The Power of Ginger to Relieve Heartburn

Ginger has been used worldwide as a natural cure-all for everything from malaria to baldness, but it is most commonly celebrated as a remedy for digestive problems. Because of the vast range of gastrointestinal issues, researchers continue to “dig deeper” to find more uses for this spicy, fragrant root (Source: Web MD).

Scientists are especially curious about whether ginger can relieve acid reflux and symptoms of heartburn. A 2011 study found that participants who took ginger supplements showed reduced levels of inflammation within one month. This could be due to the phenolic compounds in ginger, which can ease stomach irritation. Phenols are also known to reduce gastric contractions that might allow acid from the stomach to flow up into the esophagus (Source: Healthline).

Currently, most studies on ginger are limited to its nausea-reducing effects, so there is certainly room for more research on ginger’s effectiveness against acid reflux and heartburn. However, there is no denying that cultures worldwide have been using ginger to soothe digestive conditions for generations. According to Home Remedies for Life, ginger can also help:

  • Regulate the flow of juices in the GI tract to promote food absorption
  • Absorb excess stomach acid
  • Speed the digestion process
  • Tighten the lower esophageal sphincter between the stomach and esophagus

So whether you seek relief from rheumatoid arthritis, menstrual pain, cough, respiratory problems, migraine headaches, bronchitis, tooth aches, snake bites or just common heartburn, give ginger a try!

Here is a recipe for ginger root tea that includes only four ingredients.

Ginger Root Tea

  1. Peel and mince a piece of one-inch ginger root.
  2. Boil 1 cup of water and add ginger pieces.
  3. Boil water and ginger together for 5 minutes.
  4. Remove from heat. Cover with lid and let steep for 20 minutes.
  5. Strain and stir in ½ teaspoon honey and lemon juice to taste.

You can enjoy a cup of ginger root tea up to two times per day to help relieve heartburn. Remember that ginger should be used occasionally as a natural treatment for heartburn relief and should not be a permanent solution.

Chronic heartburn could be a warning sign of something more serious, so pay attention to your symptoms and call your doctor if your symptoms last more than two weeks or worsen.