5 Natural Remedies To Treat Esophagitis
To treat esophagitis it is necessary to consult the gastroenterologist, since medications and changes in diet may be necessary. However, you can also consider some natural remedies that serve as adjuvants to calm your symptoms.
Esophagitis is an inflammatory disorder that causes damage to the tissues of the esophagus, that is, the digestive tract through which food is transported from the mouth to the stomach. Sufferers experience pain in the upper abdomen, described as a burning or pressure sensation.
It is a problem that can manifest itself mildly or severely, depending on its cause. However, in most cases it does not cause complications and improves once treatment is started. Below, we go over its causes and share some home remedies.
Common causes of esophagitis
As a publication in the World Journal of Gastroenterology points out , most cases of esophagitis are caused by the effects of gastroesophageal reflux. This is an acidic liquid that rises from the stomach into the esophagus, causing irritation to its tissues.
However, the esophageal mucosa can also be affected by some infectious, systemic or chemical conditions. The most common factors that affect its development are:
- Excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages and cigarettes.
- Long-term use of medications.
- Heavy and irritating meals.
- Overweight and obesity.
- Repetitive vomiting
Symptoms of esophagitis
The symptoms of esophagitis can vary in each patient , depending on the damage to the esophagus tissue and how quickly you have decided to deal with this problem. Often the most common manifestations include the following:
- Pain in the pit of the stomach.
- Chest pain.
- Nausea and vomiting
- Persistent cough
- Loss of appetite
- Difficulty ingesting food.
Natural remedies to control esophagitis
We must not forget that for an adequate control of esophagitis it is important to follow the recommendations of a medical professional or gastroenterologist. According to a publication in the World Journal of Gastrointestinal Pharmacology and Therapeutics , treatment can include:
- Lifestyle changes: including weight loss, elevating the head of the bed, avoiding late night meals, and eliminating trigger foods like chocolate, caffeine, and alcohol.
- Medications: including antacids, histamine receptor antagonists (ARH 2), or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).
- Surgical therapy: if there is no response to other treatments.
On the other hand, there are some natural remedies that seem to help ease symptoms. Although they should not replace medical treatment, they can be considered a complement. Do you dare to try them?
1. Aloe vera juice for esophagitis
The gel contained in the aloe vera plant contains vitamin B, mucilage and essential amino acids that help reduce irritation in the esophagus and digestive tract.
According to research published in the Journal of traditional Chinese medicine , its consumption helps reduce excess production of acidic juices and protects the gastric mucosa against irritation thanks to its anti-inflammatory effect. In general, it helps reduce reflux symptoms.
Ingredients
- 5 tablespoons of aloe vera gel (75 g).
- ½ cup of water (125 ml).
- 1 tablespoon of honey (25 g).
Preparation
- Add all the ingredients to the blender and blend them until you get a smooth drink. If you wish, you can add another teaspoon of honey to taste.
Consumption mode
- Consume this natural juice once a day, until you feel an improvement. Avoid taking it in excess because it can have a laxative effect.
2. Licorice infusion
Licorice tea is used in natural medicine for conditions caused by excess acid in the stomach. Research published in the Journal of the Australian Traditional-Medicine Society recognizes this plant as a suppressant of excess acid.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon of licorice root (5 g).
- 1 cup of water (250 ml).
- Honey (25 g).
Preparation
- Add the licorice root to a cup of very hot water and cover the drink.
- Wait for it to rest for 10 minutes, strain it and sweeten it with one or two tablespoons of honey to taste.
Consumption mode
- Take the infusion when you feel heartburn or stomach pain.
- Repeat its consumption about 2 times a day.
Note: this plant is contraindicated in patients with cardiovascular disorders such as high blood pressure or cardiac arrhythmias. Nor should it be ingested by pregnant or lactating women.
3. Drink with baking soda
In small amounts, baking soda is considered a natural antacid. According to The Canadian Society of Intestinal Research, this ingredient is a temporary solution for acid reflux. However, it should be used only in mild cases.
Ingredients
- ½ teaspoon of baking soda (2 g).
- ½ cup of water (125 ml).
Preparation
- Dilute the baking soda in half a cup of cold water.
Consumption mode
- Drink the remedy when you feel symptoms of esophagitis.
- Take it about 2 times a day.
4. Marshmallow infusion
According to a study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology , marshmallow has protective effects on the gastric mucosa by neutralizing acidity. Another effect of this natural remedy is that it decreases the irritation of the esophagus, thus relieving the pain caused by esophagitis.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon of marshmallow (5 g).
- 1 cup of water (250 ml).
Preparation
- Add a teaspoon of marshmallow to a cup of boiling water.
- Let the drink rest for 10 minutes and strain it.
Consumption mode
- Take the infusion 2 times a day until you feel an improvement.
5. Infusion of chamomile
Chamomile has interesting properties for health. According to a post in Molecular Medicine Reports , its dried flowers contain many terpenoids and flavonoids that contribute to its medicinal properties.
In addition, it has anti-inflammatory properties and has been traditionally used to promote relief from various gastrointestinal disorders, including esophagitis, colic, and an upset stomach.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon of chamomile (5 g).
- 1 cup of water (250 ml).
Preparation
- Dip the chamomile in a cup of boiling water and let the drink steep for 10 minutes.
- Strain the infusion and let it cool a little. Then it is ready to drink!
Consumption mode
- Consume it 2 or 3 times a day, until you feel an improvement.
Supplement with good habits
These natural remedies can be an adjunct against esophagitis, especially if they are combined with a good diet, daily exercise and avoiding stress as much as possible. However, as long as the symptoms of this condition are recognized, it is best to see a specialist.
