Acid Reflux
Health Benefits

Coconut Oil for Acid Reflux Natural Cure

| Modified on Mar 03, 2024

The health claims and benefits attributed to coconut oil vary greatly. The natural option is lauded for treating skin conditions, supporting weight loss, and restoring hormonal balance in the body, but what about acid reflux? Well, it turns out that coconut oil is just an effective cure for acid reflux as it is any other health condition.

What Is Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux is a condition that results as acid from the stomach moves up into the esophagus. Typically, as the stomach processes food, a valve or ring of muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter closes to prevent acid from entering the esophagus. However, if the sphincter does not close all the way or opens too often, acid escapes. This acid causes burning in the chest known as heartburn. If the symptoms persist more than twice a week, the disorder is identified as acid reflux disease.

Coconut Oil for Acid Reflux

Coconut oil functions in a variety of ways to support overall health. As such, it also functions in a number of ways to treat acid reflux.

Does It Really Work?

As a minimal treatment option, coconut oil functions to coat the esophagus and lining of the throat. This coating prevents pain and discomfort associated with acid reflux. However, there is more to this treatment than just that. Coconut oil is a natural antibacterial agent. Studies have recently revealed that acid reflux may be correlated to overgrowth of bacteria in the stomach. As such, a daily dose of organic and unrefined coconut oil functions to eliminate the bacteria and cure the condition. Additionally, the oil helps establish better digestive health and functioning.

How Do I Use Coconut Oil to Treat Acid Reflux?

Coconut oil takes getting used to as a treatment as the consistency and taste may be unusual for some. Nonetheless, organic coconut oil should be taken daily. A therapeutic dose involves taking up to 3 tablespoons daily; however, the doses can be spread throughout the day. You can also take coconut oil as a treatment upon experiencing reflux. At this point, a tablespoon of oil is typically effective. Common side effects include nausea and headaches, so it is best to start off with a small dose of coconut oil to see how your body responds to it.

Coconut oil can be used to treat a vast array of health conditions, including acid reflux. Give it a try and let us know how it helps! Continue reading below for over 20 positive reviews from readers who have tried coconut oil for acid reflux and let us know how this remedy worked for you!

Related Links:

Apple Cider Vinegar: Uses, Health Benefits and FAQ
Home Remedies for Stomach Aches & Abdominal Pain
Natural Remedies for Acid Reflux Relief
Painkillers & Acid Reflux Symptoms: Unhealthy Relations




14 User Reviews

5 star (13) 
  93%
(1) 
  7%

Posted by Michael (Dana Point, California) on 04/25/2018
★★★★★

You can treat acid reflux with coconut oil by consuming up to three tablespoons of pure, virgin coconut oil daily. If you're currently experiencing acid reflux, consider taking one tablespoon of coconut oil as a natural aid.


Coconut Oil
Posted by Rose (Camp Hill, Pa) on 06/22/2015

The coconut oil worked the first day I tried it! It's such a relief to find something that works!


Coconut Oil
Posted by Ray (Somerville, Tn) on 05/07/2015

I started taking coconut oil for reflux. I have tried taking a tsp and I've tried taking a tablespoon in the morning on several days. Every time I take it I get terrible heartburn. Any idea why?

Replied by Dave
(Fountain Inn, Sc)
05/07/2015

Hey there Ray,

Re coconut oil giving heartburn...

Two ideas. Check your date on the oil...make sure it's fresh. Any oil can turn rancid. Even oils I've just bought from good health food stores can be rancid. Happened to me twice.

Second, oil on an empty stomach might not sit well. Same with taking fish oil on an empty stomach. Try taking a little ACV in water might help digest the oil.

I usually eat a little something...sometimes just a bite or two of food...before taking my first series of vitamins in the morning. Seems to help digest the nutrients.

Replied by Junie
(Houston, Tx)
12/28/2018

Not sure. It took a little getting used to for me. I was using the coconut oil for "oil pulling" (google this), so I am more used to it now. However, I found taking a couple of teaspoons of chia seed (gel) worked best and much easier to swallow. No flavor.

Put chia seed in a cup, add filtered water, stir, let it sit 5 minutes to "gel", then swallow. Works like a charm. I made a batch of gelled chia seed, kept in a jar in the refrigerator to be ready to use when needed. 2 cups water, 1/3 cup chia seed, put lid on, gently shake for 5 minutes and ready to use. Lasts up to 2 weeks refrigerated.

Google chia seed uses, (with esophagus problems, don't consume it dry, eat gelled only-or the dry seed could get stuck in your lining), it is very healthy for your skin and helps your body stay hydrated longer! It can be found in the grocery food store or in bulk at Costco or Sams.


Coconut Oil
Posted by Surfinbill. (Clearwater, Flordia) on 01/22/2015
★★★★★

Hi there, been having problems with food related reflux and gas right after eating. pretty painful on both ends.

Have been using wheatgrass powder with supplemented probiotics which only calmed the issue up until now. Just today I've taken several capsules of coconut oil, and have had no reflux from eating food+ hardly no gas or flatulation today, yea!

I will continue to drink wheat grass powder and supplement probiotics since I consider them to be a part of the cornerstone of my improving health, just wanted to throw my new personal discovery out there, try it... see if it helps.

Thanks.

Replied by Dodiboe
(St. Pete)
04/27/2016

Google search: h pylori

Your Primary Physician can give you a breath test, to see if you have h pylori. At the Doctors office they have you breath into a bag then you drink a (what they call) cocktail. 15 minutes. later you breath into another bag. It gets sent out, and you get back the results in about a week. Better to know and treat, than not to know. Best wishes!


Coconut Oil
Posted by Brenda (Tampa, Florida) on 04/08/2014
★★★★★

I started taking coconut oil after reading all the great health benefits about it. One of the first things it cured was acid reflux! I recommended it to my friend with GERD and she found it very helpful too.

Replied by Stephanie
(Va, US)
08/01/2014

How do you use coconut oil for acid reflux?


Coconut Oil
Posted by Huda (Detroit, Mi, United States) on 06/18/2012

Hello, I want to know how much Virgin Coconut Oil you take for acid reflux and when to to take it please.

Replied by Subdahl
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
09/12/2012
★★★★★

Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) takes some getting used to for a lot of people. It feels a little odd going down. I had no problem. See how it goes first and perhaps work up from a small amount. For a theraputic dose, I take 3 tablespoons per day. I spread it out to three doses of 1 tablespoon - morning, afternoon and night.


Coconut Oil
Posted by Niobe (Holmdel, New Jersey) on 09/01/2011

Is coconut oil good for above. If yes how much should I take and how? Does it increase bad cholesterol and platelets in the blood?
Thank you for replying promptly.

Replied by Pampanga
(Philippines)
03/24/2015

I don't feel any symptoms of heartburn, I feel like a lump under my adam's apple, and constant mucus like plemgh in my throat, ENT said I have Lpr or silent reflux. He prescribed me proton pump inhibitor until today no results of relief, I hope coconut oil will work, Is there anyone the same of my LPR?

Alex
(Gainesville, FL)
10/31/2022

Calcium Lactate has worked well for me for the feeling of having a lump in my throat.

Replied by Renato
(Las Pinas, Philippines)
07/09/2015

I have exactly the same symptoms as yours, mainly an ever present lump or phlegm in my throat. I have been on a roller coaster ride with this symptom the past one and half month. Sometimes I'm free then returns with a vengeance. Really distressing. I have been taking PPI twice a day: one 30 minutes before breakfast and another before bed in the evening. I am now experimenting with VCO taking it 3x day (after meals). The result seems encouraging. I will also try organic apple cider vinegar: 1 teaspoon mixed with 2 tbsp of water and a little honey taken before meals. Try them too, good luck with your LPR.

Replied by Caligirl
(Sacramento)
07/10/2015

I had that same lump in my throat so I went to the doctor. Diagnosed with silent reflux. I took some acid reflux pills for a while but didn't like being chained to pills, so I started on 1 Tlb. Apple cider vinegar in a glass of water morning and evening.

Now I just take ACV in the morning and 3 drops of Lugols Iodine in the evening. No more silent reflux.

Pat
(Santa Cruz, Ca)
03/29/2016

Am I reading correctly - you use ACV rather than coconut oil? I've been taking Prilosec for over 10yrs and am scared to death to quit but more afraid of the side effects just discovered. I have serious acid reflux w/ or w/out food. Just trying to decide between trying ACV or the oil....

Replied by Jacqui
(Trinity, Fl)
07/20/2016

I don't know if you will get this, but I have that same lump and the phlegm thing feeling too, if you get this, please tell me if the coconut oil worked for you. He said i'ts LPR and put me on the proton stuff, I don't want any side effects and also I have had this 3 weeks now and am scared out of my mind. I just want the feeling to go away. I have never ever had a problem with any spicy food, and still do not. It's just the lump in my throat and the feeling of phlegm. Please if you get this and can email me let me know.

Replied by Sebastian
(Manila)
11/22/2016

Renato what's your verdict on VCO? does it solved your feeling lump and Phlegm on your throat? Because I have the same symptoms as you have described.

Replied by Christy
(Greece)
11/05/2017

My husband has exactly the same symptoms that you have. Have you had any luck with ACV or the VCO? I am starting him on both after 18 months of tests and doctors - for his "chest, lung, sinus" problem - the tests showed no results. We finally both came to the conclusion it was GERD or more likely LPR. I will report back, but for now, this is the road we are taking. I have researched this problem to the nth degree, finally found these remedies, hope they work. I also have him drink water first thing in the morning, then a tea made from licorice, rock rose, cardamon seed and anise every morning before having coffee (he is cutting back to two a day, one being decaf) and a small spoonful of honey to help heal the esophagus and stomach.


Coconut Oil
Posted by Vi (West Covina, CA) on 04/16/2008
★★★★★

Extra virgin coconut oil is the only thing that cured my acid reflux. I tried everything including tums and apple cider vinegar. The only side effect is that you will drop about 10 pounds in a month and I think the majority of people might like that. It's been about three weeks since I've taken the coconut oil and so far no sign of the acid reflux.

Replied by Trista
(Seattle, Washington)
06/02/2008

I would like to know more details about the coconut oil remedy. What was your regime and what kind of oil etc?

Replied by Baldev
(Mumbai, India)
06/03/2008
185 posts

Acid Reflux(ailment). You have not written as to how do you take the coconut oil. How many times a day, how much and with what?

Replied by Karina
(San Francisco , California)
07/02/2008

Can you please provide details on what brand coconut oil (extra virgin CO). How much to take it and when (before/with/after meals)? Thank you.

Replied by Barry
(Bellefontaine, Ohio)
12/07/2009

I have been using coconut oil and just eating it. The protocol I began had you ramping up to 5 tablespoons per day 1 with each meal and 1 between meals. I was using it for a candida cleanse, but it is good for so much more. I also found when I was eating raw garlic, the coconut oil soothed the occasional upset stomach from the spicier garlics. I enjoyed the brand that I used, and I have read many that have been dissatisfied with their brands. I understand I cannot put brand names here, but look around, my wife found that for me based on their quality.

Replied by Farah
(San Diego, Ca)
07/10/2015

Dr. Bronners is the best; then Nutiva

Three tablespoons a day. I put 1st tablespoon on toast witha bit of peanut butter. I eat a second Tbl quickly on a cracker (at work) before eating my real lunch. Third, incorporate into dinner (soups, stirfrys, etc... or just again on a cracker. 100% cured my hiatal hernia and GERD.

Replied by Joey
(New Jersey)
01/02/2018

Farah,

How long did you follow the routine of 3 tablespoons a day before you found that it 100% cured your GERD? I am trying a bunch of different methods to cure mine and I recently just started the coconut oil, so I'm wondering how long I should be going for before I expect to see serious/permanent results. I also am underweight/average weight so I don't want to take it for too long if not necessary.


Coconut Oil
Posted by Vi (West Covina, CA) on 04/16/2008
★★★★★

Extra virgin coconut oil is the only thing that cured my acid reflux. I tried everything including tums and apple cider vinegar. The only side effect is that you will drop about 10 pounds in a month and I think the majority of people might like that. It's been about three weeks since I've taken the coconut oil and so far no sign of the acid reflux.

Replied by Pat
(Toledo, Ohio)
05/08/2008

was just wondering how much and how they took the coconut oil for the acid reflux?

Replied by Janie
(Houston, TX)
03/25/2009

I'm trying the Extra Virgen Coconut Oil for acid reflux, but I'm unsure exactly how much and when to take it. Could someone please give me some pointers. I'm also interested in how this might help with weight loss.

Replied by Michele
(Fort Lee, Va)
10/19/2009

There is no such thing as "extra virgin" coconut oil. If you are using it, you've been duped. The companies listing coconut oil as extra virgin are borrowing from the olive oil industry. It is important to use organic virgin coconut oil. I just thought I'd mention that there is no need to pay extra money for a marketing ploy.

Regards,
Michele

Replied by Marian
(Pueblo, Co)
10/28/2010

Not to diminish the good and no doubt worthy press for virgin coconut oil, I too, suffer from acid reflux badly, and have found that a simple cup of mineral water with every meal virtually eliminates the midnight seiges of all the symptoms that come with heartburn. I have read on Dr. Mercola's website that coconut oil has a ton of benefits that far outweigh the GERD relief, so I'm not propounding that anyone give it up. Only that if that's all you're using it for, mineral water will be a lot cheaper... Not tonic, not spring, not artisan, not sparkling. MINERAL water. About a buck a day if you buy the clear bottle stuff rather than the green bottle stuff...

Replied by Togo2009
(Manchester, Ky)
01/12/2011

There is such a thing as EVCO! The Extra Virgin Coconut Oil tastes a lot more like coconut than regular coconut oil. Also, you cannot cook at a very high temperature with evco versus a somewhat higher temp than regular coconut oil. Someone, my friend, has duped you. Buy extra virgin coconut oil and buy regular coconut oil... HUGE difference!

Replied by Carla
(Seattle, Wa - Usa)
01/12/2011

From Livestrong.com:

"Organic coconut oil can also be found in the virgin form, which is highly regarded due to its being both virgin, meaning more natural, and grown under organic conditions. While extra virgin coconut oil is a term sometimes used, there is no set standard or recognition of the use of the term 'extra virgin'."

Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/article/22890-types-coconut-oil/#ixzz1ArUXIBRL

--------------

There is no difference between "virgin" coconut oil and "extra virgin" coconut oil as far as I have been able to find. There is a HUGE difference between regular refined coconut oil and virgin coconut oil however.

You want to purchase Organic Virgin Coconut Oil. If you are buying Organic EXTRA Virgin Coconut oil, chances are you are just paying more for the same item. (Marketing)

Refined coconut oil will look off color or even gray when compared to VCO.

Replied by Diane
(Port Saint Lucie, Fl)
11/20/2013

Were you on Prilosec or protonix, first and if so how did you wean off them or did you start coconut oil first then taper off prescribed medications?

Replied by Mary
(Ontario)
03/24/2017

I also have acid reflux. my friend told me to take coconut oil but my problem is I am underweight. Can I still take coconut oil in smaller dose a day?


Coconut Oil
Posted by Cheryl (San Juan, Trinidad) on 01/18/2008
★★★★★

I started using Coconut oil about three days ago for my heartburn. I did my own test by specifically eating the foods that causes me heartburn and to my amazement I can honestly say it really works! Next I am going to try it for weight loss and see how that works out.

Replied by Mg
(Dallas, Tx)
10/14/2011

I have had heartburn since high school (40 years). I am now taking Nexium (which works) but would like to stop because of the side effects and long term effects. I can look at food and get heartburn without nexium. I would like to know how much, when you took it and how long the effects of the Virgin Coconut Oil lasted.

Thanks

Replied by Zill
(Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.)
04/18/2012
★★★★★

I'm suffered from acid reflux than 10 years.. When I tried coconut oil it really helped... And now I can sleep well every night...


Coconut Oil
Posted by Dee (Fairfax, VA) on 05/16/2007
★★★★★

I'd been having terrible heartburn for over a week. So bad that that my kids and husband were very worried. A few years ago I had six ulcers! But didn't want to start the standard gastro treatments lansoprazole or purple pills - I'm well aware of the downsides to them. My gastric problem was probably caused by my ADHD, I frequently forget to eat because I get so hyperfocused I don't notice I'm hungry!So, I went looking for a homeopathic cure and found your website. I read a whole bunch of stuff and probably confused one thing with another nevertheless this is what happened: I made the ACV mixture adding the Baking Soda also 2 tbsp Aloe juice; 1 tbsp of organic honey; 1 tbsp of Virgin Coconut Oil (using warm water, which melts the honey and VCO). I tried with and without the VCO and for those who find the ACV drink unpalatable the VCO helps alot! The heartburn stopped in 24 hours! Major miracle. I felt focused, relaxed, energetic and pain free. The only side effect of note was/is gas. Is this from the Virgin Coconut Oil? Is there anything I can do about that? And is it OK to blend all this together? Should I be drinking it before or after or with a meal? I don't know about the other magical effects of Virgin Coconut Oil its only been 2 days! Thanks for this great site, its already helped me a lot!

Replied by Syd
(London, United Kingdom)
07/31/2011

For the gas you can try oil pulling with coconut oil. Also a quick 10 day masterclense could help.

Replied by Melissa
(Oregon)
11/01/2013

Probably the gas is due to taking vinegar and baking soda together.


Coconut Oil
Posted by Pinoy Ako (Phillipines) on 06/05/2006
★★★★★

I am still observing its effect: Taking Virgin Coconut Oil after meal (1TB after every meal = 3x daily) appears to relieve the production of phlegm associated with gastric reflux. I take my last one an hour before going to bed, and wakes up in better condition than when not taking it. Please note that the coconut oil has to be cold-pressed process, hence, it's called Virgin Coconut Oil, which also lowers cholesterol and boosts immunity. DO NOT consume non-virgin coco oil--that will clog your arteries!


Coconut Oil
Posted by Pinoy Ako (Philippines) on 06/05/2006
★★★★★

I am still observing its effect: Taking Virgin Coconut Oil after meal (1TB after every meal = 3x daily) appears to relieve the production of phlegm associated with gastric reflux. I take my last one an hour before going to bed, and wakes up in better condition than when not taking it. Please note that the coconut oil has to be cold-pressed process, hence, it's called Virgin Coconut Oil, which also lowers cholesterol and boosts immunity. DO NOT consume non-virgin coco oil--that will clog your arteries!


Coconut Oil
Posted by June (Adelaide South Australia) on 05/28/2006
★★★★★

After reading on this site the positive comments regarding coconut oil, I managed to purchase some excellent C/oil on May 6th, started taking 1 x tbsn. each meal, although I did miss at times. My indigestion/reflux disappeared almost immediately as did my desire for coffee and alcohol. I am also using it externally. As it is only three weeks ago that I started I will wait to give a report on my hair, skin etc. If anyone would like to know the name of the company I purchased from, I can give it. It is important to know exactly the quality you use.

Replied by Cita
(Brisbane, Queensland, Australia)
04/27/2012

Yes, can you give me the brand name of the coconut oil. I would like to try it but do not want to buy something that is not of a recommended standard.

Replied by Anil
(Us)
06/29/2014

Can you please let me know brand name for this oil? Thx


Coconut Oil
Posted by June (Adelaide, South Australia) on 05/28/2006
★★★★★

After reading on this site the positive comments regarding coconut oil, I managed to purchase some excellent C/oil on May 6th, started taking 1 x tbsn. each meal, although I did miss at times. My indigestion/reflux disappeared almost immediately as did my desire for coffee and alcohol. I am also using it externally. As it is only three weeks ago that I started I will wait to give a report on my hair, skin etc. If anyone would like to know the name of the company I purchased from, I can give it. It is important to know exactly the quality you use.

Replied by Kathy
(Sydney, Nsw, Australia)
04/11/2011

Since this post was a few years ago, I am wondering if this person could please give an update on the coconut oil benefits? I too have acid reflux and am about to embark on coconut oil since I've heard of the benefits recently. Would appreciate the brand [I am in Sydney, Australia] and an update. Many thanks!!!

Replied by Skippi_oz
(Brisbane, Queensland Australia)
10/11/2011

Kathy, you can buy virgin coconut oil from health food shops in most Australian shopping centres. I buy mine from GoVita. I buy Banaban brand. I have also started buying coconut exotic oil from purefiji.com.Au. Starfruit is a gentle fragrance but you will be amazed at how quickly your skin reacts. (It took me a while to want to put oil on my skin but a tiny bit goes a LONG way. )