Some herbs and supplements, such as peppermint oil, licorice root, and melatonin, may help improve gastroesophageal reflux disease along with other treatments. However, further research is needed.
Treatment for reflux esophagitis and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) may include the following:
Herbal remedies and supplements have been used for many years to relieve the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease.
However, research regarding their role in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease is limited and controversial.
Read on to learn more about potential herbal remedies and supplements for gastroesophageal reflux disease and acid reflux.
Peppermint oil and tea leaves have been traditionally used to relieve many symptoms.
Research shows that peppermint oil may:
The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) recommends not taking peppermint for at least two hours before or after taking medicines such as antacids. This can increase your risk of heartburn.
Ginger root has been used as a herbal medicine for many years
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- soothes the digestive tract
- reduce the frequency of heartburn
- reduce acid production
That being said, a 2020 review found that some studies reported heartburn as a side effect of taking it.
Consult your health care professional before taking ginger supplements. They can advise you on the best dosage to treat your gastroesophageal reflux disease or suggest alternative treatments.
Chamomile tea has a calming effect, so many people drink it before bed.
The risks of chamomile side effects are:
Licorice root, or deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL), also
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A small 2017 study found that DGL supplements may be more effective at reducing symptoms than some antacids.
However, research on the association between licorice root and gastroesophageal reflux disease and acid reflux is limited. It is important not to stop taking your gastroesophageal reflux disease medication unless your doctor tells you it is safe.
Several other herbs and plants available as teas, oils, or capsules can be used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease.
However, there is limited research supporting the effectiveness of these herbs in treating gastroesophageal reflux disease. Herbs are also not regulated by any government agency for safety or effectiveness.
Antioxidant nutrients such as vitamins A, C, and E are being studied for their potential in preventing gastroesophageal reflux disease.
A small 2012 study found that people who consumed more of these vitamins in food or supplement form were less likely to develop gastroesophageal reflux disease than those who consumed lower levels. .
According to a 2020 review, animal studies have found that quercetin has antioxidant properties that may help treat gastroesophageal reflux disease.
Antioxidant supplements are typically used only when you can’t get enough nutrients from food. Blood tests can help determine which nutrients your body is deficient in.
Melatonin, also known as the “sleep hormone,” is primarily known for causing changes in the brain that promote the onset of sleep.
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After four weeks, the researchers found that the group that took melatonin reported significant improvements in symptoms and quality of life compared to the group that took only omeprazole.
Despite these results, it is important to note that research on melatonin and gastroesophageal reflux disease is limited.
What herbs are good for reflux esophagitis?
Herbs that help with acid reflux include peppermint, chamomile, and ginger. However, further research is needed.
How can I cure acid reflux naturally?
Natural treatments for GERD include sleeping with your head elevated, taking herbal medicine, not eating or drinking within three hours of going to bed, and limiting certain foods.
What are the best natural antacids?
Natural alternatives to taking antacids may include herbal remedies such as chamomile tea, ginger root, and licorice root.
Some research suggests that certain herbal remedies and supplements may help improve acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease.
However, it is important to note that many of these positive effects are obtained when herbal medicines are taken in conjunction with conventional treatments such as medications.
Further research is also needed to support the role of herbal remedies and supplements in the treatment of reflux esophagitis.
If you are considering taking herbal remedies or supplements, please consult your health care professional. They can advise you on the correct dosage or suggest alternative treatments depending on your condition.
