Gastric Reflux - Symptoms, Causes and Effective Treatments from a TCM Perspective
Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or simply reflux, is a common digestive problem in which stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, causing discomfort and a variety of symptoms. Conventional medicine sees it primarily as a physical problem, related to dysfunction of the lower esophageal sphincter, while Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) interprets reflux as a manifestation of an energetic imbalance in the body. This way of looking at reflux offers unique insights and approaches to treatment.
What is gastric reflux?
Acid reflux happens when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES)—the muscle at the entrance to the stomach—does not close properly, allowing stomach acid to flow back up into the esophagus. This causes a range of unpleasant symptoms, including:
Heartburn (burning sensation in the chest)
Regurgitation of food or acidic fluid
Chronic cough or throat irritation
Difficulty swallowing
A feeling of a lump in the throat
Mild cases of reflux are often managed with lifestyle changes, while severe or chronic reflux can lead to complications, including damage to the esophagus and other digestive problems.
Reflux from a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Perspective
In TCM, reflux is not viewed as a single problem, but as a manifestation of deeper imbalances in the body’s energy system, called Qi. Rather than focusing on symptoms alone, TCM practitioners work to address the root cause by identifying which organ systems may be imbalanced. TCM most often attributes reflux to patterns of imbalance involving the stomach, liver, and spleen.
The main TCM patterns related to reflux
Liver Qi Stagnation :
The liver in TCM plays a key role in regulating the flow of Qi throughout the body. When the liver Qi becomes blocked, for example due to stress, anxiety or emotions, it can "attack" the stomach, leading to symptoms such as reflux, belching and bloating. This pattern is often associated with feelings of stress and irritability.
Hot in the Stomach :
Excess heat or "fire" in the stomach can cause acid to move upward, leading to symptoms of heartburn and burning. This pattern can be exacerbated by a diet high in spicy, fatty, or fried foods, which increase heat in the stomach.
Spleen Qi Deficiency :
The spleen in TCM is a key organ for digestion. When the spleen qi is weak—often due to poor diet, overthinking, or lack of exercise—the body’s ability to transform and transport food is impaired. This can lead to digestive problems such as bloating, reflux, and fatigue.
Food Stasis :
Overeating, eating too quickly, or eating heavy, fatty foods can lead to food backing up in the stomach, causing feelings of fullness, belching, and reflux. This is often associated with overeating or eating late at night.
TCM methods of treating reflux
1. Adjusting your diet
Avoiding trigger foods : Avoid spicy, fried, and fatty foods, as well as caffeine, alcohol, and chocolate, which can increase stomach acidity.
Smaller meals : Large meals can cause pressure on the stomach and aggravate reflux.
Eating slowly and mindfully : This helps support digestion and reduces the likelihood of food stagnation.
Adding Cooling and Nourishing Foods : Foods such as cucumbers, melons, and green vegetables are considered cooling in TCM and can help balance excess heat in the stomach. Ginger and fennel aid digestion and may alleviate symptoms.
2. Herbal remedies
In TCM, various herbal formulas are used to treat the causes of reflux. Here are some commonly used herbs:
Ban Xia Xie Xin Tang : A formula that harmonizes the stomach and relieves indigestion and reflux.
Huang Lian Su : Used to clear heat in the stomach and reduce inflammation, which may relieve heartburn.
Gou Teng and Bai Shao : Helpful in relieving stagnation of Liver Qi, especially if reflux is related to stress.
Herbal treatments are usually tailored to individual diagnosis, so it is recommended to consult with a TCM practitioner to select the appropriate formula and dosage.
3. Acupuncture and acupressure
Acupuncture : By stimulating specific points, acupuncture can help regulate the flow of Qi and eliminate disorders that cause reflux. Here are some useful points:
Ren 12 (Zhongwan): Located in the center of the abdomen and helps harmonize the stomach and relieve digestive symptoms.
Liver 3 (Taichong): On the top of the foot, helps to relieve stagnant Liver Qi and reduce stress-related symptoms.
Stomach 36 (Zusanli): On the lower leg, strengthens spleen and stomach function, improving digestion.
Acupressure : You can also stimulate similar points at home with gentle pressure to relieve symptoms. Circular pressure on the Ren 12 and Stomach 36 points can help relieve reflux.
4. Lifestyle changes
Stress Management : Since Liver Qi stagnation is often related to stress, practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, or Tai Chi can help balance the flow of Qi.
Avoid lying down after eating : To prevent reflux, do not lie down or go to bed immediately after meals. It is best to wait at least two hours.
Elevating your head during sleep : Keeping your head elevated at night can help reduce nocturnal reflux by preventing acid from moving upward.
Combining TCM with a conventional approach
For those looking for an integrative approach, TCM can be a complement to conventional treatments such as antacids or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). While conventional treatments focus on relieving symptoms, TCM can support the body by addressing the underlying
Here you will find new information about GERD and new ways to cure reflux.
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