Stomach acidity: 4 immediate natural remedies to fight heartburn

Acidity and heartburn are common stomach problems for many people. They can be caused by various factors such as poor diet, stress, smoking, alcohol abuse or diseases of the stomach as an ulcer, gastroesophageal reflux and gastritis. To fight them it is possible to resort to effective and simple natural remedies. Let’s discover which ones!

We all suffered at least once from stomach acidity and heartburn more or less intense, perhaps after a hearty meal. Acid reflux or "pyrosis" occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter, which separates the stomach from the esophagus, opens and lets the stomach acid pass directly into the esophagus; this can cause annoying symptoms, such as heartburn at the mouth of the stomach and at the bottom of the chest. The main causes are due to poor eating habits, smoking, excessive consumption of coffee or alcohol, but it can also occur during pregnancy, due to hormonal changes. Other causes may be diseases of the gastric system such as gastritis, gastroesophageal reflux, ulcer or hiatal hernia. If the disorder is temporary, it is possible to resort to simple natural remedies, always after consulting the doctor. In case the problem persists, it is important to contact a specialist to understand the causes and act in a targeted way. Here are some remedies made with natural ingredients that can immediately relieve stomach acidity and heartburn.

1. Hot water helps to get rid of gas and toxins

Water is a simple and immediate remedy to counteract stomach acidity. In particular, it is advisable to drink a glass of hot water; to be effective it must be very hot, so it is important to drink it in small sips, perhaps with the help of a teaspoon. This remedy is effective in case of stomach acidity, heartburn, reflux, but also to alleviate night cramps, anxiety, tachycardia, problems that apparently have nothing to do with digestion. Hot water is effective because, by dilating the stomach walls, it helps to get rid of excess gases, favoring digestion.

2.Ginger is beneficial for its antacid properties

Another effective and beneficial remedy for the stomach is ginger, as it helps to alleviate pain and to decrease gastric acidity. Ginger has in fact digestive, antacid and anti-inflammatory properties, so it is recommended in case of gastroesophageal reflux, nausea, vomiting and poor digestion. Ginger can also inhibit Helicobacter pylori, a pathogenic bacterium that causes gastritis or ulcer. For an antacid effect you can chew slices of fresh ginger during the day, or use it to season meals. Alternatively you can make a decoction with fresh or dried root: boil a small piece of fresh root or 2 grams of dried root in about 250 ml of water. Ginger is not recommended in case of intolerance, if you are taking hypertension medications and it should be used with caution by pregnant women.

3. Aloe vera juice has anti-inflammatory and protective properties

Aloe vera juice is among the most effective natural remedies for calming heartburn. Aloe vera is a plant with fleshy leaves rich in a gel full of mucilage and acemannan, elements with anti-inflammatory and protective properties of the mucous membranes of the stomach and of the whole digestive system, including the throat, esophagus, intestine and colon. These substances protect the stomach from the erosive action of gastric juices. You can buy aloe vera juice in herbal medicine’s shops or pharmacies; you can take 1 tablespoon 2-3 times a day, half an hour before main meals. But always consult your doctor before using this remedy, especially if you are taking medicines or suffer from some pathology. Also, aloe vera must be avoided during pregnancy and lactation.

4. Chamomile fights acid reflux and calms stomach ache

Among the most used home remedies in case of stomach acidity is chamomile, also useful to calm tensions and anxiety, which often cause heartburn, acid reflux and poor digestion. Chamomile helps to calm stomach ache thanks to the presence of flavonoids and therapeutic substances with anti-inflammatory and protective action of the gastric mucosa. You can consume chamomile when needed, during the day or after every meal. Instead of the infusion you can also use the mother tincture of chamomile taking a few drops after drinking a glass of water. Always ask the herbalist or the doctor for advice before taking it, also to establish the doses.