Heartburn is an uncomfortable symptom of indigestion caused by certain foods, medications, or lifestyle habits. While over-the-counter medications are available to help temporarily relieve heartburn symptoms, they may not always be the best option for long-term health.
Luckily, you can also use several natural remedies to relieve your heartburn symptoms without relying on medication. Here are nine of the most effective natural remedies for heartburn relief that you should consider trying today!
Heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest and throat often caused by the reflux of stomach acid, which can irritate the lining of the esophagus and cause discomfort.
Heartburn is often triggered by various factors, including overeating, lying down too soon after eating and consuming certain foods such as:
Other causes:
Symptoms of Heartburn
The symptoms of heartburn can vary from person to person, but the most common symptoms include the following:
If you experience heartburn frequently, it is crucial to seek treatment from a healthcare professional, including urgent care in West Hartford, CT. Conventional treatments for heartburn include over-the-counter antacids, prescription medications, and lifestyle changes. In some cases, surgery may be recommended.
Aloe vera has numerous therapeutic benefits, including the natural alleviation of heartburn. It is believed to help reduce or prevent irritation in the esophagus caused by stomach acid and can soothe inflammation. Additionally, its high water content helps by coating the throat and calming burning secondary to heartburn. Clinical research also suggests that aloe vera promotes healthy digestion, reduces symptoms associated with gastrointestinal reflux, and may even have anti-cancer properties due to its powerful antioxidant properties that ward off free radical cells. For optimal results, it is recommended to drink fresh aloe vera juice on an empty stomach.
Chewing gum is a commonly used remedy for heartburn, as it is believed to help neutralize stomach acid and relieve symptoms. This is due to the increase in saliva production that occurs when chewing gum, which contains bicarbonate, an alkaline substance that can help neutralize stomach acid’s acidity.
Several studies have investigated the effects of chewing gum on heartburn symptoms, and the results have shown promising evidence of its effectiveness. For example, a study published in the National Library of Medicine found that chewing gum for 30 minutes after a meal can significantly reduce the rate of esophageal acid clearance, which can help to reduce the amount of time that acid remains in contact with the esophagus, potentially reducing the risk of heartburn.
Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a natural antacid that can neutralize stomach acid and provide relief from heartburn and acid reflux. When consumed, baking soda reacts with stomach acids to help alleviate these urgent digestive issues. In addition, when combined with water, baking soda becomes alkaline and neutralizes the acids in your stomach, which can help relieve heartburn symptoms. If you’re interested in discovering more about how this natural remedy may benefit you, consider talking with a doctor at urgent care in West Hartford, CT, for further advice and guidance.
Ginger can be an effective natural remedy for heartburn. Not only does it alleviate symptoms of indigestion, but it is also believed to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract. It may work by reducing stomach acid levels and occasionally blocking acid reflux from entering the esophagus. Ginger also helps balance out gut bacteria, which helps improve digestion and nutrient absorption. In addition, studies have found that ginger can help relieve occasional bouts on the lower esophageal sphincter if taken regularly or consumed as a tea. As with other natural remedies for heartburn, it’s always best to check with your local urgent care in West Hartford, CT, before making drastic dietary changes or taking supplements.
Apple Cider Vinegar has been known to be an excellent soother for acid reflux and heartburn. A teaspoon of cider vinegar in a glass of water is said to help absorb the acid in the stomach, which causes heartburn in the first place. Studies have tested this remedy and shown promising results for those suffering from urgent care in West Hartford, CT. If you suffer from recurring or chronic indigestion, it’s worth looking into Apple Cider Vinegar as an all-natural remedy that avoids antacids and other drugs. It should have quick results, as many have noted improved digestion within 15 minutes of drinking it, and it should also help with long-term heartburn relief.
Fennel seeds have been used for centuries in both traditional Chinese medicine and Indian Ayurvedic medicine to treat a variety of stomach complaints, including heartburn. Fennel seeds are a source of anethole, which is thought to reduce the production of acid within the stomach lining and therefore alleviate heartburn symptoms like pain and burning sensations. Studies suggest that chewing fennel seeds may be as effective as commercially available antacids in treating occasional episodes of heartburn. Additionally, drinking a cup of fennel tea after meals can help reduce symptoms. Fennel oil may also be used topically on the abdomen or chest to relieve discomfort. While fennel typically offers relief from mild symptoms of heartburn, it should not replace conventional treatments and can interact with medications; therefore, anyone interested in using fennel as a home remedy should consult their physician at urgent care in West Hartford, CT, first.
Licorice root is one of the oldest known medicinal herbs and has long been used to effectively reduce symptoms associated with heartburn. It has natural anti-inflammatory properties that help relax the stomach’s mucosal lining, providing relief from reflux, indigestion, and other digestive problems. Licorice root also acts as a pH balancer, helping to restore the lower esophageal sphincter so it can do its job properly — preventing food and acid from traveling in the wrong direction. Furthermore, licorice root can increase the production of a critical mucus coating that prevents stomach acids from irritating the esophagus. For best results when using licorice root to naturally alleviate heartburn, it should be eaten raw or steeped into a tea for about 10 minutes and consumed twice daily for at least two weeks.
Cloves have long been used in traditional medicine and cuisine as a flavor enhancer and curative. The active compound, eugenol, found in cloves, is particularly effective at relieving heartburn symptoms. By decreasing stomach acidity, eugenol helps to neutralize the burning sensations of heartburn. Furthermore, cloves have an antispasmodic quality which helps to relax digestive muscles that may be causing discomfort. Cloves are best consumed as an infusion tea or dried as a whole spice. While beneficial for many medical conditions, consuming large amounts of cloves may cause nausea and gastric upset. So it’s best to speak with your healthcare provider in nearby West Hartford, CT, urgent care center before using cloves for medicinal purposes.
Though it may seem simple, water is one of the most effective home remedies for heartburn relief. Several studies and reviews have suggested that drinking water before meals can reduce the symptoms of heartburn, especially when associated with gastric acid reflux. Furthermore, drinking 8–10 glasses daily helps flush out your digestive system and reduce acid reflux symptoms. Water helps break down food particles and acts as a natural neutralizer for stomach acids that can cause symptoms. Also, drinking water can help reduce the amount of gas that causes bloating and discomfort. Ultimately, drinking enough water is a simple and natural way to ward off heartburn symptoms.
Heartburn typically lasts for a few minutes and can be managed with the natural remedies listed above. However, if symptoms persist for more than a few days or increase in intensity and frequency, urgent care in West Hartford, CT, should be sought, and medications should be considered.
While home remedies can be effective for mild cases of heartburn, medical attention may be necessary for more severe symptoms. A doctor can help you identify factors causing your heartburn and provide methods to reduce or eliminate them. Additionally, urgent care clinics can quickly and effectively relieve heartburn symptoms. Seeking urgent care services is the best way to ensure long-term heartburn relief and optimal digestive health.
DOCS Urgent Care – West Hartford is dedicated to providing excellent urgent care services for various illnesses and conditions in Connecticut. Our urgent care clinic is equipped to diagnose and treat heartburn and provide lifestyle recommendations that can help reduce the risk of future symptoms. Our urgent care staff is passionate about providing top-notch medical services delivered with compassionate and personalized patient care.
If you experience frequent or severe heartburn symptoms, visit DOCS Urgent Care – West Hartford for urgent care services that you can trust!
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