Are you tired of the burning sensation in your chest? Are you feeling uncomfortable due to bloating? Then, you are not alone in it. Acid reflux and heartburn affect millions of people worldwide. It disturbs sleep and daily comfort. While over-the-counter antacids offer quick relief. But they don’t address the root cause. Its long-term use can come with side effects. As people are using lifestyle changes and medications. But they are looking for natural remedies like herbs to relieve acid reflux and heartburn. Today, we will introduce 6 powerful herbs to reduce acid reflux and soothe heartburn symptoms. These herbs are peppermint oil, slippery elm, chamomile, ginger root, licorice root and marshmallow root.

What causes acid reflux and heartburn?

You have to understand acid reflux to manage it. Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. It causes a burning sensation known as heartburn. It is due to a weakened lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Common triggers of acid reflux are:

• Eating large meals
• Eating spicy meals
  
• Lying down soon after eating
  
• Obesity or pregnancy
  
• Smoking
• alcohol consumption
  
• Certain medications
•  stress

Chronic reflux leads to esophageal inflammation. It is also known as esophagitis. There are many herbs for acid reflux relief. They support your digestive system naturally.

B avoiding triggers and incorporating natural and herbal remedies can reduce symptoms and improve digestive comfort

6 Soothing Herbs and How to Use Them

1. Peppermint Oil 

It is known for its digestive benefits. It has a calming effect. It relaxes the stomach and digestive tract. It relaxes the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract. It may ease 

• Indigestion
• Bloating
• Cramping

It can relax the LES. Sometimes, it worsens the reflux. That's why enteric-coated peppermint capsules can reduce the risk by releasing the oil lower in the gut. Use it cautiously to avoid severe reflux. 

• How to use: You can take 1 enteric-coated capsule 30 minutes before meals
  
• Tip: You should avoid peppermint if you have severe GERD or a hiatal hernia.
  

2. Slippery Elm Bark

It contains mucilage. It has a gel-like substance. It creates a soothing mucilage. It coats and soothes the esophagus and stomach lining. Its protective layer reduces irritation caused by 

• stomach acid
• Inflammation
• Acid reflux

It protects from acid. It also promotes mucus production. It is also beneficial for those with chronic acid reflux and GERD symptoms. To read more about it, you can go to Is Slippery Elm the best treatment for Heartburn and Acid Reflux? 

How to use: 

• You can take it in the form of supplements. 
• You can mix 1–2 teaspoons of powdered slippery elm in warm water and drink after meals. It forms a soothing drink. It is a traditional method. 
• It can also be taken in the form of tea.

3. Chamomile Tea

It is a gentle herb. It has anti-inflammatory and calming properties. It relaxes the digestive tract muscles. It reduces stomach inflammation. It relieves heartburn and acid reflux symptoms. It calms the nervous system. It alleviates stress-related reflux symptoms. It has antioxidant compounds. It protects the esophageal lining from acid damage. It promotes better sleep and digestion.

How to use: 

• You can drink chamomile tea 30 minutes before bedtime or after meals. It reduces reflux episodes.

4. Ginger Root

It has natural anti-inflammatory properties. It is widely used as a digestive aid. It reduces nausea and acid production. It promotes and speeds up gastric emptying. It helps to move food more quickly through the stomach. It reduces the chance of acid reflux into the esophagus. It is safe and effective for mild to moderate acid reflux symptoms.

How to use: 

• You can consume fresh ginger tea 
• They can be taken in the form of supplements.
• You can chew a small piece of raw ginger before meals.
  

5. Licorice Root

It increases the mucus lining of the stomach and esophagus. It provides a protective barrier against acid. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) is a form of licorice root.  It reduces high blood pressure. It offers a soothing effect on the digestive system. It protects the stomach lining from acid.

How to use:

DGL supplements and chewable tablets can be taken before meals. It prevents acid reflux and soothes heartburn.

6. Marshmallow Root

 Marshmallow roots act like slippery elms. It also forms a protective layer on the lining of the esophagus and stomach. It relieves irritation and promotes the healing of inflamed tissues.

How to use:

• You can prepare marshmallow root tea by steeping 1 tbsp of dried root in hot water for 10 minutes.
• You can also take it in the form of a supplement. 

Read More:

• I get acid reflux at night… what do I do?

Conclusion

Herbs for acid reflux and heartburn offer a natural and soothing alternative to conventional treatments. These herbs are peppermint oil, slippery elm, chamomile, ginger root, licorice root and marshmallow root. They relieve acid reflux. Each herb has unique benefits. They protect the esophagus and improve digestion. They reduce inflammation. When they are combined with lifestyle changes, they ease acid reflux symptoms and improve quality of life. It helps a lot to ease its symptoms. You should always consult with a healthcare professional before starting herbal remedies. Especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are on medications.