Try a Natural Remedy for Heartburn

Many people have experienced the burning sensation behind the sternum. This burning sensation in the chest is referred to as heartburn or pyrosis. The sensation may spread to other parts of the body such as the throat, neck or jaw. It is usually caused by the regurgitation of stomach acid into the esophagus and it is best to try a natural remedy for heartburn to cure the problem.

Heartburn commonly happens after a meal and may last for a few minutes or for hours. If the heartburn is regular, it may be a symptom of a more serious disease like Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). Heartburn may also be a symptom of peptic ulcers or hiatal hernia. Other things that may cuase heartburn are smoking, certain medicines such as ibuprofen, aspirin, some types of high blood pressure medication and sedatives, caffeinated drinks, carbonated drinks, spicy or fatty foods, lying down soon after eating, eating huge meals before bedtime and stress. Unfortunately most people just head to the drug store for over the counter anti acids which will not solve a long term problem as using a natural remedy for heartburn would do.

Overweight people are more prone to heartburn than other people. They should avoid creating pressure on the stomach by wearing tight fitting clothes, heavy lifting and bending over very for a period of time right after eating.

There are a number of heartburn remedies. Each remedy may work for some and not for others, but a natural remedy for heartburn is always better than drugs which are only a temporary cure and can produce side effects.

Yogurt - This is a good remedy for heartburn and it also promotes general digestive system health. The bacteria in yoghurt help reduce the disease causing germs in the intestines too.

Peppermint – This herb is known to calm the stomach and prevent indigestion. It can be taken as tea after meals or during a heartburn episode. Another idea is to chew peppermint gum.

Ginger – This is a good remedy for heartburn because it helps intestinal movements therefore aiding proper digestion. It works well against nausea and it has anti-inflammatory properties. The ginger herb can be added to food during cooking, can be chewed raw or made into a tincture.

Chamomile – This herb is well known for its calming effect. Because it is high in calcium, it is able to neutralize stomach acid. It can also be drunk as tea.

The three herbs mentioned above are called carminative herbs because they are able to cause the removal of gas from the digestive tract. Other herbs that can be used as a remedy for heartburn include licorice, marshmallow, lemon balm, aloe vera, slippery elm, almonds and mustard.

Apple Cider Vinegar – This is an old folk remedy for heartburn. Despite it being acidic, it is thought to reduce acidity by creating a more alkaline condition in the stomach. It is suggested that it works like a proton inhibitor. The extra acid in the stomach from the apple cider vinegar sends a message to the body that there is enough acid in the stomach and therefore no more should be produced.

Baking soda and water – This is also a reliable remedy for heartburn. The baking soda should dissolved in water and drank slowly. This remedy should not be used very often as baking soda has very high sodium content.

The simplest remedy for heartburn to use when nothing else is available is warm water. The water acts by diluting the stomach acid that is causing the heartburn.