Home Remedies for Acidity

Acids (Hydrochloric acid/HCl) and enzymes like Pepsin present in the stomach helps in breaking down of the food during digestion. Excess production of acid by the gastric glands of the stomach destroys the mucous membrane lining the internal part of the stomach and thus internal organs get burned by the caustic action of the acid. The resulting condition is called acidity of the stomach. Heart burn and acid reflux are often related to acidity.

Acidity Symptoms

• Burning sensation or pain in the stomach one to four hours after a meal
• Feeling hungry frequently
• Constant pain in upper abdomen area
• Prolonged heart-burn
• Dryness in the throat
• Belching, nausea, bitter taste in mouth, vomiting and loss of appetite

Acidity Causes

• Not eating on time
• Eating fried & spicy food, over eating and eating hurriedly
• Taking the food which are very refined and contain less quantity of dietary fibers
• Excess stress
• Excessive smoking and drinking alcohol
• Gastro duodenal (peptic) ulcer
• Hyper secretion of hydrochloric acid

Home Remedies for Acidity

• Intake of cold milk normalizes the pH in the stomach and gives relief from burning sensation.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Add one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar to half glass of water. Sip this glass of water while eating your dinner.
• Chewing Clove and cardamom gives relief from acidity.
• Using Anise and Lavender Tea: Mix together equal amounts of aniseed and lavender. Boil two-three cups of distilled water. Pour the boiling water over a teaspoon of the herbal mixture. Let this tea sit for 3 to 5 minutes and then strain the tea and add a little bit of honey and drink.
• Drinking of water in early mornings stored in lead container overnight is very effective in reducing acidity. DO NOT DO THIS. It may cause lead poisoning in the system.
• Intake of calcium bi carbonate (sweet soda) helps as the basic-substance neutralizes excess acid. White vinegar is similarly helpful.
• Taking processed mint, ginger and eating fruits like banana, watermelon, cucumber is also helpful.
• Coconut water is an excellent way to prevent acidity.

As a general precaution, you must reduce the use of painkillers, asprin, diclofenac sodium and antibiotics. Often acidity regulators are prescribed along with these medicines. However, you should avoid painkillers to the extent possible.