How to naturally soothe heartburn?
Heartburn is an unpleasant sensation caused by stomach acid backing up into the esophagus. This irritates the esophageal lining, resulting in a burning sensation in the chest. Fortunately, there are natural ways to relieve this discomfort and improve digestion. This comprehensive guide will help you identify lifestyle changes, underlying health issues to monitor, and effective essential oils to soothe symptoms.
What causes heartburn?
Heartburn can occur occasionally, without it being pathological. When it occurs regularly, after several meals a week, it is often caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition in which stomach acids rise up into the esophagus. This reflux can be triggered by various factors.
Food and drinks
Diet plays a key role in the development of heartburn. Certain foods and drinks can trigger or worsen symptoms by increasing stomach acid production and irritating the stomach lining. Some of the main culprits include:
- Spicy dishes;
- Fatty foods;
- Chocolate;
- Coffee and alcohol;
- Acidic foods such as citrus fruits;
- Hearty meals in the evening.
Carbonated drinks, on the other hand, can cause bloating, which puts extra pressure on the stomach, promoting acid reflux.
To avoid these inconveniences, it is advisable to favor light meals rich in fiber, while limiting irritating foods and drinks.
Lifestyle habits
Lifestyle habits also play an important role in preventing and relieving heartburn. Adopting good habits can significantly minimize the risk of acid reflux:
- Eat a balanced diet;
- Drink water throughout the day;
- Avoid tobacco and alcohol;
- Eat slowly;
- Split meals;
- Manage your stress effectively;
- Do not lie down immediately after a meal;
- Do not eat less than 3 hours before going to bed;
- Raise the head of the bed by about 15 to 20 cm to prevent it from rising during the night.
Additionally, wearing loose clothing, especially after meals, helps reduce pressure on the stomach, thus reducing acid reflux.
Underlying health problems
If heartburn is frequent, i.e., after most meals, it is important to consult a doctor to check if an underlying condition is the cause.
Indeed, certain medical conditions can worsen heartburn, including:
- Hiatal hernias;
- Overweight;
- Diabetes;
- Stress;
- Irritable bowel syndrome.
Proper treatment of these problems can significantly improve quality of life and reduce the frequency of symptoms. Taking certain medications can intensify the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease.
How to Relieve Heartburn Fast?
To quickly relieve heartburn, several natural solutions can be effective:
- Drinking a glass of water mixed with a teaspoon of baking soda is a quick and easy way to neutralize stomach acid. Due to its alkaline pH, baking soda neutralizes stomach acid, providing temporary but immediate relief. This remedy should not be used long-term.
- Pure, organic, additive-free aloe vera juice is also recommended. With its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, it can calm irritations in the esophagus and stomach, reducing the burning sensation. Drink 1/4 cup before meals.
- Apple cider vinegar, although slightly acidic, can help balance stomach pH and aid digestion. Dilute one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water and drink it before meals or when symptoms occur. This can stimulate the production of digestive juices and relieve heartburn in some people.
- Green clay helps coat the sensitive, irritated, and inflamed walls of the esophagus and stomach, protecting them from acidity. It also helps soothe irritations. Mix 1/2 teaspoon of fine green clay powder into a glass of water and let it sit for at least 1 hour. Drink the water one hour before meals. Take occasionally or as a course of treatment for 1 to 3 weeks maximum.
Finally, relaxing after meals, avoiding intense physical activities or stress, can also help reduce symptoms.
These remedies may provide temporary relief for some people, but it's important to avoid overdoing it. For frequent or severe heartburn, consulting a healthcare professional is essential.
Essential oils to soothe heartburn
Used alongside other methods, essential oils are an effective natural solution for soothing heartburn. Known for their digestive and anti-inflammatory properties, they help reduce stomach acid and soothe irritation.
Ginger essential oil
Ginger essential oil is known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. It helps calm nausea and stimulate digestion, thus reducing symptoms of acid reflux.
Ginger is also a natural antispasmodic, which means it can help relax stomach muscles and prevent spasms that can exacerbate heartburn.
Optimal use:
- Inhalation: Add 2 to 3 drops of Ginger essential oil to a bowl of hot water and inhale the vapors. This method allows you to quickly benefit from the soothing properties of ginger.
- Topical application: Dilute 1 drop in a carrier oil, such as jojoba or sweet almond oil, and gently massage the solar plexus. This massage can help calm tension in the stomach and promote more harmonious digestion.
Contraindications:
Ginger essential oil is not recommended for pregnant women or children under 3 years old. As with all essential oils, it is recommended to perform a skin test on the inside of the elbow before regular use to avoid any risk of allergic reaction.
Fennel essential oil
Fennel essential oil is excellent for promoting digestion and reducing bloating, often associated with heartburn. Fennel has carminative properties, meaning it helps expel intestinal gas, reducing pressure on the stomach and the risk of acid reflux.
Optimal use:
- Oral use: Place 1 to 2 drops of Fennel essential oil on a neutral medium (honey, cane sugar, vegetable oil). Swallow 3 times a day to improve digestion after meals.
- Topical application: Dilute 1 drop in a carrier oil and massage the abdomen to aid digestion. This application can be particularly effective after a large or fatty meal, which are risk factors for heartburn.
Contraindications:
Fennel essential oil should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or on children under 6 years of age. As with Ginger oil, it is advisable to perform a skin test before regular use.
Cardamom essential oil
Cardamom essential oil has carminative and digestive properties that help relieve digestive disorders, including heartburn. Cardamom is also known for its cooling and soothing effects on the digestive system.
Optimal use:
- Inhalation: Add 2 drops of Cardamom essential oil to a bowl of hot water and inhale to soothe heartburn. Inhalation can quickly calm esophageal irritation and reduce nausea associated with acid reflux.
- Topical application: Mix 1 drop in a vegetable oil and apply to the stomach for a calming effect.
- Oral: 2 drops, 3 times a day on a neutral support.
Cardamom can also be combined with other essential oils, such as lavender, for an additional relaxing effect.
Contraindications:
Cardamom essential oil should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding and in children under 3 years old.
Our digestion and transit range offers you natural solutions and essential oils for improved intestinal health.
For natural heartburn relief and to improve your digestive comfort every day, adopt healthy lifestyle habits and use essential oils. They can provide fast relief while being gentle on the body. Additionally, it's essential to monitor your diet and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist.
