Acid Reflux
Natural Remedies

Natural Remedies for Acid Reflux Relief

Kombucha Tea

2 User Reviews
5 star (2) 
  100%

Posted by Shelley (Hamilton, NJ) on 07/22/2009
★★★★★

I started taking bottled Kombucha tea (not the teabag stuff) as an alternative to drinking Apple Cider Vinegar for acid reflux. The Kombucha brewing process is very similar (in fact, you can brew vinegar from it) and it has a similar concentration of acetic acids and probiotic organisms. I have found that, since I started drinking it regularly, my acid reflux has all but disappeared!

I find that I must drink at least 8 oz (1 cup) of Kombucha, twice a week, preferable on an mostly empty stomach. Depending on the severity of acid reflux, results may be noticeable immediately or within a few days.


Kombucha Tea
Posted by Michael (Wilsonville, OR) on 11/28/2007
★★★★★

I have been making Kombucha Tea for over 15 years and I have had two users of my tea who told me their acid reflux went away after a few days of drinking two 22oz. bottles of my Kombucha Tea. Made with Green, Black and herbal wild berry teas. Google "Kombucha Tea" for more info. Michael


Replied by Cynthia
(Memphis, Tennessee)
12/30/2013
★★★★★

Yes; I really agree because I drink water with pure lemon juice inside and also I have acid refluxs (yuk). Lemon is a great med;-)

Lemons

9 User Reviews
5 star (9) 
  100%

Posted by Eileen (Sacramento, CA USA) on 03/16/2007
★★★★★

I have long suffered from stomach problems and acid reflux. I stumbled on a cure by accident. It is called the Lemonade Fast and is apparently pretty ancient. I just wanted it for an easy fast and cleanse. Into 10 ounces water, mix in 2 Tablespoons good grade B maple syrup (for minerals) and 1/8th of a teaspoon cayenne pepper. Sounds awful but actually it gets to be quite delicious. You want to drink 6 to 10 of these a day and any other water or mild herb tea like peppermint. I did the full 10 days, way too long, but what I noticed was that not only was my ulcer cured but gum disease seemed to be cured too. They must be related. Eileen


Lemons
Posted by Leila (USA) on 03/21/2006
★★★★★

Lemonade. It works. I tried it. I told it to my mom and she tried it. It worked for her, too. I told it to my hubby. He tried it and it worked for him, too. So, it is it. I am not imagining it. It is REAL. I did not find it here, but in my earlier research on the web. Drink lemonade.

Replied by Brisa
(San Diego, Ca)
02/28/2010

I wanted to know if limes or mexican limes work as well, or is does it only work with lemons?


Lemons
Posted by Jeffrey (UK) on 11/22/2005
★★★★★

this web site is a life saver for all people suffering from acid indigestion. In 80% of cases, THE CAUSE IS LOW ACID LEVELS IN THE Stomach. I find lemonade is the cure. I CANNOT THANK YOU ENOUGH

Replied by Tom Wall
(Maplewood, Mn)
03/19/2015

everyone knows lemon is bad for gerd


Lemons
Posted by Chalise (Sheridan, IN) on 11/19/2005
★★★★★

Lemon juice worked for my husband. He takes a small swig of it in the morning and he feels great the rest of the day. He said he hasn't felt this good in a long time.

Replied by Kelly
(Minesing, Canada, Ontario)
08/20/2011

Hello, I was just wondering if you could tell me how much lemon juice one would drink or how many times a day to prevent or get rid of acid reflux? I've been suffering from it more and more often and I eat a very healthy diet. Thanks


Lemons
Posted by Ed (Hillsboro, NC)
★★★★★

I stumbled upon a consistent treatment for recurrent reflux a year ago when I experienced my first kidney stone attack. My urologist recommended I drink lemonade to prevent future stone development. Well, a wonderful secondary result has been that I no longer experience reflux attacks, which were common in the evening after bedtime - especially when I had eaten later at night. I now tell anyone who will listen what a difference lemonade can make in a life. Apparently (you chemists will know more about this), the body reacts to the citric acid in lemonade to produce an increased alkaline reaction, which sounds paradoxical. I drink lemonade with my meals at home and buy bottled lemonade at convenience stores instead of carbonated drinks when I travel.

Replied by Joan
(Pawtucket, Rhode Island)
01/11/2009

I would like to try the lemonade, but I cant have a lot of sugar in my diet. If i can find a sugarfree lemonade, will that work just a well as the regular lemonade. Thank you

Replied by Joyce
(Joelton, Tn)
01/12/2009
495 posts

To Joan from Pawtucket:

Beware of any sugarfree lemonade, especially if it is sweetened with artificial sweetener like nutrasweet, Equal or aspartame, you will most likely get side effect problems you don't want.You should be safe with sugarfree lemonade if you make your own and sweeten it with stevia.

Replied by Lorraine
(Youngsville, New York)
07/03/2009
★★★★★

In lieu of lemonade you can just squeeze some fresh lemon in water. I even enjoy a slice of lemon sprinkled with a little sea salt. I have used lemon for years when I've had an upset stomach and it really works!

Replied by Janet
(Louisville, Ky)
12/29/2009
★★★★★

I try to use natural remedies as much as possible. I recommend buying lemons from the grocery. Just keep some in your refrigerater. No need for sweeteners. Just squeeze the juice into a water glass or put in your water bottle. I carry a water bottle with lemon juice with me all day and also keep one by my bedside at night. I found out about drinking lemon water from the book: "Eat Right 4 Your Blood Type". I was having terrible coughing fits several times daily. I even was tested for allergies, but not allergic. Thank goodness this book was recommended to me. I'm blood type A. I have acid reflux and a hiatal hernia. I've been drinking fresh lemon in water everyday now and the problem is cured. However, if I don't drink it daily the problem returns. My gastro doc confirmed he has several patients who swear by it as well. FYI - Dasani water now sells bottled lemon water, although I think it's sweeter than natural lemon, but it works in a pinch when you're traveling.

Replied by Kristina
(Seattle, Wa Usa)
06/22/2011
★★★★★

My 6 yo was dealing with acid reflux after having an extended vomiting episode with the flu. Nothing was helping it and I felt so bad for her. It hurt each time she ate anything. I came on here to find something to help. Lemonade seemed like the easiest thing to give her so we tried it and it worked, right away! After a few days it subsided completely, but I still keep lemonade around in case. I used an organic lemonade.


Licorice

11 User Reviews
5 star (9) 
  82%
1 star (2) 
  18%

Posted by K (Phoenix, Az) on 06/16/2011
★★★★★

I had terrible acid reflux a couple years ago. Went to the doctor and she prescribed some medication. When I asked how long I had to be on it, she said she didn't know. Apparently some people are on for life. I never filled the prescription. Instead I did some research and in addition to dramatically reducing my soda intake I started taking chewable (saliva enhances the effectiveness) DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice). Research and you will find several articles saying DGL cures ulcers! Take it 20 minutes prior to eating each meal (up to 3 times/day). I went from having acid reflux every day-all day to seldom if ever. I no longer vomit stomach acid in the morning and I am able to eat spicy foods again. I also don't have to take it before every meal anymore. I only take it before I eat spicy foods.

Two last things, if you don't like licorice, they do have German Chocolate flavored DGL which helps to disguise the flavor. Secondly, if you have high blood pressure, make sure you buy the kind that has the glycyrrhizin compound (associated with high blood pressure) removed.

Replied by Zark
(Emerald City, The Land Of Oz)
03/18/2014
★★★★★

Yes, I was using Licorice tea and drinking it with my meals. It did help (Rutin was better though).

Replied by Ali
(Wales)
05/05/2021
★★★★★

Elevated blood pressure can often be due to a sodium & potassium imbalance. The modern diet tends to be high in sodium & low in potassium, especially if little or no fresh fruit & vegetables are consumed. Whilst sodium can raise BP, potassium can lower it.

Licorice is often blamed for raising BP, however because potassium is likely required by components in the licorice in order for it to work properly in the body, it can potentially make an already existing potassium deficiency worse. The real issue may therefore not be the Licorice as such, but the lack of enough potassium.

In order to mitigate this possibility it is important to get enough potassium-rich foods in the diet generally, & especially if consuming Licorice root. Rather than removing the highly beneficial Glycyrrhizin, would it not make more sense to advise a higher consumption of potassium-rich foods?

Licorice has been used medicinally & highly beneficially for thousands of years. But it's only in the last century that dietary focus has veered from a more natural diet featuring abundant plant foods, to high sodium, low potassium highly processed, & high animal product consumption.


Licorice
Posted by Denise (HUDDERSFIELD, UK) on 04/09/2009
★★★★★

Why drink an acid to cure a stomach acid problem? I have severe Grastric Reflux and have suffered for the last three years. I have tried everything, believe me. I am currently taking medication, which helps, but I still can't walk a hundred yards without thinking I am about to have a heart attack. I have been known to throw up becuase the acid gets so bad. Laying down is a nightmare. My Doctor even sent me for an Angiogram just to makesure I didn't have angina, guess what, my hearts fine, but my stomach isn't. I try to avoid any foods that I know cause my acid to flare-up, I eat healthy, I even gave up smoking, which help a great deal. I have shares in a well known ant-acid company from the amount I have to buy, not that they really do any good when it is this severe. But nothing has been able to stop the pain I feel every single day. However, that changed. What I have found that helps is liquorice root which you can buy from any herbalist. I have been using it for the last few days and I feel so much better. Last night I went to bed and got to sleep straight away and didn't wake up with a sore throat. I have been able to eat without the desire to be sick afterwards. My walking has improved too. I can't wait to tell my doctor next week. Next I am going to add natural silicon to my diet, which I have been told will help repair the damage that is being caused by the acid.

Replied by GerdGuy
(Yokohama, Japan)
04/16/2009
★☆☆☆☆

WARNING!

I did further readings about Liquorice and I find something significant on its toxicity. I hope this helps, so be extra careful.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Licorice

Toxicity -
Excessive consumption of liquorice or liquorice candy is known to be toxic to the liver and cardiovascular system, and may produce hypertension and oedema. There have been occasional cases where blood pressure has increased with excessive consumption of liquorice tea, but such occasions are rare and reversible when the herb is withdrawn. Most cases of hypertension from liquorice were caused by eating too much concentrated liquorice candy. Doses as low as 50g daily for two weeks can cause a significant rise in blood pressure.

Replied by Lynn G
(Columbia, Maryland, USA)
04/17/2009

To Denise in Huddersfield, UK. I'm glad to hear that licorice extract has helped your acid reflux symptoms. However, I believe that eliminating any "disease" condition is best done by changing and optimizing your diet with eating foods that help you and don't hurt you. Taking herbal remedies or prescription drugs treat only the symptoms and do not affect the underlying cause(s) of your problem(s).

I have written several posts today as responses to others' posts about acid reflux, so I won't repeat myself again. Please think seriously about trying a gluten-free diet for at least six weeks. I know that most people don't want to take on such a drastic step, but when you're sick enough of the acid reflux and of the side effects of prescription drugs, you should then be open to seriously addressing the actual cause of the "disease" condition.

One last thought, most NHS doctors in the UK are the same as the ones in the USA--they are focused entirely on eliminating symptoms with drugs. So, don't expect your doctor to be thrilled with any improvements that you will gain with drug-free options! (The doctor will be just as happy to see your back-side going out the door because there are many more patients in the waiting room to get their own 5 to 10 minutes with the pill-pushing doctor.)

Replied by Joyce
(Joelton, Tn)
04/18/2009
495 posts

To Denise from Huddersfield, UK:

Hello Denise, to answer your question "why drink acid to relieve an acid stomach problem" I will borrow some information gleaned from an alternative MD named Jonathan Wright. According to Dr. Wright the problem is not too much but too little hydrochloric acid, and if this is true then drinking an acid should relieve it and from most of the correspondence from those who have tried it, I have to side with Dr. Wright as to the cause.

However I got rid of the acid, along with the bloat, constipation, flatulence, and outright peptic ulcer flare ups 4 or 5 times per year, when I stumbled on the fact that spicy foods were not the problem, but anything made with bleached flour always brought on the misery. At first I wondered about the gluten in wheat causing it, but when I started eating bread again I found that whole grain products caused no problems, but bleached flour did, a few other things like any acid foods (tomatoes, citrus juices, etc) from a memtal can brings on the acid regurg misery. As long as I stay away from the above, life is a whole lot more enjoyable and has worked for me for the last 40 years or so. I don't know what they use in the bleaching process that causes the problem, but I do know that eliminating bleached flour eliminates the problem, and without ever being treated for the bug that modern day orthodox medicine says causes peptic ulcer disease.

By the way, don't expect your doctor to be overjoyed to hear that a patient has found a way to relieve the problem without his help, because doctors don't like patients who think they are smarter than he/she is and also don't like the prospects of his income decreasing because you no longer will be visiting for your former chronic complaint.

Another thing to think about, do check your blood pressure periodically because licorice candy is said to elevate blood pressure in those who eat a lot of it, and if it does then licorice root might do the same.

Replied by Mike R
(Houston, Tx)
09/15/2011

I have tried many remedies for GERD and have researched licorice root as a cure. The catch is that normal licorice or candies also contain high levels of glycerin and sodium which will most certainly also cause or risk a higher incidence of blood pressure issues.

HOWEVER, GNC sells an extract pill form of licorice without these ingredients, it is called "De-Glycerinated Licorice" or "DGL", food supplement. IT WORKS! It will repair the esophagus and correct the GERD in a few days. It can be taken in small doses pretty much forever with no side effects. If you are so inclined, licorice flavored liquors (Anisette, Ouzo) also work in a similar way as a digestive aid after a meal, but take in small doses for obvious reasons!

This can be combined with any other methods, but as always, best to avoid or limit the spicy, fatty foods. I have also found that a high protien diet and low carbs works for me in the same way. Best of luck!


Licorice
Posted by Floyd Alexander (Louisville, Ky. Jefferson) on 01/19/2009
★★★★★

acid reflux: 9.99 for one hundred. It's a Herbal supplement called DGL LICORICE. 1 in the morning and one in the evening. Take the whole bottle. after that I take one pill about 4 or 5 times a wk. End of problem.


Licorice
Posted by Frank R (Anytown, USA) on 04/05/2008
★★★★★

I developed acid reflux and ulcers due to stress in my job. I did not read anyone having stress induced acid reflux. This developed in 1986 and I still have it.

I have taken tagament to Prilosec with varying degrees of result. When I took Prilosec I was told it was only for 30 days and then never again. That was in 1997 and of course that was not true.

The worse thing is when contents of my stomach decide to go up my throat and into my lungs when I am sleeping. It does not matter what I eat, how much, or when I still get these scary episodes.

I have not tried vinegar for this but use it for hiccups. I figure it shocks the system. When I know my stomach is going to be a problem I eat saltine crackers (baking sode is in them), eat yogurt, and drink lots of water. Sometimes it really helps, sometimes it only minimizes the discomfort, or I wait until my digestive system has moved along any food.

One thing I have learned is to try avoiding drugs if you can and that each person really is an individual which inclues our bological systems.

Having lived in Europe a lot of my life I found black licorice made in Germany helps my acid reflux too. It is not like what is found in the United States. Moms often give it to kids with stomach aches. I happen to like and have my German friends mail it to me.

Has anyone else ever used black licorice for acid reflux? It is a natural drug free treatment.

I wish good health to everyone.

Replied by Patricia
(Ottawa, Canada)
04/11/2008

Love this site! Thanks to Frank R. for the tip about black licorice - have a German Deli that sells it - assume you mean unsalted? Have a friend just moved here from Australia who told me that they commonly recommend sucking on "natural glucose" lolli-pops for reflux.


Licorice
Posted by Sandi (La Mesa, CA) on 12/30/2006
★★★★★

DGL (licorice supplements) Important to use dgl and not just licorice, which can raise blood pressure. Cured my acid reflux. Immediately got rid of acid reflux symptoms with the first tablet. Still working pretty well, but it seems to also be important to discover food sensitivities for ongoing cure. It's ongoing use of 800 milogram ibuprofen contributed to acid reflux.


Licorice
Posted by Deirdre (Los Angeles, CA) on 04/10/2006
★★★★★

I haven't had an issue with acid reflux until this past weekend when I over-ate (mostly thick chunks of bread) at a dinner party on Friday night. 3 hours later I had intense burning and pain in my upper right intestinal tract, just under my liver/gallbladder. When the pain and burning spread to my entire upper intestinal tract and didn't ease up after 48 hours, I decided to research some home remedies for gastritis. I ended up buying chewable DGL (licorice root extract) at Whole Foods last night... I knew it was great for healing ulcers, why not gastritis?! I chewed two tablets and within 30 minutes, the burning and pain had stopped. Today I am almost back to 100% (just a slight sensation of burning). I hope other people will give this supplement a shot for acid reflux. DGL supports the lining of the stomach and intestinal tract. One more thing -- Licorice Root Extract raises blood pressure, but DGL is licorice root extract without the compound that raises blood pressure -- glycyrrhizin -- so you can take it every day supposedly, 20 minutes before a meal.

Replied by Sherry
(Longview, Washington)
08/12/2008
★☆☆☆☆

WARNING!

Licorice (the herb not the candy) cannot be taken safely for very long. It causes high blood pressure. I have found licorice root in diet teas and women's remedy teas used as a dieretic. Taken any longer than 6 days or so can cause health issues. I made the mistake years ago of drinking a dieter's tea after my evening meal for over a year. I had never had a problem with high blood pressure before but after a year on that tea my blood pressure sky rocketed and I felt horrible. As soon as I stopped the tea my blood pressure went back down to normal.

Replied by Katie
(Chicago, IL)
09/02/2008
★★★★★

I have had moderate success with DGL wafers. It is the glycyrrhizic acid that is the cause of most of the side effects of licorice, including high blood pressure. Therefore, DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) which has had the glycyrrhizic acid removed is thought to be much safer. As with any herbal, exercise caution and seek the advice of a medical professional who has experience with herbs.

Replied by Deb
(Cb, Ia)
12/19/2009

Deirdre, I can't believe reading someone else has the same problem I've experienced since the Dr put me on thyroid medicine in 2002 after radiation for Graves Disease. Never had all the problems I now have before the thyroid medicine. Jumped from Dr to Dr trying to figure out why the severe burning pain in the liver/gallbladder area (most Dr's didn't have an answer after running test after test & people acted like I was crazy to complain of such a severe pain there), had my gallbladder removed in '98. One Dr finally told my I had acid reflux and allergies but I didn't think it could be since I had never had heart burn! I recently had an Endoscopy & Colonoscopy confirming I have GERD, diverticulosis and gastritis. I've been on ALL the meds for reflux only to have too many side effects and then quit taking them due to little to no relief and most of them causing my blood pressure to rise and feeling worse(never had hypertension before these meds and only having it while taking them). I've tried the ACV, teas, papaya, etc. I'm going to try the DGL with caution, we are only given one body and I don't want to cause more problems trying to cure it! BTW cutting down on salt intake has helped ease the burning pain! Thanks! Deb

EC: Hi Deb,

Yes, DGL is fantastic. I still have the same issue when I eat too much bread and it's been very helpful from time to time. Also drinking more water during the meal and after. I started recently to take potassium iodide after someone mentioned it on the site and it's turning out to be an amazing tool for digestion and weight loss. That tells me there is a thyroid link too!

Deirdre (now in Atlanta)

Replied by Joyce
(Joelton, Tn)
12/22/2009
495 posts

Question for Deb & Deirdre:

Hello Ladies,

Did your blood pressure rise before or after you started the licorice root extract for the acid regurg? The reason I ask is we were told in a physiology class that eating licorice would cause your blood pressure to rise.

Also, as stated many times before, getting rid of bleached flour got rid of my gastrointestinal problems including the acid regurg or GERD. Why take something to relieve the problem if you can avoid what causes the problem?

EC: Hi Joyce, no. DGL licorice extract did not cause a rise in my blood pressure because it does not contain glycyrrhizin (the compound that causes a rise in bp). That's why it's a great supplement!

Deirdre


Liver Cleanse, ACV and Baking Soda

1 User Review
5 star (1) 
  100%

Posted by Amy (Merrit Island, FL) on 10/31/2007
★★★★★

I did Dr Clark's liver cleanse, not only cured my acid reflux but cured my diabetes 2, my bursitis. I have completed 4 liver cleanses and still getting better with each one. after years of aliments and sickness I am getting well. also I am loosing weight. I have started a veggie diet and I wanted to boost my PH levels for pain and well being. I tried juicing but could only get my levels to 7.5.. the Apple Vinegar and baking soda got my levels where I want them 8.7. thank you no pharma crap!

Replied by Veronica
(California)
12/31/2020

Hi Amy.

Can you clarify which Dr. Clark's cleanses you are referring to here? Thanks.

EC: Hi Veronica,

Amy's post is from 2007, so it is unlikely she will see it at this point. Sorry!

 


Low Carb Diet, Hcl

Posted by Ck (Cincinnati, Oh Usa) on 05/06/2011

I have been getting some relief by combing a controlled carbs diet with HCL and other digestive enzymes. I have learned a lot from the following site and would urge all to visit and read the extensive information presented. He does not sell digestive products or aides.

http://thehealthyskeptic.org/heartburn
I appreciate all who have posted their ideas here and I wanted to share this information as it is helping me.



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