By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 04, 2024
10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Hyperacidity
Herbal decoctions for hyperacidity are a natural remedy made by steeping herbs in hot water to create a soothing liquid that helps alleviate symptoms of excess stomach acid.
These decoctions work by neutralizing acidity, calming digestive issues, and promoting healing in the gut. Examples include ginger decoction, which can ease nausea and bloating, and turmeric decoction, which reduces inflammation and improves digestion.
By using these herbal decoctions, individuals with hyperacidity can experience relief from discomfort, improved food tolerance, and a better quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for hyperacidity, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Zingiber officinale
- 2. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 3. Curcuma longa
- 4. Sambucus nigra
- 5. Calendula officinalis
- 6. Urtica dioica
- 7. Taraxacum officinale
- 8. Althaea officinalis
- 9. Aloe vera
- 10. Foeniculum vulgare
- What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for hyperacidity?
- What ailments similar to hyperacidity are treated with herbal decoctions?
1. Zingiber officinale
Ginger decoctions helps with hyperacidity because of its inherent properties that soothe and calm the digestive system.
The bioactive compounds present in ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols, have natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. When consumed as a decoction, these compounds help to neutralize stomach acid, reduce inflammation, and relax the muscles in the digestive tract, thereby alleviating symptoms of hyperacidity like heartburn, bloating, and discomfort.
This traditional herbal remedy provides a gentle yet effective way to regulate digestion and promote overall gut health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale decoctions that help with hyperacidity.
- Gingerols: These sesquiterpene compounds help with hyperacidity by inhibiting the production of gastric acid and reducing inflammation in the digestive tract.
- Shogaols: Similar to gingerols, shogaols are also sesquiterpene compounds found in Zingiber officinale that help alleviate hyperacidity by reducing gastric acid secretion and soothing the digestive tract.
- Curcumin: Although not exclusive to Zingiber officinale, curcumin, a polyphenolic compound present in the decoction, helps with hyperacidity by reducing inflammation, modulating the digestive enzymes, and providing antioxidant properties.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make decoctions for hyperacidity.
- Roots: Roots: another part of the plant that contains anti-inflammatory properties, which helps in soothing the stomach lining and reducing acid production.
- Buds: Buds: the young, immature buds of the ginger plant are also used to make decoctions, as they contain a higher concentration of active compounds that help in alleviating hyperacidity.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for hyperacidity.
- Gather 1-2 teaspoons of dried zingiber officinale root and rinse it with cold water to remove impurities.
- Combine the dried root with 1 cup of boiling water in a heat-resistant container for 5 minutes.
- Steep the mixture for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the liquid.
- Strain the decoction through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean container to remove the solids.
- Store the decoction in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours or consume it immediately as needed.
2. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice decoctions helps with hyperacidity because of its unique combination of bioactive compounds, particularly glycyrrhizin and flavonoids.
These compounds have been shown to neutralize stomach acid and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, alleviating symptoms of hyperacidity such as heartburn and indigestion.
Additionally, licorice decoctions can help to soothe and protect the mucous membranes lining the esophagus and stomach, promoting a healthy gut environment and reducing discomfort associated with excess acidity.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra decoctions that help with hyperacidity.
- Saponins: Saponins help neutralize stomach acid by forming a protective barrier on the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract, reducing inflammation and irritation caused by excess acidity.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce the production of stomach acid and alleviate inflammation in the digestive tract, providing relief from hyperacidity symptoms.
- Glycyrrhizin: Glycyrrhizin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help protect the mucous membranes of the stomach and intestines from damage caused by excess acidity, while also inhibiting the production of stomach acid and reducing inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make decoctions for hyperacidity.
- Roots: The roots are the primary source of glycyrrhizin, a compound that helps reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of hyperacidity.
- Roots: The roots also contain anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the stomach lining and reduce acid production.
- Roots: The roots are also used to stimulate the production of mucus in the stomach, which helps protect the lining and reduce irritation caused by hyperacidity.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for hyperacidity.
- Gather 60 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots and clean them thoroughly with a soft brush.
- Boil 2 liters of water in a large pot and add the cleaned roots.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes to extract the roots' medicinal properties slowly.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth into a separate container and discard the solids.
- Allow the decoction to cool and then store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
3. Curcuma longa
Turmeric decoctions helps with hyperacidity because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The curcumin present in turmeric binds to stomach acid receptors, reducing inflammation and irritation in the digestive tract. This soothing action calms the stomach lining, decreasing production of excessive stomach acid that can cause heartburn, bloating, and discomfort.
Additionally, turmeric's natural antimicrobial properties help eliminate Helicobacter pylori bacteria, a common culprit behind gastritis and ulcers, further alleviating symptoms associated with hyperacidity.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa decoctions that help with hyperacidity.
- Curcumin: A polyphenolic compound that helps alleviate hyperacidity by reducing inflammation and inhibiting the production of stomach acid.
- Tumerone: A sesquiterpene that has anti-inflammatory properties, helping to soothe the digestive system and reduce inflammation in the stomach, which may contribute to hyperacidity.
- Demethoxycurcumin: A curcuminoid that exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which may help mitigate the oxidative stress and inflammation associated with hyperacidity.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make decoctions for hyperacidity.
- Rhyzomes: The most commonly used part, as it contains high levels of curcumin, a compound with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help alleviate hyperacidity.
- Roots: Also rich in curcumin, the roots are used to create decoctions that aid in reducing stomach inflammation and promoting digestive health.
- Barks: The barks of Curcuma longa are sometimes used to make decoctions that help in soothing digestive issues and reducing the symptoms of hyperacidity.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for hyperacidity.
- Gather 1-2 teaspoons of dried curcuma longa root, 1 cup of boiling water and a heat-resistant cup.
- Steep the dried curcuma longa root in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes or until it reaches your desired strength.
- Strain the liquid using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the root particles.
- Store the decoction in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Drink 1-3 cups of the decoction per day as needed, ideally after meals to aid in digestion.
4. Sambucus nigra
Elder decoctions helps with hyperacidity because it contains alkaline properties that neutralize excess stomach acid, providing relief from heartburn and indigestion.
The anti-inflammatory compounds in elder also reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, further alleviating symptoms of acid reflux. Additionally, elder's antioxidant properties help to heal and protect the mucous membranes in the esophagus, preventing further irritation and discomfort.
By balancing the body's pH levels and soothing the digestive system, elder decoctions offer a natural remedy for hyperacidity.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra decoctions that help with hyperacidity.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds help alleviate hyperacidity by reducing inflammation and protecting the mucous membranes in the stomach and esophagus from acid damage.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help mitigate the effects of excessive stomach acid and promote the healing of the gastric lining.
- Tannins: These astringent compounds help reduce inflammation and prevent excessive mucus production in the stomach, thereby alleviating symptoms of hyperacidity and promoting a more balanced digestive system.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make decoctions for hyperacidity.
- Flowers: The flowers are used due to their high content of flavonoids and anthocyanins, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help alleviate hyperacidity symptoms.
- Fruits: The fruits, or berries, are used because they contain sambunigrin, a glycoside that has been shown to reduce acidity and alleviate heartburn.
- Leaves: The leaves are used for their astringent properties, which help to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with hyperacidity.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for hyperacidity.
- Harvest sambucus nigra flowers and young shoots in late summer when they are in full bloom.
- Chop 2-4 grams of the harvested material into small pieces to facilitate infusion.
- Combine the chopped sambucus nigra with 250 milliliters of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
- Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the water.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
5. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold decoctions helps with hyperacidity because of its unique properties.
The herb contains flavonoids, which have been shown to neutralize excess stomach acid and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract. Additionally, pot marigold has been found to increase mucus production, providing a protective barrier against irritation and damage caused by stomach acid.
By soothing and coating the mucous membranes, pot marigold decoctions can help alleviate symptoms of hyperacidity such as heartburn, bloating, and discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis decoctions that help with hyperacidity.
- Flavonoids: These plant-derived compounds help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with hyperacidity by exerting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe and calm the digestive system, reducing the discomfort associated with hyperacidity.
- Saponins: These natural glycosides can help protect the mucous membranes in the digestive tract, thereby reducing inflammation and providing relief from the symptoms of hyperacidity.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make decoctions for hyperacidity.
- Flowers: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties which help alleviate symptoms of hyperacidity.
- Leaves: They are used due to their bitter compounds that help neutralize stomach acid and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.
- Roots: They are used due to their astringent properties that help reduce inflammation and ease digestive discomfort caused by hyperacidity.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for hyperacidity.
- Harvest 20-30 flowers of the calendula officinalis plant at peak bloom for maximum potency.
- Rinse the flowers thoroughly with cool water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Steep 1 tablespoon of the flowers in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the solids.
- Store the decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for later use.
6. Urtica dioica
Stinging nettle decoctions helps with hyperacidity because of its natural ability to alkalize the body.
The rich concentration of minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium in nettle leaves helps to neutralize excess acid production in the stomach, reducing symptoms like heartburn and indigestion. Additionally, nettle's anti-inflammatory properties can soothe irritated mucous membranes, allowing for better digestion and absorption of nutrients.
By promoting a healthy gut environment, stinging nettle decoctions can provide long-term relief from hyperacidity and its associated discomforts.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica decoctions that help with hyperacidity.
- Saponins: Saponins in Urtica dioica decoctions help with hyperacidity by reducing inflammation and mucus production in the digestive tract, alleviating symptoms of acid reflux and heartburn.
- Flavonoids: Quercetin in Urtica dioica decoctions helps with hyperacidity by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators and reducing oxidative stress in the stomach lining, thereby protecting against acid damage.
- Tannins: Tannins in Urtica dioica decoctions help with hyperacidity by reducing the secretion of stomach acid and preventing the release of histamine, a key player in acid reflux symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make decoctions for hyperacidity.
- Leaves: They are rich in mucilage, which helps to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the digestive tract, reducing acidity symptoms.
- Roots: The roots contain ursolic acid, a compound that has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate stomach inflammation associated with hyperacidity.
- Barks: The bark of Urtica dioica is used to make decoctions that can help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the digestive tract, thus alleviating hyperacidity symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for hyperacidity.
- Harvest fresh leaves of urtica dioica in the spring or early summer when they are at their peak potency.
- Gently rinse the harvested leaves under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Chop the leaves into small pieces and combine them with 1 part leaves to 2 parts water in a saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a cup or bottle.
7. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion decoctions helps with hyperacidity because its leaves, flowers, and roots contain bioactive compounds that have a natural alkalizing effect on the body.
These compounds, including potassium salts and antioxidants, help to neutralize excess stomach acid, reducing symptoms of acidity such as heartburn and indigestion.
Additionally, dandelion decoctions may stimulate digestion and promote the elimination of waste products from the digestive tract, further alleviating hyperacidity symptoms and promoting overall gut health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale decoctions that help with hyperacidity.
- Flavonoids: These compounds help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of hyperacidity by inhibiting the production of stomach acid and improving the healing of gastric mucosa.
- Taraxasterol: A triterpenoid saponin found in Taraxacum officinale, taraxasterol has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe and protect the stomach lining, reducing the symptoms of hyperacidity.
- Taraxasterol's precursor, ursolic acid: This triterpenoid has been demonstrated to have a protective effect on the gastric mucosa, reducing inflammation and preventing ulcers in the stomach, which can contribute to alleviating symptoms of hyperacidity.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make decoctions for hyperacidity.
- Leaves: Used due to their high concentration of mucilage, which can help neutralize stomach acid and provide relief from hyperacidity.
- Roots: Utilized for their bitter compounds that can stimulate digestion and reduce inflammation in the stomach, thus alleviating hyperacidity symptoms.
- Seeds: Employed for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe the stomach lining and reduce acid production, providing relief from hyperacidity.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for hyperacidity.
- Harvest taraxacum officinale roots and leaves in the morning after the dew has evaporated carefully.
- Clean and dry the harvested plant material thoroughly to prevent contamination and spoilage.
- Combine the dried plant material with 1 liter of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the decoction steep for 20-30 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
8. Althaea officinalis
Marshmallow decoctions helps with hyperacidity because they provide a soothing and protective barrier for the mucous membranes in the stomach and esophagus.
The demulcent properties of marshmallows help to neutralize excess acid, reducing inflammation and irritation caused by hyperacidity. Additionally, marshmallow decoctions contain antioxidants that can help to reduce oxidative stress and promote healing of damaged tissues.
This natural remedy can provide relief from heartburn, acid reflux, and other symptoms associated with hyperacidity.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis decoctions that help with hyperacidity.
- Mucilages: Help with hyperacidity by forming a protective barrier on the mucous membranes, reducing inflammation, and promoting the healing of ulcers in the digestive tract.
- Phenolic acids: Help with hyperacidity by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to soothe and protect the mucous membranes from acid damage.
- Flavonoids: Help with hyperacidity by acting as natural antacids, reducing inflammation, and preventing the degradation of the mucous membranes by stomach acid.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make decoctions for hyperacidity.
- Roots: The roots are the primary source of mucilage, which helps to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the digestive system, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with hyperacidity.
- Leaves: The leaves contain flavonoids and other compounds that contribute to their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to calm the digestive system and alleviate hyperacidity symptoms.
- Barks: The barks of Althaea officinalis are known to possess antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to protect the mucous membranes from further irritation and inflammation caused by hyperacidity.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for hyperacidity.
- Gather 1-2 teaspoons of dried althaea officinalis root and store it in an airtight container.
- Boil 1 cup of water in a saucepan over high heat for 5 minutes.
- Add the dried root to the boiling water and reduce heat to low for 5 minutes.
- Simmer the mixture for an additional 10-15 minutes and strain the liquid through a cheesecloth.
- Discard the solids and let the decoction cool before serving as a tea or using as a topical application.
9. Aloe vera
Aloe decoctions helps with hyperacidity because of its unique properties.
The gel extracted from aloe leaves contains compounds like aloin and aloe-emodin, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. These compounds help to reduce inflammation in the stomach lining, decreasing acid production and relieving symptoms of hyperacidity such as heartburn and bloating. Additionally, aloe decoctions can also stimulate digestive enzymes, promoting healthy digestion and reducing acidity.
As a natural remedy, aloe decoctions offer a gentle and effective way to manage hyperacidity.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera decoctions that help with hyperacidity.
- Anthraquinones: These compounds help reduce hyperacidity by slowing down the movement of food through the digestive tract, allowing the stomach to empty more efficiently and reducing the risk of acid reflux.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Aloe vera decoctions have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, which is often associated with hyperacidity and acid reflux.
- Aliphatic sulfonated compounds: These compounds may help neutralize excess stomach acid and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, alleviating symptoms of hyperacidity and acid reflux.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make decoctions for hyperacidity.
- Leaves: Aloe vera leaves are used due to their high concentration of mucilages, which help soothe and calm the digestive system to alleviate hyperacidity.
- Gel (part of leaves): However, more specifically, the clear gel extracted from Aloe vera leaves is used as it has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that aid in reducing hyperacidity.
- Pulp (part of leaves): The pulp of Aloe vera leaves, containing the mucilages and other nutrients, is also used in decoctions to help neutralize excess acid in the stomach and provide relief from hyperacidity.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for hyperacidity.
- Gather 1-2 cups of aloe vera gel and 2 cups of water and place them in a saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat then reduce the heat to medium.
- Simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes or until the liquid has reduced by half.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl.
- Let the decoction cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
10. Foeniculum vulgare
Fennel decoctions helps with hyperacidity because of its natural antacid properties, which help to neutralize stomach acid and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.
The volatile oils present in fennel seeds, such as anethole and fenchone, have a soothing effect on the mucous membranes, reducing irritation and discomfort associated with hyperacidity.
Additionally, fennel's carminative properties help to ease bloating and gas, further alleviating symptoms of hyperacidity.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare decoctions that help with hyperacidity.
- Anethole: Anethole is a terpene that helps with hyperacidity by reducing inflammation and soothing the mucous membranes in the stomach, thereby alleviating symptoms of acid reflux.
- Foeniculin: Foeniculin is a sesquiterpene that exhibits anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, helping to calm down stomach spasms and reduce acid production, which eases hyperacidity symptoms.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid is a phenolic compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which helps to neutralize free radicals, reduce inflammation, and stabilize the stomach lining, thus providing relief from hyperacidity.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make decoctions for hyperacidity.
- Seeds: The seeds of Fennel are commonly used to make decoctions for hyperacidity due to their high content of volatile oils, particularly anethole, which has carminative and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: Fennel leaves are used to make decoctions for hyperacidity due to their ability to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of digestive disorders.
- Stems: The stems of Fennel are used to make decoctions for hyperacidity due to their content of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe digestive issues.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for hyperacidity.
- Harvest 20-30 grams of fresh foeniculum vulgare leaves and stems in the early morning for maximum potency.
- Chop the harvested material into small pieces using a sharp knife to increase surface area.
- Combine the chopped foeniculum vulgare with 1 liter of boiling water in a heat-resistant glass container.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer and allow the mixture to steep for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve to remove the plant material.
What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for hyperacidity?
The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with hyperacidity is a blend of Licorice root, Aloe vera, and Triphala.
Licorice root soothes the stomach lining, reducing inflammation and pain. Aloe vera calms digestive issues and aids in balancing gut bacteria. Triphala, a combination of three herbs (Amalaki, Haritaki, and Bibhitaki), helps restore the natural pH balance of the stomach, promoting healthy digestion and alleviating symptoms of hyperacidity.
This trio works synergistically to provide long-lasting relief and promote overall digestive well-being.
What ailments similar to hyperacidity are treated with herbal decoctions?
Ailments similar to hyperacidity/decoctions.html">hyperacidity/decoctions.html">hyperacidity that are treated with herbal decoctions are digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Herbal decoctions like peppermint, chamomile, and licorice root can help soothe and calm the digestive system.
Other conditions that may benefit from herbal decoctions include gastritis, ulcerative colitis, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), as well as symptoms of menstrual cramps, PMS, and menopause.