Acid reflux, also known as GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, the condition can cause symptoms such as sore throat, a burning sensation, burping, and even regurgitation of food. Acid reflux causes stomach acid to move backwards into your esophagus, which can cause painful inflammation in the esophagus. And an awful taste.
Chamomile Tea May Help to Reduce Acid Reflux
It’s possible that chamomile’s anti-inflammatory effects may help. According to an article by The National Center for Biotechnology Information "chamomile inhibits Helicobacter pylori, the bacteria that can contribute to stomach ulcers. Chamomile is believed to be helpful in reducing smooth muscle spasms associated with various gastrointestinal inflammatory disorders."
Stress is a common acid reflux trigger. Participants in a study said “feelings of continued stress” was the number one factor that made their acid reflux symptoms worse. So, drinking chamomile tea may help reduce stress. As a result, it may also help reduce or prevent stress-related acid reflux episodes.
Ginger Tea May Also Help with Acid Reflux
Ginger tea is known to be a digestive aid that helps to ease digestive problems related to gas, bloating, nausea and indigestion. The chamomile tea contains shogaol and gingerol which have natural anti-inflammatory properties. Shogaol and gingerol in Chamomile tea help to decrease swelling and irritation that can cause stomach acid to back up into the esophagus.
Avoid Mint, Spearmint and Peppermint Teas
Peppermint tea, spearmint tea and mint may worsen acid reflux or GERD. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, peppermint relaxes the sphincter muscle which closes off the stomach from the esophagus. This can cause stomach acid to back up into into the esophagus and make heartburn or GERD worse.
Other Natural Remedies
Many other "natural" remedies have been used to treat heartburn over the centuries, but there is little scientific evidence to confirm their effectiveness. Catnip, fennel, marshmallow root, and papaya tea have all been said to aid in digestion and stop heartburn. Some people eat fresh papaya as a digestive aid. Others swear by raw potato juice three times a day. Naturopathic followers also tout a homeopathic remedy with the unappetizing name of vomit nut as a heartburn fix.
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