Home Remedies for Acid Reflux

1. Baking Soda

Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is alkaline and can neutralize stomach acid, providing fast relief from heartburn and acid regurgitation. It can protect the stomach and esophagus lining from corrosive acid and reduce discomfort even when the lower esophageal sphincter is weak.

How to Use:

• Mix ½ teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water. Stir well and drink.
  Note: Do not exceed 3.5 tablespoons in 24 hours. Avoid using for more than a week to prevent side effects like bloating and nausea. Patients with high blood pressure should limit use.

2. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera soothes the burning sensation caused by excess stomach acid or acid reflux. It reduces inflammation in the stomach and esophagus, helping to prevent peptic and esophageal ulcers. Studies show that aloe vera juice can be as effective as common antacids such as ranitidine and omeprazole in managing GERD symptoms.

How to Use:

• Drink ½ cup of fresh aloe vera juice, cold or at room temperature, twice daily before meals.
  Note: Aloe vera has mild laxative properties; avoid use during diarrhea. This property can benefit those with chronic constipation.

3. Chewing Gum

Chewing gum stimulates saliva production, which dilutes stomach acid and helps clear it from the esophagus, reducing heartburn and regurgitation. It also promotes proper esophageal motility.

How to Use:

• Chew sugar-free gum for 30 minutes after meals.
  Tip: Sugar-free gum minimizes carbohydrate intake and helps patients with diabetes manage blood sugar spikes.

4. Banana

Bananas have natural antacid properties that buffer stomach acid, strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter, and prevent acid from flowing back into the esophagus. Rich in potassium and fiber, they aid digestion and protect the stomach lining.

How to Use:

• Eat one banana for relief from heartburn and acid regurgitation.

5. Onion

Onions can help neutralize stomach acid and reduce symptoms of acid reflux. Studies show that incorporating onions into the diet alleviates abdominal pain, belching, nausea, and heartburn.

How to Use:

• Include onions in cooking, salads, and soups.

• For frequent acid reflux episodes, eat a few slices after meals.

6. Ginger

Ginger soothes the stomach and esophagus, reduces acid corrosion, and promotes digestive motility. It can prevent reflux by helping stomach contents move quickly into the intestines.

How to Use:

• Boil 2–3 teaspoons of grated ginger in 2 cups of water for 5–10 minutes. Cover and steep for 10 minutes. Strain and drink 20 minutes before meals.

• Alternatively, chew a small piece of dried ginger after heavy meals.

7. Chamomile Tea

Chamomile tea reduces inflammation, protects the digestive lining, and helps manage reflux-related discomfort. It can also calm anxiety and stress, which are known to increase stomach acid production.

How to Use:

• Boil 1.5 cups of water. Add 1 tsp dried chamomile flowers, reduce heat, and steep for 1–2 minutes. Strain and drink 30 minutes before bedtime.

8. Honey

Honey acts as a soothing antioxidant for the throat and esophagus, alleviating heartburn and acid regurgitation. Its viscosity allows it to coat the esophagus and reduce symptoms for several hours. Honey also has non-peroxide antibacterial properties, helping prevent H. pylori infections and potential ulcers.

How to Use:

• Add 1 tablespoon of honey to a glass of water and drink twice daily, optionally with 5–6 drops of lemon for taste.

9. Black Cumin Seeds

Black cumin seeds have anti-ulcer and anti-inflammatory properties that may reduce acid secretion and protect the esophagus from reflux damage.

How to Use:

• Boil 1.5 cups of water with 1 tsp black cumin seeds for a few minutes. Cover, steep a few more minutes, strain, and drink.

10. Turmeric

Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory that protects the esophageal lining and can relieve throat discomfort caused by acid reflux.

How to Use:

• Mix 1 tsp turmeric in a cup of warm water and drink once daily for long-term benefit.

Recommended Ayurvedic Formulas for Long-Term Relief

For those seeking structured supplementation, the following Ayurvedic products may help support digestive health and reduce acid reflux symptoms:

• Alzarex by Charak Pharma – Supports digestion and soothes stomach discomfort.
• AyurAci Balance by Maharishi Ayurveda – Promotes gastric balance and protects the esophagus.
• Gasex by Himalaya Wellness – Helps reduce acidity and supports healthy digestion.