Struggling with burning chest? Harvard-trained gastroenterologist recommends 4 natural beverages to stop acid reflux without medication

That uncomfortable burning feeling in your chest after a heavy meal is all too familiar for many people. Whether it strikes after your morning coffee or a late-night snack, acid reflux can make even the simplest meals feel like a challenge. While medications often bring quick relief, small daily habits and natural remedies can go a long way in soothing the discomfort. That’s exactly what Dr Saurabh Sethi, an AIIMS-trained gastroenterologist with experience at Harvard and Stanford, explained in a recent video. Known for using social media to spread awareness about preventable digestive and liver diseases, Dr Sethi shared how certain natural beverages can help manage acid reflux effectively.

How to stop acid reflux naturally?

Before listing his recommendations, Dr Sethi broke down what actually happens inside the body during acid reflux. Between the food pipe and the stomach lies a muscular valve called the lower esophageal sphincter. This valve normally opens to let food pass into the stomach and then closes to stop stomach acid from flowing back up. When it doesn’t close tightly enough, the acid rises up the food pipe, causing that burning sensation in the chest known as heartburn, one of the main symptoms of acid reflux or GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease).


He added that certain habits can weaken this valve and worsen reflux - including smoking, drinking alcohol, wearing tight belts, and overeating. Even some medications like painkillers and blood pressure drugs can trigger symptoms. Dr Sethi suggested making small lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, cutting down on alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding lying down immediately after meals. He also advised people to eat smaller, more frequent meals and to avoid eating or drinking for at least two to three hours before bedtime.

To help with nighttime reflux, he recommended slightly elevating the upper part of the body while sleeping, using a wedge pillow or raising the head of the bed by 10–20 degrees. This simple adjustment helps gravity prevent acid from moving up the food pipe.

After explaining these basics, Dr Sethi shared four natural beverages that can soothe heartburn without medication:

Water: The simplest and most accessible option. Drinking water helps dilute stomach acid and provides instant relief.

Basil tea: Made by steeping fresh basil leaves in boiling water for 5–10 minutes. Basil’s natural properties help calm the stomach and ease acidity.

Fennel tea: Prepared by crushing fennel seeds and letting them steep in hot water. Fennel aids digestion and reduces bloating, a common reflux trigger.

Ginger tea: Simmering sliced fresh ginger in water for about 10–15 minutes creates a soothing drink that can reduce inflammation and nausea.

He emphasised that these remedies are best for occasional heartburn and should complement, not replace, medical advice. For persistent symptoms, one should always consult a doctor to rule out more serious conditions.


According to Healthline, Mild acid reflux can often be managed by making small lifestyle adjustments, such as avoiding trigger foods and not lying down right after eating. Also called gastroesophageal reflux (GER), this condition causes stomach acid to flow back into the oesophagus. If it happens more than twice a week, it may indicate GERD, a more persistent form. Simple dietary changes and healthy habits usually help, but over-the-counter medicines can offer relief if symptoms continue.

Dr. Sethi’s message was simple: you don’t always need medication to feel better. With mindful eating, healthier habits, and a few natural drinks, it’s possible to keep acid reflux under control and enjoy your meals without the burn.