Heartburn

Heartburn is something we all get at some time, but for many it is a constant upsetting problem. The symptoms of heartburn include an uncomfortable, burning pain in the mid- to lower-chest area close to the region of the heart. Although it can be mistaken for a heart problem, the condition is not related to heart disease but rather to digestive trouble. Heartburn typically occurs following a meal and becomes worse when lying down. It is often accompanied by belching and fullness in the stomach, though this is not always present. It can also be directly associated with anxiety and stress.
Heartburn is a digestive disorder associated with high stomach acidity and a disturbed acid-alkali balance. Often this is due to an overstimulation of the stomach glands, which produce hydrochloric acid as a result of poor eating habits and the consumption of acid-causing foods. Overfilling the stomach, especially with rich, fried foods high in fat content which lie in the stomach longer than other foods, can cause heartburn. Sugar is another food that causes increased acidity, as does caffeine. Swallowing air while eating too quickly, or when upset, is another common problem. Stress and eating under stress are other major causes of stomach acidity. All of these habits cause the stomach to expand upwards, carrying stomach acid which then irritates the oesophagus. Heartburn can also be caused by reflux oesophagitis, which occurs if the sphincter muscle, responsible for closing the oesophagus, is relaxed. Fats, alcohol, chocolate and coffee relax the sphincter muscle.
As a first aid for heartburn, eat a handful of blanched almonds or a piece of dry bread, chew on a handful of uncooked oat flakes or drink a little milk to soothe the mucous membrane of the stomach. The old remedy of taking a teaspoon of baking soda is harmful because it builds gases and increases the acidity of the stomach.
To prevent heartburn, enjoy your food, eating slowly to avoid swallowing air. A very effective natural remedy is to drink cabbage or carrot juice, which dilutes stomach acid and flushes it through the duodenum. Aloe-vera juice can also help to heal hyperacidity.
Do not drink milk. Although milk neutralises stomach acid, the calcium and protein in milk stimulates the production of more acid. Cow’s milk creates a rebound effect and makes acidity worse in the long run. Almond milk, raw goat’s milk, rice milk or soya milk are good substitutes.
To test whether heartburn is due to insufficient stomach acid, take a tablespoon of cider apple vinegar; relief indicates insufficient stomach acid. In the case of heartburn due to excess stomach acid, avoid foods that trigger the production of acid like fried meat, salty meat, salted fish, smoked foods, meat broth, hot spices and coffee. In some people, sugar and honey trigger heartburn and should be avoided.
L-glutamine is an amino acid, which is important in the healing of hyperacidity. Charcoal tablets mixed with half a cup of warm water also neutralise stomach acid and absorb toxins. Yarrow juice restores the normal acidity of the stomach. Take 1 tablespoon of Yarrow juice in water before bedtime for three weeks. Centaury tincture is an old home remedy recommended in cases of heartburn and indigestion. Take before each meal in a little water.

David Foley

MNIMH, MRCHM

Medical Herbalist