Get Rid of Acid Reflux Naturally by: Patricia Bratianu RN PhD RH-AHG for Off The Grid News
Do you experience a burning pain in your chest accompanied by a feeling of fullness or pressure? Do you get gassy or nauseated especially after eating or lying flat? You may have acid reflux disease. Unfortunately, it is a very common affliction. Of course, you should get professional help immediately if you are having chest pain that has not been diagnosed. However, if you have been diagnosed with acid reflux disease, also known as GERD or gastro-esophageal reflux disease, herbs may help to relieve your symptoms and promote healing of inflamed tissues.
What Causes Acid Reflux Disease or GERD?
Acid reflux is commonly due to a problem with a valve that protects the esophagus from stomach acid. When the digestive system is functioning properly, food travels down the esophagus to the stomach and does not back up into the esophagus because of the valve. When food reaches the stomach, strong acid digests the food.
The stomach has a special lining to protect it from the acid; however, since stomach acid normally does not go into the esophagus, the esophagus does not have the protective lining. If the valve is not working properly, food and stomach acid back up into the tender tissues of the esophagus, causing damage to the esophageal tissues which results in pain and other symptoms of GERD.
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Herbs to Relieve GERD
I prefer using herbal teas over other types of herbal preparations for the treatment of acid reflux or GERD. By consuming the herbs in tea form, the herbs coat the irritated tissues and provide quick relief. In addition, teas afford the herbs the longest time to be in direct contact with irritated tissues. While I often recommend herbal tinctures, I do not recommend tinctures for the treatment of GERD, as the tiny amount of alcohol in tinctures may irritate the esophagus.
Herbs Create a Protective Barrier
One of the best herbs used to treat acid reflux is marshmallow root. Marshmallow root forms a protective barrier between the stomach acid and the esophagus. Its anti-inflammatory properties provide quick relief to raw tissues.
Marshmallow root is best prepared as a cold infusion. Pour one quart of water over two tablespoonfuls of dried marshmallow root. Let it sit covered, overnight. Then, strain the herb out and compost it. Drink one cup of the infusion three times daily. If you experience an episode of pain, drink additional tea as needed for rapid symptom relief.
