If you have ever suffered from that familiar burning sensation in the chest or throat after a meal, you’re not alone. Acid reflux and acidity affect millions of Indians every day, some may be occasional cases while the others may alarmingly be a regular affair. Whether triggered by spicy food, stress, or erratic eating habits, the discomfort can disrupt daily life.
When it comes to relief, most people ask: “Should I go for home remedies or stick to medicinal treatments? As India embraces both Ayurvedic traditions and modern medicine, understanding the pros and cons of each can help you make an informed choice.
Let’s explore the differences and how you can choose the best option for quick, safe, and lasting relief depending on the severity of your situation.
Understanding the Root of Acidity and Acid Reflux
Acid reflux happens when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, leading to heartburn, bloating, and sometimes nausea. Occasionally acidity is normal and not as worrisome as a medical condition but frequent episodes could point to Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) and may require consistent management.
Treatment options usually fall into two categories:
- Home Remedies (natural ingredients, lifestyle hacks)
- Medicinal Treatments (over-the-counter or doctor-recommended medications like antacids)
Common Home Remedies for Acidity in India
Many Indian households rely on kitchen staples to soothe acidity symptoms that arise due to one or multiple issues – like due to fried , oily, spicy food, heavy meals or lifestyle issues. Here are some of the widely used natural options in Indian households :
1. Cold Milk.
A glass of cold milk can temporarily neutralize stomach acid. It’s calcium-rich and often gives quick relief, remember to not overdo it as milk is also known to be a reason for acid reflux if over consumed.
2. Saunf (Fennel Seeds)
Chewing a pinch of saunf after meals can help with digestion and reduce bloating. Some indian households dry roast fennel and grind them to fine powder to be consumed with warm water post meals, for better digestion.
3. Ajwain Water
Ajwain (carom seeds) boiled in water is a time-tested remedy to ease gas and acidity. In fact Indian cooking ensures that all heavy meals like chana , rajam or kadhi are seasoned with ajwain to avoid bloating and for easy digestion.
4. Bananas and Oats
Both are alkaline in nature and help form a protective lining in the stomach, and can be tried as a remedy for mild cases of acidity.
5. Coconut Water
Alkaline and soothing, coconut water may reduce the acidity in your stomach naturally.
While home remedies are gentle and natural, they don’t always work during intense flare-ups or chronic GERD.
When Medicinal Treatments Are More Effective
For persistent or severe symptoms, medicinal options offer fast and reliable relief. They work by directly neutralizing or blocking excess stomach acid which is important to avoid acid rising up again.
Common Medicinal Approaches:
- Antacids (neutralize acid)
- H2 Blockers (reduce acid production)
- Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) (long-term suppression of acid)
There are multiple options of OTC and prescription drugs (based on your doctor’s advice), but one of the names that stood out is Gaviscon – a non-prescriptive, OTC antacid.
Why Gaviscon Stands Out?
Unlike some antacids that only neutralize stomach acid, Gaviscon goes a step further. It forms a protective barrier or “raft” over your stomach contents, preventing acid from rising into the esophagus again.
This dual-action formula is especially effective for:
- Nighttime acid reflux
- Heartburn during pregnancy
- Post-meal flare-ups
Gaviscon is often preferred for quick and soothing relief, especially when home remedies don’t work fast enough. It works fast , in less than 3 minutes and offers long lasting relief in comparison to other antacids in the market.
Home Remedies vs Medicinal: Which Should You Choose?
| Factor | Home Remedies | Medicinal Treatments |
| Onset of Relief | Slow (15–30 mins or more) | Fast (within minutes) |
| Convenience | May require prep or availability | Easy to carry and consume |
| Effectiveness | Mild to moderate cases | Works for mild to severe cases |
| Long-Term Use | Good for prevention | Effective for chronic conditions |
| Medical Supervision | Usually not required | Recommended for frequent symptoms like GERD |
Final Thoughts: A Balanced Approach Works Best
At Acid Reflux India, our recommendation, as echoed by nutritionists and gut health experts, is to combine natural lifestyle practices with safe medicinal options when needed.
- Use home remedies for occasional or mild discomfort. Be mindful of your overall lifestyle.
- Reach for medicinal solutions like Gaviscon when symptoms are stronger.
- Focus on long-term prevention with the right diet, hydration, and stress management.
Consult a doctor if you think your acidity issues are turning into GERD.
Disclaimer: This blog is intended to build general awareness and provide lifestyle tips. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for persistent symptoms or before starting new treatments.
