Many people are bothered with occasional heartburn for which an over the counter antacid will usually relieve. There are also millions of people who suffer from constant heartburn, or acid reflux, that may be more uncomfortable and persistent. Heartburn may be caused by a backflow of contents in the stomach into the esophagus, which is the tube that transports food to the stomach. This process is known as acid reflux. It could also be caused by a more complex form known as gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Natural home remedies may help mild forms of acid reflux:

1. Follow an acid reflux diet

An acid reflux diet may help lessen the bouts of heartburn experienced. This diet would exclude acid reflux triggers like tea and coffee, chocolate, spicy foods, foods that are fried or greasy, all forms of alcohol, mint, and any foods that are tomato based. Eliminating these from the diet can greatly improve the symptoms of heartburn.

2. Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is said to have many health benefits. It helps reduce heartburn symptoms when you take about two teaspoons mixed with a half glass of water. It is harmless, so this can be done at least twice each day.

3. Ginger

Ginger has been used for centuries to relieve heartburn. You can grate or dice the root and add it to your favorite soups, stir fry, or other meals. You can even make a mild tea by steeping raw or dried ginger with boiling water. In the tea aisle at your market you can find ginger teas.

4. Avoid tight clothing

Tight clothing can compress the stomach and cause the contents to rise up into the esophagus. Loosening the clothing like a belt, pants waistband, dress, or whatever garment is holding you tight. Relief can come almost immediately once this is done.

5. Licorice root

The roots of licorice is another ancient folk remedy that has been used for heartburn. It is known to increase the mucus coating of the lining of the esophagus. This will help protect the esophagus from damage that could be caused by the stomach acids. You must be careful not to eat too much licorice because it is known to lower blood pressure, potassium levels, and it can also interfere with some medications.

6. Baking soda and water

Baking soda mixed with water is a long time common remedy for heartburn. The baking soda will help calm some episodes of acid reflux because it neutralizes the stomach acids. Just add one teaspoon of baking soda to a glass of water and drink. This remedy is one that has been used for many years by women who were pregnant and experienced a lot of heartburn.

As with any medication, or remedy, check with your doctor before trying a natural remedy for heartburn. Your acid reflux may be severe and in need of more medical attention. These natural remedies may not work in cases where the acid reflux comes with other complications. A confirmed diagnosis will determine if you are eligible to try natural remedies or if you need more profound treatment. Over the counter acid reducers are good for mild heartburn that occurs infrequently. Do not trust severe pain that almost has you doubled over to over the counter medications. See your doctor first.