Heartburn Causes, Medicinal Herbs And Herbal Preparations
Heartburn is a common condition characterized by a burning sensation in the chest and throat area, often caused by stomach acid flowing back up into the esophagus.
Herbal remedies offer a natural and effective solution to treat heartburn, providing numerous benefits such as reducing inflammation, soothing digestive issues, and promoting overall gut health.
Certain herbs like licorice root, ginger, and slippery elm are highly effective in treating heartburn due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, while others like aloe vera and chamomile aid in digestion and relaxation, further alleviating symptoms.
Herbal preparations such as teas, tinctures, and capsules made from these herbs, as well as herbal remedies like digestive bitters and probiotic-rich fermented foods, can be used to treat heartburn, providing a more holistic approach to managing this condition.
What causes heartburn?
The primary causes of heartburn are the relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and the abnormal contraction of the stomach muscles, allowing stomach acid to flow back up into the esophagus.
Secondary causes include eating large or spicy meals, lying down after eating, and consuming trigger foods such as citrus fruits, chocolate, and caffeine, which can weaken the LES and increase pressure on the stomach.
Lifestyles that increase the chances of developing heartburn include being overweight or obese, smoking, and consuming high-fat or high-sugar diets, all of which can put additional pressure on the stomach and LES, leading to acid reflux.
Furthermore, pregnancy and certain medications, such as sedatives and antihistamines, can also contribute to heartburn by relaxing the LES and increasing stomach acid production.
What herbs heal heartburn?
The medicinal herbs used to treat heartburn are Ginger, Licorice root, and Chamomile, which have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that help to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms.
Ginger's bioactive compound, gingerol, has a relaxing effect on the muscles in the digestive tract, while Licorice root's glycyrrhizin has anti-inflammatory actions that help to protect the mucous membranes from acid damage.
Chamomile's apigenin and luteolin have a calming effect on the digestive system, reducing spasms and inflammation that can contribute to heartburn.
These herbs work therapeutically by reducing inflammation, relaxing muscles, and protecting the mucous membranes, providing relief from heartburn symptoms.
What preparations treat heartburn?
The herbal preparations used to treat heartburn are often teas and infusions that help to soothe and calm the digestive system, reducing inflammation and alleviating discomfort.
Drinking a warm tea made from a specific plant that has natural anti-inflammatory properties can provide quick relief from heartburn symptoms, while another herbal preparation, often consumed as a cool infusion, helps to neutralize stomach acid.
Additionally, certain herbal preparations are used to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter, preventing stomach acid from flowing back up into the esophagus and causing heartburn.
Drinking a calming herbal tea before meals can also help to prevent heartburn by reducing stress and promoting digestion.
The articles in the following links discuss in detail the best herbal preparation used to treat heartburn.