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Heartburn
Heartburn occurs when hydrochloric acid, which is used to digest food in the stomach, backs up into the esophagus causing an irritation. Normally the esophageal sphincter would close tightly, not allowing the acid to back up. If this valve, however, is not functioning, the acid can slip by. Occasionally heartburn can be associated with hiatal hernias.
Cause/Risks
- Eating spicy, fatty or fried foods, alcohol, coffee, citrus fruits, chocolate or tomato-based foods can cause heartburn.
- Physical ailments that are linked to heartburn are gallbladder problems, allergies, stress, enzyme deficiencies and ulcers.
- Some individuals suffering from hiatal hernia experience heartburn regularly. (50% of people with hiatal hernia have no symptoms.)
- Cigarette smoking can exacerbate heartburn
How Alternative Medicine may potentially help?
There are many herbs and vitamins that can aid in healing and cleansing the digestive tract, as well as aid in proper digestion.
Herbs
- Catnip can potentially aid in promoting proper digestion.
- Chamomile - According to the German Commission E (a government panel of herbal experts), chamomile may be helpful in easing inflammation or irritation of the respiratory tract.
- Kava Kava - Stress is also linked to heartburn. Commission E has approved kava kava as an herb that can ease stress and anxiety via its sedative effect
- Fennel has properties beneficial to digestion.
- Licorice - Ulcers, another contributor to heartburn, can be eased with licorice root, according to Commission E. Do not use licorice root if you have a liver or kidney disorder
- Ginger can potentially aid in promoting proper digestion.
Vitamins
- Vitamin B-complex plays an important role in assisting the process of digestion.
Other Considerations
Avoid foods and beverages that can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter (see above). You should also keep away from foods and beverages that can irritate a damaged esophageal lining -- such as citrus fruits and juices, tomato products and pepper. Both aspirin and ibuprofen can cause heartburn.