Home Remedies for GERD

GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) is frequent and sometimes chronic heartburn that can be painful, disruptive and potentially serious if not properly treated. Without treatment, the acid being pushed up from your stomach will not only cause a number of uncomfortable symptoms, but could also lead to further health complications such as:

• Ulcers
• Barrett’s esophagus
• Esophagitis
• Strictures (narrowing of the esophagus)
• Esophageal cancer

These conditions would require medical treatment, and quite possibly reflux surgery. So it is important that if you suffer from GERD you find treatment options that will minimize symptoms and prevent your acid reflux from worsening.
Your doctor can help you with medications and medical options when it comes to treating GERD but there are some home remedies that have proven to be helpful for some people battling with GERD:

• Chewing gum. Chewing gum stimulates the salivary flow rate. This helps to wash away and clear any acid that has accumulated in the esophagus more quickly. The clearance of acid helps to improve GERD symptoms.
• Ginger root. Ginger has been known to commonly help with nausea, a symptom that can often occur with GERD.
• Orange peel extract. Although citrus fruits have been said to aggravate the symptoms of GERD, D-limonene is an ingredient found in the peels of oranges and other citrus oils. This ingredient has been said to relieve symptoms of GERD in a number of people.
• Slippery elm. Supporters of this home remedy claim that this tree extract thickens the layer of mucous that lines the esophagus. This lining creates a stronger, protective barrier against acid.
• Baking soda. Baking soda neutralizes stomach acids and can be taken mixed into a glass of water. However, this remedy should not be used too frequently because it is often high in salt.
• Licorice. Licorice contains properties that support natural stomach healing and some medical professionals suggest DGL licorice tablets before meals.
• Aloe. Aloe Vera is generally used to soothe burns, and could do the same for the esophagus. Aloe Vera juice can reduce inflammation in the esophagus as well as the stomach.

While home remedies may help to temporarily reduce certain symptoms of GERD, if your symptoms worsen or show no sign of improvement, it is important that you speak to your doctor about medical treatment before your condition worsens or develops into something more serious.