Indigestion and Heartburn Remedies

Indigestion and heartburn are quite common and affect many people. The reason for heartburn is the increased acid production combined with increased pressure within the stomach. It can cause severe uneasiness and pain. It is also chronic and needs treatment. There are several natural indigestion and heartburn remedies

Dietary Changes

Some basic changes in your diet and lifestyle are essential to cure heartburn. You should consume smaller quantities of food at intervals. You should also eat slowly. Patients of heartburn should avoid tomatoes, citrus fruits, fatty and spicy foods. Also avoid onion, garlic, chocolate, peppermint and aspirin. You should also reduce the intake of alcohol and carbonated drinks. The changes in diet and lifestyle will help to cure the disease.

Antacids

Antacids help to neutralize the effects of stomach acid and provide relief. Antacids are available in the form of liquid as well as tablets

Wikimedia Commons:H. Zell

Natural Remedies for Indigestion and Heartburn

Papaya

 Papaya contains an enzyme called papain which helps to digest food easily and prevent heartburn. Papaya has to be taken before meals. Pregnant women and people with latex allergy should not take papaya. 

Banana

Banana is a natural antacid. It forms a coating on the stomach which helps to reduce irritation and pain. But only ripe bananas are recommended. Unripe bananas have a high acid content and also starches that have not been converted to sugar. It is difficult to digest an unripe banana.

Ginger

Ginger aids digestion and is also a very good remedy for heartburn. Add a few slices of ginger to water and boil it. Strain the liquid after 15 minutes. Drink it several times at intervals till you get rid of the symptoms. Ginger candy is also very useful. Chew a small piece of ginger candy. If the symptoms persist chew one more.

Licorice Root

Licorice root is a very good remedy for heartburn. It can reduce the inflammation and protect the stomach. But licorice root should not be taken for long periods as it increases blood pressure.

Turmeric

Turmeric can improve digestion and also prevent heartburn. Add half tsp of turmeric to milk and drink it before meals.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera will provide a protective coating on the esophagus and stomach lining. Drink a glass of aloe vera juice before you have food. It can also be mixed with a non-acidic fruits like apple or grapes if you don’t like the taste. Keep drinking the juice till you get rid of all the symptoms.

Vinegar

Even though vinegar is an acid, it helps to neutralize the stomach acid. As vinegar is likely to damage teeth, it should be followed by a glass of water.

Almond Oil

Almond oil can neutralize stomach acids. Drop 2-3 drops of almond oil on your tongue and follow it with a glass of water.

Baking Soda

Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) can provide immediate relief. But it can raise blood pressure, if used frequently.

These are some of the indigestion and heartburn remedies.