Kathryn Whittaker asked:


Acid reflux is really just a symptom of an underlying condition. However, many conditions can cause acid reflux, which often makes it harder to treat. Among the contributing potential causes can be: hiatal hernias, pregnancy, defective lower esophageal sphincters, insufficient digestive enzymes, asthma, and lifestyle.

So, let’s take a look at few of these…

A hiatal hernia can cause acid reflux as a result of impairing the function of the lower esophageal sphincter. Hiatial hernias are a condition that occurs when the upper part of the stomach ‘pokes’ through into the chest cavity via a small opening in the diaphragm.

The diaphragm is the muscle separating the chest from the stomach. This condition is usually the results from severe cases of vomiting, coughing, straining, or a sudden exertion. Obesity, pregnancy and advancing age also increase the risk of hiatal hernia. When hiatal hernia and acid reflux occur at the same time, symptoms of both tend to be more severe.

Pregnancy can cause acid reflux within the last trimester because as the baby grows, it puts pressure on the stomach, forcing some of the contents back up into the esophagus. In this case, antacids and other similar medications will not help to provide relief to heartburn symptoms. Instead, it is recommended that pregnant women eat smaller, more frequent meals so that there is never too much in the stomach. Once the baby is born, the symptoms will typically stop.

For similar reasons to pregnancy obesity can also cause acid reflux as the stomach becomes constricted by the excess weight.

Another cause of acid reflux is a defective lower esophageal sphincter (LES). This can easily cause acid reflux, due to a malfunctioning esophagus that does not effectively seal off the stomach from the lower esophagus, allowing stomach contents to rise up. A defective LES can mean that it is not strong enough to keep food in the stomach, or it may relax once food has passed through, allowing it to come back up again, causing the burning sensation and acidic taste.

Insufficient levels of digestive enzymes can also cause acid reflux as without sufficient volumes, digestion can become delayed. This results in food remaining in the stomach for longer, allowing stomach acids to build up and leading to a higher risk of acid reflux.

Even asthma is linked to acid reflux – with there being evidence that asthma is both a cause and also a possible effect of acid reflux. The theory of asthma causing acid reflux, it can be explained by the coughing, sneezing, and other forceful respiratory events associated with asthma, pushing acid from the stomach into the esophagus. Some asthmatic drugs also list acid reflux as a potential side effect.

Of course, lifestyle can also have a tremendous impact on acid reflux. Your lifestyle choices can cause acid reflux through overeating, smoking, stress, and even the foods you eat such as salty or fatty foods. Solutions can range from changing your lifestyle, losing excess weigh, taking typical antacids that you see at the convenience store or drug store to more long term lifestyle changes.

Although this article has only touched on some of the underlying conditions and factors that cause acid reflux, it shows the diversity of potential triggers. Many treatments look at resolving the symptoms without tackling the underlying cause, which in the end will never solve the problem for good.



Peter

Katie Monroe asked:


Heartburn can be more than just uncomfortable, it can be a sign of a serious problem called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Symptoms of GERD include burning chest pain, regurgitation of bitter or sour liquid, difficulty swallowing, and excessive clearing of the throat.

Left untreated, persistent heartburn symptoms can lead to severe complications such as esophageal strictures or a precancerous condition called Barrett’s Esophagus. In rare cases, people with persistent heartburn/GERD develop esophageal cancer.

Eating smaller meals, controlling your weight, avoiding tight-fitting clothes, and avoiding heavy lifting/straining are all ways of reducing heartburn. Don’t lie down after meals, because that makes it easier for stomach contents (including acid) to back up into the esophagus. Do not eat for three to four hours before you go to bed.

Avoid common heartburn triggers such as smoking, caffeine, chocolate, peppermint, fatty and spicy foods, and tomato sauces.

Infrequent heartburn can be controlled with antacids, H2 blockers or proton pump inhibitors.

See a doctor if you: have heartburn two or more times a week; don’t get lasting relief from medication; have difficulty swallowing, especially solid foods; have choking, wheezing, hoarseness or unexplained weight loss; experience chronic or recurrent GERD symptoms that last for more than a year.

Heartburn is a symptom of a syndrome called gastroesophageal reflux (GER). GER is when the natural acidic juices in the stomach flow backwards into the esophagus — the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach.

If you have other symptoms such as crushing chest pain, it could be a heart attack. Get help immediately.

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Mike

peterhutch asked:


Gastritis means inflammation of mucus lining of the stomach. It means that white blood cells move into the wall of the stomach as a response to some type of injury. Gastritis is a very troublesome disease and can give rise to many life threatening problems, if it is not treated in time.

The symptoms are discomfort, bloating, nausea and perhaps vomiting. The person may also have symptoms that suggest ulcers – burning or pain in the upper abdomen, usually occurring about an hour or so after meals or even during the night. The symptoms are often relieved temporarily by antacids, milk, or medications that reduce stomach acidity.

Causes

Infections with bacteria, viruses, or fungi can cause gastritis. Worldwide, the most common cause of gastritis is infection with Helicobacter pylori bacteria. Viral or fungal gastritis may develop in people who have had a prolonged illness or an impaired immune system, such as those who have AIDS or cancer or those who take immunosuppressant drugs.

Chronic gastritis may be caused by prolonged irritation from the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), infection with the bacteria Helicobacter pylori, pernicious anemia (an autoimmune disorder), degeneration of the lining of the stomach from age, or chronic bile reflux.

Other causes of gastritis include intake of caustic poisons, alcohol, and some medications (such as aspirin or adrenal corticosteroids), as well as physical stress from the flu, major surgery, severe burns, or injuries. For some people, a drug allergy or food poisoning can cause gastritis. Atrophic gastritis is a form of gastritis found particularly in the elderly, where stomach cells are destroyed, potentially leading to pernicious anemia.

Symptoms

The main symptoms of gastritis are loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, headache, and dizziness. There is pain and discomfort in the region of the stomach. Other symptoms are a coated tongue, foul breath, bad taste in the mouth, increased flow of saliva, scanty urination, a general feeling of uneasiness, and mental depression. In more chronic cases, the patient complaints of heartburn and a feeling of fullness in the abdomen, especially after meals.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the specific cause. Some of the causes will disappear over time. Medications to decrease stomach acid release may be recommended.

Treatment usually involves taking antacids to reduce stomach acid, and thereby help relieve symptoms and promote healing. Along with recommendations to avoid certain medicines foods or beverages.

Once the diagnosis of gastritis has been confirmed by a medical professional, treatment can begin. The choice of treatment depends to some extent on the cause of the gastritis. Some treatments target the exact cause of a particular type of gastritis. Most treatments aim at reducing symptoms. Your stomach often will heal over time if it is protected.

Generally, treatment for gastritis involves antacids and other medications aimed at reducing stomach acid, relieving symptoms, and promoting the healing of the stomach lining, as acid irritates the inflamed tissue.

Doctors use several different types of method to treat H. Pylori infection. Most use a combination of two antibiotics and a proton pump inhibitor. Sometimes bismuth (Pepto-Bismol) also is added to the mix. The antibiotic helps destroy the bacteria, and the acid blocker or proton pump inhibitor relieves pain and nausea, heals inflammation and may increase the antibiotic’s effectiveness.



Jeanne

Jacqueline Courtiol asked:


The condition of acid reflux is also commonly known as heartburn. This is a condition that is characterized by the inflammation of the esophagus, caused by the backing up of food from the stomach into the esophagus. This food is partially or mostly digested and usually has a high acidic content, which causes pain and/or discomfort in many people.

Several treatments have been used successfully in the fight against heartburn (acid reflux). Some of these forms of treatment include one or more of the following:

1. Baking Soda and Water: Usually a teaspoon of baking soda mixed in a glass of water will help most people, since it neutralizes excess acidity. This is one of the most natural ways to cure heartburn/acid reflux.

2. Alka-Seltzer: This is a tablet that dissolves in water that is taken orally as a liquid. This product has a similar effect as baking soda and water. It can be purchased at a pharmacy or grocery store without a prescription.

3. Pepto-Bismol: This is a liquid medication that is taken orally to help alleviate the effects of heartburn. This is available without a prescription.

4. Clear Soda (such as Sprite or 7-UP): The carbonation in clear sodas can help to relieve the acid buildup in a person’s stomach and can also help a person to release gas.

5. Tums: These are tablets that come in chewable form which contain calcium carbonate, an ingredient that helps relieve symptoms of upset stomach and heartburn. It is termed an antacid.

6. Prescription Medications: Those who need relief from chronic heartburn (acid reflux) can consult a doctor or other qualified health care professional. They may prescribe more potent or different medications than those sold over-the-counter in stores. They will also provide instructions on how to take these.

7. Exercise: Those who engage in regular exercise will also find relief from heartburn in many cases. Usually it is good to do a variety of aerobic and anaerobic movements. Examples of an aerobic exercise involve fast-paced step exercises and dance movements, as well as jogging, stair climbing, and bicycling. Types of anaerobic exercise include weight and resistance training and stretching exercises. More information can be found about specific exercise programs that can help people.

8. Diet Changes: If heartburn sufferers want relief, they may need to alter their diets.

9. Heat or Feet Pillows: Heartburn sufferers can also prevent or relieve acid reflux, particularly at night, if they raise their head or feet with pillows, or other object (such as a bed wedge). Propping up of the head usually works best since gravity can help keep food from creeping upward into the esophageal area.

10. Relaxation: If people take time to rest and relax, they are able better able to reduce the amount of stress that could lead to poor choices. For example, it could reduce a person’s desire to consume large amounts of alcohol which can certainly aggravate the pain and discomfort associated with heartburn.

There are also remedies for acid reflux other than the ones described above. There are many published guides on how to lessen or eliminate heartburn. Guides regarding diet and exercise can also be found quite easily. The fastest and easiest way to find these articles is to do a site search or to search in your favorite Web browser.

Summary: This article helps you in relieving acid reflux and heartburn.



Tamara

Keith George asked:


All food we eat passes through the gullet and into the stomach through a pipe and lodged in the stomach. So the basic cause of heartburn is that the food particles and the acid from the stomach leak back into the gullet or the esophagus. This condition also leads to severe pain in the stomach and chest. Most people have stomach acid reflux at some time in their lives, either as heartburn or acid regurgitation.

Americans and other westerners suffer from heartburn symptoms more often than people from asian and eastern countries. The other symptoms include burping and a feeling of bloating. If these symptoms occur more than two days a week for several months, a person may have Acid Reflux Disease, otherwise known as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). Most of us experience heartburn occasionally but if it persists then a visit to the doctor may be necessary.

Your diet and lifestyle have been pinpointed as some factors which may cause heartburn and acid reflux. Most people believe that particular food or drinks could cause heartburn and they are right, excess acid is the main cause of heartburn.

In some rare cases, though, the damage can be enough to cause cancerous cells to develop in this area. If you know what the cause of your heartburn is, you cab stop it from hurting and destroying your quality of life. Chronic heartburn is also dangerous on its own since the frequent contact with the acidic stomach contents will harm the lining of the esophagus and cause inflammation.

Late meals can also cause heartburn by stimulating the stomach’s production of digestive fluids. When you go to bed and do not have an upright position the acid come up more easily.

There are several remedies, also natural one’s that really works. Herbal remedies typically contain fennel, ginger or mint oil, alone or in combination. Depending on the heartburn causes, the remedies should differ. There are many natural remedies that you can add to your pantry for use when the symptoms flare up. Home remedies and over the counter products and prescription drugs are available to relieve heartburn.

If your condition is severe your doctor will probably inform you that you would most likely need medications indefinitely. To find out what works you will often have to try several remedies. Regretfully, one single doctor visit may not take care of the problem, but don’t give up.

A holistic treatment for heartburn includes treatment plans and hollistic cures for heartburn may be more time consuming than taking a little pill. On the other hand this treatment can be more effective in the long run and the holistic treatment has no side effects.

Most treatment plans or recommended ways to reduce heartburn include lifestyle changes along with dietary changes. But as always, the leading causes of heartburn vary and the best treatment for heartburn varies depending on the individual. Most common is an antacid that can be purchased over the counter from your local pharmacy.

Keep in mind that stress, smoking, alcohol, caffeinated and carbonated beverages may all lead to heartburn. Lifestyle changes like not lying down immediately after a meal and not lying down in a flat position can be a great relief. Also remember to avoid spicy foods, drinking beverages with caffeine, taking alcohol and smoking. Exercising regularly and reducing weight can also help control heartburn to a large extent.



Katherine

John Stidolph asked:


Heartburn is a painful syndrome featuring pain or burning in the chest and sometimes the neck. This is normally due to GERD or gastroesophageal reflux disease, in which digestive fluids rise through the esophagus into the throat, where the protective coating is insufficient to protect the tissues from the acids. This complaint is most common after meals, while lying down or sleeping. The pain can spread from the chest and neck into the arms, jaw and back.

One complicating factor is that heartburn symptoms can mask or duplicate symptoms of more serious issues, such as asthma or heart attacks. Err on the side of caution rather than suffer a heart attack without treatment. Being embarrassed for a false alarm or worrying about a bill for an unneeded hospital visit is preferable to dying. Additionally, there are drugs that can create heartburn symptoms. These can be either on their own, or in combination with other drugs. These include relatively common drugs such as aspirin, sedatives, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers used for high blood pressure, and less common drugs such as progestin hormones, bronchodilators, as well as others.

Heartburn symptoms typically occur within an hour of eating fatty or high protein foods. There are things that often increase the pain, such as bending forward, lying down or straining your back. There are also things that can often decrease the pain, such as standing or sitting upright, drinking water or taking appropriate medication.

Heartburn symptoms do vary. Some report a sour or bitter aftertaste after eating. Different combinations of stress and foods can produce different strengths and combinations of heartburn symptoms in different sufferers.

Heartburn symptoms are not unimportant. Even if they are not actually a heart attack or other serious medical problem, heartburn symptoms themselves reflect something wrong with the body. The stomach acids moving up the throat can damage that tissue, making swallowing difficult or painful. This can also lead to dehydration and bleeding with possible blood in vomit or bowel movements. Inability to eat sufficiently due to pain can lead to dangerous weight loss.

If over the counter treatments and normal means of dealing with heartburn symptoms such as a change in diet prove insufficient, and symptoms persist for three weeks or more, seek medical help.



Jennifer

Davion W asked:


Natural treatments for insomnia are winning over more insomnia sufferers as the public becomes better informed of the benefits of applying natural treatments. People have come to understand that it is not a good long term solution to depend on sleep medications. Even though insomnia could be due to many reasons, however for most people, natural treatments for insomnia could bring great relief to their sleeping woes.

First of all, we need to understand why it is not advisable to rely on commonly prescribed and over-the-counter medications such as sedative-hynoptics, tranquilizers and sedative antidepressants as a long term solution to insomnia. Some patients have complained about suffering from short-term effects like dizziness, blurred vision and abdominal problems. Others have reported longer-lasting effects such as impaired memory, drug addiction and in some cases, their insomnia worsened after regular intake of sleeping medications. While it is true that some of the symptoms can be stopped by stopping the medication, the impact it has caused to your health could be damaging.

Let us see what are some of the natural treatments for insomnia that could help you find back your beauty sleep.

1. Diet Changes as Natural Treatments For Insomnia

Eat two kinds of food – one high in trytophan, and the other kind of foods rich in carbohydrates. Food with high trytophan content helps to increase melatonin production which is responsible for sleep induction. Examples of such foods are eggs, nuts, fish and dairy products like cheese and milk are perfect.

High carbohydrate low protein foods are great in inducing sleep. Our body responds to such food intake by releasing more serotonin. Examples include pasta, breads, cereals, sugar, figs, chocolate, milk, ice cream, fruit tarts and honey.

Remember to eat in moderation. Too much of it daily would lead to other health problems like obesity, heart issues, high blood pressure, etc. Also, make sure you do not sleep with a full stomach as digestion normally takes longer so eat hours before you go to bed. You would not want to be awoken because of heartburn or intestinal rumblings.

2. Relaxation Tips as Natural Treatments For Insomnia

a. Toe wiggling

Toe wiggling is a simple exercise to put our body in a relaxed mode to prepare for sleep. Wiggle your toes while lying on your bed. Repeat that for at least 10 times. You would realize that your body feels less tensed.

b. Reading a Book

Read a book that does not invoke much stimulation and excitement. Depending on your interest, you might want to pick up a simple novel or a story book. The whole idea is to relax your mind and body. So please do yourself a favour by not reading science fiction or intriguing thrillers that arouse too much brain activity.

c. Listening to Soothing Music

Listening to soothing music for 30 minutes before bed would prepare your body to rest. But no heavy metal or rock unless you intend to stay awake till the next morning.

3. Herbal Cures as Natural Treatments For Insomnia

Some common herbal cures like chamomile, lavender, catnip, black cohosh and valerian are great natural treatments for insomnia. Most herbs can be brewed as drinking tea individually or mixed. They are perfect for calming our nerves.

Study more blog to learn more about effective natural treatments for insomnia. This article may be freely reprinted or distributed in its entirety in any ezine, newsletter, blog or website. The author’s name, bio and website links must remain intact and be included with every reproduction.



Patrick

Kathryn Whittaker asked:


Herbs have been used for centuries for medicinal purposes, and many herbs have proven to be very successful in relieving and healing many health conditions, especially health issues that involve the gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, there are a number of herbs that can be helpful to GERD sufferers in providing natural heartburn relief treatments.

The following is information regarding six different herbs that can be used to for acid reflux relief and other related digestive conditions. The information provided will explain how these herbs may help to subdue acid reflux symptoms when taken orally, as well as if there are any warnings you should be aware of before you consider taking any of these natural remedies:

Chamomile (alternative names: Genuine chamomile, Anthemis nobilis, German Chamomile, Hungarian chamomile, Roman Chamomile, Matricaria chamomilla, Goberneradora)

Chamomile has been used for centuries for its sedative and antispasmodic effects. When taken orally, chamomile can induce relaxation and has a calming effect, which has also led some to believe that it has anti-anxiety effects. Nevertheless, despite its possible anti-anxiety effects, chamomile also appears to be antispasmodic which might be linked to one of its chemicals, bisabolol. The antispasmodic properties make it gentle and soothing to the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and may be beneficial at relieving minor GI symptoms including: gas, nausea, and stomach cramps

Furthermore, chamomile has also been found to provide soothing relief to irritated tissues in the nose, throat, and mouth, which can be beneficial to those who experience acid reflux in the throat.

Other studies suggest that chamomile may also have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral effects, all of which could benefit GERD sufferers who have inflammation within their esophagus (esophagitis). However, no study has yet successfully proved this theory.

Side effects- Vomiting can occur if very high doses of chamomile are ingested. Chamomile can also cause allergic reactions in individuals who are allergic to daisies, as chamomile is part of the daisy family.

Drug interactions and other precautions- Chamomile may interfere with the blood’s ability to clot and may cause drowsiness. Therefore there is the possibility that it might interact with the following medications and herbs:

- Anticoagulants and antiplatelets

- Drugs that promote sleepiness

- Sedative herbs (I.E. saw palmetto, ginger, danshen, devil’s claw, garlic, gingko, papain, red clover, etc.)

- Herbs that effect blood clotting (I.E. hops, kava, valerian, catnip, and st. john’s wort, etc.)

You should refrain from taking chamomile if you are pregnant because its antispasmodic effects could cause the uterus to relax, which could potentially lead to miscarriage.

Dandelion root (alternative names: Irish Daisy, Blowball, Leotodon taraxacum, Taraxacum officinale, Canker Wort, Lion’s Tooth, Puffball, Wild Endive)

Dandelion root has been used orally for years to treat various health problems including arthritis, gout, diabetes, cancer, liver problems, and heartburn. Dandelion has also been used to combat indigestion because its bitter flavor encourages the production of saliva which can be beneficial to GERD sufferers, as saliva helps to neutralize acid. In addition, it is believed that dandelion root may have some anti-inflammatory effects.

Side effects – Although unlikely if side effects are felt an upset stomach would be the most likely side effect of dandelion root.

Drug interactions and other precautions- Dandelion may have an effect on blood sugar, work as a diuretic, and increase acid production. Therefore it may interact with the following medications:

- Diabetes medications for lowering blood sugar

- Diuretic drugs

- Acid blocking medications such as antacids, H2 receptors, and proton pump inhibitors.

Individuals who should avoid taking dandelion root are those who are prone to or have gallstones or other problems with their gallbladder. Dandelion can irritate the gallbladder by increasing bile production. People with diabetes should also avoid taking this herb as it may affect their blood sugar levels.

It is important to note that not everyone who suffers from acid reflux and GERD can take dandelion root to treat their symptoms because there is a risk that this herb will increase stomach acid production, which can cause symptoms to become more frequent or worsen. Furthermore, if you have stomach ulcers or gastritis (stomach inflammation) you should not take dandelion root.

Meadowsweet (alternative names: Queen of the Meadow, Bridewort, Filipendula ulmaria, Dropwort, Lady of the Meadow, Spirea ulmaria, Spirea)

Meadowsweet can be used to help treat stomach problems such as diarrhea, nausea, heartburn, hyperacidity, gastritis, and peptic ulcers. However, the effectiveness meadowsweet has on these GI conditions is unknown. Meadowsweet also contains a mild degree of anti-inflammatory properties and may be beneficial for individuals who suffer from gout or other inflammatory conditions.

Aside from assisting in the relief of stomach issues, meadowsweet has also often been used to provide slight relief from symptoms caused by respiratory conditions such as congestion, fever and pain related to colds and similar ailments.

Side effects – Meadowsweet can cause constriction to occur in the muscles of the small airways of the lungs, known as a bronchospasm. This side effect could worsen asthma or trigger asthma attacks. Another side effect that has been reported by some individuals who take meadowsweet is nausea.

Drug interactions and other precautions – Meadowsweet could increase the risk of side effects in Narcotic analgesics (I.E. morphine), and may affect the blood’s ability to clot and interact with medications and herbal remedies such as:

- Anticoagulants and antiplatelets

- Aspirin

- Herbs that effect blood clotting (see chamomile above)

Pregnant women, individuals with asthma, and those who have allergies to aspirin should avoid taking meadowsweet.

Cats claw (alternative names: Uncaria guianensis, Peruvian Cat’s Claw, Uña de Gato, Samento, Saventaro, Uncaria tomentosa)

Cats claw is comprised of many active chemicals and substances that are beneficial to the immune system. Due to its antioxidant, anticancer and anti-inflammatory properties, this makes it extremely beneficial for treating individuals who suffer from various health conditions.

Cats claw has also been used to help individuals who suffer from gastrointestinal problems find relief for conditions including gastritis, and gastric ulcers.

Side effects – Some side effects that have been reported include stomach discomfort, nausea, headache, and dizziness. You should not take cats claw if you are allergic to plants in the Rubiaceae or Uncaria family.

Drug interactions and other precautions- Cats claw has the potential to enhance a person’s immune function which could cause it to interact with drugs designed to suppress the immune system.

Cats claw was traditionally used as a form of contraception, and when taken in high doses may prevent pregnancy. Therefore, it should not be taken by women trying to become pregnant, pregnant women, or women who are ****** feeding.

Individuals who have had organ transplants should not take cats claw due to the potential effects it can have on the immune system. In addition, it may cause unpredictable results in those who suffer from autoimmune disorders such as Crohn’s disease and Multiple Sclerosis.

Licorice (alternative names: Gan Cao, Sweet Root, Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Licorice contains a substance known as glycyrrhizin which reduces the activity of two particular enzymes that contribute to the removal of PGE (prostaglandin E) from the body. Stomach conditions including gastritis, colic, and ulcers are associated with low levels of PGE. Therefore, licorice can actually increase the levels of PGE and allow more PGE to circulate through the body. The increase of PGE can reduce the production of stomach acid and promote the production of stomach mucus. Thus, licorice is often used to treat ulcers and many other stomach problems.

In addition to stomach conditions, licorice has also been found to be beneficial for treating respiratory conditions such as bronchitis, as well as for suppressing coughs, soothing sore throats, and has the potential to boost immune system function.

Note: the Licorice that is being referred to is the herb and not licorice candy. Licorice candy does not typically contain much of the active chemical present in the true herb, and, therefore, is not likely to provide the same positive or negative side effects.

Side effects – There are many side effects associated with licorice, but the severity of these side effects differ depending on how much licorice is ingested. The more common and less severe side effects of licorice when a single recommended dose is taken for longer than six weeks may include: headache, fatigue, muscle spasms, increased blood pressure and swelling.

Large doses of licorice may cause a condition called pseudoaldosteronism, which causes the following symptoms: excessive thirst, increased urination, high blood pressure, muscle weakness, low potassium levels, weight gain.

Drug interactions and other precautions- Licorice can increase the time required in order for blood to clot, can cause possible potassium deficiency, can interfere with medications used to suppress tissue inflammation, and mimic the female hormone estrogen. Therefore, licorice can interact with the following medications and natural remedies:

- Anticoagulants and antiplatelets

- Corticosteroid drugs (drugs that treat inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, asthma, cancer, etc.)

- Diuretics (”water pills that can cause potassium loss)

- Estrogen replacement therapy or oral contraceptives

- Testosterone therapy

- Aspirin

- Laxatives (can promote loss of potassium)

- Herbs that effect blood clotting (see chamomile)

- Herbs that deplete potassium (I.E. aloe, senna, rhamnus frangula, rhamnus purshiana, rhamnus cathartica)

Pregnant women and women who are ****** feeding should not take licorice, as it may increase the risk of premature labor or miscarriage. Other individuals who should avoid taking licorice include:

- Men with prostate cancer

- Women who suffer from uterine fibroids, endometriosis, cancer of the breast, ovaries, or uterus.

- Individuals with congestive heart failure, high blood pressure, liver condition or kidney disease.

Slippery elm (alternative names: Elm, American Elm, Japanese Elm, Indian Elm, Red Elm, Sweet Elm, Moose Elm, Ulmus rubra, Ulmus fulva, Winged Elm)

Slippery elm is recognized for having significant mucilage, a substance that swells and becomes slippery without dissolving in fluids. Mucilage is believed to help people find relief from coughs, and a variety of other symptoms involving the respiratory system. Furthermore, mucilage is also recognized for its positive effects on the GI tact, and it antioxidant effects that have the potential to decrease intestinal inflammation.

Slippery elm provides the mouth, esophagus, and GI tract with a coating. The slick residue it leaves in the GI tract can help alleviate sore throats; pain associated with stomach ulcers or colic; and can also help relieve inflammatory bowel symptoms. Additionally, slippery elm may encourage mucous production in the GI tract, which helps to protect the stomach and intestinal linings.

Side effects – When taken orally, slippery elm has no reported side effects. However, it may cause an allergic reaction in sensitive people when slippery elm products are touched, or pollen from the tree is breathed in.

Drug interactions and other precautions- There are no known interactions between slippery elm and medications or other herbal products. Nevertheless, due to the fact that the mucilage may coat the stomach and intestines, the mucilage could potentially delay or block the absorption of nutrients or drugs. Therefore, it is recommended that slippery elm be taken orally a minimum of 2 hours before eating or ingesting medications.

Pregnant women should not take slippery elm.

What you should know before taking any herbal products: You should not take any herbal remedy to treat your acid reflux or GERD symptoms without first consulting your health care provider. This is especially important if you are pregnant, ****** feeding, or have another health condition and are taking medications. Furthermore, you must ensure that you take herbs according to the recommended dosage prescribed by a professional or as noted on the product information label on the herbal packaging.

Remember to speak to your doctor should you have any questions or concerns, and immediately stop taking any herbs should you experience an allergic reaction. Allergic reaction symptoms include:

- Skin: redness, rash, itching, or hives

- Eyes: red watery or itchy

- Nose: blocked, runny or sneezing

- Lungs: tightness in chest, wheezing, coughing, difficulty breathing

- Stomach: nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

- Swelling: face, tongue or throat.

Contact your doctor or pharmacist should you experience an allergic reaction or any other side effect to any natural heartburn relief treatment.



Lloyd