Heartburn
Heartburn happens when the acid present in the stomach is thrown back into the esophagus. Continous heartburn can lead to inflammation and the development of strictures in the esophagus. In rare cases, heartburn can also cause cancer. One of the natural remedies suggested for heartburn is calcium. If you suffer from constant heartburn, include skim milk in your diet. Milk is a rich source of protein and can help with heartburn. However, the fat present in milk can stimulate acid production. Therefore, heartburn patients should consume skim milk and that too, in a controlled amount. Another natural home remedy that can treat heartburn is baking soda, as baking soda neutralizes stomach acid. Mix one teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water and drink it down slowly. You will feel better in seconds.
Hiatal Hernia
Hernia is a medical condition in which a body part pushes into an area where it does not belong. The hiatus is an opening in the diaphragm through which the esophagus passes to attach itself to the stomach. Hiatal Hernia is a medical condition in which the stomach bulges out of the opening through which the esophagus passes. In naturopathy, Hiatal Hernia is treated with the help of a technique called Visceral Manipulation. With Visceral Manipulation, soft muscle forces are applied to induce mobility and motion between the viscera and their connective tissues. Additionally, Hiatal Hernia patients are also advised to consume many small meals instead of a few large meals. Patients suffering from this disorder should stay away from citrus foods; fried, spicy, and fatty food items; carbonated beverages; coffee; and dairy products.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a digestive disorder in which the contents of the stomach flow back into the esophagus. GERD is caused by a weak lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and manifests itself as heartburn or indigestion. It affects the LES and the muscles between the esophagus and stomach. GERD can be effectively treated using natural methods. Naturopaths first try to understand the various causative factors and then focus on holistic patient care and encouraging patients to make lifestyle changes. Natural enzyme-based formulas are recommended to improve digestion. Chamomile tea and ginger tea can help ease symptoms associated with GERD. GERD patients are also advised to consume ginger tea 30 minutes before a meal and chamomile tea 30 minutes before going to bed. Straight mustard is another natural food that can help GERD patients.
Indigestion
Indigestion, also referred to as dyspepsia, is a symptom of many digestive disorders. Indigestion makes one feel full all the time. People suffering from indigestion experience constant discomfort in the upper abdominal region. Nausea, heartburn, bloating, and belching are common symptoms associated with dyspepsia. Ginger makes an excellent natural remedy for dyspepsia. It relieves patients of any gastrointestinal irritation and reduces inflammation. Both chamomile tea and peppermint tea also help fight indigestion. Patients suffering from indigestion are also often advised to include fennel tea in their diet. Additionally, practicing yoga regularly can also help with the problem of indigestion in the long run. Tadasana, Surya Namaskar, Bhujangasana, Vajrasana, and Suryabhedan Pranayama are some of the yoga exercises recommended to patients suffering from continual indigestion.
Conclusion
Naturopathy has been an integral part of the traditional medicinal system in the East for centuries now. It is practical and side-effect free. If you suffer from heartburn, hernia, GERD, or indigestion, consider using naturopathy to help relieve your symptoms.