Speaker: David Hoffmann. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a fairly common condition affecting the lower esophageal sphincter, which leads to unpleasant heartburn and possible erosion of the esophagus due to reflux of stomach acid. Herbal actions indicated for this condition: demulcents, anti-inflammatories, astringents, alteratives and carminatives. Specific remedies include comfrey, calendula, marshmallow and chamomile. The second part of the lecture discusses the safety of comfrey in herbal therapeutics.