Acid reflux, also known as heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux (GERD), is a condition where the stomach’s digestive acids get pushed up into the esophagus. It leads to a painful, burning feeling in the chest or throat. Reflux that occurs occasionally is normal and harmless. However, recurring acid reflux can burn the inside of the esophagus. Around 14 to 20 percent of all adults in the country suffer from the condition.

Natural remedies can control acid reflux without medication. For example, many symptoms stem from a faulty, irregular diet and can be overcome by avoiding certain foods and eating regularly. Try these natural remedies to soothe your heartburn instead of turning towards prescription medication or over-the-counter drugs.

1. Aloe vera
Aloe vera soothes heartburn just like it soothes the skin. You can easily grow the plant in your home kitchen garden. You can also opt for aloe juice or powder, available at most grocery stores. Drink half a cup of aloe juice before each meal until you have recovered from the heartburn. Drinking aloe juice or taking a small pulp of fresh aloe (a tablespoon) first thing in the morning on an empty stomach will soothe the esophagus and stomach.

2. Baking soda
When you experience acid reflux, you can treat it with baking soda diluted with water. Add a teaspoon of baking soda to seven ounces of water and drink it. Repeat this method about five times a day. Do this for not more than a week since the excess salt from baking soda may cause nausea or swelling.

3. Ginger tea
Ginger tea is excellent for many stomach disorders and ailments. It is a fantastic remedy for many problems, from a stomach ache to chronic acid reflux. Add slices of ginger root in boiling water for 30 minutes, simmer, cool, and sip on it. Have it before mealtimes. Substitute ginger tea for the usual coffee and tea if you suffer from acid reflux.

4. Turmeric
Curcumin, the compound found in turmeric, has high anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Its anti-inflammatory properties help prevent esophageal inflammation, which aggravates acid reflux symptoms.

5. Mustard
Mustard contains minerals and is alkaline, which helps neutralize the acids that come up due to acid reflux. Take one teaspoon of mustard immediately after you feel a heartburn sensation coming on or if you experience the symptoms.

6. Apple cider vinegar
Mix three teaspoons of apple cider vinegar in a cup of water. Drink it before each meal or once before bedtime. Apple cider vinegar helps neutralize the acids. However, its taste and smell can put you off in trying this remedy.

The items mentioned above can easily be found in your kitchen, local grocers, or home garden, and they can help ease the burning sensation naturally and quickly.