By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 18, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Gerd
Herbal creams for gerd are topical creams or ointments made from natural herbs and plant extracts that help alleviate symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
These creams work by reducing inflammation and soothing the esophagus and stomach lining, thereby decreasing heartburn and discomfort.
Examples include slippery elm and aloe vera creams, which have been shown to improve symptoms and quality of life for individuals suffering from GERD, allowing for better digestion and reduced medication reliance.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for gerd, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Mentha x piperita
- 2. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 3. Cinnamomum verum
- 4. Foeniculum vulgare
- 5. Zingiber officinale
- 6. Melissa officinalis
- 7. Aloe vera
- 8. Tilia x europaea
- 9. Bacopa monnieri
- 10. Taraxacum officinale
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for gerd?
- What ailments similar to gerd are treated with herbal creams?
1. Mentha x piperita
Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, creams helps with GERD because of its soothing and calming properties.
The menthol in peppermint creams can help relax the muscles in the esophagus and reduce inflammation, providing quick relief from heartburn and acid reflux.
Additionally, peppermint's natural cooling sensation can help to numb the discomfort and pain associated with GERD, providing an almost instant feeling of relief and comfort, making it an effective treatment option for those suffering from this condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita creams that help with gerd.
- Menthol: Menthol has a relaxing effect on the muscles surrounding the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), thereby reducing symptoms of acid reflux and heartburn associated with Gerd.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the esophagus and alleviate Gerd symptoms.
- Menthone: Menthone has a mild relaxant effect on the smooth muscles of the LES, allowing stomach acid to flow more freely and reducing the likelihood of acid reflux and Gerd symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make creams for gerd.
- Leaves: Their essential oils, particularly menthol and menthone, help relax the muscles in the digestive tract, reducing symptoms of GERD.
- Stems: The essential oils present in the stems also have a calming effect on the digestive system, which can help alleviate GERD symptoms.
- Roots: The roots of Mentha x piperita are used for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe the digestive tract and reduce inflammation associated with GERD.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for gerd.
- Extract 1 cup of fresh leaves of mentha x piperita in 2 cups of boiling water for 10 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean bowl to remove the solids.
- Combine 1 cup of the plant extract with 1/2 cup of beeswax and 1/4 cup of coconut oil in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture over low heat for 30 minutes or until the beeswax is fully melted and incorporated.
- Remove the mixture from the heat and let it cool for 30 minutes before whipping it into a smooth cream.
2. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, creams helps with GERD because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The active compounds in licorice root, such as glycyrrhizin and flavonoids, have been shown to reduce inflammation in the esophagus and stomach, providing relief from heartburn and acid reflux.
Additionally, licorice root has natural antispasmodic properties, which can help relax the lower esophageal sphincter and prevent stomach acid from flowing back up into the esophagus, providing much-needed relief for those suffering from GERD symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra creams that help with gerd.
- Saponins: Saponins in Glycyrrhiza glabra creams help with GERD by forming a protective barrier in the stomach, reducing inflammation and preventing acid reflux.
- Glycyrrhizin: Glycyrrhizin in Glycyrrhiza glabra creams has anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the esophagus and reduce inflammation caused by acid reflux, providing relief from GERD symptoms.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Glycyrrhiza glabra creams have antioxidant properties that help protect the esophagus from oxidative stress and inflammation, thereby reducing the risk of GERD complications and symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make creams for gerd.
- Roots: Roots are widely used due to their high content of glycyrrhizin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the esophagus and alleviate GERD symptoms.
- Leaves: Leaves are used for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe and protect the esophagus from acid reflux.
- Barks: Barks are also utilized due to their glycosides content, which can help calm the digestive system and reduce inflammation in the esophagus, providing relief from GERD symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for gerd.
- Extract 250g of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots with 1000ml of water for 30 minutes to create the base.
- Filter the mixture and discard the solids then add 10g of sodium lauryl sulfate and mix well.
- Heat the mixture at 70 degrees celsius for 30 minutes then add 10g of cetearyl alcohol and 10g of glycerin.
- Mix the ingredients until they are fully incorporated then add 10g of stearic acid and 5g of vitamin e oil.
- Transfer the mixture to a container and let it cool and solidify at room temperature for 2 hours.
3. Cinnamomum verum
Cinnamomum verum, also known as Ceylon cinnamon, creams helps with GERD because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The active compounds in Ceylon cinnamon, such as cinnamaldehyde, have been shown to reduce inflammation in the esophagus and alleviate symptoms of acid reflux. By applying a Ceylon cinnamon cream topically, it can help soothe and protect the esophageal lining, reducing the risk of acid damage and discomfort associated with GERD.
This natural remedy offers a promising approach to managing GERD symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cinnamomum verum creams that help with gerd.
- Cinnamaldehyde: Cinnamaldehyde, a major phenolic constituent in Cinnamomum verum, helps alleviate GERD symptoms by reducing inflammation in the esophagus and stomach, and also exhibiting antioxidant properties that protect against acid reflux.
- Eugenol: Eugenol, a phenolic compound in Cinnamomum verum, exerts anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that help mitigate GERD symptoms, including reducing the risk of acid reflux and alleviating esophageal inflammation.
- Linalool: Linalool, a terpene constituent in Cinnamomum verum, has a calming effect on the digestive system, reducing symptoms of GERD such as heartburn and acid reflux, and promoting relaxation to alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ceylon cinnamon used to make creams for gerd.
- Leaves: They are used because of their carminative and antispasmodic properties, which help reduce acid reflux and alleviate Gerd symptoms.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes of Cinnamomum verum are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help protect the stomach lining and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ceylon cinnamon for gerd.
- Extract 250 grams of cinnamomum verum bark in 1 liter of water for 2 hours to create a strong infusion.
- Strain the infusion through a cheesecloth to separate the bark from the liquid and discard the solids.
- Mix 100 grams of beeswax and 100 grams of coconut oil in a double boiler to melt the wax.
- Combine the strained infusion with 100 grams of shea butter and 50 grams of lanolin in the melted wax mixture.
- Stir the mixture for 30 minutes until it thickens and cools to form a smooth and creamy texture.
4. Foeniculum vulgare
Foeniculum vulgare, also known as fennel, creams helps with GERD because of its natural anti-inflammatory and carminative properties.
The volatile oils present in fennel, such as anethole and fenchone, have been shown to relax the lower esophageal sphincter, reducing symptoms of acid reflux. Additionally, fennel's soothing properties may help calm the digestive system, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with GERD.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to alleviate digestive issues, making it a promising alternative for those seeking relief from GERD symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare creams that help with gerd.
- Foeniculin: A terpene found in fennel, which helps relax the lower esophageal sphincter, reducing reflux and alleviating GERD symptoms.
- Anethole: A phenolic compound that has anti-inflammatory and carminative properties, helping to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of heartburn and acid reflux associated with GERD.
- Saponins: A type of glycoside found in fennel, which may help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the esophagus, reducing irritation and inflammation caused by acid reflux.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make creams for gerd.
- Seeds: The seeds of Foeniculum vulgare are commonly used to make creams due to their high carminative and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe digestive issues.
- Leaves: The leaves are another key part used in creams for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate GERD symptoms.
- Stems: The stems of Foeniculum vulgare are used in creams due to their antispasmodic and carminative properties, which can help relax the digestive system and alleviate discomfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for gerd.
- Harvest 50g of dried foeniculum vulgare at the peak of its fragrance to ensure maximum potency.
- Infuse the dried herb in 1l of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil for 2 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into a clean container to remove the solids.
- Mix 20% of the infused oil with 80% of a moisturizing cream base to create a smooth consistency.
- Store the foeniculum vulgare cream in a cool dark place for up to 6 months to retain its therapeutic properties.
5. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, creams helps with GERD because of its anti-inflammatory properties and natural digestive enzymes.
The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols, have been shown to reduce inflammation in the esophagus and alleviate symptoms of acid reflux. Additionally, ginger has been found to relax the lower esophageal sphincter, preventing stomach acid from flowing back up into the esophagus, thereby providing relief from heartburn and discomfort associated with GERD.
Regular use of ginger cream may help manage symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale creams that help with gerd.
- Gingerols: These are a type of phenolic compound that help with GERD by reducing inflammation in the esophagus and relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter, thereby preventing acid reflux.
- Shogaols: These are another type of phenolic compound found in ginger that help with GERD by inhibiting the production of gastric acid and improving digestion, which can help alleviate symptoms of acid reflux.
- Terpenoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that help with GERD by reducing inflammation in the esophagus and alleviating symptoms of acid reflux, such as heartburn and discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make creams for gerd.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are the most used part of Zingiber officinale due to their high concentration of compounds that help to relax the lower esophageal sphincter and reduce acid reflux.
- Barks: Barks are sometimes used to make creams for GERD as they contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may help to soothe the digestive tract and reduce inflammation.
- Leaves: Leaves are occasionally used due to their ability to help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of GERD through their antioxidant properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for gerd.
- Harvest 1-2 pounds of fresh zingiber officinale roots in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
- Dry the harvested roots in a single layer at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
- Grind 2 ounces of dried zingiber officinale roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
- Mix 1 cup of distilled water with 1/2 cup of a carrier oil such as sweet almond oil.
- Whip 8 ounces of a neutral base such as beeswax with 16 ounces of the carrier oil mixture using an electric mixer.
6. Melissa officinalis
Melissa officinalis, also known as lemon balm, creams helps with GERD because it contains rosmarinic acid, a potent antioxidant that soothes and calms the digestive tract.
This anti-inflammatory property helps to reduce inflammation and irritation in the esophagus, alleviating symptoms of heartburn and acid reflux. By relaxing the muscles in the stomach and reducing symptoms of acid reflux, Melissa officinalis creams provides relief from GERD symptoms, promoting a more comfortable and peaceful digestive experience.
Its calming effects also help to reduce stress and anxiety.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis creams that help with gerd.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that helps reduce inflammation and protect the mucous membranes in the esophagus, thereby alleviating GERD symptoms.
- Linalool: A terpene that has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can help relax the lower esophageal sphincter and reduce acid reflux.
- Geranial: A terpene that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and protect the esophageal lining, thereby alleviating GERD symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make creams for gerd.
- Leaves: They contain the highest concentration of essential oils, particularly linalool and linalyl acetate, which provide anti-inflammatory and relaxing properties.
- Stems: Stems of Melissa officinalis are sometimes used due to their lower concentration of essential oils, but they still contribute to the overall relaxing and calming effects of the creams.
- (optional) roots: Although the roots are not as commonly used as the leaves and stems, they can be used in some herbal remedies for their potential anti-inflammatory properties, but their effectiveness in GERD creams is less documented.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for gerd.
- Harvest melissa leaves in the early morning when the dew is still present on the plant.
- Dry the harvested melissa leaves in a low-temperature oven at 150f for 2 hours.
- Steep 10 grams of dried melissa leaves in 100ml of carrier oil at 100f for 2 hours.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container.
- Mix the infused oil with beeswax and essential oil in a double boiler at 180f for 30 minutes.
7. Aloe vera
Aloe vera, also known as aloe, creams helps with GERD because of its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
The gel extracted from the aloe plant contains compounds like aloin and aloe-emodin, which work to reduce inflammation and neutralize stomach acid. This helps to alleviate heartburn and acid reflux symptoms associated with GERD.
Additionally, aloe vera creams can help to protect the esophageal lining from further irritation, promoting a faster healing process and providing relief from discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera creams that help with gerd.
- Anthraquinones: These glycosides help alleviate GERD symptoms by reducing inflammation and modulating gut motility, thereby preventing acid reflux.
- Flavonoids: Specifically, flavonoids like kaempferol and quercetin in Aloe vera possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that soothe the esophageal mucosa and reduce acid reflux.
- Polysaccharides: Aloe vera's polysaccharides, such as acemannan, possess anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the esophagus, alleviate GERD symptoms, and promote healing of the esophageal mucosa.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make creams for gerd.
- Leaves: Aloe vera leaves are rich in anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, making them a common ingredient in creams for GERD due to their ability to calm and protect the esophagus and stomach lining.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for gerd.
- Harvest 4-6 aloe vera leaves with a sharp knife and remove the outer green skin for use in the recipe.
- Blend 1 cup of the aloe vera pulp with 1 tablespoon of distilled water to create a smooth consistency.
- Mix 1 tablespoon of beeswax with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in a double boiler over medium heat.
- Combine the blended aloe vera mixture with the beeswax and coconut oil mixture in a heat-proof bowl.
- Whip the mixture with an electric mixer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens and forms a smooth cream.
8. Tilia x europaea
Tilia x europaea, also known as lime, creams helps with GERD because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The lime flower's flavonoids and terpenes have been shown to reduce inflammation in the esophagus and stomach, which can help alleviate symptoms of acid reflux. Additionally, Tilia x europaea creams may help relax the lower esophageal sphincter, preventing stomach acid from flowing back up into the esophagus.
This can provide relief for individuals experiencing heartburn, regurgitation, and other GERD symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Tilia x europaea creams that help with gerd.
- Flavonoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the esophagus and alleviate symptoms of GERD.
- Terpenoids: Certain terpenoids, such as linalool and linalyl acetate, have been shown to relax the lower esophageal sphincter, reducing acid reflux and alleviating GERD symptoms.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have antioxidant properties, which can help protect the esophagus from oxidative stress caused by acid reflux, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with GERD.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lime used to make creams for gerd.
- Leaves: They are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which help soothe and calm the digestive system.
- Flowers: They have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of GERD.
- Buds: They contain flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to protect the digestive tract and alleviate GERD symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lime for gerd.
- Harvest fresh tilia x europaea flowers on a warm sunny day in the summer months.
- Dry the flowers in a cool well-ventilated area for at least 7 days using paper bags.
- Steep 100 grams of dried flowers in 500 milliliters of carrier oil for 2 to 3 weeks.
- Strain the mixture through cheesecloth and press the solids to extract as much oil as possible.
- Mix the extracted oil with 100 grams of beeswax and 50 milliliters of distilled water to create a smooth cream.
9. Bacopa monnieri
Bacopa monnieri, also known as brahmi, creams helps with GERD because it is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that may help soothe and calm the digestive tract.
The herb has been traditionally used to aid in digestion and relieve symptoms of heartburn and acid reflux. By reducing inflammation and promoting healthy digestion, Bacopa monnieri creams may provide relief from GERD symptoms, such as burning sensations and discomfort, allowing for a more comfortable and peaceful digestive experience.
Its potential benefits make it a popular natural remedy.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Bacopa monnieri creams that help with gerd.
- Bacosides: Bacosides are a group of saponin glycosides found in Bacopa monnieri. They help with GERD by reducing inflammation and modulating the gut-brain axis, which can alleviate symptoms such as heartburn and acid reflux.
- Bacosterols: Bacosterols are a type of triterpenoid saponin found in Bacopa monnieri. They help with GERD by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the esophagus, which can prevent damage to the esophageal mucosa and alleviate symptoms.
- Phenylethanoid glycosides: Phenylethanoid glycosides, particularly brahmoside and isobrahmoside, are found in Bacopa monnieri. They help with GERD by relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter and reducing the frequency of acid reflux episodes, which can alleviate symptoms and prevent complications.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of brahmi used to make creams for gerd.
- Leaves: They are rich in bacosides, which are the key compounds responsible for the medicinal properties of Bacopa monnieri.
- Roots: They contain a high concentration of bacosides and other bioactive compounds that can help alleviate GERD symptoms.
- Stems: They also contain bacosides and other compounds that may help soothe and protect the digestive tract.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic brahmi for gerd.
- Weigh 100 grams of dried bacopa monnieri root powder.
- Combine the powder with 100 grams of beeswax pellets and 50 grams of coconut oil.
- Heat the mixture in a double boiler at 120-140 degrees fahrenheit for 30 minutes.
- Add 20 grams of vitamin e oil and 5 grams of lavender essential oil to the mixture.
- Pour the mixture into small containers and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
10. Taraxacum officinale
Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, creams helps with GERD because of its natural anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The cream's active ingredients, such as taraxasterol and inulin, work to calm the digestive tract and reduce inflammation in the esophagus. This helps to alleviate symptoms of heartburn and acid reflux, providing quick relief from the discomfort and pain associated with GERD.
By promoting a healthy balance of gut bacteria and reducing inflammation, Taraxacum officinale creams offer a natural and effective solution for managing GERD symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale creams that help with gerd.
- Inulin: Inulin is a type of fructan that can help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of GERD by soothing the digestive tract and reducing gut irritation.
- Taraxasterol: Taraxasterol is a triterpene saponin that exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate GERD symptoms by reducing inflammation in the esophagus and stomach lining.
- Quercetin: Quercetin is a flavonoid that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help protect the esophageal lining from acid damage and reduce the severity of GERD symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make creams for gerd.
- Leaves: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of GERD.
- Roots: They are used due to their potential to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the digestive tract.
- Flowers: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help protect the mucous membranes in the esophagus and stomach.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for gerd.
- Harvest 50 grams of dried taraxacum officinale roots in late summer or early fall for their medicinal properties.
- Combine the roots with 50 grams of beeswax in a double boiler and heat until the beeswax melts.
- Add 200 milliliters of distilled water to the mixture and stir until it reaches a temperature of 40 degrees celsius.
- Remove the mixture from heat and let it cool to 30 degrees celsius before adding 10 grams of vitamin e oil.
- Pour the mixture into a glass jar and let it set for two hours before applying to the skin as a cream.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for gerd?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with GERD is a blend of slippery elm, aloe vera, and marshmallow root.
Slippery elm soothes the esophageal lining, reducing inflammation and irritation. Aloe vera calms the digestive system, while marshmallow root provides a protective barrier against stomach acid. Together, these creams can alleviate heartburn, discomfort, and digestive issues associated with GERD.
Apply the combination topically to the chest or abdomen to experience relief from GERD symptoms.
What ailments similar to gerd are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to GERD that are treated with herbal creams are eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea.
These conditions often involve inflammation and irritation of the skin, which can be soothed by topical applications of herbs like aloe vera, chamomile, and calendula.
Herbal creams may also help reduce itching, redness, and scaling associated with these conditions, providing natural relief for skin discomfort.