While the mere thought of food, as well as savouring favourite dishes, is a truly satisfying experience, the process of digestion that occurs after the consumption of meals is not always smooth. Myriad gut problems arise in people of all ages, with GERD ( Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease) being one of the most common digestive disorders. GERD is a chronic ailment wherein excessive stomach acids flow backwards into the food pipe or the esophagus, due to weakened or constricted stomach valve structures known as the lower esophageal sphincter, which triggers an uneasy sensation in the chest.

Also Read: Heartburn: Causes, Symptoms And Treatment

Ayurveda defines GERD as “Amlapitta”, meaning that the Pitta dosha component of the body which regulates digestion attains surplus acidic levels i.e. “Amlata”, leading to acid reflux and heartburn – Hrit Daha, accompanied by a bitter taste in the mouth – Tikta Udgara and indigestion - Avipaka. As the concentrations of acids in the gastrointestinal tract continue to remain high, even the Kapha and Vata dosha aspects are hampered, inducing further discomforting symptoms of nausea, vomiting, bad breath/halitosis, chest pain ,and difficulty in swallowing food,

Thanks to the tomes of information documented in the ancient Ayurvedic manuscripts of Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhit,a and Ashtanga Hridaya, umpteen natural solutions are available to treat GERD and alleviate the uneasy symptoms in the gastric tract. These potent herbs pacify the Pitta dosha, reduce acid levels in the stomach, esophagus, and promote digestion.

Fabulous Herbal Remedies For GERD That Help Lower Acidity:

Pippali

Pippali, commonly known as Long Pepper, is a time-tested herbal antidote for acidity and GERD. The spice is packed with powerful compounds that stimulate digestion and balance the Pitta doshas in the system, to ease heartburn.

Mix 1 tsp of pippali powder with a bit of honey in a glass of warm water and drink the decoction after meals to effectively cure GERD symptoms.

Also Read: Pippali: Incredible Wellness Incentives Of The Indian Long Pepper

Tulsi

Also known as Holy Basil, Tulsi is an excellent natural remedy for a host of stomach-related woes, including GERD. The leaves of this sacred plant are imbued with volatile oils that portray strong carminative traits, to relieve flatulence, gas, and hyperacidity.

After a full meal at breakfast, lunch, or dinner, sip on a cup of hot tulsi tea to enhance digestion and pacify burning sensations in the gut.

Elaichi

Cardamom or elaichi is rich in B vitamins, antioxidants, which boost metabolism in the system and facilitate smooth digestion processes. The aromatic pods also help reduce nausea, bloating, and bitter taste in the mouth, which often occur during instances of GERD.

Chew on some elaichi/cardamom pods after ingesting food to activate the digestive juices and assist in proper assimilation of nutrients within the system.

Ash Gourd

Ash gourd is a wholesome green vegetable that not only has a high water content but is also laden with valuable phytonutrients – terpenes, flavonoids, which considerably decrease acid levels in the gut and help avert nausea, vomiting, and constipation.

Drink a glass of ash gourd juice in the morning to augment digestive functions, ease acid reflux and heartburn, to effectively manage GERD.

Aloe Vera

Known as Ghrit Kumari as per the Ayurvedic terminology in Sanskrit, aloe vera is a marvellous panacea for umpteen health conditions, including GERD. The leaves of the aloe plant secrete a liquid gel that contains vast reserves of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds, which neutralize stomach acids, heal peptic ulcers, and ease heartburn.

Having a glass of aloe vera juice along with meals uplifts digestion and treats acid reflux and GERD, for better gut health.

Additional Tips To Cure Heartburn

Avoid Trigger Foods

Certain foods and drinks can trigger acid reflux and heartburn by reducing lower esophageal sphincter pressure, making it easier for acidic contents to reflux back into the esophagus. Identify some specific foods that may be causing this health problem and avoid these foods whenever possible.

Avoid Lying After Eating

Avoid lying down with a stomach full of food. This can trigger acid reflux and make symptoms of heartburn worse. Avoid eating within two hours of your bedtime.

Do Not Binge Eat

Having a large amount of food in your stomach will contribute to pressure on the valves that keep stomach acid away from the esophagus. This may cause heartburn. Always eat dinner, but in limited portions. 

Stop Smoking

Quitting smoking can reduce the severity of GERD. In some cases, it can even eliminate this problem.

Wear Comfortable Sleepwear

If you have chronic heartburn issues, tight-fitting clothing and pressure on your stomach may be contributing to your symptoms. Wear loose clothing when going off to sleep.

Frequently Asked Questions

How To Cure GERD Permanently In Ayurveda?

Ayurveda suggests balancing Pitta with dietary changes, herbs like liquorice, and detox practices.

How Can I Soothe My GERD Naturally?

Eat smaller meals, avoid spicy/fried foods, elevate your head while sleeping, and use herbs like fennel or Aloe Vera.

What Does Ayurveda Say About Heartburn?

It is considered a Pitta imbalance caused by excess heat and acidity in the digestive tract.

What Is The Permanent Cure For Heartburn?

Consistent dietary management, stress reduction, and Ayurvedic remedies may offer lasting relief.

What Takes Away Heartburn Immediately?

Drinking cold milk or chewing roasted fennel seeds can provide quick relief from heartburn

What Is The 28 28-day plan To Erase Your Acid Reflux?

It typically includes eliminating triggers, healing the gut lining with herbs, and restoring balance through diet, besides promoting better digestion.

How Do You Flush Acid Out Of Your Stomach?

Drink plenty of water, eat alkaline foods like bananas or oatmeal, and avoid acidic triggers.

What Naturally Stops Stomach Acid?

Aloe vera juice, slippery elm, and liquorice can help reduce acid naturally.

Is Jaggery Acidic Or Alkaline?

Jaggery is considered mildly alkaline, and when consumed in moderation, it can help aid digestion and reduce acid reflux.

Which Drink Kills Acidity?

Coconut water, cold milk, and herbal teas like chamomile tea help reduce acidity and maintain a healthy digestive system.

(This article is reviewed by Soumita Basu, Ayurveda Pharma Expert)

Author Profile: Preeti Sharma

Preeti Sharma has a master’s in electronic media and mass communication and certification in short-term writing from Florida. With close to a decade of experience, she specializes in crafting engaging blogs on beauty, veterinary care, and healthy cooking. Preeti is proficient in video editing tools and produces captivating and informative content across multiple platforms.