7 Ayurvedic Remedies for Hyperacidity and Gastric Problems

Photo by: Bigstockphoto
Photo by: Bigstockphoto

Hyperacidity is a condition wherein the stomach produces excessive gastric juices and gas, causing heartburn, belching, and flatulence. When left untreated, gastric issues could lead to throat problems, including esophageal cancer.

In Ayurveda, hyperacidity is caused by the aggravation of Pitta dosha. When the Pitta dosha is aggravated, the acid starts climbing up towards the esophagus. To ease symptoms and address hyperacidity, we are listing down effective Ayurvedic remedies:

1. Banana

Banana is loaded with potassium. This mineral helps regulates the production of stomach acids. The nutrients in banana also thicken the mucous lining of the stomach, protecting the soft tissues from ulcer-causing acids. Bananas are also high in fiber, which stimulates digestion. As a treatment for hyperacidity, try eating a ripe banana every day. If you can, eat an overripe one especially for a bad case of hyperacidity.

2. Tulsi

Tulsi or Holy basil thickens the mucous lining of the stomach, protecting the soft tissues from stomach acids. This herb also neutralizes the effects of gastric acid. To use tulsi as a treatment for hyperacidity, chew five to six fresh leaves during a bout of hyperacidity.

3. Chilled milk

Milk is high in calcium, a nutrient that minimizes acid buildup. Calcium has the ability to absorb excess stomach acids, reducing the effects of gastric juices in the gut. Because the milk is chilled, cold milk provides immediate relief from acid reflux. Just drink a glass of chilled milk when you are starting to feel a bout of hyperacidity setting in. Make sure the milk is free from any additives, including sugar. To increase the acid-neutralizing effects of chilled milk, spoon in some ghee and mix well.

4. Aniseed

Aniseed is one of the most effective treatment for peptic ulcer. This spice contains volatile oils that neutralize gastric acids. It relieves indigestion and constipation. Aniseed also “cools” down the lining of the stomach, easing the burning sensation caused by hyperacidity. To use aniseed as a treatment for gastric problems, chew on several seeds. You can also boil the seeds and drink the liquid as tea.

5. Cumin

Cumin or jeera stimulates the production of saliva, which aids in digestion. This spice boosts the body’s metabolic rate while relieving gas. In Ayurveda, cumin has a relaxing effect on the nerves within the stomach lining. It heals stomach ulcers, ease inflammation, and thicken the mucous lining of the gut. To use cumin as a treatment for hyperacidity, chew several seeds. You can also take cumin as a tea by boiling the seeds in water and drinking the solution.

6. Clove

Clove has a pungent odor that stimulates saliva production. The increased production of saliva improves the digestion and regulates the stomach juices. Clove contains carminative properties that improve the movement of food in the gut. This spice is also used to treat a sore throat and soothe esophageal irritation.

To use clove as a treatment for gastric issues, bite on a clove to release its juices. Keep the juices in your mouth, swishing it slowly before swallowing.

7. Mint Leaves

The cooling effects of mint neutralize hyperacidity symptoms such as burning and stomach cramps. This herb improves digestion and lowers the level of gastric juices in the stomach. To use mint leaves as a remedy for hyperacidity, take it as a tea. Boil a handful of the herb in a pot of water; let it steep for 10 minutes before straining. Drink the tea several times a day to relieve gastric problems and calm an upset stomach.