By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Capsules For Gerd
Herbal capsules for Gerd are natural supplements that utilize plant-based extracts to alleviate symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
These capsules work by soothing the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and acid production, and improving digestion. Examples of herbal capsules that help with GERD include ginger, peppermint, and slippery elm, which have been shown to provide rapid relief from heartburn, bloating, and discomfort.
By using these natural remedies, individuals can improve their overall quality of life by enjoying meals without discomfort and regaining confidence in social situations.
The following article describes in detail the most important capsules for gerd, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Zingiber officinale
- 2. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 3. Cinnamomum verum
- 4. Curcuma longa
- 5. Foeniculum vulgare
- 6. Mentha x piperita
- 7. Althaea officinalis
- 8. Piper methysticum
- 9. Taraxacum officinale
- 10. Silybum marianum
- What is the best combination of herbal capsules to use for gerd?
- What ailments similar to gerd are treated with herbal capsules?
1. Zingiber officinale
Ginger capsules helps with GERD because they contain a natural anti-inflammatory compound called gingerol, which soothes the digestive tract and reduces inflammation in the esophagus.
This relief helps to alleviate symptoms of heartburn and acid reflux, allowing food to digest more efficiently and reducing the likelihood of stomach contents flowing back up into the esophagus.
By calming the digestive system, herbal ginger capsules provide natural relief from GERD discomfort and promote a healthier gut overall.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale capsules that help with gerd.
- Shogaols: These ginger-derived compounds help alleviate GERD symptoms by reducing inflammation in the esophagus and relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter, thereby preventing stomach acid reflux.
- Gingerols: Specifically, the 6-gingerol and 8-gingerol isomers exhibit potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the esophagus and stomach, thereby alleviating GERD symptoms.
- Zingiberene: This sesquiterpene has been shown to have a relaxing effect on the lower esophageal sphincter, reducing the frequency and severity of acid reflux episodes in individuals with GERD.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make capsules for gerd.
- Rhyzomes: The most commonly used part of ginger, rhyzomes have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate GERD symptoms.
- Roots: Ginger roots, also known as rhyzomes, contain compounds like gingerol and shogaol that have anti-inflammatory and carminative effects, making them useful in managing GERD.
- Barks: Although less commonly used, ginger barks have been traditionally employed in herbal medicine to treat digestive issues, including GERD, due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for gerd.
- Harvest the zingiber officinale roots after 8-10 months of growth in a shaded environment.
- Clean and dry the harvested zingiber officinale roots in a low-temperature oven at 40c for 2 hours.
- Grind the dried zingiber officinale roots into a fine powder using a high-speed grinder.
- Mix 500mg of the zingiber officinale powder with 500mg of cellulose powder and 10mg of magnesium stearate.
- Fill empty gelatin capsules with the zingiber officinale mixture and seal them using a capsule sealer.
2. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice capsules helps with GERD because they contain compounds that soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the esophagus, reducing inflammation and discomfort.
Glycyrrhizin, a key component of licorice root, has anti-inflammatory properties that help to neutralize acid reflux and alleviate heartburn symptoms.
Additionally, licorice capsules may also help to relax the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing stomach acid to flow back up into the esophagus more smoothly, reducing symptoms of GERD.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra capsules that help with gerd.
- Licorice flavonoids: These compounds help reduce inflammation and soothe the mucous membranes in the esophagus, reducing irritation and discomfort associated with GERD.
- Isoflavones: Isoflavones, specifically isoflavonoids like glabridin, have anti-inflammatory properties that may help protect the esophageal mucosa and reduce symptoms of GERD such as heartburn and acid reflux.
- Saponins: Saponins, particularly glycyrrhizin, exhibit a mild anti-spasmodic effect, which can help relax the lower esophageal sphincter and reduce the frequency and severity of acid reflux episodes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make capsules for gerd.
- Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are primarily used due to their high concentration of glycyrrhizin, a compound that helps reduce inflammation and alleviate heartburn symptoms.
- Barks: The barks of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used due to their ability to soothe the digestive tract and reduce inflammation, providing relief from GERD symptoms.
- Stems: The stems of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used due to their rich content of glycosides and flavonoids, which help to protect the mucous membranes in the digestive tract and alleviate GERD symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for gerd.
- Harvest 30g of dried roots of glycyrrhiza glabra, clean and dry them in a low temperature oven for 24 hours.
- Grind 20g of the dried roots into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 30 minutes.
- Mix the powdered glycyrrhiza glabra with 10g of starch and 2g of gelatin in a bowl for 5 minutes.
- Fill 100 empty gelatin capsules with 500mg of the mixture and seal them using a capsule filler for 10 minutes.
- Label the capsules with the name, dosage, and preparation date, and store them in a cool dry place.
3. Cinnamomum verum
Ceylon cinnamon capsules helps with GERD because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the digestive tract and reduce inflammation in the esophagus.
The capsules also contain a compound called cinnamaldehyde, which has been shown to relax the muscles in the lower esophageal sphincter, preventing acid reflux and reducing symptoms of heartburn and bloating.
Additionally, Ceylon cinnamon's ability to regulate blood sugar levels can help alleviate other GERD symptoms such as belching and flatulence, providing relief for those struggling with this chronic condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cinnamomum verum capsules that help with gerd.
- Cinnamaldehyde: This phenolic aldehyde has natural anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the esophagus and alleviate symptoms of acid reflux.
- Eugenol: A phenolic compound that has been shown to inhibit the production of stomach acid and relax the lower esophageal sphincter, thereby reducing the risk of acid reflux.
- Cinnamic acid: A phenolic acid that has been found to have a relaxing effect on the muscles in the digestive tract, including the lower esophageal sphincter, which can help prevent stomach acid from flowing back up into the esophagus.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ceylon cinnamon used to make capsules for gerd.
- Barks: Cinnamomum verum bark is commonly used to make capsules for GERD due to its anti-inflammatory and antacid properties.
- Leaves: Cinnamomum verum leaves are used to make capsules for GERD as they contain compounds that help in reducing inflammation and alleviating symptoms of heartburn and acid reflux.
- Rhyzomes: Cinnamomum verum rhyzomes are used to make capsules for GERD as they contain cinnamaldehyde, a compound that has natural antacid properties and helps in soothing the digestive system.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ceylon cinnamon for gerd.
- Grind 20 grams of dried cinnamomum verum bark into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Mix the powder with 50 grams of gelatin in a bowl to create a uniform blend.
- Add 100 ml of distilled water to the bowl and stir the mixture until the gelatin dissolves completely.
- Transfer the mixture to a capsule machine and fill 100 capsules with the herbal mixture.
- Store the capsules in a cool dry place for at least 24 hours before consumption.
4. Curcuma longa
Turmeric capsules helps with GERD because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation in the esophagus and alleviate symptoms such as heartburn and acid reflux.
The curcumin present in turmeric also helps to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter, preventing stomach acid from flowing back up into the esophagus.
Additionally, turmeric's natural antioxidant properties may help to soothe and protect the lining of the digestive tract, reducing irritation and discomfort associated with GERD.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa capsules that help with gerd.
- Curcumin: Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound, helps with GERD by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the esophagus, thereby alleviating symptoms of heartburn and acid reflux.
- Demethoxycurcumin: DMC, another polyphenolic compound, has been shown to decrease acid production in the stomach, which can help alleviate GERD symptoms by reducing the amount of acid that flows back up into the esophagus.
- Bis-demethoxycurcumin: BDMC, a polyphenolic compound, helps with GERD by relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and reducing acid production in the stomach, which can help alleviate symptoms of heartburn and acid reflux.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make capsules for gerd.
- Rhyzomes: Turmeric Rhizome Extract - It's used due to its high content of curcumin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate GORD symptoms.
- Rhyzomes: Turmeric Rhizome Powder - It's used because it contains a significant amount of curcuminoids that have been shown to reduce inflammation and improve symptoms associated with GERD.
- Rhyzomes: Curcuma Longa Rhizome Extract - It's used for its potential to reduce acid production in the stomach, alleviate heartburn and other GORD symptoms, and promote digestive health.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for gerd.
- Collect 250g of dried turmeric roots and sift them through a fine-mesh sieve to remove lumps.
- Grind the sifted turmeric roots into a fine powder using a high-speed grinder for 2 minutes.
- Mix 2 tablespoons of the ground powder with 1 tablespoon of gelatin and 1 tablespoon of water in a small bowl.
- Heat the mixture over low heat for 5 minutes while stirring constantly until the gelatin dissolves completely.
- Allow the mixture to cool and harden at room temperature for 30 minutes before filling capsules.
5. Foeniculum vulgare
Fennel capsules helps with GERD because of its natural ability to soothe the digestive tract and reduce inflammation.
The herb contains a compound called anethole, which has been shown to relax the muscles in the esophagus and alleviate symptoms of acid reflux.
Additionally, fennel's carminative properties help to expel gas and bloating, allowing for more efficient digestion and reduced pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter, thereby alleviating GERD symptoms such as heartburn and regurgitation.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare capsules that help with gerd.
- Anethole: Anethole has anti-inflammatory and carminative properties, which help to reduce inflammation in the esophagus and alleviate symptoms of GERD by promoting the relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter.
- Ferulic acid: Ferulic acid has antioxidant and gastroprotective properties, which help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the stomach and esophagus, thereby alleviating symptoms of GERD and promoting healing of the esophageal mucosa.
- Trans-anethole: Trans-anethole has antispasmodic properties, which help to relax the muscles of the lower esophageal sphincter and reduce symptoms of GERD, such as heartburn and acid reflux.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make capsules for gerd.
- Seeds: The seeds are often used for their carminative and anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate symptoms of GERD.
- Leaves: The leaves are used due to their ability to relax the muscles in the digestive tract and reduce inflammation, which can help alleviate GERD symptoms.
- Roots: The roots are utilized for their anti-inflammatory and carminative properties, which help to soothe and calm the digestive system, reducing GERD symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for gerd.
- Harvest 20-30g of foeniculum vulgare roots and rhizomes at the end of the blooming season.
- Dry the harvested material in a well-ventilated area at 50-60°c for 2-3 days.
- Grind the dried foeniculum vulgare roots into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Mix 1-2g of the fine powder with 1-2g of gelatin or vegetarian capsule material.
- Fill the mixture into empty capsules using a capsule filler machine and store in a cool dry place.
6. Mentha x piperita
Peppermint capsules helps with GERD because they calm the lower esophageal sphincter, reducing inflammation and relaxing the digestive tract.
The menthol in peppermint oil also decreases acid production in the stomach, which can help alleviate symptoms such as heartburn and regurgitation.
Additionally, peppermint's natural anti-inflammatory properties reduce inflammation in the esophagus, making it an effective complementary treatment for managing GERD symptoms and promoting overall digestive health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita capsules that help with gerd.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic diterpenoid in Mentha x piperita, rosmarinic acid helps with GERD by reducing inflammation in the esophagus and protecting against acid reflux.
- Menthol: A monoterpenoid in Mentha x piperita, menthol aids in GERD by relaxing the muscles in the esophagus, reducing inflammation, and improving digestion.
- Limonene: A terpene in Mentha x piperita, limonene helps with GERD by reducing inflammation in the stomach and esophagus, promoting digestion, and alleviating symptoms of acid reflux.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make capsules for gerd.
- Leaves: They contain menthol and menthone, which have antispasmodic properties that help relax the muscles in the digestive tract, reducing symptoms of GERD.
- Stems: They contain essential oils, including menthone and limonene, which have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects that can help alleviate GERD symptoms.
- Roots: They contain menthol and menthone, which can help soothe the digestive tract and reduce inflammation, providing relief from GERD symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for gerd.
- Harvest 1 part of mentha x piperita leaves and flowers when they are in full bloom for 3 weeks.
- Dry the harvested mentha x piperita in a single layer at 30 degrees celsius for 2 weeks.
- Grind 2 grams of dried mentha x piperita into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Mix 2 grams of the powder with 6 grams of gelatin and 2 grams of glycerin to create a uniform blend.
- Fill gelatin capsules with the mentha x piperita blend using a capsule filler machine.
7. Althaea officinalis
Marshmallow capsules helps with Gerd because they provide natural relief from heartburn and acid reflux.
The mucilages in marshmallow root coat and soothe the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and irritation caused by stomach acid. This helps to calm the esophagus and alleviate symptoms of Gerd, such as burning sensations and regurgitation.
Additionally, marshmallow's anti-inflammatory properties may also help to reduce swelling in the esophagus, further alleviating discomfort and promoting a sense of relief.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis capsules that help with gerd.
- Mucilages: Mucilages help to form a protective barrier in the stomach, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with GERD.
- Tannins: Tannins have a soothing effect on the mucous membranes, reducing inflammation and irritation in the esophagus and stomach, which can help alleviate GERD symptoms.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly kaempferol and quercetin, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the esophagus and stomach, making them beneficial for GERD management.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make capsules for gerd.
- Roots: The roots of Althaea officinalis are primarily used due to their high mucilage content, which can help soothe and protect the digestive tract.
- Leaves: Althaea officinalis leaves are also used, as they contain mucilages that can help calm and protect the mucous membranes in the esophagus, reducing symptoms of GERD.
- Barks: The bark of Althaea officinalis is sometimes used, as it contains similar mucilages to the roots and leaves, which can help soothe and protect the digestive tract and reduce inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for gerd.
- Harvest the roots of althaea officinalis when they are at their peak in the fall season.
- Clean the roots thoroughly with water to remove any dirt or debris from the harvesting process.
- Dry the roots in a well-ventilated area at a temperature of 50-60°c for 2-3 hours.
- Grind the dried roots into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle or a mill.
- Fill gelatin capsules with 300-500mg of the powdered root and seal them immediately.
8. Piper methysticum
Kava capsules helps with GERD because it relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with acid reflux.
The herb's anxiolytic properties also help alleviate stress-induced symptoms, such as tightness in the chest and difficulty swallowing. Additionally, kava's anti-inflammatory compounds reduce swelling in the esophagus and stomach lining, preventing further irritation and damage from acidic stomach contents.
This natural approach can provide relief for those suffering from chronic GERD symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Piper methysticum capsules that help with gerd.
- Phenylpropanoids: These compounds, particularly kavalactones, have been shown to relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and reduce inflammation, which can help alleviate symptoms of GERD.
- Kavalactones: Specifically, kavalactones like kavalactone, kavain, and desmethoxyyangonin have been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help protect the esophageal lining from acid damage and reduce symptoms of GERD.
- Flavonoids: Piper methysticum contains flavonoids like kaempferol and quercetin, which have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to reduce inflammation and protect the esophageal lining from acid damage.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kava used to make capsules for gerd.
- Roots: The roots of Piper methysticum are commonly used due to their high concentration of kavalactones, which contribute to the plant's medicinal properties.
- Leaves: The leaves of Piper methysticum are also used, but to a lesser extent compared to the roots.
- Stems: Some sources suggest that the stems of Piper methysticum may be used in traditional medicine, possibly due to their kavalactone content.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kava for gerd.
- Harvest mature piper methysticum roots and rhizomes for medicinal use within 3-5 years after planting.
- Dry the harvested roots and rhizomes using a food dehydrator at 40°c for 24 hours.
- Grind the dried piper methysticum into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or herb mill.
- Mix the powder with a suitable capsule filler like cellulose or starch in a 1:2 ratio by weight.
- Fill empty gelatin capsules with the powder mixture using a capsule filling machine or spoon.
9. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion capsules helps with GERD because of its unique ability to stimulate digestion and relieve symptoms associated with acid reflux.
The herb has natural anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the esophageal lining, reducing inflammation and discomfort caused by stomach acid backing up into the throat.
Additionally, dandelion's bitter compounds can help stimulate the production of digestive enzymes, improving digestion and reducing symptoms of heartburn and regurgitation.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale capsules that help with gerd.
- Taraxasterol: This triterpene compound has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the esophagus and alleviate GERD symptoms.
- Luteolin: A flavonoid phenolic compound, luteolin has been found to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help protect the esophagus from acid damage and reduce inflammation associated with GERD.
- Apolactone: A triterpenoid compound, apolactone has been reported to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help soothe the esophagus, reduce inflammation, and alleviate GERD symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make capsules for gerd.
- Roots: They contain taraxasterol and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which help in soothing GERD symptoms.
- Leaves: Rich in flavonoids and other bioactive compounds, they aid in reducing inflammation and providing relief from heartburn and acid reflux.
- Seeds: Containing saponins, they have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help in reducing GERD symptoms and promoting digestive health.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for gerd.
- Harvest taraxacum officinale roots and leaves at the end of the blooming season when they are most potent.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a warm place with good air circulation for two weeks.
- Grind the dried plant material into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle.
- Mix the powdered taraxacum officinale with a binding agent like gelatin or vegetarian capsule filler in a ratio of 1:10.
- Fill empty gelatin or vegetarian capsules with the powder mixture using a capsule filler and seal tightly.
10. Silybum marianum
Milk thistle capsules helps with GERD because of its potent antioxidant properties, which help soothe and protect the esophageal lining.
The capsule's active compound, silymarin, has been shown to reduce inflammation and irritation caused by acid reflux, allowing the stomach contents to pass through the esophagus without discomfort.
Additionally, milk thistle capsules may also help strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter, preventing stomach acid from flowing back up into the esophagus and alleviating symptoms of heartburn and regurgitation.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Silybum marianum capsules that help with gerd.
- Silymarin: Silymarin is a flavonoid complex that helps protect the esophageal mucosa from acid damage, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with GERD.
- Silibinin: Silibinin, a major component of silymarin, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help reduce acid production and alleviate symptoms of GERD.
- Flavonoids: These flavonoids have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help protect the esophageal mucosa from acid damage, reduce inflammation, and alleviate symptoms of GERD.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of milk thistle used to make capsules for gerd.
- Seeds: They are used to make capsules due to their high content of silymarin, a compound that helps protect the stomach lining and reduce inflammation associated with GERD.
- Flowers: They are used to make capsules due to their ability to soothe and calm the digestive system, reducing symptoms of GERD.
- Leaves: They are used to make capsules due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce inflammation and discomfort in the esophagus and stomach associated with GERD.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic milk thistle for gerd.
- Crush 500 grams of dried silybum marianum plant material into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Mix 25 grams of the powdered plant material with 250 grams of gelatin to create a uniform blend.
- Add 125 milliliters of distilled water to the mixture and heat it gently for 10 minutes to dissolve the gelatin.
- Pour the mixture into empty gelatin capsules and seal them immediately to preserve the contents.
- Label the capsules with the contents and date of preparation and store them in a cool dry place.
What is the best combination of herbal capsules to use for gerd?
The best combination of herbal capsules that help with GERD is a blend of Licorice root, Aloe vera, Slippery elm, and Ginger.
Licorice root soothes the stomach lining, while Aloe vera reduces inflammation and promotes healing. Slippery elm forms a protective barrier to prevent acid reflux, and Ginger helps to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, reducing symptoms of GERD.
This combination promotes a healthy digestive system, reducing acid production and alleviating discomfort.
What ailments similar to gerd are treated with herbal capsules?
Ailments similar to GERD that are treated with herbal capsules are heartburn, acid reflux, and digestive disorders.
Herbal remedies such as licorice root, marshmallow root, and slippery elm help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the esophagus and stomach, reducing inflammation and discomfort.
Other herbs like aloe vera and chamomile may also be used to calm digestive issues and alleviate symptoms of these conditions.