Acupuncture and Chinese Herbs for Acid Reflux
Regurgitating sharp, acidic, gastrointestinal gas or fluid can be very uncomfortable. This is often a sign of acid reflux or sometimes the more serious development of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It affects about 44% of the US adult population at least once per month with about half struggling with acid reflux once per week.
It can be a rare, temporary presentation or a chronic challenge but either way dealing with acid reflux can make it difficult to get through a meal and/or digestion.
There are many signs and symptoms of acid reflux. Some are very obvious while others may not even be considered.
Various symptoms may include:
• Chest pain
• Bitter taste
• Hoarse throat
• Sore throat
• Chronic cough
• Asthma attacks
• Nausea
• Excessive saliva
• Difficulty swallowing
Many over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription remedies are available for acid reflux relief. These work to destabilize the excess-acid formation in the gastrointestinal tract. This is all well and good for a temporary fix but delving deeper into the healing capabilities of your body comes from naturopathic medicine.
Through acupuncture, and Chinese herbs you may be able to forego conventional medicine with its various side effects and heal your acid reflux naturally.
Meridian Work: Fixing the Energy Malfunction
Meridians are the energy pathways that run throughout your body. Although the word “energy” may not be recognized by conventional medicine, when it comes to a traditional approach, especially Classical Chinese Medicine (CCM), manipulating energy is one of the major practices to obtain optimal health.
Although acid reflux is often the result of a subpar diet, a continued bout with this condition may mean there’s an “energy malfunction”. Acupuncture can often be effective in re-balancing the system by re-booting and re-strengthening its constitution.
A study by researchers of the Department of Gastroenterology, First Hospital Affiliated to Xinxiang Medical College, China titled, ‘Clinical study on the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux by acupuncture’ it was concluded that,
“Acupuncture can effectively inhibit the intra-esophageal acid and bile reflux in GERD patients to alleviate patients’ symptoms with good safety and is well accepted by patients.”
Also, “A 2006 review in the ‘Journal of Gastroenterology’ reported that acupuncture may be effective in the treatment of GERD because it stimulates gastrointestinal motility and inhibits acid secretion in the stomach.” (Livestrong 2/28/15)
Acupuncture for acid reflux is a protocol that slowly brings the body back into homeostasis. The needles are often painless and very safe allowing for the release or refill of vital energy for optimal healing.
Calm the Acid with Botanical Medicine
There are many herbal remedies that can be used for acid reflux relief. Some include fresh ginger root, chamomile flower, papaya and fennel seeds. If taken during an event one or more of these remedies may calm the acid and reduce reflux.
There are also powerful CCM herbal formulas that when administered by a professional naturopathic doctor may have an even more potent, long-lasting effect.
Stomach Heat
• Huang lian – Derived from the root of the goldthread plant, Huang lian may reduce intestinal inflammation and blood heat while cooling the stomach.
• Lu gen – This root of the reed plant, absorbs excess stomach heat.
• Shi gao – From the gypsum family, this herb clears stomach heat and fire.
• Zhi mu – This is another root capable of cooling the stomach.
• Zhu ru – These are shavings from the sustainable bamboo shoot also excellent for clearing
stomach agitation.
Liver Support
Acid reflux is often the result of a liver energy imbalance. When the liver is out of balance the
veritable ‘house of cards of health’ can topple resulting in all sorts of systemic challenges,
particularly acid reflux.
Herbal treatments that may strengthen the liver include:
• Bai shao – White peony root commonly used to treat liver energy ailments.
• Chai hu – This is the Chinese thorowax root which is linked to stimulating qi (chee – life force) within the liver.
• Fang feng – Found in the root of the Ledebouriellae divaricatae plant, fang fen disperses excess wind energy from the body resulting in a spleen and liver balance.
• Mu xiang – Known as the costus plant root, Mu xiang brings much needed liver qi movement and spleen strengthening.
• Xiang fu – Root of Chinese nutgrass used to control liver and enhance overall systemic qi.
Overall, acid reflux can also be managed through proper diet. Such practices as keeping an alkaline blood level which reduces excess acid is paramount. A diet high in “live” organic produce as well as whole grains can be an excellent start. Avoid too much dairy, meat, alcohol, and processed foods to maintain a healthy gut. In addition, working with a daily probiotic supplement can also be highly beneficial.
Talk to your naturopathic doctor about the best course of treatment for your individual constitution and stop your acid reflux for good.
At Integrative Med Solutions, we will design an acupuncture and naturopathic treatment program that works for you. In many cases, insurance covers portions of the acupuncture treatment. Allow us to support you to achieve optimal health. To make an appointment or find out more about how acupuncture and naturopathic medicine can benefit you, please call our office at 914.337.2980 or CLICK HERE to schedule an online appointment.
*Please CLICK HERE to see a current list of Insurance Companies that commonly carry acupuncture benefits for its members. Please call 914.337.2980 or Contact Us to verify your specific benefits. If you are emailing, please include your full name, date of birth and insurance identification card number.