Herbs for heartburn

Introduction

The human body normally produces hydrochloric acid because it is required in the process of food digestion. The intestines are lined with protective mucus whose primary function is to prevent the corrosive effect of the acids on the stomach. The esophagus is very prone to damage since it is not lined with the mucus, especially during vomiting.

Heartburn is a condition in which a person experiences a burning sensation in the esophagus due to the exposure to the corrosive effects of stomach acid. The condition is medically referred to as gastroesophageal reflux. The esophageal sphincter prevents the stomach acid from entering the esophagus. Sometimes the undigested contents of the stomach may get into the esophagus which ultimately results in heartburn. This condition may also be caused by numerous external factors and underlying medical conditions.

External factors may include obesity, smoking, pregnancy and excessive weight. Ingestion of chocolate, garlic, onion, alcoholic beverages and certain types of prescription medications can also be the cause of heartburn in certain cases. Other types of food, including coffee, citrus fruits and tomatoes can also be the cause of the uncomfortable condition. Overeating should be avoided, since it can also lead to heartburn in some people.

Herbal Remedies

There are numerous herbal remedies and supplements that can be efficient in treating and relieving the symptoms of heartburn. Each and every one of them may provide different people with different properties and different results so a person needs to try them all in order to determine which one is best suited to one’s individual own needs.

All herbal remedies trigger no side effects at all and can be mixed with prescribed medicines. Those who suffer from heartburn only occasionally can use tablets that contain calcium carbonate and antacids. Licorice is another remedy that can be of great help because it restores the mucus in the stomach and relieves the symptoms of heartburn.

Aloe Vera juice is also very efficient in soothing the esophagus and relieving the symptoms of severe heartburn. All herbal remedies can be used efficiently as a therapeutic measure against heartburn, but it is very important that a person prevents heartburn by taking gamma-oryzanol. It is very effective against heartburn on a long term basis. Other preventive remedies include vitamin B, thiamin and choline. It is recommended that a person limits the consumption of coffee and alcohol and avoids fatty and oily foods as much as possible.