Homeopathic remedy for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Does it work?

Key takeaways:

• Homeopathic remedy for GERD involves using a natural approach to possibly get rid of GERD or relieve its symptoms.
• GERD is a long-term digestive dysfunction that occurs when acid from the stomach moves back up into your esophagus.
• There's no sufficient evidence that supports the potency of homeopathic remedies for curing GERD. 
• Homeopathy may offer temporary relief to your GERD symptoms. Notwithstanding, treating the root cause of GERD or severe symptoms may require conventional treatments like surgery.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic digestive disorder affecting millions of people worldwide. It comes with diverse symptoms, which may include acid reflux, heartburn, back pain, and upper abdominal pain.

Usually, people rely on conventional medicines, such as Lansoprazole (Prevacid), or supplements like betaine hydrochloride and probiotics to help manage their GERD symptoms, but what about alternating with homeopathic remedies? Does homeopathy help lessen the severity of GERD symptoms? 

This article explores the potency of homeopathic remedies for GERD and whether they are a suitable natural alternative to conventional treatments.

What is GERD?

According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI), GERD is a long-term digestive dysfunction that occurs when acid from the stomach moves back up into your esophagus.

GERD is commonly found in obese, elderly, and pregnant people. Some risk factors, such as motor abnormalities, anatomical factors, and genetic contributions, have been linked with the pathogenesis of this disease.

GERD is a chronic condition and can result in symptoms that may lead to additional health complications. Introducing some lifestyle changes can help you to manage these symptoms.

What is homeopathy?

Homeopathy is a form of alternative medicine, which means it is sometimes used in place of western medicine. It was developed in the 18th century by German scientist, Dr. Samuel F. Hahnemann.

Dr. Hahnemann believed that "like cures like". This means that if a substance leads to the symptoms of a specific illness in a person, you can implement some parts of that substance to cure a sick person. 

Homeopathy is also based on succussion, a process whereby substances are diluted in alcohol or water and shaken vigorously to make homeopathic remedies. Some homeopathic doctors believe that the more a substance is shaken up, the greater its chances of healing whatever symptoms a sick person is experiencing.

Homeopathic remedies can come in various forms, including pellets, tablets, liquids, and topical creams.

Does homeopathic remedy work for treating Gerd?

At the moment, there isn't much solid evidence that homeopathic treatments for GERD are effective. 

Although some individuals may report feeling better after using homeopathic remedies, there are speculations that this could be due to a placebo effect rather than the actual effectiveness of homeopathy.

How homeopathy can help with GERD

Homeopathy involves using a natural approach to eliminate digestive disorders. Some of the homeopathic remedies that may be used for GERD include: 

1. Nux vomica

Nux vomica is a common homeopathic remedy that treats many stomach disorders, including GERD. It contains raw seeds, which are often referred to as “poison nuts”. Due to their toxic nature; you must treat them before consumption to avoid toxic effects. Nux vomica can be bought and taken in powder form.

Some people believe nux vomica can help treat GERD, as it is thought to treat some GERD-related symptoms like indigestion, heartburn, and bloating. However, there is not enough evidence that proves nux vomica’s efficacy when it comes to treating these symptoms.  

2. Pulsatilla

Pulsatilla may be a helpful remedy for individuals who suffer from GERD after eating rich or fatty foods. If you feel bloated or have a fullness sensation, it may be that you have GERD, and pulsatilla may help.

Homeopathic experts often recommend such remedies for adult females and children. However, it is important to note that remedies like pulsatilla are not entirely safe. Evidence indicates that it can be extremely irritating to the gastrointestinal tract, skin, and mucous membranes.

3. Carbo vegetabilis

Made from vegetable charcoal, Carbo Vegetabilis is a homeopathic remedy that is believed to activate a natural healing process in the body. A 2021 study showed that homeopathic doctors used this homeopathic medicinal product for treating COVID-19-related symptoms, such as wet cough and fever.

Before suggesting this remedy for GERD, homeopaths typically look out for certain symptoms, such as:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Stomach heaviness
• Belching
• Acidic taste in the mouth
• Severe heartburn

4. Natrum phos

Natrum Phos may be best for people who experience acute symptoms of GERD, such as acidity and heartburn. It may also be helpful for people who experience a burning sensation in the throat or chest or who have difficulty swallowing.

This remedy is assumed to work by reducing inflammation and improving digestion.

Are there risks associated with treating GERD with homeopathy?

Homeopathic remedies are considered to be generally safe. However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), in a 2022 article, mentioned that some homeopathic products contain significant quantities of active ingredients, which have the potential to cause serious harm to the body.

There is little to no assurance that any of these homeopathic products are efficient or secure for consumption because the FDA does not currently regulate them.

The following are other likely risks of using homeopathy for GERD:

1. May prevent people from trying more effective treatments

As you may already know, GERD can lead to severe complications such as bleeding or esophageal cancer if it's left untreated.

Homeopathy may offer temporary relief to your GERD symptoms. Notwithstanding, treating the root cause of GERD or severe symptoms may require conventional treatment.

2. May interact with prescription medicines

Research on medicine and interactions have shown that it's not always ideal to combine any natural health remedy with other medications. 

If you have received a diagnosis for GERD, you may need to be cautious about taking homeopathic remedies alongside proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or any other prescription drug that reduces stomach acid production in people with GERD. This will help reduce your risk of developing further health complications and adverse reactions.

If you're already on any medical treatment, it's crucial to first inform your doctor of your interest in switching to homeopathy. 

Bottom line

Homeopathy is a type of alternative therapy that may help people with a variety of health problems, such as digestive problems, feel better. 

Because there's not enough scientific evidence to prove the effectiveness and safety of homeopathy, many licensed medical experts believe that it may have risks. Therefore, before choosing homeopathic treatments, it's best to speak with a qualified doctor.