Chinese Medicine for Acid Reflux
By Dr (TCM) Attilio D'Alberto | Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner, Wokingham
Acid reflux (gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, GERD) is one of the most common digestive complaints in the UK, affecting approximately 20–30% of adults. While proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) effectively suppress symptoms, they do not address the underlying dysfunction — and long-term use is associated with reduced magnesium absorption, increased infection risk, and potential nutrient malabsorption. Traditional Chinese medicine addresses acid reflux at the root by restoring the stomach's natural descending movement.
TCM Understanding
The stomach in TCM governs the rotting and ripening of food and its downward passage. Acid reflux is an expression of stomach qi failing to descend — instead rising upward, carrying stomach acid with it. The most common patterns are liver qi stagnation invading the stomach (stress-driven reflux, worsened by emotional tension), stomach heat (burning, acid taste, thirst, preference for cold), and stomach yin deficiency (dry, chronic reflux with poor appetite and dry mouth, often in older patients or those who have been on PPIs long-term).
Chinese Herbal Medicine
For liver qi stagnation invading the stomach, Ban Xia Hou Po Tang harmonises the stomach and descends rebellious qi. For stomach heat, Ban Xia Xie Xin Tang clears heat and harmonises the middle. For stomach yin deficiency, formulas based on Mai Men Dong nourish the stomach yin. I prescribe pharmaceutical-grade granules from Sun Ten in Taiwan.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture regulates gastric motility, reduces lower oesophageal sphincter pressure abnormalities, and addresses the liver qi stagnation that is the most common driver of stress-related reflux. Research has confirmed improvements in GERD symptoms following acupuncture. CV 12 (Zhongwan), ST 36 (Zusanli), and PC 6 (Neiguan) are key points.
To discuss acid reflux or digestive problems, contact me or book a consultation in Wokingham.
