Aloe vera juice
Aloe vera juice can soothe heartburn pain by coating the esophagus and stomach. Recommended dose: 1/2 cup, twice daily between meals. Caution: Aloe vera juice made with aloe rind or latex contains a laxative, so it is best to use products made from pure aloe gel.
Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
Licorice, because of its soothing, anti-inflammatory properties, is useful for a wide range of gastrointestinal problems, including heartburn. DGL is a form of licorice that is safe for people with high blood pressure or at risk of developing high blood pressure. Recommended dose: Chew 2–4 tablets, each containing 380 mg of DGL, after meals or when heartburn occurs.
Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis)
This herb helps to soothe and protect the stomach. Recommended dose: 200–400 mg daily.
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Slippery elm (Ulmus rubra)
Like marshmallow, this herb is known to help ease heartburn by building up the mucous lining protecting the digestive tract. Recommended dose: Mix 1 teaspoon slippery elm powder with 1/4 cup cold water to make a paste. Add 1 cup hot water and stir. Drink the concoction before it gets too cool; otherwise it will develop a mucouslike texture. Drink once or twice a day.
Turmeric (Curcuma longa)
This anti-inflammatory herb can help alleviate pain caused by acid reflux. It is also known to naturally kill Helicobacter pylori, a bacteria that weakens the stomach’s protective mucous coating and is believed to cause peptic ulcers (Anticancer Research, 2002, vol. 22, no. 6C). Recommended dose: 200–500 mg, one to three times daily.
Source: Mona Morstein, ND
Note: The above supplements can be taken together, but it is advisable to consult with a health care practitioner before taking any supplements.
