How to Use Home Remedies for Decreasing Stomach Acid
Method 1 of 6: Identifying Your Symptoms
1.Check for symptoms of esophagitis.- Acid reflux may be a symptom of a condition called esophagitis, in which the esophagus becomes inflamed, causing esophageal narrowing, damaging the tissue, and increasing the chances of choking on your food. If left untreated, esophagitis can lead to severe tissue damage and esophageal cancer. Common symptoms are heartburn, difficulty swallowing, and chest pain that occurs while eating.A cold, flu, or other viral infection should be treated immediately if you have acid reflux, as it can lead to increased inflammation in the food pipe. See your doctor if symptoms:
- Last longer than a few days or don't improve with over-the-counter antacids
- Are severe enough to make eating difficult
- Are accompanied by flu signs and symptoms, such as headache, fever, and muscle aches
- Are accompanied by shortness of breath or chest pain that occurs shortly after eating
- Get emergency care if you experience pain in your chest that lasts more than a few minutes, suspect you have food lodged in your esophagus, have a history of heart disease, or have impaired immune function.
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Check for symptoms for gastritis.Heartburn may also be a symptom of gastritis. Gastritis is an inflammation of the stomach lining often caused by helicobacter pylori bacteria, which may also cause stomach ulcers. An autoimmune disorder, a backup of bile into the stomach, or long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, can also cause gastritis. Common symptoms of gastritis include:
- Indigestion
- Heartburn
- Abdominal pain
- Hiccups
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Vomiting, possibly of material that looks like ground coffee (blood)
- Dark stools
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Check for signs of gastroparesis.Gastroparesis is a condition in which the movement of the muscles in your stomach does not function normally, preventing your stomach from emptying properly. This can cause acid reflux and vomiting by backing up stomach acids in the esophagus. People are more likely to develop this condition if they have diabetes or recently had a surgery. Symptoms of gastroparesis include:
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- A feeling of fullness after eating just a few bites
- Abdominal bloating
- Abdominal pain
- Changes in blood sugar levels
- Lack of appetite
- Weight loss and malnutrition
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Get emergency medical care.Heartburn, angina, and heart attack may feel very much alike. Both heartburn and a developing heart attack can cause symptoms that subside after a while. Typical heart attack signs and symptoms for which you should go to the emergency room immediately are:
- Pressure, tightness, pain, or a squeezing or aching sensation in your chest or arms that may spread to your neck, jaw or back
- Nausea, indigestion, heartburn, or abdominal pain
- Shortness of breath
- Cold sweat
- Fatigue
- Lightheadedness or sudden dizziness
Method 6: Using Herbal and Home Remedies
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Drink chamomile tea.Though used as a remedy for indigestion for thousands of years, research into the effects of chamomile on humans is sparse. Animal studies have found that German chamomile reduces inflammation.An analysis of several studies found that combinations of the herb iberis, peppermint, and chamomile may help relieve indigestion symptoms.
- To make chamomile tea, steep 2-4 grams of dried chamomile flowers in 1 cup of hot water. Drinking highly concentrated chamomile can induce nausea and vomiting, so make sure not to infuse the tea longer than five minutes.
- Chamomile is also available as a dietary supplement at most drug stores. If you are allergic to asters, daisies, chrysanthemums, or ragweed, you may also be allergic to chamomile.
- Ask your doctor before using chamomile if you are taking medication for diabetes, blood pressure or sedatives.
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Use slippery elm.Slippery elm bark contains mucilage, a substance that becomes a slick gel when mixed with water, which coats the esophagus, stomach, and intestinal lining to reduce irritation and acid reflux. The antioxidants in slippery elm also help protect against stomach ulcers and inflammation. Slippery elm bark is available as capsules, lozenges, teas, and powdered extracts at most pharmacies and nutrition stores. You should take slippery elm two hours before or after other herbs or medications you may be taking as it can slow down the absorption of other medications.
- To make slippery elm tea, steep 1–2 g (approx. 1 tablespoon) of powdered bark extract in 1 cup of boiling water for 3–5 minutes. Drink up to 3 times per day or as recommended by your doctor.
- The recommended dose for slippery elm capsules is 400-500 mg at least 3-4 times daily, for 4–8 weeks or until your condition improves. Take with a full glass of water.
- Do not give slippery elm to a child without consulting your doctor first.
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Use ginger.Research suggests that taking 1–2 grams of raw ginger or ginger root powder at least one hour before meals can help aid gastric emptying, thus reducing symptoms of heartburn and GERD.Ginger can also help reduce symptoms of nausea, vomiting, and inflammation caused by acid backing up in the esophagus. Ginger root is widely available at most grocery stores.
- Ginger tea can also be made by steeping 1–2 grams of peeled ginger in 1 cup of boiling water for 5 minutes. Strain and drink up to 2 times daily, at least 1 hour before meals.
- Ask your doctor before taking ginger if you have diabetes, heart conditions, bleeding disorders, or if you are currently pregnant or breastfeeding. Tell your doctor about any other medications, herbs, or supplements you may be using to avoid side effects.
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Use baking soda.Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is often used as a natural antacid to help neutralize stomach acids and help digestion. Baking soda is available as both oral tablets and powder, which can be used up to four times daily at least 1–2 hours after having meals or other medications. Avoid taking sodium bicarbonate on an overly full stomach.
- Mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda into a glass of water until it dissolves completely and drink it to neutralize stomach acid. Measure powdered doses carefully using a measuring spoon. Add honey or lemon for taste if you want.
- Check with your doctor before using baking soda If you are on a sodium-restricted diet, have other heart or digestive conditions, or are currently using other medications, herbs, and supplements.
- Take sodium bicarbonate exactly as directed. Do not use sodium bicarbonate for longer than two weeks unless your doctor tells you to. Baking soda should not be given to children under twelve years of age.
- Take the miss doses as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for the next dose. Then skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule.
Cumin Seed
Cumin seed is excellent to cure acid reflux. When you have burning sensation in your chest and stomach and suffer from a sour feeling inside your mouth, take a tea soon cumin seed. Chew it and drink a glass of cold water. You will soon get a relief.
6. Coriander seed
Coriander seed also prevent and cure heartburn very effectively. Take a teaspoon raw coriander and soak it in water overnight. Next morning strain the juice and drink it at empty stomach. You will soon get relief.
7.Ginger Root
Ginger root is an excellent natural product to cure acidity. Take a piece of ginger approximately 1 inch long. Peel it and grate it. Extract the juice. Take that juice accompanied by half cup warm water. It is preferable to drink that at empty stomach. Apart from that you can use ginger in your food frequently when you are suffering from acid reflux.
8.Aniseed
Aniseed is a wonderful medicine for acid reflux. Chew some raw aniseed after your meal. Or soak some aniseed and sugar candy in water for 3-4 hours. Strain the water and drink it. It helps to cure acidity completely. Use aniseed paste in your cooking especially when you cook eggs and meat. It helps to digest food properly and quickly and in this way prevent acidity.
9.Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is an excellent natural product to cure acidity. Slit one aloe vera tube and remove the gel. Boil that in water. Let it cool and preserve it in refrigerator. Drink it before every meal. It will protect you from acid reflux or heartburn.
10.Basil Leaves
Basil is an excellent product to cure acidity. Take some fresh basil leaves and wash properly. Crush them and extract the juice. Take that at empty stomach in the morning. It will give you relief in acidity.You can also make its infusion. Boil some fresh basil leaves in water on low flame. Reduce the water in 1/3 amount. Preserve the water and drink whenever you need it.
11.Mint
Mint cures acidity effectively. Take some fresh mint leaves. Crush it to extract the deep green juice. It has a cooling effect and give instant relief. You can take it in different way. Take some fresh basil leaves.Chop them very finely. Mix them with yogurt. Sprinkle little amount of rock salt on it. Mix everything and take the mixture after finishing your two major meals. It will help to digest food properly and will save you from acidity.Follow these tips and get rid of acid reflux very soon.
Method : Seeking Professional Medical Help
- See a doctor for a diagnosis. Home remedies may work some cases, but if your symptoms return consistently, then you should see your doctor. Acid reflux or heartburn may feel like a burning sensation in your chest, or taste like sour liquid in the back of your mouth and usually occurs after eating, stress, physical exercises or lying down. Sometimes acid reflux can progress to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) with additional symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, difficulty swallowing, and increased chest pain especially when resting. If you experience any of these symptoms frequently, you should visit your doctor to determine if you may have GERD.
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2Ask your doctor about medication for acid reflux. Your doctor may suggest prescription medication to help treat moderate-to-severe symptoms of acid reflux. Whenever you are prescribed medication, it’s important to let your medical provider know about any other medications, herbs or supplements to avoid side effects. Medications that can help are:
- Antacids used to treat mild-to-moderate heartburn. These are the combination of magnesium, calcium, and aluminum with a buffering agent, such as a hydroxide or bicarbonate ion. Antacids can help provide immediate relief that lasts up to an hour. Side effects may include diarrhea or constipation.
- H-2-receptor blockers work to reduce histamine 2, a chemical floating in the stomach that signals it to make acid. These may not provide relief as quickly as antacids, but may be effect for people with severe symptoms of GERD.
- Proton pump inhibitors are more effective than H2 blockers at helping relieve symptoms of moderate-to-severe GERD and heartburn while healing the esophageal lining.
- Your doctor can help determine the right medication and optimal dose for your condition.
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3Ask your doctor about side effects of other medicine. Certain medications you might be taking for other ailments can make your acid reflux worse, either as a side effect or causing intolerance. It is important to ask your doctor about other medications and supplements that may make your symptoms worse. Some medications for other conditions that commonly cause problems with acid reflux are:
- Anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin and Aleve, which may also be associated with an increased risk of peptic ulcers
- Calcium channel blockers for high blood pressure or angina
- Anticholinergics for urinary tract infections, allergies, or glaucoma
- Beta adrenergic agonist for asthma or obstructive lung disease
- Bisphosphonates for osteoporosis.
- Some sedatives, antibiotics, potassium, or iron supplements.
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4Consider getting surgery. Surgery might be an option for you if medication and lifestyle adjustments don’t help alleviate your acid reflux symptoms and interfere with your daily activities or have caused permanent damage to your esophagus. Your doctor may recommend getting fundoplication, a minimally invasive surgical treatment that involves wrapping the upper portion of the stomach around the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) to reinforce and strengthen the LES. This procedure is safe and effective for people of all ages who experience moderate-to-severe symptoms of GERD and wish to avoid life-long dependence on medication.
Tips
- Being overweight increases your risk of GERD, and you’re going to suffer from occasional heartburn a lot more as well. This is because unnecessarily added pounds will put pressure on your lower esophageal sphincter. It will be more likely to loosen, and overtime it may simply weaken.
Warnings
- Prolonged high levels of stress increase the severity of many health problems, including stomach ulcers, acid reflux, and other stomach acid symptoms. Find ways to reduce and manage stress to keep your stomach healthy.
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