Heartburn

Heartburn, also known as pyrosis, is a painful sensation that occurs in the esophagus, just below the breastbone, due to the regurgitation of stomach acids into the esophagus.

In truth, heartburn really has nothing to do with the heart, and it is only named as such because the pain originates from the area where the heart is located.

Heartburn occurs because the muscle that closes the entrance from the esophagus to the stomach malfunctions, allowing the hydrochloric acid in the stomach to flow back up into the esophagus.

Under normal circumstances, the muscle, known as the sphincter, should keep the opening tightly closed, keeping the hydrochloric acid contained within the stomach.

The most common symptom of heartburn is a severe, burning pain in the chest area, around the vicinity of the heart. The pain has also been known to radiate to the neck, throat, or the jaw.

Heartburn has also been known to be a cause of chronic cough, and may also result in symptoms resembling those of asthma.

Natural Cures for Heartburn:

Here are some effective home remedies to get rid of heartburn and provide relief from the pain.

Antacids:

Antacids are pills that are available over-the-counter that help in countering the effects of heartburn.

They contain substances that are alkaline in nature, thus neutralizing the effect of the stomach acid and preventing it from burning the tissues of your esophagus.

Almonds:

When you suffer a heartburn attack, chewing 6 to 8 almonds can help to relieve the pain.

Make sure that you chew them well in order to avoid swallowing any air with them that will aggravate the heartburn.

Soda Crackers:

Soda crackers are an excellent home remedy for heartburn, as they are easily digested and they also help to absorb stomach acid.

Soda crackers are made using bicarbonate soda and cream of tartar, both of which are substances that are useful in combating the effects of stomach acid during heartburn.

Papaya:

Papaya fruits are a source of the all-natural enzyme papain that is very useful at combating indigestion.

By aiding in your digestion, papain helps to ensure that less stomach acid is available to wash back up into your esophagus and cause heartburn.

Apple Honey:

This is a simple recipe for a solution that can help to relieve the pain of heartburn.

First, peel, core, and slice up several sweet apples.

Simmer the slices in a small amount of water until a thick, brown and sweet mixture is obtained.

This solution may be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and a few spoonfuls taken whenever heartburn strikes.