As a natural cure for acid reflux and as a natural heartburn remedy, Manuka honey may be very effective.
How Manuka Honey Works
The pain of heartburn is caused by the acids of the stomach ‘refluxing’ into the esophagus. Since the esophagus does not have the protection from stomach acid that the stomach has, this creates a burning sensation. Over time, with frequent recurrences of the acid reflux, lesions form on the esophagus, causing the condition to become ever more painful.
The honey coats the esophagus, protecting it from the damaging effects of the acid. Any honey will provide this protective effect to some degree, but many feel that Manuka honey is particularly effective.
No Known Side Effects
One of the great benefits of using honey as a home remedy for acid reflux is that there are no known side effects – after all, it’s just a natural food. So unlike many heartburn medications, it can be used day in and day out, ad infinitum if necessary.
By providing the esophagus with continuous protection, the esophagus is able to heal itself of the lesions that were formed from frequent acid irritation.
How to Use Honey as an Acid Reflux Natural Cure
Spread 1 teaspoon of honey on a small piece of bread, and take before each meal and before bedtime. For severe cases of heartburn, take an additional teaspoon on bread after meals, or whenever heartburn pain persists.
It’s important that the honey be taken on bread (or the equivalent), and not alone. If a teaspoon of honey is swallowed by itself, much of it will be absorbed into the bloodstream before reaching the area where it is needed. Spreading it on the bread allows it to reach the lower esophagus in concentrated form.
NOTE: It’s important that honey not be given to infants under 1 year of age due to concerns about infant botulism.
