Gastritis and Acid Reflux

Gastritis and acid reflux are common digestive complaints that can cause significant discomfort. Gastritis involves inflammation of the stomach lining, while acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus, leading to heartburn, indigestion, and chest discomfort. Chronic cases can affect daily life and emotional wellbeing.

Understanding Gastritis and Acid Reflux in TCM

In TCM, these digestive issues are often associated with:

  • Stomach Heat or Fire irritating the stomach lining
  • Liver overacting on the Stomach due to emotional stress
  • Spleen Qi deficiency impairing digestive function
  • Food stagnation causing acid build-up and indigestion

TCM treatments aim to clear Heat, regulate Qi, strengthen the Spleen, and harmonise the Stomach and Liver.

How Acupuncture Helps with Gastritis and Acid Reflux

Acupuncture supports digestive healing by:

  • Regulating acid secretion and improving gastric motility
  • Reducing inflammation in the stomach lining
  • Calming the nervous system and reducing stress-induced symptoms
  • Strengthening the digestive organs to prevent recurrence

Key acupuncture points along the Stomach, Spleen, Liver, and Ren (Conception Vessel) meridians are selected to restore balance.

Clinical research published in the Journal of Digestive Health (2022) confirms that acupuncture reduces acid reflux episodes, alleviates heartburn, and improves gastric function compared to medication alone.

How Chinese Herbal Medicine Supports Healing

Chinese herbal medicine works internally to:

  • Clear Stomach Heat and soothe irritation
  • Regulate Qi movement to prevent acid backflow
  • Strengthen Spleen and Stomach function
  • Nourish the mucosal lining and promote healing

Commonly used herbs include:

  • Huang Lian (Coptis Root): Clears Stomach Heat and reduces inflammation
  • Ban Xia (Pinellia Rhizome): Transforms Phlegm and descends rebellious Qi
  • Chen Pi (Aged Tangerine Peel): Regulates Qi and improves digestion
  • Bai Zhu (Atractylodes Root): Strengthens the Spleen and supports digestion
  • Herbal formulas are tailored depending on whether Heat, Dampness, Qi stagnation, or deficiency predominate.

Gastritis vs Acid Reflux: TCM Approach

Gastritis

Gastritis typically presents with:

  • Burning pain in the upper abdomen
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Bloating and indigestion

Treatment focuses on clearing Stomach Heat, nourishing the Stomach lining, and improving digestion.

Acid Reflux

Acid reflux commonly involves:

  • Heartburn
  • Acid regurgitation
  • Chest or throat discomfort

Treatment aims to descend rebellious Stomach Qi, soothe the oesophagus, and harmonise the Liver and Stomach relationship.

Lifestyle and Dietary Recommendations for Digestive Health

Supporting recovery from gastritis and acid reflux involves mindful lifestyle habits. At Vital Duo, we recommend:

  • Eating smaller, more frequent meals to avoid overburdening the stomach
  • Avoiding spicy, greasy, fried, and heavily processed foods
  • Limiting caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated beverages
  • Not lying down immediately after eating
  • Choosing warm, cooked, easily digestible foods
  • Managing stress through relaxation techniques such as Tai Chi, meditation, or breathing exercises

Good sleep hygiene and regular, moderate physical activity also support a healthier digestive system.

Final Thoughts

Gastritis and acid reflux can affect your daily comfort and long-term wellbeing, but natural healing is possible. With the holistic methods of Traditional Chinese Medicine, you can soothe your digestion, restore balance, and protect your gut health.

Best Chinese Acupuncture for Pain Relief In Bristol

Our therapists combine traditional Chinese knowledge from Rank No.1 University in China, modern needles techniques, and 1:1 root cause consultation — so every session moves our clients toward full-body healing and sustainable wellness.

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Pain Relief Treatment At Vital Duo

  • Acupuncture

    Acupuncture is a cornerstone of TCM, involving the insertion of fine needles at specific points to stimulate the body's natural healing processes. This technique enhances blood circulation, reduces inflammation, and balances the flow of Qi (vital energy), effectively alleviating various types of pain, including:​

  • Herbal Tea

    Our custom-blended herbal teas are formulated based on ancient TCM texts and tailored to individual diagnoses. These blends work gently to reduce inflammation, nourish the organs, improve digestion, and calm the nervous system, supporting your recovery from within.

  • Herbal Supplements

    We offer personalised herbal supplements that strengthen the musculoskeletal system, ease nerve pain, and enhance resilience. Each formula is carefully matched to your condition and constitution to maximise healing potential.

  • Cupping

    Cupping therapy further boosts circulation, releases deep muscular tension, and supports lymphatic drainage. It is ideal for treating stubborn pain, inflammation, and stress-related tightness, helping you feel refreshed and renewed.

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Why Choose Vital Duo?

  • Free Pain Relief Talk with risk-free needle trial

    First-time patients enjoy a free consultation and a complimentary needle trial. If you decide to start treatment and it doesn’t feel right, you get a full refund. Our focus is your comfort, your results, and your trust.

  • Tailor Made Treatment

    At Vital Duo, every treatment plan is tailor-made. We diagnose based on ancient Chinese medical principles and provide personalised advice on diet, exercise, and lifestyle.

  • WhatsApp follow-up and progress tracking

    Our support continues beyond your session with WhatsApp follow-ups and progress tracking, so your healing journey is guided at every step.

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