If you’ve ever experienced that burning sensation in your chest after a meal or woken up at night with a sour taste in your mouth, chances are you’ve had an episode of acidity. For many people, especially those dealing with frequent acid reflux, ulcers, or indigestion, a medication like Ranitidine might come into play. But first, before you grab that pill, you really should know what are some of the ranitidine uses, how it works, and what safety precautions to take.
What is Ranitidine and Why is it Used?
Ranitidine is most often prescribed to decrease acid output in the stomach. It is a type of medicine called H2 blockers that act by blocking histamine receptors within the lining of the stomach. These receptors send a message to the stomach to release acid. By interrupting this signal, Ranitidine decreases acid levels and brings relief from symptoms such as:
- Hyperacidity
- Heartburn
- Gastric and duodenal ulcers
- Acid reflux (GERD)
Briefly speaking, it allows your stomach lining to get some relief from too much acid so that it can heal and operate more comfortably.
Advice of Ayurveda-Based Medical Care
On sites such as Ask Ayurveda, Ayurvedic physicians generally discuss Ranitidine’s function from a rational view. Though it provides fast relief for acid-related complaints, they use caution. Doctors state that Ranitidine can only be taken under a physician’s guidance and for a short duration. It is not the permanent solution for stomach issues. Misuse of such drugs can hide underlying conditions or even cause side effects.
Ayurveda, rather than addressing only the symptoms of hyperacidity, endeavors to find out the underlying cause of it. Usually, it is connected to inappropriate food habits, excessive stress, or an imbalance in Pitta in the body. Ayurveda philosophy is that excess heat (or agni) in the stomach can result in acid production, ulcers, and burning. For such situations, Ranitidine may relieve the symptoms in the short term but a holistic long-term treatment is advised.
Should You Take Ranitidine Along with Ayurvedic Remedies?
Yes, but only under the supervision of an expert. Although Ranitidine targets acidity levels right now, Ayurveda targets your digestive fire (agni) and stress that could be causing acidity. Some of the general Ayurvedic recommendations for minimizing acidity are:
- Cumin and coriander water to cool the digestive system.
- Licorice root (Mulethi) to soothe ulcers and quiet acid.
- Amla (Indian gooseberry) which contains vitamin C and balances Pitta.
- Taking meals at proper intervals and abstaining from fried, spicy, and sour foods.
It is extremely important to mention here that if you’re already taking Ranitidine or any other antacid, do not mix Ayurvedic herbs yourself. Approach a professional Ayurvedic physician who can test for interactions and prescribe the proper dosage and timing.
Ranitidine works well for symptomatic relief of hyperacidity, ulcers, and acid reflux for the short term. However, as with any other drug, it’s not supposed to be consumed endlessly without identifying the cause of the problem. Rather than treating the symptom, knowing your body, your lifestyle, and your imbalances is what matters. At Ask Ayurveda, we specialize in individualized healing—so if you opt for traditional medicine or natural cure, always talk to a doctor and take a route that’s both safe and best for your body.