Acidity, medically known as acid reflux, occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus (also called the food pipe). This happens when the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES) — a muscle at the end of the oesophagus — fails to close tightly. As a result, acid escapes from the stomach and irritates the lining of the oesophagus. For naturally controlling ,home remedies for acidity are essential.
This backward flow causes a burning sensation in the chest, commonly referred to as heartburn.
When this condition becomes frequent or long-lasting, it may develop into a more serious disorder called GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) — a chronic form of acid reflux that requires medical attention.
Symptoms of Acidity
- Burning sensation in the chest (especially after meals)
- Sour taste in the mouth
- Bloating
- Frequent burping
- Nausea
- Difficulty swallowing
Common Causes of Acidity
- Overeating or lying down right after meals
- High intake of spicy or fatty foods
- Caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated drinks
- Smoking
- Stress and anxiety
- Lack of physical activity
- Eating too late at night
Certain lifestyle habits can significantly weaken the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) — the muscle that prevents acid from flowing back into the esophagus. When the LES becomes loose or relaxed, stomach acid can easily rise, triggering heartburn and other symptoms.
Here’s what you need to reduce or eliminate:
- Smoking: Nicotine relaxes the LES, allowing acid to escape into the esophagus.
- Alcohol: Alcohol irritates the stomach lining and weakens the LES.
- Excessive Caffeine: Drinking 2 to 3 cups of coffee a day can overstimulate the stomach and reduce LES pressure.
Solution: Quitting smoking, limiting alcohol, and cutting back on coffee can help tighten the LES, prevent acid reflux, and dramatically reduce acidity symptoms.
15 Best Home Remedies for Acidity (Natural and Effective)
1. Cold Milk
Milk contains calcium, which helps neutralize stomach acid.
How to Use:Drink a glass of cold, low-fat milk when you feel heartburn symptoms.
2. Banana
Bananas are a natural antacid that help coat the stomach lining.
Tip: Eat one ripe banana daily to prevent acid reflux.
3. Coconut Water
It helps maintain your body’s pH level and keeps digestion smooth.
How to Use:Drink one glass of fresh coconut water twice a day.
4. Fennel Seeds (Saunf)
Rich in fiber and antioxidants, fennel helps in digestion and reducing bloating.
Method:Chew a teaspoon of fennel seeds after meals or make fennel tea.
5. Basil Leaves (Tulsi)
Tulsi increases mucus in the stomach and relieves gas and acidity.
How to Use:Chew 2–3 basil leaves or brew tulsi tea.
6. Ginger
Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and aids digestion.
Remedy:Boil ginger in water and drink as tea or chew a small piece of raw ginger.
7. Jeera (Cumin Seeds)
Jeera promotes digestion and reduces gas.
How to Use:Boil 1 tsp jeera in water and drink the cooled mixture after meals.
8. Cloves
Cloves help in preventing the formation of gas in the GI tract.
Tip:Keep a clove in your mouth and suck slowly to get instant relief.
9. Amla (Indian Gooseberry)
Rich in Vitamin C, amla helps balance stomach acids.
How to Take:Have 1 tsp of amla powder with water in the morning on an empty stomach.
10. Aloe Vera Juice
Soothes the stomach and heals acid damage in the esophagus.
Dosage:Drink 2 tablespoons of pure aloe vera juice 15–20 minutes before meals.
11. Buttermilk
Contains lactic acid that neutralizes acidity.
Tip:Add a pinch of black salt or jeera powder to make it more effective.
12. Apple Cider Vinegar
Though acidic in nature, it becomes alkaline in the body.
How to Use:Mix 1 tablespoon in a glass of water and drink before meals (consult a doctor first).
13. Mint Leaves (Pudina)
Mint cools the stomach and reduces acid production.
Method:Boil mint leaves in water, strain, and drink the tea.
14. Jaggery (Gur)
Jaggery helps in digestion and cooling the stomach.
Tip:Suck on a small piece after meals or mix in warm water.
15. Water
Sounds basic, but it’s crucial. Water flushes out excess acid and toxins.
Pro Tip:Drink lukewarm water first thing in the morning and before bed.
16.Curd or Yogurt
Curd and yogurt contain probiotics that help with digestion. They can reduce problems like bloating and acidity. They also keep your gut cool and healthy for a long time. Including them in your breakfast or lunch can give you many health benefits.
Foods to Avoid If You Have Acidity
- Spicy and oily food
- Tomatoes and citrus fruits
- Chocolate and caffeine
- Soda and carbonated beverages
- Onions and garlic (in large quantities)
- Late-night meals and overeating
Lifestyle Changes to Manage and Prevent Acidity
Acidity isn’t just about what you eat — it’s also about how you live. Small, consistent lifestyle changes can make a big difference in reducing acid reflux symptoms and preventing long-term complications like GERD.
1. Elevate Your Head While Sleeping
Many people notice that acidity worsens when they lie down. That’s because gravity no longer helps keep the stomach acid down.
Tip: Sleep with your head elevated at a 30–45 degree angle. You can use a wedge pillow or raise the head of your bed to allow gravity to pull acid back into the stomach, reducing nighttime reflux.
2. Avoid Heavy Meals — Especially at Night
Large, heavy meals increase pressure on your stomach, making reflux more likely.
What to Do:Eat smaller, more frequent meals. Avoid eating within 2–3 hours of bedtime to give your stomach time to empty.
3. Review Your Medications
Some medications — such as painkillers (NSAIDs), muscle relaxants, and certain blood pressure drugs — can worsen acid reflux.
Tip: If you take regular medication and notice frequent heartburn, talk to your doctor. They may adjust your dosage or prescribe a reflux-friendly alternative.
Long-Term Acidity Management
If you experience acidity more than twice a week, it may be a sign of GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease). In such cases, consult a gastroenterologist.
Disclaimer:This post is for informational purposes only.