Acid Reflux

I see a lot of patients that have acid reflux on top of their other medical conditions. If you’re dealing with acid reflux, finding natural remedies that work can make a big difference. While medications are commonly prescribed, many people are turning to herbs and supplements to relieve acid reflux symptoms naturally. Using specific herbs and supplements can provide a soothing effect, reduce heartburn, and improve overall digestive health.  Being on prescription acid reflux medications like omeprazole can help but they come with unwanted side effects such as lower nutrient absorption and higher risk of osteoporosis. In this article, we’ll cover five great options—slippery elm, melatonin, licorice root, mastic gum, and marshmallow root—that may help manage acid reflux and ease digestive discomfort.

Herbs and Supplements

1. Slippery Elm

Slippery elm is a widely used herb that has been known for its soothing and protective effects on the digestive tract. It comes from the inner bark of the slippery elm tree, a natural source of mucilage. This substance becomes gel-like when mixed with water, forming a barrier over the stomach and esophagus.  I like to give this for both acid reflux and also for dry mouth as it can help Sjogrens patients as well. 

• Benefits: Slippery elm helps to coat the lining of the esophagus and stomach, which can ease symptoms like heartburn and protect against irritation from stomach acid. This protective layer may also help reduce inflammation, offering relief for people experiencing chronic acid reflux.

2. Melatonin

While melatonin is often associated with sleep, it also has a role in digestive health, particularly in managing acid reflux. This supplement has been found to help strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a muscle that plays a key role in preventing acid from rising back up into the esophagus.  Melatonin can help with insomnia but it can also help with the digestive tract.  Melatonin also has anti-inflammatory properties so it has many different roles. Melatonin helps support the LES and helps reduce acid reflux.

3. Licorice Root (Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice, or DGL)

Licorice root has a long history in traditional medicine for treating digestive issues, and it is particularly helpful for acid reflux. The deglycyrrhizinated form, known as DGL, is preferred for acid reflux because it retains the beneficial compounds without the compound glycyrrhizin, which can raise blood pressure.  Not only can DGL help with the stomach lining but it can also be useful for keeping cortisol around longer than usual.  This helps make DGL anti inflammatory as we need cortisol to help with inflammation.  If you have been taking prednisone, you are giving outside steroids which will suppress your body’s own production of cortisol.  DGL can help slow down the breakdown of cortisol by your body.

4. Mastic Gum

Mastic gum, a natural resin from the mastic tree, is highly regarded for its digestive health benefits. Known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, mastic gum has been used for centuries to support digestive comfort and overall gut health.  Mastic gum can be beneficial for the lining of your esophagus to your stomach.  It is also used for managing and treating H pylori for those that don’t want to go on prescription medications.

5. Marshmallow Root

Marshmallow root is a herb rich in mucilage, much like slippery elm. This sticky substance can coat the digestive tract, offering relief from acid reflux symptoms. Known for its soothing properties, marshmallow root has traditionally been used to ease irritation and support gut health.  There are supplements that combine multiple herbs that are mentioned here including marshmallow root, mastic gum, and DGL all together.  By combining these together, they can be effective in helping patients with acid reflux instead of using prescription medications.

Why Choose Herbs and Supplements for Acid Reflux?

Many people prefer using herbs and supplements for acid reflux because they can work gently and effectively, often without the side effects associated with long-term medication use. Taking these herbs for managing acid reflux can be helpful but it would be even more effective when combined with avoiding trigger foods and eating smaller meals.  I like to minimize prescription proton pump inhibitors in my patients because of the side effects of decreased nutrient intake, increased risk of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, and increased risk of fractures.  

Natural remedies like slippery elm, melatonin, licorice root, mastic gum, and marshmallow root can be helpful tools in managing acid reflux and improving digestive health. Each of these herbs and supplements has unique properties that may reduce heartburn, protect the digestive tract, and enhance your overall comfort. For those seeking alternative solutions, these options provide a gentle, holistic approach to finding relief from acid reflux.

Remember: While these natural remedies are generally safe, it’s always best to consult a healthcare provider before adding new supplements to your routine.