If you’ve ever experienced a burning sensation in your chest or throat, you know how uncomfortable acid reflux can be.

Acid reflux occurs when the valve at the entrance to the stomach fails to close properly and stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus. This can cause heartburn, chest pain, and difficulty swallowing. While there are medications that can help manage acid reflux, natural remedies can also provide relief.

Here are some natural remedies to soothe your stomach and reduce acid reflux symptoms.

1. Apple Cider Vinegar

Although it may seem counterintuitive to consume an acidic substance, apple cider vinegar can actually help reduce acid reflux symptoms. This is because apple cider vinegar helps to neutralize stomach acid and boost digestion.

To use apple cider vinegar as a natural remedy for acid reflux, mix 1-2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with a glass of water and drink before meals.

2. Ginger

Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract and prevent acid reflux. Ginger can be consumed in many forms, including as a tea, in food, or as a supplement.

To make ginger tea, simply steep grated ginger in hot water for 10-15 minutes.

3. Licorice

Another natural remedy for acid reflux is licorice, which helps to coat the stomach and reduce inflammation. It’s important to note that this refers to deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL), which has had the compound that can raise blood pressure removed.

DGL can be consumed as a supplement or drunk as tea.

4. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is well-known for its soothing properties, and it can also help alleviate acid reflux symptoms. Aloe vera juice can help reduce inflammation in the esophagus and soothe irritation caused by acid reflux.

It is important to use only pure aloe vera juice, as some products contain high levels of sugar or other additives that can exacerbate acid reflux.

5. Peppermint

While peppermint is often used to alleviate other digestive issues, such as bloating and indigestion, it can actually worsen acid reflux symptoms.

Peppermint can relax the muscles in the lower esophageal sphincter, which can allow stomach acid to flow back up into the esophagus. If you experience frequent acid reflux, it’s best to avoid peppermint.

6. Slippery Elm

Slippery elm is an herb that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of digestive issues. It can help alleviate acid reflux symptoms by coating the esophagus and reducing inflammation.

Slippery elm can be consumed as a supplement or made into a tea by steeping the inner bark in hot water.

7. Chamomile

Chamomile tea is another natural remedy that can help reduce acid reflux symptoms. Chamomile has anti-inflammatory properties and can help soothe the lining of the esophagus.

Drinking a cup of chamomile tea before bed can also help promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.

8. Magnesium

Magnesium is a mineral that can help reduce the frequency and severity of acid reflux symptoms. It works by relaxing the muscles in the esophagus and stomach, which can prevent the backflow of stomach acid.

Magnesium can be taken as a supplement or obtained through foods such as spinach, almonds, and avocado.

9. Melatonin

Melatonin is a hormone that regulates sleep, but it can also help reduce acid reflux symptoms.

Melatonin can help reduce inflammation in the esophagus and increase the pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter, which can prevent stomach acid from flowing back up. Melatonin supplements should be taken before bed to allow it to work with the body’s natural circadian rhythm.

10. Lifestyle Changes

Along with natural remedies, making lifestyle changes can also help reduce acid reflux symptoms. Eating smaller meals, avoiding trigger foods (such as spicy or fried foods), and not lying down after eating can all help alleviate acid reflux symptoms.

It’s also important to maintain a healthy weight and avoid smoking, as these factors can contribute to acid reflux.