What Tea is Good for Acid Reflux: 7 Best Teas To Try

Acidity is perhaps one of the most common and undermined problems faced by people nowadays. Instead of taking over-the-counter medications, it may be more prudent to figure out what tea is good for acid reflux¹ and use the same to manage its symptoms.

Have you ever stopped to ponder how our ancestors used tea to treat ailments across the centuries? Our forefathers sought the refuge of organic and herbal medicine for the treatment of illnesses in times when science was way behind the complexities of humankind.

Let us explore and find out what tea is good for acid reflux.

Check out – The Hidden Benefits of Tea 

Acid Reflux

Acid reflux refers to an upward flow of gastric juices from the stomach to the food pipe or the esophagus. Most of us, at one point or other, have had a sort of burning sensation in the chest² paired with regurgitation or indigestion.

Although it may be normal to suffer from acid reflux once in a blue moon, regular backflow of stomach acid may have serious complications.

Acid reflux is caused due to an upsurge in acid production in the stomach due to certain foods like coffee, carbonated beverages, chocolates or fatty foods, and citrus fruits.

Production of acid in the stomach ³gets stimulated based on the food we consume. Acidic foods often lead to increased gastrin production and worsen reflux symptoms. It can also increase due to health conditions such as H. Pylori or due to overeating.

In most cases, you can easily treat acid reflux by making certain dietary and lifestyle changes. Nonetheless, it may be wise to consult your doctor regarding the same. If it is deemed necessary, your doctor may prescribe certain antacids or H2 receptor blockers to reduce the symptoms and discomfort.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a digestive disease associated with a recurring flow of gastric juices or stomach acid into the esophagus, more commonly known as the food pipe. This backflow of an acid generally results in irritation on the lining of the food pipe.

Oftentimes, in cases of GERD, prolonged exposure of the food pipe to stomach acid leads to malfunctioning of the valve connecting the stomach and esophagus, known as the Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES)⁴.

The purpose of the lower esophageal sphincter is to open while food transfers into the stomach, and to close while it is broken down. The stomach has a mucosal lining called the tunica mucosa that protects it from damage against the acid and enzymes released for digestion.

Since the esophagus has no such protective lining, the continuous backwash of acid to the esophagus causes damage to the valve, rendering it incapable of closing properly, thereby increasing the chances of regurgitation and heartburn.

GERD Diagnosis

GERD symptoms can be very distressing. It can have ill effects on one’s everyday life making it hard for them to cope. This disease requires a diagnosis that can be made using the following means –

• Barium Swallow

A detailed X-ray provides the doctor insight into the patient’s pharynx, esophagus, mouth, etc. A radiologist will provide you with barium to swallow while taking X-ray images to observe and capture the movement of barium through the pharynx and esophagus.

• Manometry (esophageal)

This test involves the evaluation of the pressure and tightness of the muscles surrounding the esophagus. During this test, the patient’s nostrils and the back of their throat will be numbed and a catheter will be inserted through the nostril up to the stomach.

The patient will be asked to swallow saline solution to check the ph levels and the contraction and relaxation of muscles surrounding the catheter. The doctor then evaluates the readings to analyze swallowing patterns.

• Endoscopy

A long flexible tube with a camera and light fitted to it is inserted through the patient’s mouth (after numbing it) down to the upper part of the small intestine. This test is used to get a view of the upper digestive tract. Images are taken through the endoscope and analyzed by the doctor.

• Biopsy

This procedure involves the microscopic evaluation of a part of the tissue taken from the stomach. It is done to check for bacteria or other microorganisms that may be causing certain diseases.

Biopsy of the stomach involves the insertion of a tube through the mouth to the stomach and the collection of samples from various areas that are then sent for testing in a lab.

Acid Reflux Symptoms

Although having acid reflux every once in a while is normal, it may be advisable for you to consult a doctor in case the issue prevails more than twice a week and lasts for several weeks.

Bear in mind that too much acid reflux over a long period can lead to chronic illnesses.

The risk of acid reflux can increase due to:

• Obesity
• Pregnancy
• Lying down after consuming large meals
• Drinking caffeinated or carbonated drinks
• Smoking
• Taking certain medications such as aspirin
• Blood thinners
• Consuming spicy foods

Here is a list of digestive symptoms of acid reflux for which you should be on the lookout –

1. Burning sensation in the chest or heart burns
2. Bitter or sour taste in the mouth or acid regurgitation
3. The feeling of fullness and tightness in the stomach or bloating
4. Burping constantly or more often than usual.
5. Hiccups
6. Nausea and vomiting
7. Unexplained weight Loss
8. The feeling of food being stuck in the throat or dysphagia
9. Hoarse voice
10. Bad breath
11. Chest pains
12. Difficulty in swallowing food and/or water

What Tea Is Good For Acid Reflux

Acid reflux and GERD are often linked with other ailments. It can be both, a cause as well as a symptom. Stomach acidity often points to other, perhaps more serious gastrointestinal disorders⁵.

Therefore, acid reflux and GERD must be dealt with and eradicated as soon as possible before they cause further diseases and weaken the immune system.

When diagnosed with Acid reflux or GERD, the doctor often recommends proton pump inhibitors or antacids to cope with the same. However, drinking tea for managing acid reflux is a great alternative to the use of such medications. Let us find out what tea is good for acid reflux.

Teas are generally made with organic and natural foods that tend to have a myriad of health benefits and focus on strengthening the body. If used wisely, herbal teas can easily overshadow other treatment methods.

In most cases, drinking herbal teas can neutralize stomach acid. In case you are wondering what tea is good for acid reflux, here are some for you to try –

1. Ginger Tea

Ginger tea is a fine answer to your question “what tea is good for acid reflux?”. Not only does it have brilliant properties and nutritional content, but it is also incredibly easy to make.

To prepare this tea,

• Simply rinse and cut a ginger root into fine slices.
• Add these slices to a pan containing drinking water.
• Place the pan on a medium-high flame until the water starts boiling.
• Then turn the heat to a low flame and let the pan simmer for about 5 minutes.
• Now you may strain the tea. It is ready to be served.

Ginger has been celebrated traditionally for its healing anti-inflammatory properties. It is extremely rich in antioxidants and has many medicinal effects. Our ancestors have used it for treating nausea and vomiting and the soothing sensation it provides to an upset stomach.

Ginger tea was just one of the effective herbal remedies, with its roots submerged in Ayurveda, that sought to reduce acid reflux symptoms⁶. Ginger is often referred to as a “universal medicine.” It is only expected that its benefits include the management of GERD symptoms⁷.

Not only can drinking ginger tea tackle acid reflux, but it also boosts immunity and protects one against bacterial infections that can spike up the production of acid in the stomach. It is also well known for its ability to relieve nausea and bloating, some acid reflux symptoms.

2. Slippery Elm Tea

Due to its calcium content, this herbal tea can act as a mild antacid and provides relief from heartburn. It consists of antioxidants and is well known for its healing properties against ulcers and inflammation. It coats the lining of the esophagus, protecting it from stomach acid.

To make this tea,

• Add 1 teaspoon of slippery elm powder to a glass jar and fill half of the jar with cold water.
• Shake the jar and fill the rest with hot water.
• Shake it, yet again, and let it sit for about a minute. Your tea is ready to be served.

The use of slippery elm tree barks can be traced back thousands of years, native to Northern parts of America. It contains mucilage, which provides the digestive tract with a protective coating and soothes the mouth, throat, stomach, food pipe, and intestines when mixed with water.

Slippery elm tea can also aid a sore throat, treat psoriasis, and mend minor wounds. It has the potential to prevent ailments such as heart disease, cancer, and many more. This is a great tea for those who are on a quest to find out what tea is good for acid reflux.

This herbal tea has no major side effects and does not react with any medications. However, it may slow down the effects of some medicines. Therefore, it is recommended that you drink this herbal tea 2 hours before or after taking your medicine.

3. Licorice Root Tea

Licorice tea is another answer to what tea is good for acid reflux as it can increase mucous production in the stomach, fight infections and aid digestive distress. It can also rid stomach aches and boost immunity.

Licorice root tea has proven more effective than antacids over two years. It can reduce symptoms of acid reflux and GERD like heartburn, upset stomach, and indigestion. merely with the help of its natural properties.

The recipe for making licorice tea is perhaps as easy as it can get.

• Simply place one licorice root in a container and pour boiling hot water into it.
• Let it steep for about 5 minutes and strain it before serving.

Licorice root has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that assist in treating stomach ulcers, gastritis, and other afflictions in the digestive system.

However, licorice can have mineralocorticoid-like effects on the body and can cause hypertension and cardiac arrhythmia ⁸if handled poorly. It is advised that you avoid licorice in case you are taking potassium-depleting medications.

4. Chamomile Tea

A very influential trigger for acid reflux can be stress. Chamomile tea is a well-known herbal remedy that has proven effective in managing stress and inflammation⁹. It is highly useful in treating gastric acidity.

The properties of chamomile reduce the ph level and the number of acidic juices in the stomach. It also provides relief from stomach cramps, regurgitation, and digestive problems.

To brew this tea,

• Boil a cup of fresh water on a medium-hot flame and turn off the heat.
• Put 3 teaspoons of dried chamomile into the water-filled pan and cover the same for a minute or two.
• Then, strain this tea and serve it.

Among all other herbal teas, chamomile tea is perhaps the best answer to the question “what tea is good for acid reflux?” It has a gentle flavor and aids the nervous system. It helps the food slide down the entire digestive tract without the stomach’s contents returning up.

It also prevents bloating and has antimicrobial properties. However, those who are allergic to plants from the Asteraceae family should strictly steer clear of this tea. Some uncommon side effects of chamomile are nausea and dizziness.

5. Green Tea

Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties make green tea good for acid reflux. It can also prevent diabetes and cancer and aid a sore throat. This tea, when used in the right amount can soothe your stomach and esophagus and cause relief from heartburn.

To make green tea,

• Add 2 teaspoons of green tea leaves to hot boiling water and let them steep for about a minute while the top of the container is covered.
• Then, strain the tea and pour it into a cup.

However, it can also increase the production of acid in the stomach. This is why it is necessary to keep the consumption of this tea minimal. Although it can reduce some acid reflux symptoms, it is not one of the best herbal teas for acid reflux and GERD relief.

6. Oolong Tea

Oolong tea has antiseptic properties that help rid the stomach of bacteria. It also reduces inflammation caused in the esophagus and stomach. This tea alkalizes stomach acid and prevents stomach ulcers.

To make Oolong Tea,

• Heat 6 ounces of water at 180 degrees Celsius and bring it to a boil.
• Then, pour the hot water into a cup and drain it.
• Afterward, place the oolong leaves inside the cup (1 tablespoon or more, depending upon whether the leaves are open or rolled up into balls).
• Pour warm water over the leaves and let them sit with a lid over the container for a few minutes.
• Then, strain the tea and serve it.

The steeping time of the leaves depends on personal preferences and on whether they are rolled up or open. The tea may brew quicker in the case of open-leaf-styled tea.

The use of this tea for acid reflux and other health benefits can be traced back to China during the Tang Dynasty. It contains several vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that make it extremely beneficial to those who drink it. The answer to “what tea is good for acid reflux?” has apparently been given a long time ago.

Although it is a good tea for acid reflux, it may cause diarrhea or worsen Irritable Bowel Syndrome if handled carelessly. This is because it contains small amounts of caffeine, which can flare up certain issues if consumed in copious amounts.

7. Marshmallow Root Tea

Marshmallow roots have been used to aid digestion for thousands of years. It provides the stomach and food pipe with a protective layer and stimulates cells that cause the regeneration of tissues in the gastrointestinal tract.

Not only does marshmallow root tea soothe the lining of the stomach and the esophagus, but it also eradicates irritants that cause damage to the same. It reduces heartburn and treats stomach and duodenal ulcers. This tea is also a good option for what tea is good for acid reflux.

To make Marshmallow Root Tea,

• Cut and sift 1 tablespoon of marshmallow root and add it to a little over a cup of water.
• Bring the water to a boil.
• Then, let the water simmer for about 20 minutes.
• Remove it from the heat and strain it into a cup to serve.

Although this tea does not have any reported side effects, it may be wise to consult a doctor before using this tea if you are pregnant or breastfeeding are suffer from diabetes.

Pointers for Using Tea For Acid Reflux

Once you have figured out what tea is good for acid reflux, it is also important to note that not all herbal teas cause relief from acid reflux and GERD.

• Peppermint tea, for example, has been known to trigger symptoms of acid reflux. Peppermint tea can cause the lower esophageal sphincter to relax further, making the heartburn more prominent and disconcerting.
• Although fennel tea has a low acidic value and aids the digestive system, it also promotes acid secretion in the stomach. This makes it a bad candidate for causing relief from acid reflux. Even though it aids gas and bloating, the increase in acid secretion can severely aggravate symptoms of acid reflux.
• You can add other ingredients to these recipes to make them more effective or delicious. For example, honey can act as a sweetener, all the while decreasing inflammation in the esophagus and preventing cell damage by free radicals.
• Drinking herbal tea can be a much healthier alternative to caffeinated beverages or carbonated drinks. Some people make teas using low-fat milk, which can also provide immediate relief from the highly acidic juices in the stomach.
• Almond milk, too, has proven effective in neutralizing gastric acid. Other types of non-dairy milk such as coconut milk can also soothe the stomach lining and reduce symptoms of acid reflux. Not only is it important to understand what tea is good for acid reflux, but also to understand the importance of using fresh ingredients to make them.
• In your fight against acid reflux, you must educate yourself on generalized triggers and those specific to you. Observe how your body reacts to the food you consume and consult a dietician if the need arises. Fruit juices like orange juice or acidic foods such as processed meats, certain cheeses, and grapes can act as a trigger.
• You may want to decrease your alcohol intake if you suffer from GERD or acid reflux. This is because heavy alcohol consumption can cause malfunctioning in the LES and damage the protective mucosal layer of the stomach. Alcohol is also a diuretic, which means that it can cause frequent urination and dehydration.

While drinking tea is a great alternative to modern medicine in minor cases of acidity, keep in mind that herbal teas are not a sufficient solution for dealing with chronic diseases. Though they will give you temporary relief, it is still recommended that you visit a doctor if your discomfort continues and receive proper treatment for the same.

All in all, it can be said that what tea is good for acid reflux depends upon the drinker. Their preferences and lifestyle can greatly mold the effects of these teas, making a generalized answer difficult to give.

Chamomile tea has, by far, proven the most effective. However, in case of allergies or other situations, you may try the others and find out what tea is good for acid reflux for you.

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Last Updated on July 26, 2024 by Sathi Chakraborty, MSc Biology