10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Acid Reflux

Herbal decoctions for acid reflux are a natural and effective way to alleviate symptoms associated with this condition.

A decoction is a concentrated liquid made by steeping herbs in hot water, which helps to soothe and protect the digestive tract. Herbs such as chamomile, licorice root, and marshmallow root have anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce inflammation and discomfort in the esophagus, while ginger and peppermint help to calm stomach acid production.

By consuming these herbal decoctions, individuals can experience reduced symptoms of acid reflux, leading to improved sleep, increased comfort during meals, and a better overall quality of life.

The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for acid reflux, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice decoctions helps with acid reflux because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the esophagus.

The glycyrrhizin present in licorice root has been shown to reduce inflammation and irritation in the stomach lining, alleviating symptoms such as heartburn and indigestion. Additionally, licorice decoctions can help to relax the lower esophageal sphincter, preventing stomach acid from flowing back up into the esophagus and causing discomfort.

As a natural remedy, licorice decoctions offer a gentle yet effective way to manage acid reflux symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra decoctions that help with acid reflux.

• Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin helps with acid reflux by inhibiting the production of gastric acid and increasing the mucus production in the stomach, providing a protective barrier against acid reflux.
• Licoricidin: This flavonoid glycoside has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the esophagus and stomach, alleviating symptoms of acid reflux.
• Liquiritigenin: This flavonoid is believed to have a protective effect on the mucous membranes of the stomach and esophagus, preventing acid reflux by reducing inflammation and promoting healing of damaged tissues.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make decoctions for acid reflux.

• Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make decoctions for acid reflux because they contain glycyrrhizin, a compound that helps reduce inflammation and alleviate heartburn symptoms.
• Leaves: The leaves of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make decoctions for acid reflux because they contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that help soothe the digestive tract and reduce acid production.
• Barks: The barks of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make decoctions for acid reflux because they contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that help reduce inflammation and protect the mucous membranes in the digestive tract.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for acid reflux.

1. Measure 2-4 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots and place them in a heat-resistant container.
2. Combine the measured roots with 1 liter of boiling water to create a decoction base.
3. Simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the water.
4. Strain the decoction through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the root fragments.
5. Allow the decoction to cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container.

2. Zingiber officinale

Ginger decoctions helps with acid reflux because its active compounds, such as gingerols and shogaols, have natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

These compounds help to soothe the esophagus and reduce inflammation caused by acid reflux, alleviating symptoms like heartburn and bloating.

Additionally, ginger's digestive enzymes stimulate the stomach and small intestine, promoting proper digestion and reducing the likelihood of stomach contents flowing back up into the esophagus, thereby relieving acid reflux discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale decoctions that help with acid reflux.

• Gingerols: These gingerol compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation in the esophagus and alleviate symptoms associated with acid reflux.
• Shogaols: Shogaols are responsible for the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of ginger, which help to protect the esophageal lining from acid damage and reduce acid production in the stomach.
• 6-gingerol: This compound has been shown to have a direct effect on the smooth muscle of the esophagus, reducing spasms and alleviating symptoms of acid reflux.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make decoctions for acid reflux.

• Rhyzomes: The rhizomes of Zingiber officinale are used to make decoctions for acid reflux as they contain compounds with anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the digestive system.
• Roots: The roots of Zingiber officinale are used to make decoctions for acid reflux as they contain shogaols and gingerols, which have natural anti-inflammatory and antacid properties.
• Buds: The buds of Zingiber officinale are used to make decoctions for acid reflux as they are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for acid reflux.

1. Wash your hands thoroughly before handling the fresh ginger root.
2. Grate 2-3 grams of fresh zingiber officinale root into a heat-resistant container.
3. Add 200 milliliters of boiling water to the container containing the grated ginger.
4. Simmer the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the active ingredients to infuse.
5. Strain the decoction through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup and discard the solids.

3. Passiflora incarnata

Maypop decoctions helps with acid reflux because it contains a compound called passion flower alkaloids, which have natural anti-inflammatory properties.

These alkaloids help to soothe and calm the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and irritation that can exacerbate acid reflux symptoms. Additionally, maypop decoctions contain flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have been shown to relax the esophageal sphincter and reduce stomach acid production, providing relief from heartburn and regurgitation.

By addressing both the root causes of acid reflux, maypop decoctions offer a natural and effective solution for alleviating symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Passiflora incarnata decoctions that help with acid reflux.

• Flavonoids: They help alleviate acid reflux by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the esophagus and stomach lining.
• Morphinan alkaloids: They help mitigate acid reflux symptoms by reducing the frequency and severity of acid secretion, as well as relaxing the smooth muscles in the digestive tract.
• Iridoid glycosides: They help ease acid reflux by inhibiting the contraction of smooth muscles and reducing the sensitivity of the vagus nerve, which can contribute to acid reflux.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of maypop used to make decoctions for acid reflux.

• Leaves: The leaves of Passiflora incarnata are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of flavonoids and glycosides, which have anti-inflammatory and antacid properties.
• Roots: The roots of Passiflora incarnata are also widely used due to their rich content of alkaloids, which have a calming effect on the stomach and can help alleviate acid reflux symptoms.
• Fruits: The fruits of Passiflora incarnata, specifically the pulp, are used to make decoctions as they contain a high amount of mucilage, which can soothe the esophagus and reduce inflammation associated with acid reflux.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maypop for acid reflux.

1. Harvest 50 grams of dried passiflora incarnata root and flowers from a trusted source.
2. Combine the dried plant material with 1 liter of distilled water in a saucepan.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat then reduce the heat to low.
4. Simmer the decoction for 10 to 15 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

4. Matricaria chamomilla

Chamomile decoctions helps with acid reflux because of its natural anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

The apigenin present in chamomile binds to GABA receptors, calming the stomach and reducing inflammation that can exacerbate acid reflux symptoms.

Additionally, chamomile's relaxant properties help to ease digestive spasms, allowing food to digest more efficiently and preventing stomach acids from flowing back up into the esophagus, providing relief from heartburn and indigestion.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla decoctions that help with acid reflux.

• Apigenin: This flavonoid helps with acid reflux by reducing inflammation and relaxing the muscles in the digestive tract, thereby alleviating symptoms such as heartburn and indigestion.
• Luteolin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the esophagus and reduce inflammation associated with acid reflux, providing relief from heartburn and discomfort.
• Apigenin-7-glucoside: This flavonoid glycoside has been shown to exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help protect the stomach lining and reduce the severity of acid reflux symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make decoctions for acid reflux.

• Flowers: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and calming properties that help soothe the digestive system and reduce acid reflux symptoms.
• Leaves: They are used because they contain flavonoids and terpenoids that have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate acid reflux discomfort.
• Seeds: They are used due to their carminative properties, which can help reduce gas and alleviate symptoms of acid reflux.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for acid reflux.

1. Harvest 1-2 ounces of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers from a trusted source.
2. Measure out 1 teaspoon of the dried flowers for every 8 ounces of water.
3. Steep the flowers in boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes to release their properties.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
5. Allow the decoction to cool and then refrigerate it for up to 2 days.

5. Aloe vera

Aloe decoctions helps with acid reflux because of its unique composition, which includes mucilages that form a soothing gel-like substance.

This gel coats the esophageal lining, reducing inflammation and irritation caused by stomach acid reflux. The anti-inflammatory properties of aloe also help to relax the lower esophageal sphincter, preventing it from relaxing too much and allowing stomach contents to flow back up into the esophagus.

Additionally, aloe's natural soothing properties calm the digestive tract, alleviating symptoms of acid reflux such as heartburn and discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera decoctions that help with acid reflux.

• Polysaccharides: These help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the esophagus and stomach, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with acid reflux.
• Glycoproteins: These have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the production of stomach acid and alleviate symptoms of acid reflux, such as heartburn and bloating.
• Anthraquinones: These compounds have a soothing effect on the digestive system and can help relax the lower esophageal sphincter, reducing the likelihood of stomach acid flowing back up into the esophagus and causing acid reflux symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make decoctions for acid reflux.

• Leaves: Aloe vera leaves are commonly used due to their high content of aloe-emodin, which helps to reduce inflammation and alleviate acid reflux symptoms.
• Gel (from leaves): The clear gel inside aloe vera leaves is widely used for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to calm acid reflux.
• Juice (from leaves): Aloe vera leaf juice is also commonly used to treat acid reflux due to its ability to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the digestive tract.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for acid reflux.

1. Harvest fresh aloe vera leaves with a sharp knife cutting just above the node for maximum yield.
2. Peel the skin off the aloe vera leaves using a spoon and discard the outer layer.
3. Weigh 200 grams of peeled aloe vera flesh and cut it into small pieces to increase surface area.
4. Steep the aloe vera pieces in 1000 milliliters of boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes to release the gel.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine mesh sieve to remove the aloe vera solids.

6. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion decoctions helps with acid reflux because it has natural anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and calm the digestive tract.

The bitter compounds present in dandelion root help to stimulate digestive enzymes, improving digestion and reducing inflammation in the esophagus and stomach lining.

This relief from inflammation allows the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) to function properly, preventing stomach acid from flowing back up into the esophagus and reducing symptoms of acid reflux.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale decoctions that help with acid reflux.

• Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce inflammation in the esophagus and alleviate symptoms of acid reflux.
• Saponins: These glycosidic compounds have a soothing effect on the gastrointestinal tract, reducing inflammation and calming the stomach muscles, thereby alleviating acid reflux symptoms.
• Triterpenoids: These compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help protect the esophageal mucosa from acid damage and reduce the severity of acid reflux symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make decoctions for acid reflux.

• Roots: The roots are used due to their high concentration of inulin, which can help soothe the digestive system and reduce inflammation.
• Leaves: The leaves are used for their antacid and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of acid reflux.
• Flowers: The flowers are used for their soothing and calming effects on the digestive system, which can help reduce symptoms of acid reflux.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for acid reflux.

1. Harvest 1 to 2 handfuls of taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers in the morning for optimal potency.
2. Chop the harvested plant material into small pieces to release its bioactive compounds over 5 minutes.
3. Combine the chopped taraxacum officinale with 1 liter of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
4. Simmer the taraxacum officinale mixture for 15 to 30 minutes to extract its medicinal properties.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container and discard the solids.

7. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint decoctions helps with acid reflux because its natural oils, such as menthol and methanol, relax the muscles in the esophagus and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.

This relaxation of muscles allows stomach acid to move more efficiently back down into the stomach, reducing the likelihood of acid flowing back up into the esophagus and causing discomfort.

Additionally, peppermint's calming properties help soothe the digestive system, further alleviating symptoms of acid reflux.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita decoctions that help with acid reflux.

• Menthol: Helps with acid reflux by providing a cooling effect that soothes the stomach lining and reduces inflammation.
• Rosmarinic acid: Aids in reducing acid reflux symptoms by inhibiting the production of stomach acid and improving digestion.
• Limonene: Helps alleviate acid reflux by reducing inflammation and relaxing the muscles in the digestive tract, which in turn eases symptoms such as heartburn and bloating.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make decoctions for acid reflux.

• Leaves: They are used due to their high concentration of menthol and menthone, which have natural anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that help alleviate acid reflux symptoms.
• Rhyzomes: They are used because they contain menthol and other compounds that help to relax the muscles in the digestive tract and reduce inflammation, thereby providing relief from acid reflux.
• Stems: They are used as they contain menthol and other essential oils that help to soothe the digestive tract, reduce inflammation, and calm digestive spasms associated with acid reflux.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for acid reflux.

1. Harvest fresh mentha x piperita leaves in the morning after the dew has dried.
2. Dry the harvested leaves in a single layer at a temperature of 35 degrees celsius for 2 hours.
3. Measure 2 teaspoons of dried mentha x piperita leaves and combine them with 250 milliliters of boiling water in a saucepan.
4. Simmer the mixture at a temperature of 90 degrees celsius for 10 minutes to release the active compounds.
5. Strain the decoction using cheesecloth and discard the solids before storing it in a glass container.

8. Sambucus nigra

Elder decoctions helps with acid reflux because of its unique properties that soothe and calm the digestive tract.

The bioactive compounds present in elderberries, such as anthocyanins and flavonoids, have a natural anti-inflammatory effect on the esophageal lining, reducing irritation and discomfort caused by acid reflux.

Additionally, the decoction's demulcent properties create a protective barrier that prevents stomach acids from flowing back up into the esophagus, providing fast and effective relief from symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra decoctions that help with acid reflux.

• Flavonoids: These plant-derived compounds help with acid reflux by reducing inflammation and improving the mucosal barrier in the esophagus, thereby alleviating symptoms of heartburn and acid reflux.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds have a soothing effect on the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and irritation caused by acid reflux, while also promoting the healing of damaged tissues.
• Ellagic acid: This polyphenol has antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the esophagus, thereby alleviating symptoms of acid reflux and promoting healing of the mucosal lining.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make decoctions for acid reflux.

• Flowers: Used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe and calm the digestive system.
• Leaves: Used for their astringent and antacid properties, which help to reduce inflammation and neutralize stomach acid.
• Fruits: Used for their antacid and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to neutralize stomach acid and soothe digestive issues.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for acid reflux.

1. Harvest 10-20 grams of fresh sambucus nigra flowers in the morning after dew has evaporated.
2. Chop the flowers into small pieces and add 1 liter of water to a saucepan.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer for 10-15 minutes.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine mesh sieve into a clean container.
5. Store the decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for later use.

9. Echinacea angustifolia

Kansas coneflower decoctions helps with acid reflux because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the esophagus.

The decoction's natural compounds, such as flavonoids and terpenes, work to reduce inflammation and relax the lower esophageal sphincter, preventing stomach acid from flowing back up into the esophagus.

This helps to alleviate symptoms of heartburn and acid reflux, providing relief for those suffering from this common digestive disorder.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia decoctions that help with acid reflux.

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds may help alleviate acid reflux symptoms by reducing inflammation in the esophagus and improving the integrity of the gastric mucosa.
• Alkaloids: These alkaloids may exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which could help reduce inflammation and irritation in the esophagus and stomach, contributing to acid reflux relief.
• Phenolic acids: These phenolic acids have antioxidant properties, which may help neutralize stomach acid and protect the esophageal lining from oxidative stress, potentially alleviating acid reflux symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make decoctions for acid reflux.

• Roots: As the primary source of bioactive compounds, they are rich in alkaloids, phenolic acids, and other flavonoids that help alleviate acid reflux symptoms.
• Leaves: With their high concentration of flavonoids and phenolic acids, they contribute to soothing the digestive tract and reducing inflammation associated with acid reflux.
• Roots: The secondary mention of roots is due to their high concentration of alkaloids which help to reduce the production of stomach acid and alleviate acid reflux symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for acid reflux.

1. Gather 30-60 grams of dried echinacea angustifolia roots and stems from a trusted supplier.
2. Measure 250-500 ml of water in a medium saucepan and place it on the stovetop.
3. Boil the water for 10-15 minutes or until it reaches a rolling boil.
4. Reduce heat to a simmer and add the echinacea angustifolia to the boiling water.
5. Steep the mixture for 20-40 minutes or until the liquid has reduced to about half its original volume.

10. Foeniculum vulgare

Fennel decoctions helps with acid reflux because it has natural antacid properties that help neutralize stomach acid.

The volatile oils present in fennel, such as anethole and trans-anethole, have been shown to relax the muscles of the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with acid reflux.

Additionally, fennel decoctions can help stimulate digestion and improve gut motility, allowing food to pass through the system more efficiently and reducing symptoms of indigestion and heartburn.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare decoctions that help with acid reflux.

• Anethole: Anethole, a terpene found in Foeniculum vulgare, helps to relax the lower esophageal sphincter, reducing the frequency and severity of acid reflux.
• Foeniculin: Foeniculin, a sesquiterpene, has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce inflammation in the esophagus and stomach lining, alleviating acid reflux symptoms.
• Bisabolol: Bisabolol, a sesquiterpene, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the esophagus and stomach, reducing acid reflux discomfort.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make decoctions for acid reflux.

• Leaves: The leaves are commonly used due to their high content of volatile oils, particularly anethole, which has anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate acid reflux symptoms.
• Seeds: The seeds are used because they contain a higher concentration of anethole compared to the leaves, making them a preferred choice for acid reflux treatment.
• Stems: The stems are utilized for their essential oils, which are similar in composition to the leaves and seeds, providing relief from acid reflux symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for acid reflux.

1. Gather 2-3 teaspoons of dried foeniculum vulgare roots and leaves for decoction preparation.
2. Combine the dried foeniculum vulgare ingredients with 2 cups of water in a medium saucepan.
3. Bring the foeniculum vulgare and water mixture to a boil over high heat within 10 minutes.
4. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer the decoction for 10-15 minutes.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for acid reflux?

The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with acid reflux is a blend of licorice root, slippery elm, and marshmallow root.

Licorice root soothes and protects the mucous membranes, while slippery elm forms a protective barrier on the stomach lining. Marshmallow root helps to calm inflammation and reduce acid production. Combining these herbs in a decoction can provide effective relief from acid reflux symptoms, promoting a healthy digestive system and reducing discomfort.

This blend can be consumed after meals to alleviate symptoms.

What ailments similar to acid reflux are treated with herbal decoctions?

Ailments similar to acid reflux that are treated with herbal decoctions are digestive disorders such as bloating, gas, and indigestion.

Herbal decoctions like peppermint, ginger, and chamomile can help soothe the stomach lining, reduce inflammation, and ease discomfort.

Other conditions, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and heartburn, can also be treated with these natural remedies.