Health Concern ~ Acid reflux (heart burn) and GERD

Acid reflux and GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) are very closely related.  Food we eat enters the stomach from the esophagus through a valve called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES).  This valve, made up of muscles around the esophagus, may not close completely allowing acids (bile) and/or food to move back from the stomach into the esophagus.  With that there may be a bitter taste, the taste of some foods, or a burning sensation in the chest (heart burn).  If this progresses and happens frequently it has become GERD.

The reasons for the lower esophageal sphincter to not close properly may be mechanical.  This can happen with a hiatal hernia (part of the stomach moves above the diaphragm), pregnancy, severe weight gain, over eating, or lying down right after a meal.  Certain prescription medications including sedatives, antidepressants, high blood pressure, motion sickness, and asthma to mention a few can bring on or worsen acid reflux.  Aspirin and ibuprofens can also contribute.  Diet can also be a factor.  Items to avoid include alcohol, carbonated drinks, coffee, chocolate, garlic, onions, citrus, tomato, spicy, fatty foods, or tobacco.

Oils, blends & products recommended:

Oils & Blends:  DigestZen, Ginger, Lemon, Peppermint, Sandalwood

Essential oils based products:

Also consider: Basil, Black Pepper, Eucalyptus, Frankincense, Roman Chamomile, Wild Orange

Suggested protocols:

For adults:

• DigestZen taken internally in a capsule, add Ginger, Peppermint, or Wild Orange to strengthen.

• or ... Frankincense topically on the throat and chest

• or ... Lemon, 3 -5 drops in the back of the mouth. Follow with water.

Note: some find Peppermint helpful but others find it makes acid reflux worse.

For infants:

•  DigestZen rubbed on the feet, stomach, or chest.  (protect from the baby touching the area and rubbing their eyes)

Pregnancy:

•  Maggie Tisserand, Aromatherapy for Women speaks very highly of Sandalwood for heartburn during pregnancy. Her personal use was taking one drop internally. Our recommendation would be to seek professional confirmation of such a self-help procedure.