Ayurvedic Treatment for GERD

Ayurveda has no separate disease called GERD, but the symptoms are discussed under Amlapitta, an aggravation of Pitta with weak digestion (Agni). The ideas below form an interpretive framework, and modern evidence is limited.

How Ayurveda describes Amlapitta

Classical texts describe sour belching, burning in the chest and throat, nausea, heaviness and loss of appetite. Listed causes include irregular meals, heavy, sour or fried food, late eating and suppressing natural urges.

Traditional lifestyle suggestions

• Eating at regular times and keeping dinner light and early
• Warm, freshly cooked, lightly spiced food
• Avoiding very sour, fermented, fried and spicy food
• Calming practices such as slow breathing for stress

Herbs sometimes mentioned

Amla, yashtimadhu (liquorice), shatavari and fennel are used in tradition. Good clinical trials are lacking. Liquorice in large amounts can raise blood pressure and lower potassium.

Cautions

• Poorly made herbal products can contain heavy metals or hidden steroids
• Do not replace prescribed medicines or tests with herbs
• Tell your doctor about any herbal product you take
• Avoid herbal remedies for infants and young children unless a paediatrician advises

Key point

Ayurveda can support meal and lifestyle habits as an adjunct. Chest pain with sweating or breathlessness, vomiting blood or black stools need modern emergency care. Call 112 or 102.

Before you see a doctor

Bring a list of all your medicines and supplements to the appointment, along with a note of when symptoms occur, what you ate, and whether they wake you at night. This helps your doctor choose the right tests and treatment without delay.