This article is intended to help the reader in the rapid identification of natural remedies useful in the treatment of various symptoms, ailments and diseases. For some remedies listed, this usefulness may not have been confirmed by sufficient experimental tests, carried out with a scientific method. Furthermore, any natural remedy has potential risks and contraindications.
If available, we therefore recommend clicking on the link corresponding to the individual remedy to learn more about the topic. In any case, we remind you of the importance of avoiding self-treatment and to consult your doctor in advance to ascertain the absence of contraindications and drug interactions.
Gastroesophageal reflux is a disorder characterized by the abnormal rise of acidic juices from the stomach to the esophagus, which can take on the characteristics of a real pathology (see reflux disease). Given the structural inadequacy of the esophageal mucosa to withstand the acid insult, gastric juices cause inflammation of the esophagus (esophagitis) with heartburn, acid belching and retrosternal burns.
The causes of gastroesophageal reflux refer to a general incontinence of the lower esophageal sphincter, a sort of valve that prevents or limits this phenomenon. Excessive presence of air in the stomach (aerophagia), long and laborious digestion, the presence of a "hiatal hernia and smoking, are the most common random agents capable of undermining the tightness of this valve.
Chocolate, smoking, alcohol, tea, coffee and papaverine are contraindicated as they reduce the tightness of the lower esophageal sphincter. The same goes for carminative essences (mint, lemon balm, cumin, anise, fennel).
See also: diet and gastroesophageal reflux; feeding and reflux.
Medicinal plants and supplements useful against gastroesophageal reflux
Hypericum, Licorice, Passionflower, Chamomile, Comfrey, Alginates and mucilaginous drugs that cover the gastric and esophageal mucosa protecting it from aggressive agents: Altea, Mallow, Icelandic Lichen and Calendula.
Other articles on "Gastroesophageal Reflux - Herbal Medicine"
- Example diet for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
- Gastroesophageal reflux
- Gastroesophageal reflux: symptoms and complications
- Reflux: care and treatment
- Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease
- Gastro-oesophageal reflux diagnosis and therapy
- Gastroesophageal Reflux - Medicines to Treat Gastroesophageal Reflux
- Diet and gastroesophageal reflux
- Gastroesophageal reflux diet