10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Acid Reflux

Herbal tinctures for acid reflux are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants, which have been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of heartburn, bloating, and discomfort.

They work by soothing the esophagus and stomach lining, reducing inflammation and acid production. Examples include peppermint, licorice root, and chamomile, which can help calm digestive issues and improve overall well-being.

For example, a person who used to experience frequent acid reflux after meals reported significant relief with daily doses of peppermint tincture, allowing them to enjoy meals without discomfort and improving their quality of life.

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

1. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice tinctures helps with acid reflux because it contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antacid properties.

The glycyrrhizin present in licorice root has been shown to reduce inflammation in the esophagus and alleviate symptoms of heartburn and indigestion. Additionally, licorice tincture can help increase mucus production, which helps to protect and soothe the mucous membranes lining the stomach and esophagus, providing natural relief from acid reflux discomfort.

This natural remedy can offer long-term relief for those who suffer from recurring acid reflux episodes.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Glycyrrhizin: It helps with acid reflux by reducing inflammation in the esophagus and stomach lining, thereby preventing acid reflux symptoms.
• Licorice flavonoids: They help with acid reflux by reducing the production of stomach acid and soothing the stomach lining.
• Liquiritigenin: It helps with acid reflux by reducing inflammation and increasing the production of mucus in the stomach, which helps protect the stomach lining from acid damage.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots are the primary source of glycyrrhizin, a compound that helps soothe stomach irritation and reduce acid production, making them effective in treating acid reflux.
• Leaves: The leaves contain smaller amounts of glycyrrhizin compared to the roots, but they still contribute to the anti-inflammatory and soothing properties of the tincture.
• Barks: The barks of Glycyrrhiza glabra contain a smaller but significant amount of glycyrrhizin, which is used in some tinctures to provide relief from stomach acid and inflammation.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 200g of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots and 750ml of high proof vodka or ethanol for tincture preparation.
2. Combine the dried roots with 750ml of vodka in a clean glass jar for infusion.
3. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks shaking the jar daily.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container to remove the solids.
5. Transfer the tincture to dark glass bottles and label them with the date and ingredients used for future reference.

2. Zingiber officinale

Ginger tinctures helps with acid reflux because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm the digestive tract.

The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols, work to reduce inflammation in the esophagus and stomach lining, helping to neutralize stomach acid and reduce symptoms of acid reflux.

Additionally, ginger tinctures stimulate digestion and improve gastric motility, allowing food to move more efficiently through the digestive system and reducing pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter, which can contribute to acid reflux.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Gingerols and shogaols: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and spasmolytic effects, which help to reduce inflammation and relax the muscles in the esophagus, thereby alleviating acid reflux symptoms.
• Zingerone: This compound has a protective effect on the mucous membranes of the esophagus, reducing inflammation and preventing acid damage.
• Terpenoids: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce inflammation and prevent oxidative stress in the esophagus, thereby alleviating acid reflux symptoms.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots of Zingiber officinale are also used in tinctures for acid reflux because they contain compounds that have natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe and calm the digestive system.
• Buds: The buds of Zingiber officinale are sometimes used in tinctures for acid reflux as they have a higher concentration of bioactive compounds, including gingerols and shogaols, compared to mature roots, which can provide more potent relief from digestive issues.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 2-3 pounds of fresh zingiber officinale rhizomes in late summer or early fall.
2. Wash the rhizomes thoroughly with water and then dry them with a clean towel.
3. Chop the dried rhizomes into small pieces and combine them with 80% ethanol at a ratio of 1:3.
4. Steep the rhizome-ethanol mixture in a clean glass jar for 2-4 weeks in a cool dark place.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.

3. Passiflora incarnata

Maypop tinctures helps with acid reflux because of its unique combination of flavonoids, alkaloids, and glycosides that work together to soothe and calm the digestive tract.

The herb's anti-inflammatory properties reduce inflammation in the esophagus and stomach lining, reducing acid production and alleviating symptoms such as heartburn and bloating.

Additionally, maypop tinctures' natural antacids help neutralize stomach acid, providing quick relief from discomfort and pain associated with acid reflux.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Passiflora incarnata, such as vitexin and isovitexin, help with acid reflux by reducing inflammation and relaxing the smooth muscles in the digestive tract, thereby easing symptoms of acid reflux.
• Alkaloids: The alkaloids, including harmine and harmaline, present in Passiflora incarnata, help with acid reflux by reducing the production of stomach acid and promoting relaxation, which can alleviate symptoms of acid reflux.
• Iridoids: Iridoids, such as harman and harmin, in Passiflora incarnata help with acid reflux by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe the digestive tract and reduce inflammation associated with acid reflux.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They are used due to their high content of flavonoids and alkaloids, which have anti-inflammatory and soothing effects that can help alleviate acid reflux symptoms.
• Roots: The roots of Passiflora incarnata contain a higher concentration of flavonoids and alkaloids compared to other parts, making them a popular choice for tincture production.
• Fruits: The pulp and juice of the fruit have been traditionally used to treat digestive issues, including acid reflux, due to their high content of mucilages and other soothing compounds.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 to 2 pounds of fresh passiflora incarnata flowers and leaves in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
2. Dry the harvested material in a warm area with good air circulation for 1 to 2 weeks.
3. Chop 1 part of dried passiflora incarnata into small pieces and combine with 2 parts of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the chopped material in the ethanol mixture for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place.
5. Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.

4. Matricaria chamomilla

Chamomile tinctures helps with acid reflux because of its unique ability to soothe and calm the digestive system.

The apigenin in chamomile binds to benzodiazepine receptors in the brain, promoting relaxation and reducing inflammation in the esophagus and stomach lining. This helps to neutralize stomach acid and reduce symptoms such as heartburn and regurgitation.

Additionally, chamomile's anti-inflammatory properties help to heal and protect the mucous membranes in the esophagus, further alleviating discomfort and pain associated with acid reflux.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Apigenin: An apigenin is a flavonoid that helps with acid reflux by reducing inflammation and relaxing the muscles in the digestive tract, which can ease symptoms of acid reflux.
• Chamazulene: Chamazulene is a sesquiterpene lactone that has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and protect the esophageal lining, reducing irritation and inflammation associated with acid reflux.
• Luteolin: Luteolin is a flavonoid that has antioxidant properties, which can help neutralize free radicals that can exacerbate acid reflux symptoms and contribute to tissue damage in the esophagus.

Parts Used

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

• Flowers: The flowers are used due to their high apigenin and luteolin content, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe digestive issues.
• Leaves: The leaves are used for their bitter compounds that can stimulate digestive enzymes and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.
• Roots: The roots are used due to their sesquiterpene lactone content, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help alleviate acid reflux symptoms.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 to 2 cups of fresh matricaria chamomilla flowers in the morning when they are fully open.
2. Dry the harvested flowers in a single layer at room temperature for 1 to 2 weeks or use a food dehydrator.
3. Combine 1 cup of dried flowers with 2 cups of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture for 2 to 3 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking of the jar.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another glass container discarding the solids.

5. Aloe vera

Aloe tinctures helps with acid reflux because of its natural soothing properties, which calm the digestive tract and reduce inflammation.

The aloe vera gel contained in the tincture contains anti-inflammatory compounds like aloin and aloe-emodin, which help to alleviate symptoms of acid reflux such as heartburn and indigestion. Additionally, aloe tinctures can also help to improve digestion and reduce acidity in the stomach, further alleviating acid reflux symptoms.

This natural remedy provides relief from acid reflux without relying on harsh chemicals or medication.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Phenolic acids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the esophagus and alleviate symptoms of acid reflux.
• Anthraquinones: Specifically, compounds like aloe-emodin and aloe-resin have been shown to have a protective effect on the gastric mucosa, preventing acid reflux and reducing inflammation.
• Saponins: These compounds have a soothing effect on the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and promoting the healing of damaged tissues, which can help alleviate symptoms of acid reflux.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: Leaves are the most commonly used part of Aloe vera for acid reflux tinctures due to their high concentration of anti-inflammatory compounds.
• Gel from leaves: The gel inside the leaves contains mucilages that can help soothe and protect the digestive tract, reducing acid reflux symptoms.
• Aloe vera pulp from leaves: Aloe vera pulp from the leaves contains antioxidants and other compounds that can help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, alleviating acid reflux symptoms.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh aloe vera leaves and wash them thoroughly with filtered water to remove any impurities.
2. Chop the aloe vera leaves into small pieces using a sharp knife to increase their surface area.
3. Combine the chopped aloe vera pieces with 80 proof vodka or a similar solvent in a ratio of 1:2 in a clean glass jar.
4. Seal the jar and place it in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks to allow the tincture to mature.
5. Strain the liquid through a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and store it in a cool dark place.

6. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion tinctures helps with acid reflux because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm the digestive tract.

The herb's bitter compounds stimulate digestion, reducing symptoms of bloating and discomfort associated with acid reflux. Additionally, dandelion's mucilaginous texture forms a protective barrier in the esophagus, preventing acidic stomach contents from flowing back up and irritating the throat.

By promoting healthy gut function and reducing inflammation, dandelion tinctures provide natural relief from acid reflux symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Taraxasterol: This triterpenoid saponin helps with acid reflux by reducing inflammation in the stomach and intestines, which can contribute to the development of acid reflux symptoms.
• Taraxasteryl acetate: A triterpenoid saponin, it has been shown to have a protective effect on the stomach lining, reducing the likelihood of acid reflux and alleviating existing symptoms.
• Inulin: A type of fructan, inulin acts as a prebiotic, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria that can help regulate digestion and reduce symptoms of acid reflux.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They are used due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds like sesquiterpene lactones, which may help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the digestive tract.
• Roots: The roots contain inulin, a prebiotic fiber that can help regulate gut bacteria and alleviate digestive issues, including acid reflux.
• Flowers: The flowers are used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the esophagus and stomach, providing relief from acid reflux symptoms.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh taraxacum officinale roots and leaves in the spring or fall when the plant is in active growth phase.
2. Dry the harvested plant material in a warm area with good air circulation for 1 to 2 weeks.
3. Chop the dried taraxacum officinale plant material into small pieces and combine with 80 to 100 proof vodka in a ratio of 1 part plant material to 2 parts vodka.
4. Store the mixture in a dark glass container and let it steep for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.

7. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint tinctures helps with acid reflux because it contains menthol, which has a calming effect on the muscles in the esophagus and reduces inflammation.

When taken as a tincture, peppermint oil relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), allowing stomach acids to flow back up into the esophagus more easily.

This relief helps alleviate symptoms of acid reflux, such as heartburn and regurgitation, providing natural and effective relief for those suffering from this common digestive issue.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Menthol: Menthol helps with acid reflux by providing quick relief from heartburn and indigestion due to its anesthetic and anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce stomach discomfort and inflammation.
• Menthone: Menthone helps with acid reflux by reducing inflammation in the digestive tract and alleviating symptoms of heartburn and indigestion due to its anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects.
• Limonene: Limonene helps with acid reflux by reducing symptoms of heartburn and indigestion due to its ability to relax the lower esophageal sphincter, prevent acid reflux, and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part for making tinctures due to their high concentration of menthol and menthone, which provide a calming effect on the digestive system.
• Roots: The roots are also used for their earthy flavor and additional menthol content, which can help to relax the muscles in the digestive tract.
• Stems: The stems are sometimes used, particularly in combination with leaves, to create a stronger tincture that can help to alleviate symptoms of acid reflux.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 pound of fresh mentha x piperita leaves and flowers in the early morning when they are at their peak potency.
2. Chop the harvested plant material into small pieces to increase the surface area for solvent penetration.
3. Combine 1 pound of chopped plant material with 100 proof vodka in a 1:3 ratio by weight and steep for 2-3 weeks in a glass jar.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a separate container discarding the solids.
5. Transfer the tincture to dark glass bottles and store in a cool dark place for at least 2 weeks before using.

8. Sambucus nigra

Elder tinctures helps with acid reflux because of its unique composition, which soothes and calms the digestive system.

The bioactive compounds present in elderberry have natural anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the esophagus and stomach, thereby alleviating symptoms of acid reflux such as heartburn and regurgitation.

Additionally, elder tinctures contain mucilages that coat the lining of the esophagus and stomach, providing a protective barrier against acidic digestive juices and reducing irritation caused by stomach acid backflow.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Phenolic acids: These compounds help with acid reflux by neutralizing stomach acid and reducing inflammation in the esophagus, thereby alleviating symptoms of heartburn and acid reflux.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, such as quercetin and kaempferol, have anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce inflammation in the esophagus and protect against damage caused by acid reflux.
• Tannins: Tannins have a soothing effect on the mucous membranes in the esophagus, reducing inflammation and providing relief from acid reflux symptoms.

Parts Used

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

• Flowers: The flowers are commonly used due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which help to calm the digestive system and reduce acid production.
• Leaves: The leaves are often used for their antispasmodic properties, which can help to relax the muscles in the digestive tract and reduce symptoms of acid reflux.
• Stems: The stems are sometimes used for their astringent properties, which can help to tighten the muscles in the digestive tract and prevent acid from flowing back up into the esophagus.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest sambucus nigra berries in late summer to early fall when they are fully ripe and ready for use.
2. Dry the berries in a single layer at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 6 hours to prevent spoilage.
3. Combine 1 part sambucus nigra berries with 2 parts vodka in a clean glass jar to create a strong tincture.
4. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks shaking the jar every day to facilitate extraction.
5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids to obtain the final tincture.

9. Echinacea angustifolia

Kansas coneflower tinctures helps with acid reflux because of its unique composition, which includes bioactive compounds that have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The tannins and flavonoids present in the herb help to reduce inflammation in the esophagus and stomach lining, alleviating symptoms such as heartburn and regurgitation.

Additionally, the herb's natural soothing effects can help to calm digestive discomfort, allowing for more effective digestion and reduced acid production.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the esophagus and stomach, alleviating acid reflux symptoms.
• Alkaloids: Ichoranol and echinacoside, two types of alkaloids found in Echinacea angustifolia, have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help soothe the digestive tract and prevent acid reflux.
• Flavonoids: Quercetin, a flavonoid present in Echinacea angustifolia, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation and protect the mucous membranes in the esophagus and stomach from acid damage.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: They are the primary source of alkaloids and glycosides, which have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that help alleviate acid reflux symptoms.
• Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that can help reduce inflammation and discomfort associated with acid reflux.
• Barks: They contain compounds like echinacin and echinacoside, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help soothe and protect the digestive tract from acid reflux.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest roots of echinacea angustifolia in late summer or early fall when they are most potent and dried properly.
2. Chop 1 part of the dried roots into small pieces and combine them with 2 parts of a solvent like vodka or glycerin.
3. Place the root mixture in a clean glass jar and store it in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks.
4. Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine mesh to separate the plant material from the solvent.
5. Transfer the resulting tincture to dark glass bottles and store them in a cool dark place for up to 5 years.

10. Foeniculum vulgare

Fennel tinctures helps with acid reflux because of its natural ability to reduce inflammation in the esophagus and stomach, thereby alleviating symptoms such as heartburn and indigestion.

The herb's anti-inflammatory properties also help to neutralize excess stomach acid, preventing it from flowing back up into the esophagus and causing discomfort. Additionally, fennel tinctures can stimulate digestive enzymes, promoting proper digestion and reducing the likelihood of acid reflux.

By addressing these underlying causes, herbal fennel tinctures provide a natural solution for managing acid reflux symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Anethole: Anethole, a phenolic compound, helps alleviate acid reflux by relaxing the muscles in the digestive tract, reducing inflammation, and promoting a soothing effect on the stomach lining.
• Fenchone: Fenchone, a terpene, exhibits anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can help reduce inflammation and ease muscle spasms in the digestive tract, thereby relieving acid reflux symptoms.
• Daucosterol: Daucosterol, a triterpene saponin, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help protect the stomach lining from acid damage, reducing inflammation and promoting healing, which can alleviate acid reflux symptoms.

Parts Used

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

• Seeds: The seeds of Foeniculum vulgare are used to make tinctures for acid reflux due to their high concentration of volatile oils, particularly anethole, which has anti-inflammatory and carminative properties.
• Roots: The roots of Foeniculum vulgare are used to make tinctures for acid reflux due to their high content of essential oils, which help to soothe the digestive system and reduce inflammation.
• Leaves: The leaves of Foeniculum vulgare are used to make tinctures for acid reflux due to their antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to calm the digestive system and reduce discomfort.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest the foeniculum vulgare leaves and flowers in the early morning after the dew has evaporated.
2. Dry the harvested plant material in a warm dark place for 2-3 weeks.
3. Combine 500 grams of dried plant material with 1000 milliliters of 35-50 percent ethanol in a clean glass container.
4. Steep the mixture for 2-6 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking and stirring.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and store in a cool dark place.

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

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with acid reflux is DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice root) and slippery elm.

DGL helps protect the esophageal mucosa, reducing inflammation and pain, while slippery elm soothes and coats the digestive tract. Additionally, consider adding gentian root, which aids digestion and reduces acidity, and aloe vera, which has anti-inflammatory properties to calm the digestive system.

These tinctures work together to provide relief from acid reflux symptoms and promote overall digestive health.

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

Ailments similar to acid reflux that are treated with herbal tinctures are digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and peptic ulcers.

Herbs like Aloe vera, Marshmallow root, and Slippery elm help soothe and calm the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and discomfort.

Tinctures made from herbs like Gentian, Dandelion, and Chamomile can also alleviate symptoms of indigestion, bloating, and abdominal pain.