Oesophagus - #18650
For the past few months, I have been experiencing an unusual discomfort in my throat. It feels like there’s something stuck in my oesophagus, especially after eating. Sometimes, I also have mild chest pain and occasional heartburn. Initially, I thought it was just acidity, but even after taking antacids, the sensation persists. A few weeks ago, I visited a doctor, and they mentioned that it could be related to my oesophagus—maybe acid reflux or some kind of inflammation. They recommended further tests, but before going ahead with allopathy, I wanted to understand if Ayurveda has a different perspective on this. From what I’ve read, the oesophagus is responsible for carrying food from the mouth to the stomach, and any issues with it can lead to difficulty swallowing, irritation, or even serious conditions like GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). Ayurveda talks about Pitta imbalance causing acidity—could that be affecting my oesophagus as well? Are there any Ayurvedic remedies or dietary changes that can help strengthen the oesophagus and prevent this discomfort? I’ve heard that licorice (Yashtimadhu) and aloe vera juice are good for soothing the digestive tract—can they help heal the oesophagus too? Also, are there any specific foods that I should avoid to prevent irritation in the oesophagus? I tend to eat spicy and fried food often—could that be worsening my condition? Would adopting a Pitta-pacifying diet be beneficial? Lastly, are there any Ayurvedic therapies, such as oil pulling or herbal decoctions, that can support oesophagus health? Since this discomfort is persistent, I want to find a long-term, natural solution before relying on medication.
100% Anonymous
completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.

Doctors’ responses
Your symptoms suggest a potential Pitta imbalance, particularly as you are experiencing discomfort after eating, chest pain, and heartburn. In Ayurveda, a lifestyle and dietary regimen tailored to pacify Pitta can be effective in addressing your current condition. To begin with, it’s crucial to adapt your diet. Avoid spicy, fried, and acidic foods, as well as caffeine, chocolate, and carbonated beverages, which can aggravate Pitta and increase inflammation in your oesophagus. Instead, focus on incorporating sweet, bitter, and astringent tastes into your meals. Opt for cooling foods such as cucumbers, melons, and leafy greens, and try to include cooked grains like rice and quinoa, as they are easier to digest.
You can certainly include licorice (Yashtimadhu) and aloe vera juice; both have soothing properties that can help calm irritation in the digestive tract. For licorice, try taking about half a teaspoon of the powdered root steeped in warm water or milk twice a day. For aloe vera, consuming 1-2 tablespoons of fresh juice on an empty stomach can be beneficial.
Additionally, incorporate herbal decoctions such as a tea made from coriander, fennel, and cumin seeds. These herbs help balance Pitta and can ease digestive discomfort. Consider practicing gentle mindfulness techniques or pranayama to manage stress, which can also exacerbate digestive issues.
Beyond dietary changes, therapies like oil pulling using coconut or sesame oil can help improve oral health and digestion. Swish for about 10-15 minutes daily, and ensure to follow it with rinsing your mouth with warm water.
Make sure to eat smaller, more frequent meals and allow ample time for digestion before lying down. If symptoms continue or worsen, it’s essential to follow through with your doctor’s recommendations for further evaluation. Adopting these Ayurvedic practices with consistency may help alleviate your symptoms and promote overall digestive health.

100% Anonymous
600+ certified Ayurvedic experts. No sign-up.
About our doctors
Only qualified ayurvedic doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.