginger tea.
Side effects: Ginger can cause stomach upset and heartburn in some people.
- Apple Cider Vinegar; Apple cider vinegar is acidic, but it can help balance the pH level in the stomach.
Method of preparation: Mix 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water.
How to use: Drink the mixture before meals.
Side effects: Apple cider vinegar can erode tooth enamel and cause throat irritation.
- Aloe Vera Juice; Aloe vera has a soothing effect on the digestive system and can help reduce inflammation.
Method of preparation: Extract the juice from an aloe vera plant.
How to use: Drink 1/4 cup of aloe vera juice before meals.
Side effects: Aloe vera juice can cause diarrhoea and abdominal cramps in some people.
- Fennel Seeds; Fennel seeds contain compounds that can reduce inflammation in the stomach and improve digestion.
Method of preparation: Chew fennel seeds after meals.
How to use: Chew the seeds slowly.
Side effects: Fennel seeds can cause allergic reactions in some people.
- Slippery Elm; Slippery elm contains a mucilage that can coat and soothe the oesophagus and reduce heartburn symptoms.
Method of preparation: Mix slippery elm powder with hot water.
How to use: Drink the mixture before meals.
Side effects: Slippery elm can cause allergic reactions in some people.
- Chamomile Tea; Chamomile has anti-inflammatory and sedative properties that can reduce heartburn symptoms and promote relaxation.
Method of preparation: Steep chamomile tea bags in hot water.
How to use: Drink the tea after meals.
Side effects: Chamomile can cause allergic reactions in some people.
- Mustard; Mustard contains vinegar which can help neutralize stomach acid.
Method of preparation: no preparation needed.
How to use: Eat the mustard after meals.
Side effects: Mustard can cause heartburn in some people.
- Liquorice Root; liquorice root contains compounds that can reduce inflammation and protect the lining of the stomach.
Method of preparation: Mix liquorice root powder with hot water.
How to use: Drink the mixture before meals.
Side effects: Liquorice root can cause high blood pressure and low potassium levels in some people.
- Milk; Milk contains calcium which can help neutralize stomach acid. Drink a glass of cold milk after meals.
Method of preparation: mix 2 tablespoons of powdered milk in a glass of cold water. You can also use fresh milk.
How to use: Drink the milk after meals. Side effects: Milk can cause stomach upset and diarrhoea in some people.
- Bananas; Bananas contain natural antacids that can reduce acid reflux and heartburn symptoms.
Method of preparation: use ripe banana.
How to use: Eat the banana after meals.
Side effects: Bananas can cause constipation in some people.
- Peppermint Oil; Peppermint oil has a relaxing effect on the muscles of the digestive system and can reduce heartburn symptoms.
Method of preparation: Mix peppermint oil with hot water.
How to use: Drink the mixture before meals.
Side effects: Peppermint oil can cause heartburn in some people.
- Papaya; Papaya contains enzymes that can aid digestion and reduce inflammation in the stomach.
Method of preparation: Eat a ripe papaya.
How to use: Eat the papaya after meals.
Side effects: Papaya can cause allergic reactions in some people.
- Cinnamon; Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce inflammation in the digestive system.
Method of preparation: Mix cinnamon powder with hot water.
How to use: Drink the mixture before meals.
Side effects: Cinnamon can cause mouth sores and diarrhoea in some people.
- Dandelion Tea; Dandelion contains compounds that can improve digestion and reduce inflammation in the stomach.
Method of preparation: Steep dandelion tea bags in hot water.
How to use: Drink the tea after meals.
Side effects: Dandelion can cause allergic reactions in some people.
Conclusion
Heartburn is a common digestive problem that can cause discomfort and pain. While there are many over-the-counter medications that can help alleviate heartburn, there are also several natural home remedies that can be effective. Some of the most common home remedies for heartburn have already been explained above. However, it is important to note that these remedies may not work for everyone and may have potential side effects. If heartburn persists or becomes severe, it is important to seek medical attention.
