Can Natural Remedies Cure Heartburn?
Can Natural Remedies Cure Heartburn?
Heartburn is very common -- and very unpleasant. It's triggered when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus. It can make you feel as though someone has lit a small bonfire in your chest, and it's burning its way up to your neck.
You're probably well aware that medications can help calm the burn, but natural heartburn remedies and lifestyle changes may be another way to get relief.
Questions to Ask Your Pharmacist About Heartburn Relief
One in 10 Americans has heartburn or acid reflux at least once a week, according to the American Gastroenterological Association. Whether you're one of the lucky few who generally has an iron stomach -- or you need heartburn relief nearly every day -- rest assured: You can soothe the burn.Start by getting to know your local pharmacist. Uniquely trained in drug interactions and side effects, pharmacists can help you look at the medications you're already taking, uncover any potential side effects...
Read the Questions to Ask Your Pharmacist About Heartburn Relief article > >
One commonly used "natural" heartburn remedy is calcium. It's also the active ingredient in many over-the-counter antacids.
If you find yourself popping antacids like candy and you're having heartburn more than a couple of times a week, or if you are using antacids for longer than two weeks, it's time to see the doctor. You may have a condition called GERD -- gastroesophageal reflux disease. Frequent heartburn can lead to long-term problems. It can cause inflammation and strictures in your esophagus. In rare cases, it may even lead to cancer. But stopping the acid reflux can help prevent complications in the future.
Here is a rundown of some other commonly used home remedies for heartburn, and the evidence for their effectiveness.
There isn't much research into herbal remedies for heartburn. Most of the research has centered on a product called Iberogast. It is made with 9 different herbs, including:
Some studies have shown that Iberogast may reduce heartburn. It's not clear, however, which herb in the mix relieves symptoms. Plus, peppermint oil can actually worsen heartburn, so it's not a good idea to take it if you have GERD.
Melatonin, a supplement used to aid sleep, has been suggested to help relieve heartburn. But the research is conflicting as to whether it is effective for this or any other gastrointestinal symptoms.
Before you decide to take any herbal remedy or supplement, check with your doctor. Some supplements can have side effects or can interact with medications you're already taking.
You're probably well aware that medications can help calm the burn, but natural heartburn remedies and lifestyle changes may be another way to get relief.
Recommended Related to Heartburn/GERD
Questions to Ask Your Pharmacist About Heartburn Relief
One in 10 Americans has heartburn or acid reflux at least once a week, according to the American Gastroenterological Association. Whether you're one of the lucky few who generally has an iron stomach -- or you need heartburn relief nearly every day -- rest assured: You can soothe the burn.Start by getting to know your local pharmacist. Uniquely trained in drug interactions and side effects, pharmacists can help you look at the medications you're already taking, uncover any potential side effects...
Read the Questions to Ask Your Pharmacist About Heartburn Relief article > >
One commonly used "natural" heartburn remedy is calcium. It's also the active ingredient in many over-the-counter antacids.
If you find yourself popping antacids like candy and you're having heartburn more than a couple of times a week, or if you are using antacids for longer than two weeks, it's time to see the doctor. You may have a condition called GERD -- gastroesophageal reflux disease. Frequent heartburn can lead to long-term problems. It can cause inflammation and strictures in your esophagus. In rare cases, it may even lead to cancer. But stopping the acid reflux can help prevent complications in the future.
Here is a rundown of some other commonly used home remedies for heartburn, and the evidence for their effectiveness.
Do Herbal Heartburn Remedies Work?
There isn't much research into herbal remedies for heartburn. Most of the research has centered on a product called Iberogast. It is made with 9 different herbs, including:
- Angelica
- Caraway
- Clown's mustard plant
- German chamomile
- Greater celandine
- Lemon balm
- Licorice
- Milk thistle
- Peppermint
Some studies have shown that Iberogast may reduce heartburn. It's not clear, however, which herb in the mix relieves symptoms. Plus, peppermint oil can actually worsen heartburn, so it's not a good idea to take it if you have GERD.
Are There Any Other Natural Treatments for Heartburn?
Melatonin, a supplement used to aid sleep, has been suggested to help relieve heartburn. But the research is conflicting as to whether it is effective for this or any other gastrointestinal symptoms.
Before you decide to take any herbal remedy or supplement, check with your doctor. Some supplements can have side effects or can interact with medications you're already taking.