Acid reflux disease is one of the most common stomach problems experienced by millions of people around the world. But it is not just a stomach problem, it can also affect the esophagus, the stomach, the diaphragm, and the upper airway.
Acid reflux is caused by excess acid in the stomach and causes the acids to flow back up into the throat. The acid causes the tissues to swell, causing soreness, difficulty swallowing, and possible bleeding. The tissue under the tongue can also become thick and hard.
One of the most common symptoms of acid reflux is heartburn. If you have heartburn without the discomfort of acid reflux, it is probably a symptom of something else.
Heartburn can come on suddenly or gradually. Many people may experience a mild episode now and then, while others will have to get up every thirty minutes or so to “give the heartburn time to pass”.
For chronic heartburn, many people find relief with herbal remedies such as ginger, fennel, and white willow bark. These herbal remedies provide many health benefits such as relief from indigestion, nausea, vomiting, and gas.
Some herbal remedies for acid reflux include the Chinese herb Stinging Nettle, Hoodia, and slippery elm. If you are experiencing moderate to severe heartburn, take either of these herbs together with lemon balm, white willow bark, and buckthorn to relieve the pain.
When taking an acid reflux treatment, be sure to drink plenty of water to keep your digestive tract operating at peak efficiency. High fiber diets can also help, as they will also help to prevent acid reflux.
Consuming a diet rich in fruits and vegetables is also very important to your overall acid reflux prevention. Fruit and vegetables are good sources of antioxidants that help to prevent and cure acid reflux.
There are many supplements available that provide some relief from acid reflux. Herbal supplements such as the following can be taken in conjunction with a well-balanced diet to provide effective acid reflux treatment:
Cayenne pepper – this herb is used as a flavor enhancer and as a topical medicine. Cayenne pepper contains active compounds that strengthen the muscles in the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which are key factors in acid reflux.
Other ingredients found in many acid reflux treatments include sea buckthorn, rhubarb, black currant, and devil’s claw. These herbs are thought to strengthen the sphincter, prevent gastric acid from moving back up into the esophagus, and relieve the symptoms of acid reflux.
