Acid Reflux and Heartburn

Stomach acid reflux and heart burn are two terms that describe the same thing. Acid reflux is the medical term and heart burn is the more common term. They refer to the burning sensation that we experience when stomach acid backs up into the lower esophagus or throat. An effective acid reflux and heart burn cure will either neutralize the excess acid, so that the burning sensation stops, relieve the gas that sometimes causes the acid to leak up out of the stomach, soothe the throat or all of the above. When you are experiencing heart burn problems, you will typically want something that also works quickly.

Many people who experience heart burn problems frequently keep a bottle of antacid tablets handy for quick relief, but if you prefer an herbal remedy, there are several. Fennel has been used as an acid reflux and heart burn cure by the natives of many different countries. Fennel seeds are available at most supermarkets and from companies that sell other herbs and natural remedies. Fennel seeds can be used to make a soothing tea and products containing fennel oil, specifically for use as a quick relief for heart burn problems, are also available.

Peppermint has long been used as an acid reflux and heart burn cure. Peppermint can be grown in an herb garden and relief from heart burn problems may be achieved by chewing on some washed leaves or stems or by adding it to your fennel tea. It is best to avoid caffeinated teas when experiencing heart burn, since caffeinated beverages may increase the stomach acid and increase the heart burn problems. Peppermint oil is also an ingredient in many over the counter acid reflux and heart burn cures. Some companies use other mints, as well. Some products only contain mint flavoring and a chalky antacid which may or may not provide relief from heart burn problems. Some people simply do not like the taste of antacids or the chalky aftertaste. Peppermint is one natural acid reflux and heart burn cure that may neutralize the acid, relieve the gas and soothe the throat.

Rhubarb was used as an acid reflux and heart burn cure by Native Americans. Rhubarb grows wild, can be purchased at grocery stores or grown in your own garden. Chewing on a piece of rhubarb provides relief from indigestion and heart burn problems for some people. Chewing promotes the production of saliva in the mouth and saliva neutralizes the stomach acid. In addition, ginger root may provide relief from heart burn problems and is an ingredient in some herbal heartburn relief products.

There are many over the counter products that provide relief from occasional heart burn problems. Those who experience heart burn problems once a week or more may want to have their symptoms evaluated by their physician. Particular if heart burn problems are experienced that do not seem related to eating spicy or highly acidic foods. Prescription drugs are sometimes necessary to protect the esophagus from being eroded by the stomach acid when heart burn problems occur frequently. For those who prefer natural remedies, there are some herbal products that may reduce the frequency of heart burn problems. Any medication, over the counter product or herbal remedy may have side effects. Certain products should not be used by pregnant or nursing women or those with other health problems or allergies. While there is no specific acid reflux and heart burn cure, there are many products that may provide relief.