Five Herbal Remedies For Acid Reflux

Using herbs for heartburn and other related stomach issues has been a common practice for centuries. Today, herbal remedies can often treat acid reflux with fewer side effects and less exposure to synthetic chemicals than over-the-counter medications.

With the exception of fenugreek seed, the most common way to take the following herbs is in tea form. Most of the listed herbs for acid reflux are available in pre-made tea bags or can be made from loose dried herbs by steeping in 8 ounces of boiling water. Adding milk or cream to the tea provides extra heartburn relief, but may reduce the base effectiveness of the herbs

Scientific Name: Matricaria recutita

Also Known As: Chamomilla recutita, Camomile, Pineapple Weed, Blue Chamomile

Benefits: German chamomile is a wonderful herbal remedy for stomach problems of all types. It is a relaxant, so a great herb for acid reflux caused by stress. German chamomile is among the safest and well-tested herbs, so it would be perfect for those individuals just beginning to explore the possibility of healing with herbs. Finally, since there are no known interactions, chamomile can often be used with most heartburn medications as well as other herbs.

Possible Side effects: If you are allergic to ragweed, you shouldn’t take German chamomile, as they are closely related. German Chamomile may act the same way as estrogen in the blood stream. Women with reproductive-related cancers (breast, uterine, or ovarian) should not use it. Otherwise, German chamomile is generally considered so safe that it is often recommended by pediatricians to treat colic in infants.

Dosage: 2-3 grams 4 times daily in herbal tea form, capsule form 150-300 milligrams, liquid 1-3 drops.

Scientific Name: Trigonella foenum-graecum

Also Known As: Methi,Greek Hay Seed, Fenigreek seed

Benefits: Unlike most herbs for acid reflux, fenugreek seed is effective because of it’s physical not chemical assets. Fenugreek seed works like a sponge to absorb excess stomach acid. Since it is a commonly used food additive, fenugreek seed can often be sprinkled over a meal.

Possible Side effects: Fenugreek seed is very high in fiber and can cause bloating and gas when used in high quantities or when added to a low fiber diet. This high-fiber content can also interfere with absorption, so if you are going to use Fenugreek seed take at least 2 hours before or after other herbal supplements or medications.

Dosage: 2-3 grams of seeds with water or sprinkled over food, 500-700 milligrams in capsule form.

Scientific Name: Agrimonia eupatoria, Agrimonia gryposepala, etc

Also Known As: Tall hairy groove burr, Common Agrimony, Cocklebur, Stickwort, Funffingerkraut, Agrimonia

Benefits: Agrimony is a good herb for heartburn caused by general stomach distress. When heartburn presents with diarrhea, vomiting and nausea, agrimony may be your best choice. A combination of chamomile, fenugreek seed and agrimony can be used to treat acid reflux caused by over-use of alcohol (hangover).

Possible Side effects: Agrimony can lower blood pressure, avoid using this herb if you are using medications or other herbs to lower blood pressure or if you suffer from chronic low blood pressure. This herb may cause a rash. Agrimony also contains tannins, it is advised that it be taken with milk.

Dosage: 2-4 grams in herbal form, 1-3 drops in liquid form.

 Scientific Name: Stachys officinalis

Also Known As: Betony, Purple Betony, Bishopswort

Benefits: Betony is another “do all’ herb and is one of the best herbs for acid reflux caused by diet. This used with fenugreek seed can relieve the pain of heartburn and reduce the amount of acid in the stomach. Because wood betony is slightly calmative, it is also an effective herb for acid reflux caused by stress.

Possible Side effects: Wood Betony is generally considered safe and has no well-known side effects or interactions. Because it does contain tannins, it may be best to take wood betony with milk.

Dosage: 2-4 grams in herbal form, 600 milligrams in capsule, 2-4 drops in liquid form.

Scientific Name: Hyssopus officinalis

Also Known As: Hyssopus, Curdukotu, Hisopo European mint

Benefits: Hyssop is excellent for the lining of the stomach and is one of the best herbs for heartburn that accompanies an ulcer. It also reduces gas and stomach cramps, so can be used for temporary relief from many stomach issues. Hyssop tea is also delicious.

Possible Side effects: Hyssop can very rarely cause convulsions in extremely high doses. Do not take more than recommended or continuously for a period of over two weeks.

Dosage: 2-4 grams in herbal form, 10-20 drops daily in liquid form

Herbal remedies have been used for centuries and are generally considered safer than manufactured drugs. Because drug manufacturers must test their products before becoming FDA approved, however, there are far more scientific studies on synthetic drugs.

It is impossible to provide information on the effect of any herb on every health condition. It is also impossible to predict how one herb will interact with every medication manufactured. Please speak to your pharmacist or physician before adding herbal supplements to your wellness regimen. Pregnant women should always contact their doctor before taking any herb or medication.