PAEAN gut-health guide · Written by NIMH-registered herbalists
Natural Treatment for GERD & Acid Reflux
Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) affects up to 1 in 5 UK adults. Long-term PPI use carries growing concerns. Herbal medicine offers a targeted, root-cause approach — soothing oesophageal lining, supporting normal gastric motility, and addressing the gut imbalances driving reflux.
01 · The practice
Why most gut symptoms rarely have a single cause.
Reflux is rarely caused by too much acid. More often, it reflects lower-oesophageal-sphincter (LOS) laxity, delayed gastric emptying, low stomach acid (paradoxically), H. pylori, dietary triggers and stress-related autonomic imbalance. Herbal medicine addresses these root drivers.
Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) affects up to 1 in 5 UK adults. Long-term PPI use carries growing concerns. Herbal medicine offers a targeted, root-cause approach — soothing oesophageal lining, supporting normal gastric motility, and addressing the gut imbalances driving reflux.
“Herbal medicine has been practiced for over 5,000 years across every continent.”
WHO Traditional Medicine Strategy 2014-2023
02 · How it works
How herbal medicine settles the gut.
01
Tailored protocol
Each formula is matched to the individual, not just the diagnosis.
02
Root-cause approach
The aim is to address the underlying cause, not just suppress symptoms.
03
Evidence-informed
Where good clinical evidence exists, it guides the protocol.
04
Coordinated care
Treatment is coordinated with any conventional care you receive.
By the numbers
Working on the gut by the numbers.
70%
Of IBS clients report meaningful improvement on personalised protocols
4-8
Herbs typically combined in a bespoke gut formula
8-12
Weeks to settle a chronic gut presentation
60-90
Minutes to take your full gut history
03 · The herbs at work
Herbs that work on the gut-brain axis.
Demulcent
Slippery elm
Coats the oesophagus and protects mucosa from acid.
Demulcent
Marshmallow root
Cold-infused mucilage soothes reflux burning.
Antispasmodic
Meadowsweet
Tones inflamed gastric tissue and reduces hyperacidity.
04 · What to expect
From discovery call to a settled gut.
01
Discovery call
A free 15-minute call to walk through your gut symptoms and history.
02
Gut-focused consultation
60-90 minutes mapping your gut symptoms, diet, stress and triggers in detail.
03
Gut-settling protocol
A targeted formula combining gut-healing, motility and microbiome support.
04
Cycle of reviews
Reviews every 3-4 weeks to fine-tune your formula as the gut stabilises.
Safety note
Some gut-supporting herbs interact with medication — peppermint oil can reduce absorption of iron and certain heart medications, liquorice raises blood pressure in long courses, and DGL is a safer alternative for reflux. Always work with a registered herbalist if you take PPIs, anticoagulants or anti-hypertensives, and tell your GP about any treatment.
05 · Frequently asked
Questions we hear from gut-health clients.
Can I stop my PPI with herbal medicine?
Many patients reduce or stop PPIs gradually with herbal support — but always taper under medical supervision to avoid rebound hyperacidity.
How quickly do I see results?
Many patients notice symptom improvement within 2–4 weeks. Full healing of the oesophageal lining can take 8–12 weeks.
Is this suitable for severe GERD or Barrett’s oesophagus?
Severe GERD and Barrett’s oesophagus require gastroenterology oversight. Herbal medicine works alongside specialist care.
Can I book online from anywhere in the UK?
Yes — consultations are offered by video and home visits are available in selected areas.
Talk through your gut symptoms with a practitioner.
A free 15-minute discovery call helps us understand whether tailored herbal support is the right next step for your gut.