Almost all of us at some point have suffered from gas or acidity. Sometimes we eat too much at a party, sometimes we eat late after office stress, or sometimes we have burning and fullness in our stomachs after consuming too much fried or spicy food.
This is normal, but once this issue repeats itself, it can destroy both our health and mood. Gas causes bloating, belching, and irritability. Acidity, or acidity, can cause symptoms like heartburn, sour belching, a bitter taste in the throat, or sour vomit. Ayurveda says, “Good digestion is the root of good health.”
If our digestion is not balanced, toxins accumulate in the body. This is the root cause of problems like gas, indigestion, heartburn, and constipation. The good part is that Ayurveda has the solutions to these issues in our own kitchens. These remedies not only offer immediate relief but also strengthen our digestive capacity over a period of time.
1. Cumin, Coriander & Fennel Tea – The Digestive Trio
These three household kitchen spices cumin, coriander, and fennel are a stomach’s friend. They are Deepak-Pachaka Dravya in Ayurveda, i.e., they raise the digestive fire (agni) and favor good digestion.
- Cumin – Drives out gas, eases bloating of the abdomen, and enhances digestion.
- Coriander – Calms the stomach and lowers acidity naturally.
- Fennel – Pacifies the stomach, removes bad breath, and lightens heaviness.
How to Make It:
- Add one teaspoon each of cumin, coriander, and fennel to two cups of water and boil for 5 minutes.
- Strain and take lukewarm after meals.
Why It Works:
This tea balances both Pitta (heat) and Vata (gas/wind). Regular intake decreases indigestion, heartburn, and gas.
Example: Suppose you’ve had a spicy dinner at night and are experiencing a heaviness in the stomach. Consuming this tea before sleeping will bring instant relief.
2. Ginger and Rock Salt – The Classic Appetite Booster
Ginger has been referred to as “Vishvabheshaj” (universal medicine) in Ayurveda. It stimulates appetite, aids digestion, and avoids gas.
How to Use:
- Take a small piece of fresh ginger.
- Add a pinch of rock salt and lemon juice to it.
- Consume this 10-15 minutes prior to meals.
- Ginger tea can also be prepared alternatively.
Why It Works:
Ginger stimulates digestive enzymes and enhances the digestive fire. This helps in improved digestion and avoids fermentation in the intestines, which is the primary reason for gas.
Example: Grandmothers used to make kids lick a small amount of ginger and salt prior to weddings or huge meals to avoid stomach discomfort.
3. Mulethi (Licorice Root) – The Soothing Herb for Acidity
Licorice root is a very good treatment for acidity and heartburn. It has cooling and anti-inflammatory properties naturally that prevent damage to the stomach lining.
How to Use:
- Combine half a teaspoon of licorice powder with lukewarm water or milk and consume 1-2 times daily.
- If you like, chew a licorice stalk after every meal.
Why It Works:
Licorice soothes excess heat in the stomach and boosts mucus in the stomach. This decreases acid damage.
Example: Individuals with high blood pressure must take their doctor’s advice before taking it daily.
4. Ajwain (Carom Seeds) and Black Salt – Instant Relief for Gas
Celery is easily available in most households. It gives instant relief for gas and bloating.
How to Use:
- Consume 1 teaspoon of roasted celery.
- Add a pinch of black salt to it.
- Consume it with lukewarm water.
- You may also have boiled water.
Why It Works:
Celery helps to increase the flow of digestive juices and remove gas that has built up in the intestines.
Example: If a sudden bloating and pain occur, this celery-salt treatment can relieve them within 10-15 minutes.
5. Amla (Indian Gooseberry) – The Vitamin C Powerhouse
Amla is a powerful Ayurvedic rejuvenator. It helps not just in acidity but also in general stomach health.
How to Use:
- Take 2-3 teaspoons of amla juice with water on an empty stomach in the morning.
- Amla powder can also be taken with honey.
Why It Works:
Amla decreases stomach heat, decreases irritation, and enhances digestion. The antioxidants in it make the stomach lining strong.
Example: For people who get morning heartburn or sour belching, amla juice is nectar.
6. Buttermilk with Spices – The Perfect Post-Meal Drink
Buttermilk (Matha) is a sattvic and digestive beverage in Ayurveda. It lightens the stomach as well as heals the intestines by growing good bacteria.
How to Make:
- Mix one cup of yogurt with two cups of water.
- Add cumin powder that has been roasted, black salt, and coriander leaves.
- Take after meals.
Why It Works:
Buttermilk cools the stomach, removes heaviness, and stops the formation of gas.
Example: If you’ve had rajma-rice, chole-bhature, or parathas and your stomach feels heavy, buttermilk is the instant relief.
7. Triphala Powder – The Gentle Detox
Triphala is a combination of three fruits – Amla, Haritaki, and Baheda. It is one of the most popular digestive solutions in Ayurveda.
How to Use:
- Take 1 teaspoon of Triphala powder with lukewarm water at bedtime.
Why It Works:
Triphala purifies the intestines, alleviates constipation, and harmonizes the digestive fire.
Example: Individuals who do not experience a bowel movement in the morning can gradually alleviate constipation by consuming Triphala for a few days.
Lifestyle Tips for Preventing Gas and Acidity
Remedies alone will not work. Lifestyle and dietary habits are also important.
- Eat on time – Late meals exert greater pressure on the stomach.
- Chew food well – Improperly chewed food results in gas and indigestion.
- Don’t eat much – 80% of your stomach is best.
- Reduce junk food – Fried, spicy, and packaged foods in excess cause more acidity.
- Drink water appropriately – Excessive drinking of water after a meal lowers digestion.
- Reduce stress – Yoga, pranayama, and meditation reduce tension and enhance digestion.
- Get proper sleep – Insomnia too causes more stomach issues.
When to See a Doctor
If you find yourself getting frequent heartburn, persistent sour belching, vomiting, weight loss, or severe pains after meals, it’s probably not gas or acidity alone. Think of visiting a doctor or Ayurvedic expert.
Conclusion
Gas and acidity are not uncommon issues, but if neglected, they could become a grave issue. Ayurveda says to us, when we eat appropriately at the appropriate time, in the correct manner, and in healthy amounts, stomach issues disappear automatically.
FAQs:-
What is the main cause of gas and acidity according to Ayurveda?
Ayurveda links gas and acidity to an imbalance in Pitta and Vata doshas, often triggered by irregular eating habits, stress, and poor digestion.
Which is the best Ayurvedic herb for acidity relief?
Mulethi (licorice root) and amla (Indian gooseberry) are considered excellent for cooling excess stomach acid and soothing the digestive tract.
How can I prevent gas and acidity naturally?
Eat meals at regular times, chew food properly, stay hydrated, avoid overeating, and maintain a calm and active lifestyle daily.
