Cambridge scientist's five natural alternatives to omeprazole amid NHS safety warning

It might be the most prescribed drug in the UK, but people taking omeprazole are being urged to reconsider their use of the medication following a NHS warning.

The health body has warned against taking PPI medication omeprazole for more than two weeks if they bought it without a prescription.

However, many doctors and health experts have urged against taking the drug long-term over concerns it can have hugely detrimental impacts on gut health while depleting vital vitamins and minerals like magnesium and B12, having a knock-on effect on overall health.

However, if you've ever suffered the ill effects of heartburn and acid reflux, you might be questioning what you can do to ease your symptoms without leaving yourself vulnerable to the negative effects of long-term omeprazole use.

Experts warn against long-term use of omeprazole (Getty Stock Images)

Cambridge scientist Simon Mills says that acid production is very rarely the real issue, and taking medication that reduces acid production, like omeprazole, can have a detrimental impact, as acid plays a vital role in protecting against bacteria.

Instead, he has suggested five herbal alternatives to heal digestive issues with a completely natural approach.

Slippery elm for aiding reflux and heartburn

One way to fight against acid reflux is to consume a 'mucilage rich material' after eating food, to create a 'raft' of mucus that would float on top of the acid that forms in people who suffer with reflux, he explains on Herbal Reality.

According to Mills, slippery elm is the perfect candidate for this, providing immediate relief for heartburn, reflux or hiatal hernia, without suppressing vital acid production. Real name 'Ulmus fulva,' slippery elm can be taken in tablet or capsule form.

Slippery elm can be taken in a tablet or capsule form (Getty Stock Images)

Lemon balm for acid reflux and IBS

Chronic acid reflux and IBS are both thought to be linked with excessive gut mobility, which can be eased with a number of different herbs. Gentler spices like fennel and cardamom can be used, but the results do vary from person to person.

However, Mills advocates for lemon balm, real name Melissa offinalis, for consistently calming the stomach. He says it's best taken as a strong hot or warm tea with fresh leaves.

Licorice for healing the oesophageal mucosa

Reflux can be linked to a sensitivity of the oesophageal mucosa, which is regularly mistaken for a patient having too much stomach acid.

There are several herbs that can be taken to strengthen the oesophageal tissue, including Aloe vera and Meadowsweet, but results can vary depending on the person.

Heartburn and indigestion can feel debilitating (Getty Stock Images)

However, Mills says licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) is 'a superb healing agent' localised in the upper gut, however it can also reduce coughs making it the perfect solution for reflux linked to coughs.

Dandelion for overall digestion

According to Mills, a brilliant tonic for all-round digestive health is the root of dandelion (Taraxacum officinale), which can be used to dilute bile, helping move it down the bowel where it belongs, instead of rising upwards, adding to oesophageal erosion.

Although not proven, the Cambridge scientist also highlighted that people who responded well to this solution also appeared to increase the production of the protective mucus in their stomach.

Ginger has many health benefits (Getty Stock Images)

Ginger for increasing gastric emptying

Meanwhile, the increased speed at which the stomach is emptied is closely linked to reducing reflux, so natural herbs that speed the process along are a winner for decreasing painful symptoms.

Ginger is best known for its beneficial impacts in reducing feelings of sickness and vomiting, particularly in pregnant patients or those undergoing chemotherapy.

However, it can also be wonderful for reflux, according to Mills, as it's been shown to accelerate gastric emptying and improve burping.