Heartburn in the stomach is caused when the acids in the stomach move up into the esophagus area. This is a primary symptom of acid reflux which can cause burning sensation in the esophagus region which is a tube connecting the throat and stomach area. The intensity of pain depends upon the acid levels in the esophagus area. This condition of acid reflux can also cause nausea, sour taste in the mouth, chest pain, dry cough, sour taste in the mouth, etc. These conditions can cause Barret’s esophagus or esophageal cancer in some cases. A chronic and severe form of acid reflux is known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

Some of the factors like smoking, pregnancy, obesity and certain kinds of food can affect the functioning of the esophagus. The acid reflux in the esophagus can also cause a hiatal hernia and other complications in the stomach and esophagus region.

Let us look at some of the home remedies for heartburn:

• Apple cider vinegar is readily available, and this can be used to treat the heartburn efficiently. It helps in digestion and balances the pH level in the stomach which helps in minimizing the acidity in the stomach. All you have to do is dilute a tablespoon of raw or unfiltered ACV in the water and drink it. This has to be followed as a routine for few months, and this needs to be done 30 minutes before having a meal.
• A cost-effective home remedy for heartburn, baking soda is also known as sodium bicarbonate is a natural antacid which is easily available. Sodium bicarbonate provides relief from heartburn and other symptoms of acid reflux. One teaspoon of sodium bicarbonate in a glass of water provides instant relief. However, people with high blood pressure should not take baking soda as there is a risk of raising the blood pressure.
• Aloe vera juice is helpful in reducing the inflammation in the esophagus and stomach areas. A useful home remedy for heartburn,
  the aloe vera juice reduces the acidity and as well as inflammation. Drinking aloe vera juice before meals helps in digestion and reduces the acidity. But taking too much of aloe vera can lead to upset stomach, so ensure that you practice moderation with this home remedy for heartburn.
• Chewing gum can help in reducing the acidity. People with diabetes and other health conditions can choose sugarless chewing gums or some healthy variations such as cinnamon flavored chewing gum. Chewing gum helps in increasing the production of saliva which helps in the process of digestion and reduces heartburn in esophagus and stomach area.
• Licorice root treats the acid reflux in the stomach and heals the membranes in the stomach. It soothes the inflammation in the stomach and esophagus. The licorice root powder should be mixed in a cup of water which should be taken before meals. This remedy should be followed two or three times a day to get effective results.
• Yellow mustard is another remedy which helps in reducing the acidity of the stomach and esophagus area. The acidic property in the yellow mustard helps in reducing the pH levels in the stomach. This home remedy for heartburn provides immediate relief.
• Fennel is beneficial in improving the digestion and reducing the acid reflux in stomach and esophagus. Fennel helps in reducing the inflammation in stomach and intestinal tract. It can be chewed directly, or fennel can be soaked in water.
• Elm helps in reducing the acidity and inflammation in the stomach and esophagus area. It has to be mixed with water and should be consumed two times a day to get useful results.
• Marshmallows are very effective in reducing the inflammation in the stomach and esophageal area. Marshmallows soothe the membranes of the stomach and esophagus.
• Cumin seeds are very effective in reducing the heartburn and helps in improving the digestion. The cumin seeds have to be boiled in water and should be consumed after the meals. Adding cumin while cooking is an excellent way of promoting better digestion and reducing the heartburn.
• Eating an apple also improves digestion and helps in reducing heartburn.

Apart from the home remedies for heartburn mentioned above, it is always better to eat light food, especially in the night. Exercising and being active also helps to reduce the heartburn and acid reflux. Smoking, eating garlic or onion, eating spicy food on a regular basis, etc. aggravate acid reflux and heartburn, so to cut down on these dietary and lifestyle habits. Eating meals on a regular basis and in small portions is the best way to prevent acid reflux and heartburn.