What Are the Best Natural Remedies for Heartburn and Acid Reflux?

Heartburn, Reflux & Indigestion: The Complete Guide

What Are the Best Natural Remedies for Heartburn and Acid Reflux?

Quick Answer

Interest in natural approaches to heartburn and acid reflux has grown significantly as more people seek alternatives to long-term acid suppression. A 2025 review published in PMC identifies natural products — including botanicals, polyphenols, and probiotics — as recognized candidates for GERD management due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and mucosal-protective properties. The most evidence-supported approaches work through three primary mechanisms: protecting and reinforcing the gastric mucosal barrier, supporting healthy gastric motility and digestive efficiency, and modulating the gut microbiome environment that underlies much of upper GI function.

This page covers the natural approaches with the strongest clinical and research support — and explains the mechanisms behind each one so you can make informed decisions about what makes sense for your situation.*

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products mentioned are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Quick Summary

  • The most evidence-supported natural approaches work through three mechanisms: mucosal barrier protection, gastric motility support, and gut microbiome modulation
  • MucoSave™ FG (prickly pear + olive leaf) is supported by two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials for upper GI comfort support*
  • GutGard® (DGL licorice) is supported by a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial for functional dyspepsia*
  • Pycrinil® (artichoke leaf) is supported by multiple clinical studies for digestive motility, dyspepsia, and upper GI comfort support*
  • Ginger supports gastric emptying, is anti-inflammatory, and has been studied for LES function*
  • Slippery elm and marshmallow root form mucilaginous coatings on the esophageal and gastric lining*
  • Natural approaches work best as part of a broader plan that includes dietary and lifestyle modifications

Why Natural Approaches Are Gaining Attention

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2 blockers are effective at reducing acid production, but their long-term use is associated with a range of concerns including rebound acid hypersecretion, disruption of the gut microbiome, reduced absorption of key nutrients, and dependency effects. These limitations have driven significant scientific interest in natural alternatives that address the same symptoms through different mechanisms — particularly approaches that protect the mucosal lining, support digestive motility, and strengthen the underlying gut environment rather than simply suppressing acid.

A 2024 systematic review and meta-analysis published in PMC found that herbal medicine was significantly effective in improving reflux diagnostic questionnaire (RDQ) scores in non-erosive reflux disease patients, supporting a meaningful role for botanical approaches in upper GI management. As with all health approaches, natural remedies work best as part of a broader plan that includes dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, and appropriate medical care where needed.

Category 1: Mucosal Barrier Support

The esophageal and gastric mucosal lining is the first line of defense against acid contact. When this barrier is well-supported, reflux events cause less damage and less discomfort. When it is compromised, even modest reflux can produce significant symptoms. The following botanicals work primarily by reinforcing this protective lining.

MucoSave™ FG — Prickly pear and olive leaf (clinically studied)

MucoSave™ FG is a standardized blend of prickly pear (Opuntia ficus-indica) cladode polysaccharides and olive leaf (Olea europaea) polyphenols developed specifically for gastric mucosal support. The prickly pear polysaccharides form a protective gel layer on the mucosal surface through mucoadhesion — adhering directly to the lining of the esophagus and stomach and creating a physical barrier against acid, bile, and pepsin. The olive leaf polyphenols add antioxidant protection that helps defend cells in the mucosal lining from oxidative stress.

Two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials support MucoSave™ FG for upper GI comfort support:

  • In a trial of 118 adults with frequent upper digestive discomfort (2–6 days per week), a MucoSave formulation produced GERD quality-of-life score improvements of 56.5% and 59.1% compared to placebo, with significant reductions in heartburn and acid regurgitation episodes
  • In a second trial of 100 adults, 400 mg of MucoSave™ FG daily for 8 weeks reduced heartburn occurrence from 58% of participants to approximately 11.7%, with improvements observed as early as four weeks

MucoSave™ FG is the primary active ingredient in Silver Fern™ Brand's Reflux Pro™ and Reflux – Mucosal Support™. See the full MucoSave™ FG clinical research summary for complete study details.*

Slippery elm (Ulmus rubra)

Slippery elm inner bark is one of the most extensively used traditional remedies for upper GI discomfort and is gaining renewed attention from modern research. Its primary active component is mucilage — high-molecular-weight polysaccharides that absorb water and form a thick, viscous gel. When consumed, this gel coats the esophageal and gastric mucosal surfaces, creating a physical barrier that protects against acid irritation and inflammation while also supporting mucus production in the digestive tract.

Research published in PMC (2025) identifies slippery elm's mucilage as producing a protective barrier across mucosal surfaces that safeguards the esophagus from acid-related irritation and inflammation, with additional antioxidant, antimicrobial, and tissue-supporting properties. A 16-week clinical study of a formula containing slippery elm demonstrated significant improvements in GERD-related symptoms including heartburn and indigestion. Slippery elm is an ingredient in Silver Fern™ Brand's Reflux – Mucosal Support™, where it works synergistically with MucoSave™ FG.*

Marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis)

Like slippery elm, marshmallow root contains bioadhesive mucilaginous polysaccharides that produce a protective coating on mucosal surfaces. The PMC 2025 review notes that marshmallow's anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and mucoprotective effects are well-documented, and that it is used in traditional and integrative medicine for GERD and stomach discomfort. Marshmallow root tea — steeped for 10–15 minutes — is the most common preparation. Cold infusions may preserve more of the mucilaginous benefit.

Category 2: Gastric Motility and Digestive Support

Delayed gastric emptying and incomplete digestion are major contributors to the upper GI pressure that drives reflux. Botanicals that support healthy gastric motility and digestive efficiency reduce this pressure and the reflux events it produces.

GutGard® — DGL licorice (clinically studied)

GutGard® is a standardized extract of Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice root) from which the glycyrrhizin compound has been removed to eliminate blood-pressure concerns. DGL licorice supports upper GI comfort through multiple mechanisms: it stimulates mucus secretion in the stomach and esophagus, supports mucosal barrier integrity, and has demonstrated anti-inflammatory and gastroprotective properties in both preclinical and clinical research.

In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, GutGard® (75 mg twice daily for 30 days) showed significant decreases in total symptom scores at both Day 15 and Day 30 compared to placebo in patients with functional dyspepsia, as published in PMC. The GutGard group also showed significant improvements in quality-of-life scores compared to placebo, and the supplement was well-tolerated. GutGard® also demonstrated enhanced gut motility and mucosal integrity in preclinical studies. GutGard® is an ingredient in Silver Fern™ Brand's Upper GI Relief™. See the full GutGard® clinical research summary for complete study details.*

Pycrinil® — Artichoke leaf extract (clinically studied)

Artichoke leaf extract (Cynara scolymus) has been studied for digestive motility support and upper GI comfort for over two decades. Its primary mechanisms include stimulation of bile production (bile supports fat digestion and reduces post-meal upper GI pressure), support for healthy gastric and intestinal motility, and anti-inflammatory effects in the digestive tract.

In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial published in PMC, the combination of ginger and artichoke extract significantly reduced dyspepsia symptoms compared to placebo over four weeks. A second two-month clinical study of 208 adults with IBS and dyspepsia found that artichoke leaf extract reduced digestive symptom scores by 41% and improved quality-of-life measures by 20%. A third study found that artichoke leaf extract increased bile production by approximately 150% within one hour of intake, providing mechanistic support for its digestive motility benefits. Pycrinil® is an ingredient in Silver Fern™ Brand's Upper GI Relief™. See the full Pycrinil® clinical research summary for complete study details.*

Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Ginger is among the best-studied botanicals for upper digestive support. Its primary bioactive compounds — gingerols and shogaols — work through several mechanisms: accelerating gastric emptying (which reduces the distension and pressure that drives reflux), supporting lower esophageal sphincter function, and reducing inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract through Nrf2 pathway modulation and NF-κB inhibition. The PMC 2025 review identifies ginger as supporting LES function, decreasing gastric acid secretion, and protecting the esophageal lining. Ginger also strengthens the integrity of the gastrointestinal barrier and supports the formation of short-chain fatty acids that nourish the gut lining. Fresh ginger tea, ginger in food, or standardized ginger supplements are all practical approaches. Ginger is a component of Silver Fern™ Brand's Upper GI Relief™.*

Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)

Chamomile has well-documented anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties in the digestive tract. Research identifies its therapeutic effect as due to its ability to help alleviate esophageal irritation and promote mucosal support through anti-inflammatory mechanisms. It also has mild sedative properties that may help address the stress component of reflux. Chamomile tea (1–3 grams of dried flowers, steeped for 5–10 minutes) is the most practical form. Chamomile is particularly useful as an evening tea to support a calmer upper GI environment before sleep.

Category 3: Digestive Enzyme Support

Incomplete digestion of specific food components — particularly fermentable carbohydrates, gluten-related proteins, and fats — can lead to gas production, gastric distension, and increased pressure that drives reflux and upper GI discomfort. Supporting complete digestion with targeted enzymes reduces this post-meal pressure and the upper GI symptoms that follow.

Silver Fern™ Brand's Digestive Enzyme includes:

  • OPTIZIOME® Fructanase — supports the breakdown of fructans (fermentable fibers in wheat, onions, and garlic that commonly trigger upper GI pressure and discomfort)*
  • Tolerase G® — supports digestion of gluten-related proteins that can contribute to digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals*

How Natural Approaches Differ from Acid Suppression

Understanding this distinction is key to appreciating why natural approaches have attracted growing scientific interest.

Acid suppression medications (antacids, H2 blockers, PPIs) address heartburn by neutralizing or reducing stomach acid production. This addresses the symptom of burning but leaves the underlying mechanisms untouched — LES dysfunction, mucosal barrier compromise, delayed gastric emptying, and gut microbiome imbalance all remain unaddressed. When acid suppression is stopped, these underlying issues typically reassert themselves, sometimes with rebound intensification.

Natural approaches that support mucosal barrier integrity, gastric motility, and digestive efficiency work at the level of the underlying mechanisms. They do not simply neutralize the acid that makes it into the esophagus — they support the conditions that make reflux events less likely and less damaging when they do occur. This is a fundamentally different approach that complements rather than opposes the body's own digestive processes.*

Related article: Why Do Antacids and PPIs Stop Working — and What Then?

Important Considerations

  • Natural approaches work best as part of a comprehensive plan that includes dietary modifications (see Article 3) and lifestyle changes (see Article 9)
  • Some botanicals interact with medications — consult a healthcare professional before combining herbal approaches with prescription drugs
  • People with certain conditions should use specific caution: DGL licorice (even without glycyrrhizin) should be used with caution in people with high blood pressure, kidney disease, or heart conditions; ginger may interact with blood-thinning medications; aloe vera juice can have laxative effects if not properly processed
  • Natural remedies are most appropriate for occasional to moderate heartburn — persistent, frequent, or severe symptoms warrant medical evaluation
  • Always inform your healthcare provider about herbal supplements you are taking, particularly if you are on prescription medications

Silver Fern™ Brand Upper GI Support Products

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Key Takeaways

  • Natural approaches for heartburn and reflux work through three primary mechanisms: mucosal barrier protection, gastric motility support, and digestive efficiency
  • MucoSave™ FG (prickly pear + olive leaf) is supported by two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials showing significant upper GI quality-of-life improvements and heartburn reduction*
  • GutGard® (DGL licorice) is supported by a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial showing significant improvements in functional dyspepsia symptoms and quality of life*
  • Pycrinil® (artichoke leaf) is supported by multiple clinical studies showing digestive motility support, dyspepsia symptom reduction, and increased bile production*
  • Ginger supports gastric emptying, LES function, and gastrointestinal barrier integrity through well-documented mechanisms*
  • These natural approaches are fundamentally different from acid suppression — they work at the level of the underlying upper GI environment rather than neutralizing acid after the fact*
  • Natural remedies work best as part of a broader plan including dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, and appropriate medical care

Sources and References

This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, on prescription medications, or managing a chronic health condition. Persistent or severe heartburn symptoms warrant medical evaluation.