3 Effective Ayurvedic Treatments to Resolve Gas and Acidity

In Ayurvedic medicine, hyperacidity and acid reflux are believed to be caused by the accumulation of toxins from undigested food.

Gas, heartburn, acid reflux, and acidity are often caused by gas generated by excessive gas emitted by bacteria in the lower intestines to ferment and digest partially undigested food that came from the small intestines.

When the digestive juices shoot up into the esophagus, it will cause a momentary burning sensation within the chest. This is called heartburn. On the other hand, when the stomach is filled with excessive gastric juices, it will cause a dull, sometimes piercing pain in the gut as well as other symptoms such as nausea and incessant burping. This is called hyperacidity.

There are comprehensive herbal treatments in Ayurvedic medicine to treat various digestive conditions. Today, we are listing down three of the most common Ayurvedic treatments to soothe an upset stomach caused by gas and acidity.

Neem

Neem is a type of evergreen tree characterized by its fragrant white flowers and shiny green leaves. For centuries, Neem has been used in a variety of Ayurvedic treatments, including acidity and gas. In Ayurveda, the body’s force is associated with proper elimination of metabolic waste. If the pitta is not balanced, it will result in a burning sensation and pain in the chest and gut, like heartburn and hyperacidity.

Neem leaves are traditionally used to bring the balance back in the pitta. Neem flowers also contain various carminative compounds that aid in indigestion, soothe an upset stomach, and neutralize gastric acids. However, because neem—particularly neem oil—is so potent, pregnant women and children are discouraged from using it to treat digestive ailments. Neem oil should only be applied topically on the affected area.

Fenugreek

Also known as methi in India, fenugreek is also a popular herbal treatment for gas and acidity in Ayurvedic medicine. It’s considered as a warming herb that raises the temperature once taken. Fenugreek helps calm an upset stomach and stimulates bile production to aid in digestion. Fenugreek also helps neutralize gas and prevent acid accumulation.

Fenugreek seeds are just as effective in protecting the stomach lining from being damaged by excessive gastric juices. When taken as tonic, Fenugreek seeds form a protective coating to prevent gas from eroding the mucus lining of the stomach. Although Fenugreek is mostly used to aid in digestion, we recommend consulting a certified Ayurvedic therapist before taking this herbal medicine to ease gas and acidity.

Turmeric

Turmeric is a popular spice that’s a staple in Asian cuisine, particularly in Indian dishes. Characterized by its deep yellow color and aromatic smell, turmeric is derived from a root plant belonging to the ginger family. It’s often prepared raw or powdered. More than being a popular spice that adds a kick of flavor to any dish, turmeric has a long history as Ayurvedic treatment to a variety of health illnesses.

Turmeric is rich in antioxidants, essential oils, and is known for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Ayurvedic healers have used turmeric to cure peptic ulcers, indigestion, and other digestive ailments. Just like neem, turmeric also helps bring balance to the pitta and restores normal digestive functions.