Natural Remedies for Heartburn and Acid Reflux

Heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux are among the most common digestive problems. The unpleasant burning sensation in the chest and throat can be relieved with the help of time-tested natural remedies. Here are some of the most effective ones.

Remedy 1: Baking Soda Water

Baking soda is a natural antacid that rapidly neutralises excess stomach acid.

• Ingredients:

  • 1/2 teaspoon of food-grade baking soda
  • 200 ml of water at room temperature

• How to prepare: Dissolve the baking soda in water and drink it in one go. The effect appears within minutes. Long-term use or more than twice a day is not recommended, as it can upset the stomach’s pH balance.

Remedy 2: Chamomile Tea

Chamomile has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that protect the stomach lining and soothe irritation.

• Ingredients:

  • 2 teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers
  • 250 ml of boiling water

• How to prepare: Pour boiling water over the chamomile flowers, cover and let steep for 10 minutes. Strain and drink warm, 20-30 minutes before a meal or whenever you feel the burn. 2-3 cups per day is recommended.

Remedy 3: Aloe Vera Juice

Aloe vera gel has a soothing effect on the digestive mucosa and helps reduce inflammation.

• Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons of pure aloe vera gel (from the plant leaf or commercially purchased)
  • 200 ml of water

• How to prepare: Mix the aloe vera gel with water and drink 20 minutes before a meal. Consume 1-2 times a day. Make sure you use aloe vera intended for internal consumption.

Remedy 4: Fennel Seed Tea

Fennel calms gastric spasms and helps reduce bloating, which can worsen reflux.

• Ingredients:

  • 1 teaspoon of fennel seeds
  • 250 ml of boiling water

• How to prepare: Lightly crush the fennel seeds and place them in a cup. Pour boiling water over them and let steep for 10 minutes. Strain and drink after meals. You can have 2-3 cups per day.

Remedy 5: Diluted Apple Cider Vinegar

Although it seems counterintuitive, apple cider vinegar helps balance acid levels in the stomach, especially when natural acid production is too low.

• Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon of unpasteurised apple cider vinegar
  • 200 ml of warm water
  • 1 teaspoon of honey (optional)

• How to prepare: Dilute the apple cider vinegar in water and add honey if the taste is too strong. Drink 15-20 minutes before a meal. Never consume it undiluted, as it can irritate the oesophagus.

Remedy 6: Flaxseed Water

Flaxseeds form a protective mucilage that coats the stomach wall and reduces irritation.

• Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon of flaxseeds
  • 200 ml of water

• How to prepare: Place the flaxseeds in water in the evening and let them soak overnight. In the morning, drink the resulting gelatinous water on an empty stomach. Consume daily for 2-3 weeks for best results.

Additional Tips

• Avoid lying down immediately after eating. Wait at least 2-3 hours.
• Eat smaller but more frequent portions instead of large meals.
• Slightly raise the head of your bed (by 10-15 cm) to prevent nighttime reflux.
• Avoid foods that worsen heartburn: chocolate, coffee, fatty foods, fried foods, spicy dishes, fizzy drinks, alcohol.
• If heartburn is frequent (more than twice a week), consult a gastroenterologist.