Owing to the unhealthy habits and lifestyle, many individuals are facing problems as severe as acidity and acid reflux. One of the most common reasons people are facing problems are hyperacidity. The ailment is common in all ages, classes and communities. Hydrochloric acid is the digestive juice that is responsible for breaking down the food particles in the smallest form for aiding digestion. When the amount of hydrochloric acid in the stomach increases, it leads to hyperacidity.
What are the causes of hyperacidity?
The stomach consists of acid and the amount of acid in our stomach is pH4. This indirectly means that there is a lot of acidic environment inside our stomach because of the food we consume. It is important to have some acid content in the stomach because there are germs that come into our stomach through the food we eat. These germs die in the acidic environment. In a few cases, the acidic nature becomes more than the required level.
Following are the signs and symptoms of hyperacidity-
1. Throat burn.
2. Ear pain.
3. Dry cough.
4. Chest pain.
5. Throat burn.
The lining of a stomach synthesizes and secretes hydrochloric acid for the digestion of food. However, many a times due to poor lifestyle and irregular eating habits, the tissue of the stomach lining produces large volumes of hydrochloric acid. This is known as hyperacidity. Following are the causes of hyperacidity-
· Fasting for a prolonged duration
· Smoking.
· Pregnancy.
· Kidney problems.
· Mental stress.
· Obesity, diabetes.
· Intake of certain types of prescription medicines
It is crucial to identify the causes of hyperacidity. After identifying the causes, it is important to follow remedial measures for treating hyperacidity. If acid dyspepsia is too frequent, it results in a myriad of gut-related illnesses.
The minor symptoms of hyperacidity can be managed at home with certain kind of lifestyle modifications. These small changes comprise eating smaller portions during meals that consist of fruits, vegetables and foods. If these remedies do not help tackle acidity, the doctor prescribes medicines to their patients.
What are the best ayurvedic medicines for hyperacidity?
Ayurvedic medicines help a great deal in curing hyperacidity. Following are the best ayurvedic medicines for hyperacidity-
1. Gulkand
Gulkand which is considered very effective for managing hyperacidity issues has cooling soothing and Pitta-pacifying properties. This sweet preserve is made from rose petals and sugar. It acts as a natural coolant. The herb is beneficial during hot weather for the people with high Pitta constitution. It balances excess heat in the stomach. It also soothes the gastric mucosa and reduces burning, pain and irritation in the stomach. Owing to its laxative properties, it helps cleanse the digestive tract and also relieves constipation.
One should take 1-2 tablespoons of Gulkand after meals on an empty stomach. One can either take it with cold milk for a cooling effect. It is important to avoid the overconsumption of the herb. It is one of the best ayurvedic medicines for hyperacidity.
2. Bhunimbadi kadha
This ayurvedic remedy is commonly used to treat issues such as hyperacidity. The tonic helps neutralize excess acid in the stomach and relieve symptoms like indigestion, burning sensation and pain. Due to the inclusion of ingredients that help balance stomach acid levels, the ingredient is used all over. It also reduces inflammation and promotes the healing of ulcers in the stomach. It also aids in treating symptoms such as belching and loss of appetite which is associated with hyperacidity. The recommended dosage of the tonic is 4 teaspoons three times a day. It should be diluted with water. One should follow the instructions provided by a physician or an ayurvedic practitioner. Following are the key ingredients present in the drug-
· Bringaraj- It helps balance Pitta dosha and promotes digestive health.
· Neem- It is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and digestive properties.
· Other herbs- It uses other herbs such as Triphala, Amruta and Vasa.
3. Sandu Suvarna Sootshekhar Ras
This ayurvedic medicine is used for treating hyperacidity and the symptoms associated with it. The classical formula of the drug is used to manage Pitta-dominant conditions. The ingredients used in the drug are Suvarna Bhasma, also known as Gold Ash is used for rejuvenating and balancing properties. It helps manage overall health. The drug also consists of Tankana Bhasma and Shunthi which helps neutralize the excess acid in the stomach. It also soothes the stomach lining thereby providing relief from acidity. Vatsanabha-Shuddha is the herb that helps manage migraine symptoms. It also acts as a calming agent for the nervous system. Following are some of the potential benefits of the drug-
· Reduces excess stomach acid
The booster effect of Shunthi and Tankana Bhasma neutralize the excess acid in the stomach. This alleviate burning sensations.
· Manages migraines
Vatsanabha-Shuddha and Suvarna bhasma pacifies the effects of migraine.
4. Sandu Praval Pishti
This classical ayurvedic remedy is used for cooling down excess Pitta and also reduces the symptoms such as acid reflux, gastritis and burning sensation.
The coral calcium compound is prepared through an ayurvedic method where the coral is purified and ground with herbal juices. The pitta shamak properties of the drug neutralizes excess acid and heat in the digestive system. It also relieves burning in the stomach and protects the gastric lining. The drug also supports the digestive health without causing constipation. It offers a fast relief in bloating and heartburn.
The general dosage of the drug is 25-250 mg, once or twice daily.
It is recommended to consult a qualified ayurvedic doctor before taking the drug. One should avoid overdose if you are taking calcium supplements.
5. Triphala churna
Beneficial for hyperacidity, Triphala Churna works holistically and improves digestion. It also reduces the toxic buildup in the body. The drug promotes bowel regularity. The drug consists of three fruits known as Amalaki which is rich in vitamin C, Bibhitaki which balances Kapha and Haritaki which supports Vata and digestion. The drug aids in treating constipation which worsens acidity. It also removes toxins from the stomach that can disrupt digestion.
Research & References
-
Suvarna Bhasma in Ayurvedic Medicine – International Journal of Ayurveda
-
Praval Pishti for Hyperacidity – Journal of Ayurveda and Holistic Medicine