Acidity is a common condition that can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as heartburn, a burning sensation in the throat, and a sour taste in the mouth. While over-the-counter medications can help to reduce symptoms, there are also plenty of home remedies that can provide relief. In this post, we will discuss some simple, natural remedies that you can try at home. We will cover some lifestyle changes you can make, such as cutting back on spicy foods and avoiding carbonated drinks, as well as some natural remedies, like drinking ginger tea or taking apple cider vinegar. We will also discuss how to recognize the signs of acid reflux and when you should see a doctor.
Acidity: What Exactly Is It?
Acidity refers to a condition characterized by an excess of acid production in the stomach or an imbalance in the digestive system’s pH levels. In normal circumstances, the stomach produces hydrochloric acid to aid in the digestion of food. However, when this acid production becomes excessive or when it flows back into the esophagus, it can lead to discomfort and various symptoms associated with acidity. The stomach lining typically has a protective mucous layer that shields it from the corrosive effects of stomach acid. However, when this protective barrier weakens or becomes damaged, the acid can irritate the lining of the stomach or the esophagus, leading to symptoms such as heartburn, indigestion, and regurgitation.
Common Symptoms
Acidity can manifest through a variety of symptoms, which may vary in intensity and duration from person to person. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Heartburn: A burning sensation in the chest that may radiate towards the throat.
- Indigestion: Discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen, often accompanied by bloating or a feeling of fullness.
- Regurgitation: The sensation of acid or food moving upwards from the stomach into the throat or mouth.
- Nausea: A feeling of queasiness or discomfort in the stomach, sometimes accompanied by the urge to vomit.
- Sour taste in the mouth: The taste of acidic or bitter fluid rising up from the stomach into the mouth.
- Difficulty swallowing: A sensation of food getting stuck in the throat or chest.
Severity Levels
The severity symptoms can vary from mild to severe, depending on factors such as the individual’s overall health, the underlying cause, and lifestyle factors. Some individuals may experience occasional bouts of mild acidity, while others may suffer from chronic or severe symptoms that significantly impact their quality of life. Mild symptoms may be occasional and manageable with over-the-counter medications or home remedies. However, severe symptoms can be debilitating and may require medical intervention to alleviate discomfort and prevent complications such as esophageal damage or ulcers.
Acidity Root Causes
Several factors can contribute to the development of acidity, including:
- Dietary Factors: Consuming spicy, oily, or acidic foods, as well as overeating or eating too quickly, can trigger acidity symptoms.
- Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, stress, lack of physical activity, and irregular eating habits can increase the risk of acidity.
- Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), hiatal hernia, gastritis, peptic ulcers, and obesity can predispose individuals to acidity.
- Medications: Certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), aspirin, antibiotics, and some antidepressants, can irritate the stomach lining and contribute to acidity.
Home Remedies
Indian home remedies for acidity are often based on natural ingredients that are easily available in Indian households and are believed to help alleviate acidity symptoms. According to Ayurveda, quick relief from acidity and heartburn can be achieved through various natural remedies and lifestyle modifications.
1. Amla (Indian Gooseberry)
Amla, esteemed in Ayurveda for its digestive and cooling properties, offers versatile solutions for acidity and digestion. Fresh amla or dried powder can be used interchangeably. Mix a small amount of dried amla powder with water to form a paste or add it to a glass of water. Regular consumption aids in reducing acidity and enhancing digestion. Amla tea, made by boiling fresh or dried slices, offers a soothing option. Sweeten with honey or jaggery as desired. Enjoying warm amla tea after meals can alleviate acidity and improve digestion. Amla murabba, a traditional Indian sweet prepared from cooked amla fruits in sugar syrup, is another beneficial choice. Regular consumption helps balance stomach acidity and promotes digestive health.
2. Triphala
It is a traditional Ayurvedic herbal formula consisting of three fruits: amla, haritaki, and bibhitaki. It is known for its cleansing and detoxifying properties and is believed to promote healthy digestion, alleviate acidity, and balance pH levels in the stomach. You can take 1-2 teaspoons of Triphala powder and mix it with warm water to create a Triphala decoction. Drink this decoction on an empty stomach in the morning to help regulate digestion and balance acidity levels in the stomach. OR You can mix Triphala churna with honey or warm water and consume it before meals to aid digestion and prevent acidity. Triphala ghee is a medicated ghee prepared by infusing Triphala powder into clarified butter (ghee). Consuming a small amount of Triphala ghee before meals can help stimulate digestion, reduce inflammation in the stomach lining, and alleviate acidity.
3. Buttermilk
Drinking plain buttermilk is an effective way to soothe acidity as its probiotics aid digestion and balance stomach pH levels. Enjoy a glass between or after meals for relief. Enhance buttermilk’s acidity-relieving properties by adding spices like roasted cumin powder, black salt, and ground ginger or mint leaves. This flavorful blend not only aids digestion but also reduces acidity. Crush fresh curry leaves into buttermilk to harness their digestive benefits and ease acidity. Adding a pinch of rock salt to buttermilk stimulates digestion and regulates stomach acid production, promoting proper digestion. Soak fenugreek seeds overnight, strain, and mix with buttermilk to capitalize on their anti-inflammatory properties, alleviating acidity and heartburn.
4. Kitchen Herbs
Various Ayurvedic herbs and spices are used in traditional Indian folk remedies for acidity. These include licorice root (mulethi), coriander seeds, cumin seeds, and ajwain (carom seeds), which are believed to have digestive properties and help soothe the stomach.
- Coriander (Dhania) Seeds: Coriander seeds have cooling and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce acidity and heartburn. Boiling coriander seeds in water and drinking the strained solution can provide quick relief from acidity and promote digestion.
- Licorice (Mulethi) Powder: Licorice root powder is a traditional Ayurvedic remedy for acidity and heartburn. It helps soothe the stomach lining and reduce inflammation, providing quick relief from acidity symptoms. Mixing a small amount of licorice powder with water and consuming it before meals can help prevent acidity.
- Fennel Seeds (Saunf): Chewing on fennel seeds after meals can aid digestion and prevent acidity. Fennel seeds contain compounds that help relax the digestive muscles and reduce inflammation in the stomach.
- Jeera (Cumin): Drinking jeera water, made by boiling cumin seeds in water and straining the mixture, can help improve digestion and reduce acidity symptoms.
- Ajwain (Carom Seeds): Ajwain seeds are known for their digestive properties and can help relieve acidity. Chewing on a small amount of ajwain seeds after meals can aid digestion and prevent acidity.
5. Bananas
Bananas are a natural remedy for acidity due to their low acidity and ability to neutralize stomach acid. Eating ripe bananas provides quick relief from heartburn and acidity. You can also blend ripe bananas into a soothing smoothie with yogurt or milk, or combine them with honey for a delicious snack. Adding bananas to oatmeal or pairing them with almond butter creates nutritious and digestive-friendly options for meals or snacks. Regular consumption of bananas can help prevent acidity and promote overall digestive health.
6. Ayurvedic Formulations
Ayurvedic formulations such as avipattikar churna, kamdudha ras, and sitopaladi churna are commonly used in traditional Indian folk medicine to alleviate acidity symptoms and balance digestive fire (agni).
- Avipattikar Churna: Avipattikar churna is a classical Ayurvedic formula that helps balance the Pitta dosha, soothe the digestive system, and alleviate acidity. It contains a blend of herbs including Amla, Haritaki, Vibhitaki, Amalaki, and other cooling herbs. Take 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of Avipattikar churna. Mix it with warm water or honey to form a paste or a liquid mixture. Consume it before meals.
- Kamdudha Ras: Kamdudha ras is a classical Ayurvedic formulation primarily composed of Mukta Pishti (Pearl calcium) and Praval Pishti (Coral calcium). It has cooling and Pitta-balancing properties, making it beneficial for acidity, gastritis, and heartburn. Take 125-250 mg of Kamdudha ras. Mix it with honey or water. Consume it once or twice a day after meals.
- Trikatu Churna: Trikatu churna is an Ayurvedic herbal powder consisting of three pungent spices: black pepper, long pepper, and ginger. It is commonly used to stimulate digestion, increase appetite, and reduce acidity symptoms. To use Trikatu Churna for acidity, take 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of the herbal blend, consisting of black pepper, long pepper, and ginger. Mix it with warm water, honey, or ghee to form a paste or liquid. Consume the mixture 15-30 minutes before meals to stimulate digestion and reduce acidity.
7. Tulsi (Holy Basil)
Ayurveda highly esteems it for its numerous health benefits, including its ability to alleviate acidity and enhance digestive wellness. To harness Tulsi for acidity relief, one can opt for various methods. Chewing a few fresh Tulsi leaves on an empty stomach in the morning helps to balance acidity levels and improve digestion. Alternatively, preparing Tulsi tea by boiling fresh leaves in water, and adding honey or lemon juice for flavor, offers a soothing post-meal digestive aid. For a continuous infusion of its benefits, soaking a handful of fresh leaves in a pitcher of water overnight provides a refreshing Tulsi-infused drink throughout the day. Tulsi extract or capsules are also available as supplements, with dosages guided by product instructions or healthcare professional advice. Combining Tulsi powder or crushed leaves with honey forms a comforting paste for regular consumption to ease stomach discomfort and reduce acidity symptoms.
8. Yoga and Pranayama
Certain yoga asanas (postures) and pranayama (breathing exercises) are believed to regulate digestion, reduce stress, and alleviate acidity symptoms. Practices such as Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose), Pavanamuktasana (Wind-Relieving Pose), and Kapalbhati Pranayama (Skull-Shining Breath) may be beneficial for individuals suffering from acidity. Ayurveda states that an aggravation of the Pitta dosha, which associates with heat and acidity in the body, often causes acidity and heartburn. Following a Pitta-pacifying diet, which includes cooling and alkaline foods such as fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and dairy products, can help balance Pitta and alleviate acidity and heartburn.
11 Drinks to Soothe Heartburn
To help reduce acidity in the body, here are several drink suggestions to consume:
1. Coconut Water
Coconut water is a natural antacid and can work wonders for those suffering from acidity. It helps neutralize the acid in the stomach and can provide immediate relief for acidity. Coconut water is also rich in electrolytes which helps to hydrate the body and reduce the burning sensation in the stomach. Additionally, it also helps to reduce inflammation in the stomach which helps to reduce acidity. Consume on a regular basis for better digestion and relief from acidity.
2. Mint Water
Mint water is a popular home remedy for acidity. To make it add few fresh mint leaves to 1 cup boiling water. Let the mixture steep for 10 minutes. Strain the mint leaves and discard them. Let the mint water cool down to a comfortable temperature before drinking it.
3. Aloe Vera Juice
Aloe vera juice is believed to reduce acidity in the stomach by balancing pH levels and soothing the digestive system. Additionally, it is thought to decrease inflammation, thereby alleviating the pain associated with acid reflux. Aloe vera juice may also help reduce symptoms of ulcers and IBS.
4. Ginger Tea
Ginger tea is a popular remedy for acidity due to its anti-inflammatory properties. The compounds in ginger help to neutralize the stomach acids, which can reduce the symptoms of acidity. Ginger tea can also help to improve digestion, which may help to reduce symptoms of acidity. Furthermore, ginger exhibits a calming effect on the stomach, which can diminish the sensation of acid reflux. Ginger tea additionally aids in reducing bloating and gas, both commonly associated with acidity.
5. Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea is known for its anti-inflammatory and calming properties and has traditionally been used to treat a variety of digestive ailments, including acid reflux and stomach upset. The tea works by helping to relax the smooth muscles of the digestive tract, allowing food and acid to pass more easily through the stomach. Additionally, the calming effects of chamomile tea can help reduce stress, which can trigger or worsen acid reflux.
6. Apple Cider Vinegar with Water
Apple cider vinegar helps to reduce acidity in the stomach by increasing the acidity of the stomach contents and decreasing the amount of stomach acid produced. It also helps to reduce the symptoms of acid reflux by promoting digestion and improving the digestive process. By helping to break down food and keep the stomach acidic, it can reduce the symptoms of acid reflux and heartburn. Additionally, apple cider vinegar can help reduce the risk of ulcers by decreasing the amount of bacteria in the stomach.
7. Lemon Water
Lemon water can help to reduce acidity in the body because it is alkaline in nature. The acidity of lemon is neutralized when it enters the body, helping to balance the body’s pH levels. The citric acid in lemons also helps to stimulate the release of digestive juices, which helps to break down food more efficiently and reduce the symptoms of acid reflux. Additionally, lemon water helps to flush out toxins and excess acids from the body, further helping to reduce acidity.
8. Baking Soda + Water
Baking soda mixed in water is an effective and simple remedy for acidity. The alkaline nature of baking soda helps to neutralize stomach acid and can provide quick relief from symptoms of acidity. To use this remedy, mix half teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water and drink it slowly.
9. Green Tea
Green tea contains polyphenol compounds called catechins, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds help to reduce the production of stomach acid and act as a buffer against acid reflux. They can also reduce the inflammation in the esophagus that can be caused by acid reflux. Furthermore, green tea helps to stimulate the production of mucus, which can help to protect the lining of the stomach from the effects of acid.
10. Fennel Tea
Fennel tea is a popular remedy for acidity, as it helps to reduce both heartburn and indigestion. It is a tea made from the seeds of the fennel plant, which have natural antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory and carminative properties. These properties help to soothe and relax the digestive tract, reduce bloating and gas, and reduce the production of stomach acid. To make fennel tea, add 1 teaspoon of dried fennel seeds to 1 cup of boiling water. Allow the tea to steep for 10 minutes, then strain the tea and discard the seeds. You can drink up to 3 cups of fennel tea a day. You can also add honey or lemon to the tea to enhance the flavor.
11. Licorice Tea
Licorice tea has been used as an herbal remedy for acid reflux for centuries. It can help soothe the digestive tract and reduce the symptoms of acid reflux, such as heartburn and indigestion. The main active ingredient in licorice tea is glycyrrhizin, which is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties. It can help reduce the symptoms of acid reflux by calming the digestive tract and reducing inflammation. To make licorice tea, start by boiling 1 cup of water. Once the water has boiled, add 1 teaspoon of licorice root to the pot and reduce the heat. Simmer the tea for 10 minutes, then strain it through a sieve into a mug. Add a bit of honey or other sweetener for taste, and enjoy.
Acidity Preventive Measures
- Drink more water: Drinking more water can help to dilute the acid in the stomach and reduce symptoms of acid reflux.
- Chew gum: Chewing gum can help to increase saliva production, which can help to neutralize stomach acid.
- Eat smaller meals: Eating smaller meals can help to reduce the amount of stomach acid that is produced, which can help to reduce symptoms of acid reflux.
- Eat slowly: Eating slowly can help to prevent overeating, which can reduce symptoms of acid reflux.
- Avoid spicy foods: Spicy foods can irritate the stomach and increase symptoms of acid reflux.
- Avoid fried foods: Fried foods can also irritate the stomach and increase symptoms of acid reflux.
- Avoid citrus fruits: Citrus fruits can increase the acidity of the stomach, which can worsen symptoms of acid reflux.
- Avoid alcohol: Alcohol can increase the production of stomach acid, which can worsen symptoms of acid reflux.
- Eat more fiber: Eating more fiber can help to keep the digestive system regular, which can reduce symptoms of acid reflux.
- Avoid caffeine: Caffeine can increase the production of stomach acid, which can worsen symptoms of acid reflux.
Dos and Don’ts
Certain foods, such as spicy foods, fried foods, citrus fruits, tomatoes, chocolate, and caffeine can trigger acidity. Stress, anxiety, and certain medications can also trigger acidity.
- Avoid triggering foods and drinks. Certain foods and drinks can trigger acid reflux, including spicy foods, caffeine, and acidic foods like citrus fruits and tomatoes.
- Eat smaller meals. Eating smaller meals more frequently can help reduce the amount of acid your stomach produces.
- Avoid lying down after eating. When you lie down after eating, it can increase the pressure in your stomach, which can push the acid up into your esophagus and cause heartburn.
- Elevate your head while sleeping. Elevating your head while sleeping can help keep the acid in your stomach and reduce the risk of heartburn.
- Avoid tight clothing. Tight clothing can increase the pressure in your stomach and cause heartburn.
- Exercise regularly. Exercise can help improve digestion and reduce the risk of heartburn.
- Avoid smoking. Smoking can weaken the muscle that keeps stomach acid from entering the esophagus and can also irritate the lining of the esophagus.
- Avoid alcohol. Alcohol can increase the production of stomach acid and can irritate the lining of the esophagus.
- Try natural remedies. Natural remedies like ginger, chamomile tea, and apple cider vinegar can help reduce the symptoms of heartburn.
- Talk to your doctor. If you’re still having trouble managing your symptoms, talk to your doctor about medications that can help reduce stomach acid.
FAQs.
How to cure acidity instantly?
- Drink a glass of cold milk: Milk contains lactic acid which helps neutralize stomach acidity.
- Have a teaspoon of baking soda: Baking soda helps neutralize stomach acidity and can quickly relieve heartburn and indigestion.
- Add a few drops of lemon juice to a glass of water: Lemon juice helps to reduce the acidity of the stomach and can help with nausea and indigestion.
- Have a teaspoon of ginger juice: Ginger juice helps to reduce stomach acidity and is a natural remedy for indigestion.
- Drink a cup of chamomile tea: Chamomile tea helps to reduce stomach acidity and can provide relief from indigestion.
- Eat an apple: Apples are alkaline and can help reduce stomach acidity.
Q. Is lemon good for acidity?
Yes, lemon may help reduce the symptoms of acidity. It can help to neutralize stomach acid and temporarily alleviate heartburn and acid reflux. Additionally, lemons contain high levels of vitamin C, which can help boost the immune system and fight off infection.
Q. Is hot water good for acidity?
Hot water is not recommended for acidity. It is best to drink cold or room temperature water to reduce acidity. Other beverages such as herbal teas, fruit and vegetable juices, and low-fat milk can also help reduce acidity.
Q. I have acidity problem. What are all foods I should cut out of my diet henceforth?
Foods to avoid with acidity include:
- Citrus fruits
- Tomatoes and tomato sauces
- Spicy foods
- Fried foods
- Garlic and onions
- Caffeine
- Alcohol
- Processed and cured meats
- Refined carbohydrates
- Chocolate