Acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is one of the most common digestive complaints in Singapore. It causes burning pain in the chest, sour taste in the mouth, belching, or a feeling of food coming back up after eating. While Western medicine often treats it with acid-suppressing drugs, many patients notice the symptoms return once medication stops.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a holistic approach to acid reflux by addressing not just the acid, but the root imbalance in the body. At EMW TCM Singapore, we see this condition as a reflection of how Qi, Blood, and digestive fire interact within the Stomach and Liver systems. The goal of TCM acid reflux management is to restore internal harmony so the discomfort naturally subsides without long-term dependence on medication.

6 1 — In EMW TCM, physicians perform acupuncture mainly to rebalance energy flow mainly in the Liver, Spleen and Stomach, to remove stagnated energy and dispel dampness for digestive organs to work effectively and therefore to improve overall Qi and Blood circulation. Through having regular acupuncture and customized herbs prescription TCM treatments, we aim to heal and restore your digestive system in order for organs to work efficiently and effectively.

What Causes Acid Reflux in TCM

In TCM, acid reflux is often described as “rebellious Stomach Qi,” meaning the natural downward flow of digestion has been disrupted. Instead of moving food and energy downward, Qi moves upward, bringing acid and heat with it.

Several patterns can lead to TCM acid reflux:

Liver Qi Stagnation Attacking the Stomach
- Triggered by stress, suppressed emotions, or irregular eating.
- Symptoms: bloating, tightness in chest, sighing, bitter taste, and reflux aggravated by stress.
Spleen and Stomach Qi Deficiency
- Caused by overwork, eating cold or raw food, or chronic illness.
- Symptoms: fatigue, soft stools, bloating after meals, reflux after heavy food.
Stomach Heat or Damp-Heat
- Result of overeating spicy, greasy food or alcohol.
- Symptoms: burning pain, acid regurgitation, thirst, bad breath, constipation.
Cold in the Stomach
- Less common, often seen in people who consume iced drinks or cold salads.
- Symptoms: dull reflux, cold limbs, poor appetite.

These patterns show why TCM acid reflux therapy is never one-size-fits-all. Each person’s constitution and triggers differ, requiring personalised assessment.

Evidence-Based Support for TCM Approaches

Modern research provides growing evidence that TCM acid reflux treatments are effective and safe. A 2020 meta-analysis published in World Journal of Gastroenterology reviewed 30 clinical trials and found that Chinese herbal formulas significantly reduced reflux symptoms, improved quality of life, and lowered relapse rates compared to proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) alone.

Another study in Frontiers in Pharmacology (2022) showed that acupuncture regulates gastrointestinal motility and reduces esophageal sphincter relaxation episodes — one of the main physiological causes of acid reflux. This means acupuncture helps prevent acid from rising into the esophagus, addressing the root rather than just suppressing acid production.

At EMW TCM Singapore, our physicians integrate this evidence with classical pattern differentiation to create comprehensive plans for long-term digestive health.

Aromatherapy — At EMW TCM, we are committed to using natural therapeutic high-grade essential oils for our treatments diluted with fractionated coconut oil at a 2% dilution. No synthetic, toxic, petrochemical and/or fragrance oils are used. We explore using essential oils mainly for women’s health (including fertility) and gut health clinically. Essential oil for fertility, we help to balance fertility hormones and regulate a smooth menstrual cycle. Essential oil for gut health, we help to optimize digestive functions for nutrient absorption and waste removal.

When During the Cycle Should You Do Fertility Acupuncture 4 — In this article, our journey through Part I has unveiled the delightful and potent local dishes that can give your fertility a natural boost. From the fresh and flavorful seafood to the soul-warming herbal soups, Singaporean cuisine is a treasure trove of fertility-friendly foods. By adding these delicious, nutrient-packed dishes to your meals, you’re not just nourishing your body but also embracing a rich culinary tradition.

Dietary Guidance for TCM Acid Reflux

Diet plays a major role in TCM acid reflux management. Rather than relying only on restrictions, TCM focuses on supporting healthy digestion through mindful eating habits and warm, balanced meals.

Recommended foods:

Warm soups, congee, steamed fish, and root vegetables.
Ginger or Chinese dates to warm the digestive system.
Small, frequent meals to prevent overfilling the Stomach.

Foods to avoid:

Spicy, deep-fried, and greasy foods.
Coffee, alcohol, carbonated drinks, and cold smoothies.
Late-night eating or lying down immediately after meals.

From a TCM view, cold foods weaken the Spleen and slow digestion, while overeating produces Dampness that aggravates reflux. By eating slowly and choosing warm, easily digestible foods, patients often notice significant improvement within a few weeks.

Integrating TCM with Western Treatment

Patients already on acid-reducing medication can safely combine it with TCM acid reflux treatment under physician supervision. The TCM approach complements Western care by improving digestive strength and reducing dependence on long-term drugs.

At EMW TCM, we often help patients transition gradually by restoring Spleen Qi and balancing Liver Qi so their digestive system can function independently. Collaboration with gastroenterologists ensures that safety and efficacy remain the top priorities.

Many patients who sought treatment for reflux also report improved mood, better skin, and more stable energy. This is because digestion in TCM is considered the “Earth element,” nourishing every organ in the body.

OYGH series 1 — At EMW, we treat each patient based on syndrome differentiation and design a tailored therapy protocol that caters to individual’s constitution. Treatment plan focuses to relax and calm down spastic colon, improve energy circulation by ensuring smooth flow of Qi and Blood in your digestive organs and remove any heat, dampness, or stagnated energy. We strive towards enhancing your overall health and wellness to restore your vagus nerve function, for you to feel tranquil and rejuvenated after each treatment session with improvement in digestion and bowel movement.

EMW TCM’s Approach to Acid Reflux

Our TCM acid reflux Singapore programme includes:

Detailed consultation with pulse and tongue diagnosis to identify root causes.
Acupuncture sessions targeting Stomach and Liver meridians.
Customised herbal formulas to balance Heat, Qi, and Dampness.
Dietary and lifestyle guidance tailored to Singapore’s humid climate.

We integrate modern gastroenterological findings with TCM wisdom for evidence-based results. Each plan is reviewed regularly to track symptom improvement and overall vitality.

When to Seek Professional TCM Help

Your gut is the first organ to receive, transform, and deliver nourishment to every cell. If you experience chronic bloating, constipation, acid reflux, or fatigue, these may be early signs that your digestion needs attention.

Healing the gut restores energy, improves hormonal communication, and creates the internal harmony required for general health.

At EMW TCM Singapore, our physicians guide you through this process with care, evidence, and empathy. Whether you are addressing IBS or GERD, TCM offers a gentle yet powerful pathway to holistic wellness.

Check out our links below to book your consultation and begin your holistic journey toward better health ahead.