Help with Acid Reflux

First you need to determine if you have acid reflux. Acid reflux occurs when the acid in your stomach backs up into your throat causing heartburn. Many people experience heartburn from time to time, however if you are experiencing this often you probably do have acid reflux. Be sure to ask your doctor because this disease can become a serious problem.

There are many medications that can help with acid reflux. There is also an herb known as licorice root. This herb is used by the Chinese for many stomach ailments and different types of infection.

The scientific name for the root is DGL. DGL works by stopping the acid in your stomach. Due to this it has been proven that licorice root is the most effective form of treatment for acid reflux. It can be found in many different forms and one of them is sure to be the right for you.

This type of herb will help many but there are some side effects that people need to pay close attention too. It contains properties that can cause you to retain salt in your body. Retention of salt can be devastating to people with high blood pressure. This in turn can lead to heart disease. Be sure to ask your doctor before taking licorice root if you have problems with your blood pressure.

Pregnant women should not use licorice root. Your hormone levels can be highly affected. In turn this can cause your baby to be born premature. It also causes water retention. When pregnant this can be very uncomfortable. Also if you are taking water pills adding licorice root can be dangerous. Licorice root when combined with water pills lowers your potassium and this can become a very serious issue with your health.

As with any type of medication, herbal or not, you should always talk to your doctor before taking licorice root. If you have any of the problems that are connected with the above side effects ask your doctor if licorice root is safe for you. Acid reflux can become very a serious problem if not taken seriously. See your doctor and if recommended, try some licorice root. It just may be the best antacid for you.