By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Heartburn
Herbal tinctures for heartburn are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants, herbs, and botanicals that help soothe and calm the digestive system.
These tinctures work by neutralizing stomach acid, reducing inflammation, and relaxing the esophageal sphincter to alleviate symptoms of heartburn, such as burning sensations and discomfort. Examples of herbal tinctures effective in relieving heartburn include chamomile, peppermint, and licorice root, which have been used for centuries to ease digestive issues.
By using these natural remedies, individuals can improve their quality of life by reducing the frequency and severity of heartburn episodes, allowing them to enjoy their favorite foods without discomfort or worry.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for heartburn, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 2. Mentha x piperita
- 3. Zingiber officinale
- 4. Passiflora incarnata
- 5. Althaea officinalis
- 6. Taraxacum officinale
- 7. Petasites hybridus
- 8. Aloe vera
- 9. Sambucus nigra
- 10. Crataegus monogyna
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for heartburn?
- What ailments similar to heartburn are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice tinctures helps with heartburn because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm the mucous membranes in the esophagus and stomach.
The glycyrrhizin in licorice root has been shown to reduce inflammation and protect against acid reflux, allowing the body to naturally heal and recover from heartburn episodes.
Additionally, licorice tinctures have been found to increase the production of mucus, which helps to coat and shield the lining of the esophagus, further reducing discomfort and irritation associated with heartburn.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with heartburn.
- Glycyrrhizic acid: This triterpenoid saponin helps with heartburn by reducing inflammation in the esophagus and stomach, and also has a protective effect on the mucous membranes.
- Licoricidin: This phenolic glycoside has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate the inflammation and irritation associated with heartburn, thereby providing relief from symptoms.
- Liquiritigenin: This isoflavone has a protective effect on the gastric mucosa, helping to prevent damage and inflammation caused by stomach acid, which is often a contributing factor to heartburn.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for heartburn.
- Roots: They are the primary source of glycyrrhizin, a compound that helps neutralize stomach acid and reduce inflammation.
- Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe the digestive tract and alleviate heartburn symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for heartburn.
- Gather 250g of dried roots of glycyrrhiza glabra and store in a clean glass container.
- Combine the roots with 750ml of 70% ethanol in a dark glass jar.
- Steep the mixture for 2 weeks in a cool dark place shaking daily.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container discarding the solids.
- Store the tincture in a cool dark place for 4 weeks before use.
2. Mentha x piperita
Peppermint tinctures helps with heartburn because of its natural ability to relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) muscle, which prevents stomach acid from flowing back up into the esophagus and causing discomfort.
The menthol content in peppermint also has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the esophagus, further alleviating symptoms of heartburn.
By soothing and calming the digestive tract, herbal peppermint tinctures provide relief from heartburn and promote overall digestive well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita tinctures that help with heartburn.
- Menthol: Acts as an antispasmodic and local anesthetic, providing relief from heartburn by reducing inflammation and soothing the stomach lining.
- Rosmarinic acid: Exhibits potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to neutralize stomach acid and protect the esophageal lining from damage.
- Menthone: Has antispasmodic and carminative effects, which help to ease digestion and relieve symptoms of heartburn by reducing spasms in the stomach and intestines.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make tinctures for heartburn.
- Leaves: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of menthol and menthone, which provide quick relief from heartburn symptoms.
- Stems: They contain a smaller amount of menthol and menthone compared to leaves, but can still contribute to the tincture's effectiveness in alleviating heartburn.
- Roots: They have a higher concentration of menthol and menthone than stems, making them a popular alternative to leaves for heartburn relief in some herbal remedies.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for heartburn.
- Gather 1 pound of fresh mentha x piperita leaves and stems, and chop them finely.
- Combine the chopped herb with 2 cups of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container, discarding the solids.
- Transfer the tincture to small dark glass bottles and store it in a cool dark place for up to 5 years.
3. Zingiber officinale
Ginger tinctures helps with heartburn because its natural anti-inflammatory properties soothe the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and discomfort.
The volatile oils in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, have been shown to relax the esophageal sphincter and reduce acid reflux. Additionally, ginger's carminative properties help eliminate gas and bloating, further alleviating symptoms of heartburn.
As a natural remedy, herbal ginger tinctures offer a gentle and effective way to manage heartburn and promote overall digestive health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale tinctures that help with heartburn.
- Gingerols: These compounds help alleviate heartburn by reducing inflammation and relaxing the muscles in the digestive tract, which in turn prevents stomach acid from flowing back up into the esophagus.
- Shogaols: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that help to soothe the digestive tract and reduce inflammation, thereby alleviating symptoms of heartburn and acid reflux.
- Volatile oils: These oils have a calming effect on the digestive system, which helps to reduce muscle spasms and alleviate symptoms of heartburn and acid reflux, promoting a smooth flow of food through the digestive tract.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make tinctures for heartburn.
- Rhyzomes: The rhizome is the most commonly used part of Zingiber officinale for making tinctures due to its high concentration of gingerols and shogaols, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate heartburn symptoms.
- Roots: The roots of Zingiber officinale are also used to make tinctures because they contain a similar composition to the rhizome, providing similar benefits for heartburn relief.
- Buds: The buds of Zingiber officinale are occasionally used to make tinctures due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds that may help soothe and protect the digestive system, potentially alleviating heartburn symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for heartburn.
- Harvest 2 pounds of fresh zingiber officinale rhizomes in the early morning when the dew is still present.
- Chop the rhizomes into small pieces to increase their surface area for better extraction.
- Combine the chopped rhizomes with 80 proof vodka in a 1:5 ratio by weight.
- Steep the mixture in a clean glass jar for 2 to 3 weeks shaking it daily.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain the tincture.
4. Passiflora incarnata
Maypop tinctures helps with heartburn because it contains a unique combination of flavonoids, alkaloids, and saponins that work together to soothe and calm the esophageal lining.
These compounds help reduce inflammation and relax the muscles in the esophagus, allowing for easier digestion and reducing the likelihood of stomach acid flowing back up into the esophagus, thereby alleviating symptoms of heartburn.
Additionally, maypop's natural antacid properties also help neutralize excess stomach acid, providing fast relief from heartburn discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Passiflora incarnata tinctures that help with heartburn.
- Harmane: Harmane is a beta-carboline alkaloid that may help alleviate heartburn by reducing the sensitivity of the stomach lining and preventing the release of stomach acid.
- Isovitexin: Isovitexin is a flavonoid glycoside that exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the esophagus and alleviate heartburn symptoms.
- Passifloric acid: Passifloric acid is a phenolic compound that has been shown to have a protective effect on the stomach lining, reducing the risk of acid reflux and heartburn.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maypop used to make tinctures for heartburn.
- Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part of Passiflora incarnata for heartburn remedies due to their high concentration of flavonoids and alkaloids that have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Stems: The stems contain a higher concentration of passifloric acid, which is known for its ability to reduce inflammation and relax the muscles in the digestive tract, relieving heartburn symptoms.
- Fruits: The fruits are also used to make tinctures for heartburn, as they contain a combination of flavonoids, alkaloids, and sugars that help to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the digestive tract.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maypop for heartburn.
- Harvest passiflora incarnata flowers and leaves in late summer when they are in full bloom for six weeks.
- Dry the harvested flowers and leaves in a single layer on paper bags at room temperature for two weeks.
- Combine one part dried flowers and leaves with two parts 80 proof vodka or 95 percent ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks with occasional shaking to extract the medicinal properties.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.
5. Althaea officinalis
Marshmallow tinctures helps with heartburn because its mucilaginous properties form a protective barrier in the esophagus, soothing irritated tissues and reducing inflammation.
The saponins present in marshmallow root also have a calming effect on the digestive tract, relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter and preventing stomach acid from flowing back up into the esophagus.
As a result, heartburn symptoms such as burning sensations and discomfort are alleviated, allowing for more comfortable digestion and relief from discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis tinctures that help with heartburn.
- Mucilages: Mucilages, such as glycoproteins and polysaccharides, help to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the esophagus and stomach, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with heartburn.
- Althaea root flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Althaea officinalis, such as quercetin and kaempferol, exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate heartburn symptoms by reducing inflammation and protecting the mucous membranes.
- Saponins: Saponins in Althaea officinalis have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and soothing effects, which can help calm the digestive tract and reduce the frequency and severity of heartburn episodes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make tinctures for heartburn.
- Roots: Althaea officinalis roots are used to make tinctures for heartburn because they contain mucilages that soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the digestive tract.
- Leaves: Althaea officinalis leaves are used to make tinctures for heartburn because they have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and alleviate heartburn symptoms.
- Stems: Althaea officinalis stems are used to make tinctures for heartburn because they contain flavonoids and other compounds that have antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effects.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for heartburn.
- Harvest 10-20 grams of clean fresh or dried roots of this plant in the morning when it's free of moisture.
- Chop the roots into small pieces to release their active compounds and increase the surface area for extraction.
- Combine the chopped roots with 80-100 ml of 25% glycerin in a glass jar and seal it tightly.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-4 weeks to allow the roots to infuse the glycerin.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another glass container and discard the solids.
6. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion tinctures helps with heartburn because of its unique properties that soothe and calm the digestive tract.
The plant's bitter compounds stimulate digestive enzymes, helping to break down food more efficiently and reduce acidity in the stomach. Additionally, dandelion's anti-inflammatory properties help to alleviate irritation and inflammation in the esophagus, alleviating discomfort and burning sensations associated with heartburn.
By promoting healthy digestion and reducing inflammation, dandelion tinctures provide natural relief from heartburn symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale tinctures that help with heartburn.
- Flavonoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the esophagus and alleviate heartburn symptoms.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as chlorogenic acid, have been shown to have gastroprotective effects, potentially soothing the stomach lining and reducing acid production, which may contribute to heartburn relief.
- Inulin: Inulin, a type of fructan, may help alleviate heartburn by regulating gut bacteria, which can contribute to digestive issues, and promoting a healthy gut microbiome.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for heartburn.
- Leaves: Used for heartburn tinctures due to their high mucilage content, which can help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the esophagus.
- Roots: Utilized for heartburn tinctures because they contain inulin, a prebiotic fiber that can help regulate gut bacteria and alleviate digestive issues.
- Flowers: Employed in heartburn tinctures due to their bitter properties, which can stimulate digestive enzymes and improve gut motility to reduce heartburn symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for heartburn.
- Gather fresh taraxacum officinale roots and leaves in equal proportions and dry them in a low-temperature oven for 2 hours.
- Crush 200g of dried taraxacum officinale roots and leaves into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
- Combine the powder with 50% ethanol in a 1:2 ratio to create the tincture mixture.
- Steep the tincture mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks with occasional shaking.
- Strain the tincture mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.
7. Petasites hybridus
Butterbur tinctures helps with heartburn because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe and calm the digestive tract.
The herb contains compounds that reduce inflammation in the esophagus and stomach lining, thereby alleviating symptoms of acid reflux and heartburn.
Additionally, butterbur's relaxant effects on smooth muscle tissue can also help to reduce spasms in the lower esophageal sphincter, preventing stomach acids from flowing back up into the esophagus and providing relief from heartburn discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Petasites hybridus tinctures that help with heartburn.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help alleviate heartburn symptoms by relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter and reducing inflammation in the esophagus and stomach.
- Petasine: This terpene constituent has anti-inflammatory and relaxant properties, which help to soothe the esophagus and reduce symptoms of heartburn, such as acid reflux and inflammation.
- Harpagide: This iridoid glycoside has been shown to have a protective effect on the esophageal mucosa, reducing inflammation and preventing damage caused by acid reflux, thereby alleviating heartburn symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of butterbur used to make tinctures for heartburn.
- Roots: Roots are the most commonly used part for heartburn tinctures because they contain the highest concentration of sesquiterpenes, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: Leaves are also commonly used due to their high content of sesquiterpenes, which help to reduce inflammation and alleviate heartburn symptoms.
- Barks: Barks are occasionally used because they contain some amount of sesquiterpenes, although in smaller quantities compared to roots and leaves.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic butterbur for heartburn.
- Harvest fresh petasites hybridus leaves and roots in early spring or fall when the plant is dormant for 30 minutes.
- Clean and dry the plant material by spreading it out in a single layer for 2 days.
- Chop the dried plant material into small pieces using a sharp knife or herb cutter for 10 minutes.
- Steep the chopped plant material in 80 proof vodka or glycerin in a 1:5 ratio for 2 weeks.
- Filter the tincture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter and store it in a dark glass bottle for 6 months.
8. Aloe vera
Aloe tinctures helps with heartburn because it possesses anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and calm the digestive tract.
The mucilages present in aloe vera gel form a protective barrier against stomach acid, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with heartburn. Additionally, aloe's natural antimicrobial agents inhibit the growth of bacteria and yeast that can contribute to heartburn.
By promoting a healthy gut environment, aloe tinctures alleviate symptoms of heartburn, providing relief from burning sensations and discomfort in the chest and throat.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera tinctures that help with heartburn.
- Anthraquinones: Anthraquinones, specifically aloe-emodin, help with heartburn by reducing inflammation in the esophagus and promoting the healing of esophageal lesions, which can cause irritation and discomfort.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, including kaempferol and quercetin, help with heartburn by reducing inflammation and protecting the esophagus from oxidative damage, which can contribute to heartburn symptoms.
- Saponins: Saponins, particularly aloin and aloe-catechin, help with heartburn by soothing the mucous membranes in the esophagus and reducing the frequency and severity of acid reflux episodes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make tinctures for heartburn.
- Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part of Aloe vera for heartburn tinctures due to their high gel content and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Stems: The stems are also used for heartburn tinctures, as they contain aloe-emodin, a compound that helps soothe digestive issues.
- Buds: The buds are another part used for heartburn tinctures, containing a mixture of compounds that aid in digestion and alleviate heartburn symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for heartburn.
- Harvest 100% organic aloe vera leaves with thick green skin for tincture making.
- Chop the aloe vera leaves into small pieces and weigh out 250 grams for tincturing.
- Combine the chopped aloe vera with 750 milliliters of 95% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the aloe vera mixture for 2 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.
- Strain the tincture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.
9. Sambucus nigra
Elder tinctures helps with heartburn because it contains potent antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the esophagus, reducing inflammation and irritation caused by stomach acid reflux.
The tannins present in elder flowers also help to relax the lower esophageal sphincter, preventing acid from flowing back up into the esophagus and alleviating symptoms of heartburn.
Regular consumption of elder tincture may also help to strengthen the digestive system and promote a healthy gut microbiome, further reducing the likelihood of heartburn episodes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra tinctures that help with heartburn.
- Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the esophagus and alleviate heartburn symptoms.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the esophagus, reducing heartburn discomfort.
- Phenolic acids: As natural antacids, these compounds may help neutralize stomach acid and provide relief from heartburn symptoms by reducing acid reflux.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make tinctures for heartburn.
- Flowers: They are rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe heartburn.
- Leaves: The leaves have been traditionally used to treat digestive issues, including heartburn, due to their antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Fruits: The fruits of Sambucus nigra, also known as elderberries, have been used to treat heartburn and other digestive problems due to their high antioxidant content and ability to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for heartburn.
- Harvest 1 part of fresh flowers of the plant in question in early summer morning.
- Dry the fresh flowers in a warm dark place for 1 to 2 weeks.
- Combine 1 part of the dried flowers with 2 parts of vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth and store it in a dark glass bottle.
10. Crataegus monogyna
Hawthorn tinctures helps with heartburn because of its unique combination of bioactive compounds, particularly flavonoids and anthocyanins.
These potent antioxidants soothe and protect the mucous membranes lining the esophagus and stomach, reducing inflammation and irritation that can cause acid reflux and discomfort.
By promoting a healthy balance between the gut microbiome and digestive enzymes, hawthorn tinctures also aid in proper digestion, preventing food from backing up into the esophagus and alleviating heartburn symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Crataegus monogyna tinctures that help with heartburn.
- Flavonoids: These compounds help alleviate heartburn by reducing inflammation and modulating the digestive system's response to irritants.
- Quercetin: This flavonoid acts as a natural antacid by reducing the production of stomach acid and improving the integrity of the gastric mucosa.
- Epicatechin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the esophagus and reduce the risk of acid reflux by promoting the healing of the mucous membranes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of hawthorn used to make tinctures for heartburn.
- Leaves: They are used to make tinctures for heartburn due to their potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Fruits: The fruits, particularly the berries, are used for their potential to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the esophagus, reducing heartburn symptoms.
- Barks: The barks are used to make tinctures for heartburn due to their potential ability to reduce inflammation and alleviate digestive issues.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic hawthorn for heartburn.
- Harvest crataegus monogyna leaves and twigs at dawn when dew is present and dry them thoroughly within 2 days.
- Crush dried crataegus monogyna plant material into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle or coffee grinder.
- Mix 1 part of the crushed plant material with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 weeks shaking it every 2 days to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for heartburn?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with heartburn is a blend of Dandelion root, Peppermint, and Ginger.
Dandelion root supports digestive health and reduces inflammation in the stomach, while Peppermint helps to relax the muscles and reduce acid production. Ginger, with its natural anti-inflammatory properties, aids in soothing the esophagus and calming the digestive system.
This combination can help alleviate heartburn symptoms and promote a balanced digestive system.
What ailments similar to heartburn are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to heartburn/tinctures.html">heartburn/tinctures.html">heartburn that are treated with herbal tinctures are acid reflux, indigestion, and dyspepsia.
Herbal remedies such as gentian root, chamomile, and licorice root are often used to soothe the digestive tract and alleviate symptoms like bloating, discomfort, and burning sensations in the chest and throat.
These herbs work by reducing inflammation, calming the stomach lining, and improving digestion.