In Ayurveda, acidity is referred to as “Amla Pitta” and is commonly caused by poor eating habits that aggravate the Pitta (Fire) dosha. This imbalance leads to symptoms such as indigestion, fatigue, nausea, acidic belching, body heaviness, heartburn, loss of appetite, lethargy, and burning sensations. The stomach’s gastric glands secrete acids necessary for food digestion. However, the intake of heavy and spicy foods can cause excessive acid secretion, resulting in acidity. Other factors such as ulcers, abnormal growths in the stomach, and unhealthy dietary habits can also contribute to this condition.
Numerous herbs help neutralize excess stomach acid, thereby reducing the burning sensation in the epigastrium. These herbs alleviate nausea, hyperacidity, and aid in the healing of peptic and duodenal ulcers. Their purgative properties decrease excess Pitta (Fire). Additionally, they stimulate the secretion of healthy digestive enzymes and promote peristalsis. Due to their alkaline nature, these herbs reduce acidity by stimulating the secretion of gastric juices and soothing the burning effects of Pitta (Fire).
Following are the 20 Ayurvedic herbs recommended foracidity relief
- Laung (Myrtus Caryophyllus) Buds – It is useful for acidity due to their carminative properties, which help alleviate gas and bloating, common symptoms of acidity. It also possesses anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the stomach lining, reducing discomfort caused by excess stomach acid.
- Yastimadhu (Glychyrrhiza glabra) Rhizome – Licorice helps in easy digestion of food and easy absorption of water in the intestines. It helps in relieving from headaches. It relives pain of ulcers in stomach. It is used as a laxative.
- Amla (Emblica officinalis) Fruit – It is beneficial for acidity as it helps regulate stomach acid production, reducing symptoms like heartburn and acid reflux. Its cooling properties soothe inflammation in the stomach lining, alleviating discomfort associated with acidity. Additionally, amla’s high fiber content aids digestion, preventing excessive acid secretion.
- Shatavari (Asparagus Racemosus) Root – It helps alleviate acidity by balancing gastric acid secretion, promoting mucus production to protect the stomach lining, and reducing inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. These properties make it effective in soothing heartburn and preventing acid reflux.
- Dhania (Coriander) Seed – It helps reduce acidity by neutralizing excess stomach acid, improving digestion, and relieving gas and bloating. Their anti-inflammatory properties soothe the stomach lining, preventing and alleviating symptoms of acid reflux and heartburn.
- Nishoth (Ipomoea turpethum) Roots – Nishoth roots are used for acidity due to their potent laxative properties that help clear the digestive tract, reducing acid buildup. They also possess anti-inflammatory effects that soothe the stomach lining. Additionally, Nishoth promotes healthy digestion, preventing acid reflux and related discomfort.
- Harar (Terminalia Chebula) Fruit – It aids in reducing acidity by enhancing digestive health and regulating stomach acid levels. It has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the stomach lining and prevent acid reflux. Additionally, Harar promotes bowel regularity, which helps in maintaining overall gastrointestinal balance.
- Jira (Cumin Seeds) Seeds – It alleviates acidity by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes, which improve digestion and reduce gas formation. Their anti-inflammatory properties help soothe the stomach lining, preventing acid reflux. Additionally, cumin seeds neutralize excess stomach acid, providing relief from heartburn.
- Khas (Chrysopogonzizaniodes) Whole plant – It is used for acidity as it cools the stomach and reduces acid production. Its anti-inflammatory properties soothe the gastrointestinal tract, alleviating discomfort from acid reflux. Additionally, Khas aids in digestion, helping to maintain a balanced stomach environment.
- Pippali (Piper longum) Fruit – It enhances digestion and prevents acid buildup. Additionally, Pippali improves gastric motility, promoting efficient digestion and preventing acidity-related discomfort.
- Elaichi (Cardamomum) Seeds – Its cooling properties soothe the stomach lining, reducing symptoms of heartburn and acid reflux. Additionally, Elaichi seeds help relieve gas and bloating, contributing to overall gastrointestinal comfort.
- Guduchi (Tinospora Cordifolia) Stem – Alleviating discomfort from acid reflux and heartburn. Additionally, Guduchi promotes the production of healthy mucus, protecting the gastrointestinal tract from acid damage.
- Ginger (Zingeber Officinale) Rhizome – Ginger rhizome aids digestion, relieves nausea, and reduces inflammation, making it effective for various gastrointestinal issues including acidity, indigestion, and nausea. Additionally, ginger can be consumed fresh, as tea, or in culinary dishes to reap its digestive benefits.
- Dalchini (Cinnamomum Cassia) Stem – Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, aiding in digestion and blood sugar regulation.
- Nagkesar (Mesua ferrea) Flower – Nagkesar flowers, from the Mesua ferrea tree, find application in traditional medicine for their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, aiding in relieving pain and inflammation.
- Bahera (Terminalia bellerica) Fruit– It is valued in traditional medicine for its digestive properties, helping to alleviate constipation and promote bowel regularity. Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, it supports immune function and overall health.
- Vavding (Embeliaribes) Fruit – They are utilized in traditional medicine for their anthelmintic properties, aiding in the expulsion of intestinal worms. They also possess anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits, supporting gastrointestinal health.
- Kali Mirch (Piper Nigrum) Fruit – It can help alleviate acidity due to its carminative properties, which aid in digestion and reduce gas formation. Consuming black pepper in moderation may stimulate the secretion of digestive enzymes, promoting a healthy digestive process and potentially easing symptoms of acidity.
- Tejpatra (Cinnamomum Iners) Leaves – It possesses antimicrobial properties, making it useful for preserving food items. Additionally, tejpatra leaves are utilized in traditional medicine for their potential digestive and anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis) Fruit – It is used to alleviate symptoms of acidity due to its soothing properties on the digestive tract.
According to Ayurveda, these herbs are considered excellent antacids and gentle laxatives. They possess properties that soothe Vata (Air) and Pitta (Fire) imbalances, serving as natural dietary supplements to balance the elevated Pitta dosha and promote optimal digestion. Additionally, these herbs are inherently cooling, providing a refreshing effect.
Ayurvedic Lifestyle
Nutritional diet, Morning walk, Yoga, Peaceful mind, Restful sleep.
Foods to Favor
- Unpolished Rice (Preferably 2 years old)
- Green Gram (Lentils) Soup
- Sugar Candy
- Honey
- Pomegranate
- Bitter gourd
- Amla (Indian Gooseberry)
- Dry Grapes
- Green leafy vegetables
- Coriander Leaves
- Peppermint
- Cold milk with sugar
- Rose water
- Sweet buttermilk
Foods to Avoid
- Avoid Fried and Heavy meals.
- Meat Products
- Fatty Bakery Products
- Chocolates
- Cold Drinks
- Junk or Fast Food
- Spicy Food
- Hot Foods
- Chilies
- Sauces
- Curd
- Alcoholic Products
- Tamarind
- Vinegar
- Eggs
- Seafood (Like Fish, Shrimps, Lobster, Oyster)
- Other substances that produce burning sensations.
Do’s
- Drink lukewarm water.
- Eat a fibrous diet or fruits.
- Do some exercise regularly.
- Take one tablespoon of castor oil in milk.
- Take Amla powder or Triphala powder at night with lukewarm water.
Don’ts
- Avoid suppression of natural urges.
- Avoid a sedentary lifestyle.
- Avoid junk food in your diet.
- Avoid caffeine or alcohol consumption.
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