Acid indigestion can be treated with herbal remedies instead of antacids. Herbal remedies, in general, are better options as they are less harmful to our body. It is a reality that indigestion is becoming a pervasive problem in modern times. There are indications everywhere. The shelves of supermarket and drugstores are well stocked with antacids. Television and online commercials have also been heavily promoting antacids as the cure for heartburn.
For proper digestion, you need to relax your stomach. If you eat too quickly or eat excessively, you are likely to suffer from indigestion. Consuming too much food at one sitting burdens the stomach. Its digestive juices get diluted making them function less efficiently. Thus, you may taste the stomach acid and experience pain.
You can try herbal remedies for acid indigestion as safer alternatives to antacids. Herbal remedies have virtually little or no toxicity as compared to manufactured over-the-counter medicines. These does not mean that herbs are not potent at all; if fact, some of them are. Hence, before using any natural remedies, you should check with your physician that it is safe for you to do so. Here are some known herbal remedies for acid indigestion:
Slippery Elm. This herb was used by early folk healers as a digestive tonic and for treatment of acid indigestion and dysentery. The relief it brings to acid indigestion derives from its healing action on the mucous membranes. Herbalists believe it soothes inflamed tissues and draws toxins and other irritants from body tissues.
Licorice. A form of licorice called deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL), a chewable form of the herb, is a natural antacid. Unlike a regular licorice, DGL does not have hormonal side effects. This makes DGL more effective and will not lead to elevated blood pressures, which can be a side effect of other forms. Licorice helps fight ulcerations caused by hyperacidity.
Gentian. Gentian contains a chemical (gentianine) that stimulates the secretion of stomach acid, lending some credence to its 3,000-year old history as a digestive aid. Try it before meals. Gentian tastes very bitter, so you might want to add honey to your decoction.
Mint. An ancient medicinal herb, mint is a cooling diaphoretic that relieves indigestion, gas or colic, and heartburn. It can also calm nausea and vomiting. The menthol in mint appears to soothe the smooth muscle lining of the digestive tract. Some studies show peppermint also may help to prevent stomach ulcers and stimulate bile secretions.
Papaya (Fruit and Leaves). While papaya is not known as a herb, its plant has a surprising potency in combating digestive disorders and calming down a disturbed gastrointestinal tract. Its powerful enzyme, papain, helps to breakdown complex proteins, reducing the digestive load on the stomach.
Steamed cabbage is also reportedly known to work. The glutamine in cabbage is said to be effective in settling an irritated stomach. Alternatively, you can try consuming fresh cabbage juice. Drink this juice immediately after preparation. Also, always chew your food well and eat in a relaxed and stress-free setting to prevent acid indigestion.
You should attend to your acid indigestion if it persists or worsens, despite having tried various solutions you try or adjustments you make in your diet. Get a proper diagnosis by your physician.