At the top of the list is primal: Urine therapy, sipping fresh.
The "acid reflux "you are experiencing could result from an imbalance between the heating and stimulating properties of the spices in golden milk (e.g., turmeric, ginger) and CCF tea (cumin, coriander, fennel) and the already sensitive digestive system of a Vata-Pitta constitution, especially during Vata season. In Vata season, characterized by dry, cold, and mobile qualities, the digestive fire (Agni) may become irregular, leading to symptoms like bloating, indigestion, or acid reflux.
Possible Causes:
- Pitta Aggravation: Spices such as ginger, black pepper, and turmeric are heating in nature. For a Pitta dosha, which is already prone to heat, these spices can aggravate acid production, leading to reflux.
- Vata Imbalance: The dry, light qualities of Vata can weaken digestion. When paired with stimulating spices, it can further disrupt the digestive process, causing discomfort.
- Overstimulation of Agni: The combination of heating spices may over-stimulate the digestive fire, causing excessive acid production in a system that might already be sensitive.
Remedies to Calm the Reaction:
- Aloe Vera Juice: Known for its cooling and soothing properties, aloe vera can help reduce Pitta-driven acid reflux while providing relief from inflammation in the digestive tract.
- Slippery Elm or Licorice Tea: Both of these herbs are cooling and mucilaginous, helping to soothe the lining of the stomach and esophagus while counteracting the excess acidity.
- Cooling Spices: Incorporate more cooling, carminative spices such as fennel or coriander, which can balance both Vata and Pitta. Fennel, in particular, helps calm acidity without adding heat.
- Avoid Heating Spices: Reduce or eliminate ginger, black pepper, and cinnamon, as they may exacerbate the issue.
- Ashwagandha Milk: Instead of golden milk, consider taking warm milk with ashwagandha. It is calming to both Vata and Pitta doshas and will not aggravate acidity.
In summary, the acid reflux could stem from Pitta aggravation due to the heating qualities of the spices. Switching to more cooling, soothing remedies and eliminating or reducing heating spices should help stabilize digestion and alleviate symptoms.
- Drink CCF Tea with Care: While CCF (Cumin, Coriander, Fennel) tea is generally balancing, reduce cumin as it can be heating, and focus on fennel and coriander, which are more cooling.
- Timing of Consumption: Avoid consuming these teas or golden milk late in the evening, as digestion naturally slows during this time, and consuming heating substances can worsen symptoms.