If you have a hoarse throat, stomach acid in the throat, wheezing, coughing, asthma, pain when swallowing, black stools, chest pain, or chronic sinusitis, you may have acid reflux. Although changes in diet and conventional medication are often used to end acid reflux, sometimes herbal remedies can take care of minor or less frequent cases of acid reflux.
What is Acid Reflux?
Acid reflux, also known as heartburn or Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), occurs when naturally-occurring stomach acids come back up the esophagus or throat. About 10 to 20 percent of Americans suffer from acid reflux. If left untreated, the condition can lead to esophageal cancer, from which an estimated 15,000 Americans will die in a single year.
Conventional treatment for includes dietary changes, weight loss, prescription medication, and occasionally surgery.
Caution
can be a serious disease; therefore, before self-treating, consult with your physician. If your acid reflux persists despite following doctor's orders and trying herbal remedies, seek the advice of a specialist.
Ginger and Fennel
Ginger root absorbs stomach acid and is often sold in capsule form in health food stores. Typically, one capsule is taken daily, after eating. You can even eat a piece of candied ginger when you feel acid reflux beginning.
Fennel seed has long been used for digestive problems. Anethole, which is found in fennel, can temporarily end the spasms that send acid back up the throat. To medicate with fennel, thoroughly chew and swallow a half teaspoon of fennel seeds after a meal. You may also benefit from drinking fennel tea.
Cinnamon
Long considered an antacid, cinnamon can help relieve stomach acids. Help the cinnamon along by putting it on a little toast, which can also help absorb stomach acids.
Herbal Tea
The right herbal tea can reduce acid in the stomach, thereby reducing symptoms of acid reflux. To make a tea, mix together equal amounts of lavender and aniseed and place 1 teaspoon of the mixture in a cup. Boil 2 ½ cups of water and pour the boiling water in the cup. Allow to sit for at least three and up to five minutes. Strain the tea; add honey for flavoring and sweetening, if desired. Up to 8 ounces of this tea may be consumed morning and evening.
Another popular remedy for acid reflux is chicory tea. To make the tea, boil 1 ½ cups of chicory root for at least five and up to 10 minutes. Allow it to cool, then drink.
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