By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 18, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Heartburn
Herbal creams for heartburn are topical treatments that provide relief from heartburn and acid reflux symptoms by soothing the esophagus and stomach lining.
They typically contain herbs like aloe vera, slippery elm, and chamomile, which have anti-inflammatory and calming properties. Examples of herbal creams that help with heartburn include Digestive Enzyme Cream and Heartburn Relief Cream.
They can improve lives by reducing discomfort and allowing individuals to enjoy meals without pain, promoting a better quality of life and peace of mind.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for heartburn, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Zingiber officinale
- 2. Aloe vera
- 3. Mentha x piperita
- 4. Foeniculum vulgare
- 5. Symphytum officinale
- 6. Matricaria chamomilla
- 7. Tilia platyphyllos
- 8. Althaea officinalis
- 9. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 10. Taraxacum officinale
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for heartburn?
- What ailments similar to heartburn are treated with herbal creams?
1. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, creams helps with heartburn because of its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to soothe digestive issues.
The ginger compounds, such as gingerol and shogaol, work to reduce inflammation and ease stomach discomfort. This natural remedy helps to relax the lower esophageal sphincter, preventing stomach acid from flowing back up into the esophagus, thereby providing relief from heartburn and other digestive symptoms associated with acid reflux.
It also aids in improving digestion and reducing symptoms of bloating.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale creams that help with heartburn.
- Gingerols: These phenolic compounds help with heartburn by reducing inflammation in the esophagus and alleviating symptoms of acid reflux.
- Shogaols: Similar to gingerols, shogaols are also phenolic compounds that help with heartburn by relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter and reducing inflammation in the digestive tract.
- Zingiberene: A terpene, zingiberene helps with heartburn by reducing inflammation and slowing down gastric emptying, which can help alleviate symptoms of acid reflux.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make creams for heartburn.
- Roots: Ginger roots are rich in gingerol, a natural compound that can help reduce inflammation and soothe digestive issues associated with heartburn.
- Buds: Ginger buds contain a higher concentration of shogaol, a compound that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and can help alleviate heartburn symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for heartburn.
- Harvest 1 pound of fresh zingiber officinale roots in the early morning to ensure highest essential oil content.
- Clean and peel 1 pound of zingiber officinale roots under cold running water to remove dirt and impurities.
- Dry the peeled roots in a warm oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 3 to 4 hours to remove excess moisture.
- Grind 2 tablespoons of dried zingiber officinale root into a fine powder using a coffee grinder to increase surface area.
- Mix 2 tablespoons of zingiber officinale powder with 8 ounces of coconut oil and 2 tablespoons of beeswax in a double boiler.
2. Aloe vera
Aloe vera, also known as aloe, creams helps with heartburn because of its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
The gel extracted from the aloe plant has been used for centuries to calm digestive issues, including heartburn. It works by neutralizing stomach acid and reducing inflammation in the esophagus, providing quick relief from burning sensations.
Additionally, aloe vera creams can help to heal and protect the mucous membranes in the esophagus, promoting a healthy digestive tract and reducing the frequency of heartburn episodes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera creams that help with heartburn.
- Acemannan: Acemannan is a polysaccharide that helps with heartburn by reducing inflammation in the esophagus and promoting the healing of damaged mucosal tissues.
- Glucomannan: Glucomannan, a type of soluble fiber, helps with heartburn by slowing down digestion and reducing the passage of stomach acid into the esophagus, thereby providing relief from heartburn symptoms.
- Alloemodin: Alloemodin is a phenolic compound that helps with heartburn by reducing the production of stomach acid and improving the healing of the esophageal lining, thus alleviating heartburn symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make creams for heartburn.
- Leaves: They contain soothing compounds like aloe-emodin, which helps to reduce inflammation and provide relief from heartburn symptoms.
- Gel (inside the leaves): Although not listed, the inner gel is the most used part of the Aloe vera plant. However, since the gel is inside the leaves, the leaves are the main component. The gel contains soothing compounds that help to calm the esophagus and reduce heartburn symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for heartburn.
- Gather 1 cup of aloe vera gel, 1/4 cup of coconut oil and 2 tablespoons of beeswax.
- Melt 2 tablespoons of coconut oil and 1 tablespoon of beeswax in a double boiler for 10 minutes.
- Add 1 cup of aloe vera gel to the melted mixture and stir well for 5 minutes.
- Whip the mixture for 5 minutes until it becomes thick and creamy using an electric mixer.
- Pour the herbal cream into a glass jar and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
3. Mentha x piperita
Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, creams helps with heartburn because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties and ability to relax the muscles in the esophagus.
The menthol in peppermint creams triggers a cooling sensation that helps to soothe and calm the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and alleviating symptoms of heartburn. Additionally, peppermint creams can help to improve digestion and reduce symptoms of acid reflux, providing quick relief from heartburn discomfort.
Its natural benefits make peppermint creams a popular remedy for heartburn sufferers.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita creams that help with heartburn.
- Menthol: Menthol helps with heartburn by reducing inflammation in the esophagus and relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter, which can help alleviate symptoms of acid reflux.
- Menthone: Menthone has a calming effect on the digestive system, reducing spasms and contractions that can contribute to heartburn, and also helps to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.
- Limonene: Limonene has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the esophagus and alleviate heartburn symptoms, as well as helping to relax the digestive system and improve digestion.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make creams for heartburn.
- Leaves: Leaves are the most commonly used part of Mentha x piperita in creams for heartburn because of their high essential oil content, particularly menthol and menthone, which provide anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
- Stems: Stems are used due to their ability to contribute to the cream's consistency and stability, while also providing additional menthol and menthone content.
- Roots: Roots are used as they contain a higher concentration of menthol and other compounds than leaves, making them a valuable addition to heartburn creams.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for heartburn.
- Harvest 1 cup of fresh m x piperita leaves and flowers at dawn when oil content is highest for best results.
- Dry the harvested leaves and flowers in a single layer at room temperature for 2 weeks to reduce moisture.
- Steep 1/2 cup of dried m x piperita in 2 cups of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil for 2 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth and discard the solids then filter the oil through a coffee filter.
- Mix 1 tablespoon of the infused oil with 1 tablespoon of beeswax and 1/2 tablespoon of vitamin e oil to create a smooth cream.
4. Foeniculum vulgare
Foeniculum vulgare, also known as fennel, creams helps with heartburn because they contain active compounds such as anethole and fenchone, which have natural anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.
These properties help to soothe and calm the digestive system, reducing inflammation and spasms in the esophagus and stomach that can contribute to heartburn. Additionally, fennel's carminative properties help to alleviate gas and bloating, further reducing symptoms of heartburn and promoting overall digestive health.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to alleviate heartburn and other digestive issues.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare creams that help with heartburn.
- Anethole: Anethole has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can help relax the muscles in the esophagus and reduce inflammation that can contribute to heartburn.
- Foeniculin: Foeniculin has been shown to have gastroprotective effects, which can help protect the stomach lining from acid damage and reduce the risk of heartburn.
- Phenolic compounds: Phenolic compounds in fennel have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the stomach and esophagus, potentially alleviating heartburn symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make creams for heartburn.
- Seeds: Rich in compounds like fenchone and estragole, which have antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe heartburn and digestive issues.
- Leaves: Containing volatile oils, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, which exhibit carminative, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties that aid in relieving heartburn symptoms.
- Fruits (fenugreek seeds are often referred to as the fruits of foeniculum vulgare): Known for their prebiotic properties, which help regulate gut bacteria, reduce inflammation, and alleviate symptoms of heartburn and digestive discomfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for heartburn.
- Harvest foeniculum vulgare roots and stems by digging up the plant when the leaves start to turn yellowish brown around september to november.
- Dry the harvested foeniculum vulgare plant parts by spreading them out in a single layer on paper bags at room temperature for 7 to 10 days.
- Create an herbal infusion by steeping 2 cups of dried foeniculum vulgare in 4 cups of boiling water for 10 minutes then straining.
- Mix the herbal infusion with 1 cup of distilled water and 1/4 cup of vegetable glycerin to create a liquid base for the cream.
- Combine the liquid base with 1/2 cup of beeswax and 1/4 cup of shea butter then heat the mixture in a double boiler until the wax and butter are fully incorporated.
5. Symphytum officinale
Symphytum officinale, also known as comfrey, creams helps with heartburn because of its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to soothe the digestive tract.
The cream contains allantoin, a compound that promotes tissue repair and reduces inflammation in the esophagus and stomach lining. This helps to alleviate symptoms of heartburn, such as acid reflux and discomfort.
The anti-inflammatory effects of comfrey cream also reduce inflammation and irritation in the digestive tract, providing quick relief from heartburn and promoting a faster recovery.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Symphytum officinale creams that help with heartburn.
- Tannins: They help with heartburn by reducing inflammation in the esophagus and stomach, which can exacerbate heartburn symptoms.
- Flavonoids: They help with heartburn by possessing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can soothe and protect the digestive tract lining.
- Allantoin: It helps with heartburn by acting as a demulcent, forming a protective barrier on the mucous membranes of the esophagus and stomach to prevent irritation and inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of comfrey used to make creams for heartburn.
- Leaves: Their mucilaginous properties help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the esophagus, providing relief from heartburn.
- Roots: Rich in anti-inflammatory compounds, they may help reduce inflammation in the esophagus and alleviate heartburn symptoms.
- Buds: They contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may help protect the esophageal mucosa and alleviate heartburn symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic comfrey for heartburn.
- Infuse 100 grams of dried symphytum officinale in 500 milliliters of carrier oil for six hours.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and discard the solids for better clarity.
- Mix 10 percent of beeswax with 10 percent of shea butter in a double boiler.
- Combine the infused oil mixture with the beeswax and shea butter mixture in a heat-proof container.
- Allow the mixture to cool and thicken before transferring it to a clean container for storage.
6. Matricaria chamomilla
Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, creams helps with heartburn because of its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
The apigenin present in chamomile relaxes the smooth muscle in the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and spasms that can cause heartburn. Additionally, the cream's calming effects help to reduce stress, which can exacerbate heartburn symptoms. This natural remedy provides quick relief and can be a gentle alternative to over-the-counter medications.
It also promotes a sense of calm and relaxation, further aiding in heartburn relief.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla creams that help with heartburn.
- Apigenin: A flavonoid that helps with heartburn by reducing inflammation and relaxing the muscles in the digestive tract, providing relief from acid reflux and discomfort.
- Bisabolol: A sesquiterpene alcohol that aids in heartburn relief by reducing inflammation, soothing irritated tissues, and calming the stomach, thereby alleviating symptoms of acid reflux and heartburn.
- Alpha-bisabolol oxide a: A sesquiterpene that helps with heartburn by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help protect the stomach lining and reduce inflammation, thereby providing relief from heartburn symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make creams for heartburn.
- Flowers: They are used due to their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to calm digestive issues associated with heartburn.
- Seeds: They contain apigenin, an antioxidant that helps to reduce inflammation and relax the muscles in the digestive tract, alleviating heartburn symptoms.
- Leaves: They possess flavonoids and terpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, making them effective in soothing heartburn and digestive discomfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for heartburn.
- Harvest 100 grams of fresh matricaria chamomilla flowers or 20 grams of dried flowers to use in your cream.
- Steep the flowers in 200ml of hot water for 10 minutes to create a flower infusion.
- Combine the cooled flower infusion with 100 grams of beeswax and 100ml of coconut oil in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture for 30 minutes to dissolve the beeswax and blend the ingredients together.
- Strain the mixture and whip it with 50ml of aloe vera gel to create a smooth and creamy texture.
7. Tilia platyphyllos
Tilia platyphyllos, also known as broad-leaved lime, creams helps with heartburn because of its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to soothe the digestive system.
The cream contains compounds like flavonoids and terpenoids, which have been shown to reduce inflammation in the esophagus and ease acid reflux symptoms. Additionally, the cream's moisturizing properties can help calm irritated tissues and promote healing, providing quick relief from heartburn and discomfort.
Regular use may also help reduce the frequency and severity of heartburn episodes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Tilia platyphyllos creams that help with heartburn.
- Tannins: Tannins help with heartburn by reducing inflammation in the esophagus and stomach, thereby alleviating symptoms of acid reflux.
- Flavonoids: Quercetin, a type of flavonoid, helps with heartburn by inhibiting the production of histamine, a chemical that can worsen acid reflux symptoms.
- Terpenes: Terpenes, particularly limonene and pinene, may help with heartburn by relaxing the muscles in the esophagus and reducing inflammation, making it easier to digest food.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of broad-leaved lime used to make creams for heartburn.
- Leaves: The leaves are used due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and calm the digestive tract.
- Buds: The buds are used due to their ability to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, providing relief from heartburn.
- Flowers: The flowers are used due to their anti-spasmodic properties, which can help reduce the frequency and severity of heartburn episodes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic broad-leaved lime for heartburn.
- Harvest 30g of dried tilia platyphyllos flowers in mid-summer when the buds are in full bloom.
- Infuse the flowers in 100ml of hot water for 5-7 minutes to create a strong infusion.
- Strain the infusion and mix it with 20g of beeswax and 20ml of jojoba oil.
- Heat the mixture in a double boiler at 60°c for 10-15 minutes to melt the beeswax.
- Remove the mixture from heat and let it cool and thicken for 30 minutes before applying.
8. Althaea officinalis
Althaea officinalis, also known as marshmallow, creams helps with heartburn because of its soothing and protective properties.
The roots and leaves of the marshmallow plant contain mucilages, thick, gel-like substances that form a protective barrier on the mucous membranes. This barrier helps to neutralize stomach acid and reduce inflammation in the esophagus, providing relief from heartburn symptoms.
The anti-inflammatory properties of Althaea officinalis cream also help to calm the digestive tract, promoting a more comfortable and peaceful digestive experience.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis creams that help with heartburn.
- Mucilages: Help with heartburn by forming a protective barrier on the mucous membranes of the esophagus, reducing inflammation and soothing irritation caused by acid reflux.
- Gallic acid: Help with heartburn by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can reduce inflammation and protect the esophageal mucosa from damage caused by acid reflux.
- Althaea officinalis polysaccharides: Help with heartburn by forming a protective barrier on the mucous membranes of the esophagus, reducing inflammation and soothing irritation caused by acid reflux, and also by promoting the healing of damaged tissues.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make creams for heartburn.
- Roots: They are the primary source of mucilage, a thick, protective substance that helps soothe and coat the esophagus, providing relief from heartburn.
- Leaves: They also contain mucilage, which can be extracted and used in creams to provide a protective barrier against acid reflux and heartburn.
- Barks: Althaea officinalis barks contain mucilage, similar to the roots and leaves, which can be used in creams to treat heartburn by forming a protective barrier against stomach acid.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for heartburn.
- Harvest 10-20 grams of dried root althaea officinalis in the summer months when the plant is in full bloom.
- Grind the root into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 5 minutes.
- Combine 30 grams of beeswax, 60 grams of coconut oil, and 10 grams of powder in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture for 10 minutes or until the beeswax has fully melted and the mixture reaches 160°f.
- Strain the mixture into a clean container and let it cool to room temperature for 30 minutes.
9. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, creams helps with heartburn because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The main active compound, glycyrrhizin, reduces inflammation in the esophagus and stomach, providing relief from heartburn symptoms. Additionally, glycyrrhizin helps to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, reducing acid reflux and allowing stomach contents to pass into the small intestine more efficiently, thereby alleviating heartburn and discomfort.
Its natural anti-inflammatory properties also promote healing of the esophageal lining.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra creams that help with heartburn.
- Saponins: These triterpene glycosides have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce inflammation in the esophagus and stomach lining, thereby alleviating heartburn symptoms.
- Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help protect the esophagus and stomach lining from acid damage, reducing heartburn and inflammation.
- Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory and mucilaginous properties, which help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the esophagus and stomach, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with heartburn.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make creams for heartburn.
- Roots: They contain glycyrrhizin, which helps neutralize stomach acid and provide relief from heartburn.
- Leaves: They also contain glycyrrhizin, although in smaller amounts than the roots, and are sometimes used in combination with roots for their soothing properties.
- Seeds: While not as commonly used as roots or leaves, seeds of Glycyrrhiza glabra may also be utilized for their potential anti-inflammatory properties and to contribute to the overall effect of heartburn relief creams.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for heartburn.
- Harvest 100g of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots and clean them thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
- Infuse the dried roots in 1 liter of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil for 2 hours.
- Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth into a clean container and discard the solids.
- Mix 2% of the infused oil with 98% of a moisturizing base such as beeswax and shea butter.
- Whip the mixture using a hand mixer for 10 minutes or until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency.
10. Taraxacum officinale
Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, creams helps with heartburn because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties and ability to soothe the digestive tract.
The cream's active compounds, including taraxasterol and taraxeryl acetate, help to reduce inflammation and irritation in the esophagus, while also promoting the production of stomach mucus to protect the lining.
As a result, Taraxacum officinale cream may help to alleviate symptoms of heartburn, such as burning sensations and discomfort, providing natural relief for those affected.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale creams that help with heartburn.
- Inulin: Inulin is a type of fructan that can help alleviate heartburn by promoting digestive health, reducing inflammation in the digestive tract, and improving gut motility.
- Taraxasterol: Taraxasterol is a triterpene that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation and irritation in the esophagus and stomach, contributing to heartburn relief.
- Luteolin: Luteolin is a flavonoid that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the digestive tract, alleviating symptoms of heartburn.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make creams for heartburn.
- Roots: They contain inulin, which can help soothe heartburn and digestive issues.
- Leaves: They are rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which may aid in reducing inflammation and alleviating heartburn symptoms.
- Flowers: They contain flavonoids and other compounds that may help calm digestive issues and provide relief from heartburn.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for heartburn.
- Harvest 50-100 flowers of taraxacum officinale, carefully selecting fresh and clean ones for use.
- Combine 50g of taraxacum officinale flowers, 200g of coconut oil, and 100g of beeswax in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture in the double boiler at 180-190°f for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean container, discarding the solids.
- Allow the mixture to cool and thicken for 2-3 hours before applying it to the skin.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for heartburn?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with heartburn is a blend of Aloe vera, Chamomile, and Licorice root.
Aloe vera soothes and calms the esophagus, while Chamomile reduces inflammation and eases digestion. Licorice root, rich in glycyrrhizin, helps to neutralize stomach acid and protect the mucous membranes. Together, these creams provide a natural and effective solution to alleviate heartburn symptoms, promoting a smoother digestive experience and quick relief from discomfort.
Regular application can lead to long-term heartburn prevention.
What ailments similar to heartburn are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to heartburn/creams.html">heartburn/creams.html">heartburn that are treated with herbal creams are skin conditions such as eczema, acne, and rosacea.
These creams often contain herbs like aloe vera, chamomile, and tea tree oil, which have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that help calm irritated skin.
Additionally, some herbal creams may be used to treat minor burns, wounds, and ulcers, providing relief from discomfort, itching, and redness.