Aloe vera.
An anti-inflammatory, aloe vera juice coats the esophagus. Try half a cup two times a day between meals. Caution: Use products made from pure aloe gel; avoid those made with aloe rind or latex, which includes a potent laxative.
Calcium carbonate.
A natural antacid, these supplements ease occasional heartburn (and help provide daily calcium needs to boot).
Cumin seeds.
An effective and gentle acid neutralizer. Soak 1 ounce of seeds in water, then eat one or two spoonfuls three times a day.
Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL).
Soothing, anti-inflammatory effects make it useful for a wide range of gastrointestinal problems. Thoroughly chew two to four tablets, each containing 380 mg DGL, after meals or anytime heartburn strikes.
—L.Z.
Sources: Natural Stomach Care by Anil Minocha, MD, and David Carroll (Avery Penguin Putnam, 2003); Robert Rountree, MD.