Is it possible to cure pain, acid reflux with honey?

This is an automatically translated article.

The article is professionally consulted by Master, Doctor Vu Huy Binh - Department of Medical Examination & Internal Medicine - Vinmec Hai Phong International General Hospital.

1. Benefits of honey

Very rich in antioxidants Some types of honey can contain as many antioxidants as fruits and vegetables. The antioxidants present in honey help protect cells from damage when free radicals attack. Free radicals are thought to be a factor in the aging process, as well as a cause of chronic diseases, such as heart and cancer. Therefore, the antioxidant component of honey helps to prevent heart disease.
Contains natural hydrogen peroxide This ingredient is very effective in treating wounds. Manuka Honey - produced only in New Zealand and Australia from the nectar of the Manuka tree, is recognized by medical professionals to be the most effective in treating wounds. This is because this particular type of honey contains high antibacterial properties along with natural hydrogen peroxide.
Antiviral and disinfectant properties Raw honey (unpasteurized) not only kills bacteria and fungi, but also contains natural disinfectants. Raw honey also brings many benefits to human health thanks to its rich nutrients and enzymes.

2. Honey cures stomach pain, reflux

Since thousands of years ago, honey has been used in the traditional Hindu system of medicine to treat a variety of ailments. Several studies and oral evidence suggest that honey has a soothing effect on the throat, as well as reducing symptoms of acid reflux.
There are different reasons people believe that honey cures stomach pain and soothes acid reflux symptoms. An article in the Indian Journal of Medical Research points out a few key points:
Antioxidant and free radical properties Honey is both an antioxidant and a free radical scavenger. Meanwhile, part of the cause of reflux and stomach pain is because free radicals damage the cells lining the digestive tract. So honey will prevent the progression of the disease by removing free radicals.
Characteristic texture Thanks to its unique texture, honey has a better coating ability than the mucous membrane of the esophagus. The thick and sticky texture of honey can help reduce acidity, contribute to long-term control of acid reflux, as well as treat stomach pain with honey effectively. In addition, honey also works to reduce inflammation in the stomach - esophagus thanks to its natural antibacterial properties.

Safe, Natural Method Honey is a natural ingredient and can be used alongside other traditional treatments without worrying about side effects or negative effects.
When over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription medications don't work, some people want to turn to natural options for symptom control. However, more formal studies are still needed before any conclusions can be drawn about the true effectiveness of honey in the treatment of acid reflux and stomach pain.

3. Note when using honey to treat stomachache

3.1. Dosage According to research published in the British Medical Journal, a person's heartburn symptoms will be reduced completely after consuming 5ml (about a teaspoon) of raw honey.
If you don't want to use honey alone, you can mix it with a glass of warm water or tea. Drinking a glass of milk or eating some yogurt can give you the same throat-soothing effect.
In the case of using turmeric and honey to treat stomach pain, the patient needs to take about 30-40 turmeric tablets/day, or 12g turmeric powder mixed with 10g honey in 100ml boiled water to cool, drink 3-4 days time.
3.2. Risks Most people can take honey without any negative side effects. However, the sweetness of honey certainly affects blood sugar levels. So if you have diabetes or are taking medication to control your blood sugar, check with your doctor before trying this home remedy for acid reflux and stomach upset.
You should also ask your doctor about taking honey if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Furthermore, honey is generally not recommended for infants under 12 months of age.
People with a honey allergy should also not try this home remedy. If you experience any unusual reactions, discontinue use and seek medical attention as soon as possible.

4. Other options to treat pain, acid reflux

4.1. OTC medications You can also try over-the-counter (OTC) medications to treat frequent acid reflux, for example:
Tums lozenges and other antacids that work to neutralize stomach acid, helping quick pain relief; H2-receptor antagonists, such as cimetidine (Tagamet) and famotidine (Pepcid), are effective in reducing the amount of acid the stomach makes; Proton pump inhibitors, such as omeprazole (Prilosec), also reduce stomach acid, in addition to helping to heal the esophagus. 4.2. Prescription medications If your symptoms persist, your doctor may prescribe stronger forms of these medications. They may be used alone or in combination, depending on your signs and symptoms.
For severe cases, your doctor may recommend a medication that strengthens the esophagus, such as baclofen. This medication can reduce the frequency of sphincter spasms, help relax, and prevent acid from flowing upwards. However, Baclofen comes with some significant side effects, including fatigue and cognitive decline.
4.3. Surgery In rare cases, patients need surgery to increase the strength of the esophageal sphincter.
Although research on the effectiveness of honey in treating acid reflux and stomach pain is limited, it is still a safe and natural remedy. Additionally, some OTC medications can also help ease acid reflux and upset stomach. If symptoms persist, you should consult your doctor. It should be kept in mind that the earlier the treatment time, the higher the possibility of recovery, while minimizing damage to the esophagus - stomach.

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Article referenced source: healthline.com