Tea to Drink for Acid Reflux: 7 Soothing Teas That Work

Introduction: Can Tea Really Help With Acid Reflux?

If you’ve ever experienced that burning sensation creeping up your chest after a meal, you’re not alone. Acid reflux affects over 20% of adults in the U.S. weekly (NIH). As someone who’s battled chronic heartburn, I know the frustration of trying medication after medication with limited relief.

That’s when I stumbled upon a surprising, natural remedy: tea to drink for acid reflux. Not only did it ease my symptoms, but it also became a comforting part of my daily routine. Let’s dive into the soothing world of teas, explore the best ones backed by science, and help you find the best tea for acid reflux.

Understanding Acid Reflux: Why It Happens

Acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. Common symptoms include:

• Heartburn
  
  
• Regurgitation
  
  
• Chest pain
  
  
• Sore throat
  
  
• Bloating
  
  

The LES (lower esophageal sphincter) is a valve that opens to let food in and closes to keep stomach contents down. Weakness or relaxation in this valve allows acid to escape upward—causing that uncomfortable burn.

Common Triggers:

• Spicy or fatty foods
  
  
• Caffeine
  
  
• Alcohol
  
  
• Smoking
  
  
• Eating late at night
  
  

Why Consider Tea for Acid Reflux?

Most over-the-counter medications treat symptoms, not the root cause. But many herbal teas naturally soothe digestion, reduce inflammation, and calm the stomach.

Tea to drink for acid reflux works because:

✅ It’s caffeine-free (most of them)
✅ Contains anti-inflammatory properties
✅ Stimulates digestion gently
✅ Hydrates and relaxes the body

📌 Voice Search Tip: Try asking, “What’s the best tea to drink for acid reflux at night?”—this blog answers that and more!

7 Best Teas to Drink for Acid Reflux (with Benefits)

Let’s look at the best herbal teas to drink for acid reflux that have helped many, including myself, get relief.

1. Ginger Tea

Why it helps: Ginger contains gingerol, an anti-inflammatory compound that can reduce stomach irritation.

“Ginger tea is my go-to post-dinner ritual. Within 20 minutes, the burning eases off.” — Personal Experience

How to use: Steep 1 inch of fresh ginger in hot water for 10 minutes.

2. Chamomile Tea

Why it helps: Acts as a natural antacid, calms nerves, and promotes sleep—a big bonus if reflux disrupts your nights.

Science Says: Chamomile has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties (PubMed).

Best time to drink: Before bed for nighttime relief.

3. Licorice Root Tea

Why it helps: Soothes the stomach lining and increases mucus production to protect the esophagus.

⚠️ Caution: Avoid if you have high blood pressure.

Tip: Choose DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) to avoid side effects.

4. Slippery Elm Tea

Why it helps: It contains mucilage, which coats the throat and stomach, reducing acid irritation.

User Review: “Slippery elm gave me almost instant relief when nothing else worked.”

Where to find it: Health food stores or online herbal shops.

5. Marshmallow Root Tea

Why it helps: Similar to slippery elm, it protects mucous membranes and can reduce inflammation.

Bonus: Helps with dry cough—a common reflux side effect.

6. Fennel Tea

Why it helps: Reduces bloating and gas, supports digestion, and prevents acid build-up.

Studies Show: Fennel may help relax the GI tract (source).

Taste Tip: Slightly sweet and aromatic—great after heavy meals.

7. Turmeric Tea

Why it helps: Curcumin, the active compound, fights inflammation and can soothe the digestive tract.

Pro Tip: Combine turmeric with ginger for double benefits!

What Teas to Avoid for Acid Reflux?

While there’s a list of tea to drink for acid reflux, there are some teas that may worsen symptoms:

• Peppermint Tea – Relaxes LES, allowing acid to escape
  
  
• Black Tea – High in caffeine
  
  
• Green Tea – Also contains caffeine and may be too acidic for some
  
  

Personal Experience: How I Found the Best Tea for Acid Reflux

I struggled with GERD for 3 years. Medications gave temporary relief. But one day, a holistic doctor recommended switching my evening coffee with licorice root tea.

In 7 days, the difference was noticeable. No more midnight heartburn. Since then, my routine includes:

• Ginger tea in the morning
  
  
• Fennel tea post-lunch
  
  
• Chamomile or slippery elm before bed
  
  

It’s not just about drinking tea—it’s about choosing the right tea to drink for acid reflux.

Expert Tips for Drinking Tea for Acid Reflux Relief

1. Drink warm, not hot – Avoid irritating your esophagus
   
   
2. Steep for at least 5–10 minutes to extract full benefits
   
   
3. Add honey (optional) – Natural anti-inflammatory
   
   
4. Drink 30 minutes before or after meals – Don’t dilute stomach acid during digestion
   
   
5. Avoid adding lemon or citrus
   
   

Bonus: Tea Recipes for Acid Reflux

🫖 Soothing Ginger-Fennel Blend

• 1 tsp grated ginger
  
  
• 1 tsp fennel seeds
  
  
• 2 cups water
  
  
• Simmer for 10 minutes
  
  
• Strain and sip slowly
  
  

🌿 Chamomile-Licorice Combo

• 1 chamomile tea bag
  
  
• 1/2 tsp licorice root
  
  
• 2 cups boiling water
  
  
• Steep for 8 minutes
  
  

Video: How to Make the Best Tea to Drink for Acid Reflux

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