What are the most effective herbal treatments for diarrhea. How can natural remedies provide relief from acute digestive issues. Which herbs have been traditionally used to manage diarrheal symptoms. What dietary changes can help alleviate diarrhea naturally.

Understanding Diarrhea: Causes and Symptoms

Diarrhea is a common gastrointestinal condition characterized by frequent, loose, and watery stools. It can be accompanied by abdominal cramping, bloating, and a sense of urgency. While often acute and self-limiting, diarrhea can lead to dehydration if not properly managed.

There are various causes of diarrhea, including:

• Viral infections
• Bacterial infections
• Food poisoning
• Recent antibiotic use
• Contaminated water consumption

Acute diarrhea typically lasts less than two weeks and is often the body’s way of dealing with disruptions in the gastrointestinal system. In children, infectious diarrhea is common and frequently caused by viruses. Traveler’s diarrhea can occur when visiting areas with compromised water quality, while improperly stored or cooked food is a typical cause of food poisoning.

The Importance of Hydration in Managing Diarrhea

Maintaining proper hydration is crucial when experiencing diarrhea, as dehydration can be particularly dangerous for young children and older adults. For infants with diarrhea, it’s essential to continue breastfeeding or formula feeding. Pediatric oral hydration solutions, such as Pedialyte, are recommended for children and should be administered in small, frequent amounts.

For adults with mild diarrheal symptoms, sports drinks and over-the-counter rehydration solutions can be equally effective. It’s important to avoid alcohol, milk, soda, and other carbonated or caffeinated beverages, as these may exacerbate symptoms.

Can natural hydration methods be as effective as commercial solutions?

While commercial oral rehydration solutions are formulated specifically for diarrhea, some natural alternatives can also be effective. Coconut water, for example, is rich in electrolytes and can help replenish lost fluids. Homemade oral rehydration solutions using water, salt, and sugar can also be prepared in emergencies. However, it’s crucial to ensure proper proportions to avoid further complications.

Herbal Remedies for Diarrhea: Nature’s Digestive Aids

Herbal treatments have been used for centuries to manage diarrheal symptoms. These natural remedies often work by reducing inflammation, soothing the digestive tract, or possessing antimicrobial properties. Here are some effective herbal options:

1. Chamomile Tea: Known for its calming effects, chamomile can help reduce intestinal inflammation and ease abdominal discomfort.
2. Peppermint: This herb has antispasmodic properties that can relieve cramping and soothe the digestive system.
3. Ginger: With its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, ginger can help alleviate nausea and reduce diarrhea duration.
4. Blackberry Root: Traditionally used to treat diarrhea, blackberry root contains tannins that can help reduce intestinal inflammation.
5. Psyllium Husk: This soluble fiber can help absorb excess water in the intestines, potentially firming up stools.

How should herbal remedies be prepared for maximum effectiveness?

The preparation method can significantly impact the efficacy of herbal remedies. For most herbs, creating an infusion or tea is the most common approach. Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried herbs in a cup of hot water for 5-10 minutes, strain, and drink. For stronger preparations like blackberry root, a decoction might be more appropriate, involving simmering the herb in water for 15-20 minutes before straining and consuming.

The Role of Probiotics in Diarrhea Management

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that support a healthy gut environment. They play a crucial role in maintaining normal gastrointestinal function and protecting against infections. When the balance of gut bacteria is disrupted by antibiotics or overwhelmed by harmful microorganisms, diarrhea can occur. Probiotics can help restore this balance and alleviate diarrheal symptoms.

Natural sources of probiotics include:

• Yogurt
• Kefir
• Sauerkraut
• Kimchi
• Kombucha
• Aged soft cheeses
• Miso
• Tempeh

Are all probiotic strains equally effective for diarrhea?

Not all probiotic strains have the same effects on diarrhea. Saccharomyces boulardii, a yeast probiotic, has shown particular promise in improving antibiotic-associated diarrhea and providing relief for traveler’s diarrhea. Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Lactobacillus casei are bacterial strains that have also demonstrated effectiveness in reducing the duration and severity of diarrhea, especially in children.

Dietary Modifications to Alleviate Diarrhea Symptoms

Adjusting your diet can play a significant role in managing diarrhea and promoting faster recovery. The BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast) has long been recommended for its easily digestible, low-fiber foods that can help firm up stools. However, modern nutritional science suggests a more balanced approach while still avoiding foods that may exacerbate symptoms.

Foods to consider during a bout of diarrhea include:

• Lean proteins like chicken or fish
• Cooked carrots or sweet potatoes
• Eggs
• Pretzels or crackers
• White bread or pasta

Foods to avoid include:

• Dairy products (except for probiotic yogurt)
• Fatty or greasy foods
• Spicy foods
• Caffeine and alcohol
• High-fiber foods

How long should dietary restrictions be maintained after diarrhea subsides?

It’s generally recommended to follow a restricted diet for 24-48 hours after diarrhea symptoms improve. Gradually reintroduce normal foods over the course of a few days, paying attention to how your body responds. If symptoms return, continue with the restricted diet and consult a healthcare provider if issues persist.

Over-the-Counter Medications for Diarrhea Relief

While natural remedies can be effective, over-the-counter medications can provide quick relief for acute diarrhea when symptoms are not severe. Common options include:

• Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol and Kaopectate)
• Loperamide (Imodium)

These medications can help alleviate symptoms but do not address the underlying cause of diarrhea. It’s important to use them under medical supervision, especially for chronic diarrhea lasting more than 14 days.

When should over-the-counter medications be avoided?

Over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medications should be avoided in certain situations:
– For children, as these medications are not recommended without a doctor’s guidance
– In cases of bloody diarrhea
– When experiencing high fever along with diarrhea
– If diarrhea is caused by certain bacterial infections, as the medication can prolong the infection

Traditional Chinese Medicine Approaches to Diarrhea

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a holistic approach to treating diarrhea, focusing on restoring balance within the body. TCM practitioners may use a combination of herbal formulas, acupuncture, and dietary recommendations to address diarrheal symptoms.

Some commonly used TCM herbs for diarrhea include:

• Pulsatilla (Bai Tou Weng): Used for dysentery-like diarrhea with mucus and blood
• Pomegranate Peel (Shi Liu Pi): Helps to stop diarrhea and reduce intestinal inflammation
• Agastache (Huo Xiang): Aids in resolving dampness and harmonizing the stomach
• Atractylodes (Bai Zhu): Strengthens the spleen and stops diarrhea

How does TCM categorize different types of diarrhea?

TCM categorizes diarrhea based on underlying patterns of disharmony in the body. Common patterns include:
– Spleen Qi Deficiency: Characterized by chronic, loose stools and fatigue
– Damp-Heat: Associated with acute diarrhea, often with burning sensations and yellow, foul-smelling stools
– Cold-Damp: Manifests as watery diarrhea with undigested food, often triggered by consuming cold foods
Treatment approaches are tailored to address these specific patterns, aiming to restore balance and strengthen the digestive system.

Ayurvedic Remedies for Diarrhea Management

Ayurveda, the traditional medical system of India, offers various natural remedies for managing diarrhea. According to Ayurvedic principles, diarrhea is often associated with an imbalance in the Pitta (fire) or Vata (air) doshas. Ayurvedic treatments aim to restore balance and strengthen the digestive fire (agni).

Some Ayurvedic remedies for diarrhea include:

• Nutmeg and Ghee: A small amount of nutmeg mixed with ghee can help reduce diarrhea and soothe the digestive tract
• Pomegranate Juice: Rich in tannins, pomegranate juice can help reduce intestinal inflammation and firm up stools
• Cumin, Coriander, and Fennel Tea: This triphala combination helps balance the digestive system and reduce inflammation
• Buttermilk with Ginger and Cumin: Aids in digestion and provides probiotics to restore gut health

How does Ayurveda approach the prevention of recurring diarrhea?

Ayurveda emphasizes preventive measures to maintain digestive health and prevent recurring diarrhea:
– Following a balanced diet suitable for one’s dosha type
– Practicing mindful eating and proper food combining
– Incorporating digestive spices like ginger, cumin, and ajwain into daily meals
– Maintaining a regular eating schedule and avoiding late-night meals
– Practicing stress-reduction techniques like yoga and meditation to support overall digestive health

Homeopathic Treatments for Diarrhea

Homeopathy offers individualized treatments for diarrhea based on specific symptom patterns. While scientific evidence for homeopathy’s effectiveness is limited, some people find relief through these remedies. Common homeopathic treatments for diarrhea include:

• Arsenicum Album: For diarrhea accompanied by anxiety, restlessness, and burning sensations
• Podophyllum: Used for painless, profuse diarrhea, often worse in the morning
• Veratrum Album: For violent diarrhea with vomiting and cold sweats
• Mercurius Solubilis: Indicated for diarrhea with mucus or blood, often with a strong odor

How are homeopathic remedies selected for individual cases of diarrhea?

Homeopathic practitioners select remedies based on the principle of “like cures like.” They consider:
– The specific nature of the diarrhea (consistency, color, odor)
– Accompanying symptoms (nausea, cramping, fever)
– Factors that improve or worsen symptoms (time of day, temperature, foods)
– The patient’s emotional state and overall constitution
By matching these factors to the characteristics of various remedies, homeopaths aim to stimulate the body’s self-healing mechanisms.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Diarrhea

While many cases of acute diarrhea resolve on their own or with home remedies, certain situations require prompt medical attention. It’s crucial to recognize the signs that indicate a need for professional medical care.

Seek medical help if you experience:

• Severe abdominal or rectal pain
• Blood in the stool
• Black, tarry stools
• High fever (above 102°F or 39°C)
• Signs of severe dehydration (extreme thirst, dry mouth, little or no urination, severe weakness)
• Diarrhea lasting more than 3 days

Are there specific concerns for different age groups regarding diarrhea?

Different age groups have varying levels of risk associated with diarrhea:
– Infants and young children: More susceptible to dehydration; seek medical care for any signs of dehydration or if diarrhea lasts more than 24 hours
– Older adults: At higher risk of complications; monitor closely for dehydration and electrolyte imbalances
– Immunocompromised individuals: May be more vulnerable to severe infections; should seek medical attention promptly
– Pregnant women: Need to be cautious about dehydration and electrolyte imbalances; should consult their healthcare provider if experiencing persistent diarrhea

Understanding the various herbal and natural treatments for diarrhea can provide valuable options for managing this common condition. From traditional remedies to modern probiotic approaches, these methods offer alternatives or complements to conventional treatments. However, it’s essential to remember that severe or prolonged diarrhea requires medical attention, especially in vulnerable populations like young children and older adults. By combining proper hydration, dietary adjustments, and appropriate natural remedies, many cases of acute diarrhea can be effectively managed at home. Always consult with a healthcare professional for persistent symptoms or if you’re unsure about the best course of treatment for your specific situation.

5 Effective Diarrhea Remedies

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A bout of diarrhea is never fun. Plenty of options, from anti-diarrheal medication to dietary changes that soothe your digestive system, can help you find relief.

Overview

We’ve all experienced bouts of diarrhea at some point in our lives. Common symptoms of diarrhea include frequent, watery stools, abdominal cramping, and bloating.

Diarrhea is often your body’s way of dealing with disruptions in your gastrointestinal system. Acute diarrhea lasts less than 2 weeks and can come from many sources, such as:

• a viral infection
• a bacterial infection
• food poisoning
• recent antibiotic use
• water contaminated with an infectious agent

Infectious diarrhea is common in young children and is often caused by a virus. Traveler’s diarrhea can occur if you travel to underdeveloped areas with contaminated water. Bacteria from improperly stored or cooked food are typical causes of food poisoning.

Read on for some of the most effective ways to manage acute diarrhea.

Hydration is very important when you have diarrhea. Dehydration from diarrhea can be fatal in young children and older adults. Continue breastfeeding or formula feeding infants who are experiencing diarrhea. Over-the-counter oral pediatric hydration solutions, like Pedialyte, are the recommended fluids of choice for children with diarrhea. Small amounts of hydration solutions should be given frequently. These formulas also come in popsicle preparations.

Studies have shown that for adults with mild symptoms of diarrhea, sports drinks and over-the-counter rehydration solutions are equally effective.

Alcohol, milk, soda, and other carbonated or caffeinated drinks should not be used for hydration, as they may make your symptoms worse.

Probiotics are sources of “good” bacteria that work in your intestinal tract to create a healthy gut environment. They’re essentially live microorganisms that exist in certain foods, including:

• aged soft cheeses
• beet kvass
• cottage cheese
• dark chocolate
• green olives
• kefir
• kimchi
• kombucha
• sauerkraut
• miso
• natto
• pickles
• sourdough bread
• tempeh
• yogurt

Probiotics also come in powder or pill form.

The good bacteria that live in your intestinal tract are necessary for the normal functioning of your gastrointestinal system. They play an important role in protecting your intestines against infection. When your system is changed by antibiotics or overwhelmed by unhealthy bacteria or viruses, you can get diarrhea. Probiotics can help with diarrhea by restoring the balance of bacteria in your gut.

Saccharomyces boulardii is a yeast probiotic. While it’s not a bacterium, it acts like one. S. boulardii may improve antibiotic-associated diarrhea. It also seems to provide relief for traveler’s diarrhea. Studies suggest it may help your intestines fight off unwanted pathogens and ensure they’re absorbing nutrients properly. Because it is yeast, it should be used with caution in people with inadequate immune systems.

It’s important to receive proper medical care in cases of acute diarrhea. Talk with your health care provider before taking probiotic supplements to treat your diarrhea.

With your doctor’s supervision, several over-the-counter medications can help with acute diarrhea if your symptoms are not severe. Common over-the-counter medications include:

• bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol and Kaopectate)
• loperamide (Imodium)

While these drugs can relieve the symptoms of diarrhea, they don’t treat the underlying cause.

If you have chronic diarrhea, you shouldn’t use these drugs without your doctor’s consent. Chronic diarrhea is diarrhea that lasts more than 14 days. It often has different causes.

You should be especially cautious if your child has diarrhea. Dehydration resulting from diarrhea can be dangerous and can occur quickly in young children. Severe dehydration can be life-threatening. Over-the-counter medications are not recommended for treatment in children, so it’s important to talk to your doctor. Infants under 3 months old who have diarrhea should be taken to the doctor right away.

If you have bloody diarrhea, a fever, more than seven days of symptoms, intense abdominal pain, or diarrhea that is getting worse, you should seek medical attention.

While it might sound counterintuitive to eat if you have diarrhea, eating certain foods can help alleviate your diarrhea symptoms and ensure your health doesn’t worsen from not eating. Stick to low-fiber “BRAT” foods that will help firm up your stool. These include:

• bananas
• rice (white)
• applesauce
• toast

Other foods that are usually well-tolerated when experiencing diarrhea include:

• oatmeal
• boiled or baked potatoes (with skins peeled)
• baked chicken with skin removed
• chicken soup (which also aids in rehydration)

Fried and greasy foods are usually not well-tolerated in people who have diarrhea. You should also consider limiting high-fiber foods like bran as well as fruits and vegetables that can increase bloating. Foods to avoid include:

• alcohol
• artificial sweeteners (found in chewing gum, diet soft drinks and sugar substitutes)
• beans
• berries
• broccoli
• cabbage
• cauliflower
• chickpeas
• coffee
• corn
• ice cream
• green leafy vegetables
• milk
• peas
• peppers
• prunes
• tea

Plus Causes and Prevention Tips

Treatment to get rid of diarrhea fast can depend on the cause but typically involves taking anti-diarrheal medications or antibiotics. Certain food and drinks may also help you manage your symptoms.

Diarrhea, or watery stools, can be embarrassing and strike at the worst times, such as during a vacation or special event.

But while diarrhea often improves on its own within two to three days, a few remedies can help promote firmer stools faster.

Keep reading to learn about five fast-acting methods, along with what typically causes diarrhea and prevention tips.

Some people see diarrhea as nothing more than a mild nuisance and let it run its course, especially since some bouts lasts less than 24 hours.

You might stay close to home or a bathroom, and load up on fluids and electrolytes to prevent dehydration.

But what if you can’t stay home?

In this case, taking an anti-diarrheal medication may reduce or completely eliminate loose stools after the first dose. Look for over-the-counter products like Imodium or Pepto-Bismol, which have the ingredients loperamide and bismuth subsalicylate, respectively.

The active ingredient in Imodium works swiftly because it slows the movement of fluid through the intestines. This can quickly restore normal bowel function. Pepto-Bismol, on the other hand, helps kill diarrhea-causing bacteria in your intestines.

Rice water is another fast, effective remedy for diarrhea. Boil 1 cup of rice and 2 cups of water for about 10 minutes, or until the water becomes cloudy.

Strain the rice and preserve the water for consumption. Rice water not only provides your body with fluid to prevent dehydration, it can also reduce the duration of diarrhea. Rice water has a binding effect in the digestive tract, resulting in firmer, bulkier stools.

Taking a probiotic supplement or eating probiotic foods like some brands of yogurt may also stop diarrhea.

Sometimes, diarrhea results from an imbalance of bacteria in the gut. Probiotics help restore balance by providing a higher level of good bacteria. This can promote normal bowel function and shorten the duration of diarrhea.

Diarrhea from bacteria or a parasite may need an antibiotic. In this case, diarrhea can occur after coming in contact with contaminated food or water, often while traveling.

Keep in mind that antibiotics are ineffective when viral infections cause diarrhea. This type of diarrhea must run its course.

A diet known as BRAT may also quickly relieve diarrhea.

BRAT stands for bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. This diet is effective due to the bland nature of these foods, and the fact that they’re starchy, low-fiber foods.

These foods have a binding effect in the digestive tract to make stools bulkier. And since they’re bland, they’re less likely to irritate your stomach or worsen diarrhea.

Along with these items, you could also eat (similarly bland) saltine crackers, clear broth, and potatoes.

Understanding the cause of diarrhea can help you avoid future bouts. Common causes include:

Stomach virus

Viral gastroenteritis (stomach flu) is one cause of diarrhea. Along with watery stools, you may have:

• stomach pain
• nausea
• vomiting
• low-grade fever

These viruses include norovirus and rotavirus, which can develop after eating or drinking contaminated food, or sharing personal items with an infected person.

Medication

Sensitivity to certain medications can also trigger bouts of diarrhea. This may happen after taking antibiotics, pain relievers, or cancer-fighting drugs.

Foodborne illness

Also called food poisoning, diarrhea can develop if you eat food contaminated by bacteria, parasites, or toxins. Food-borne illnesses can include those caused by the following bacteria:

• Salmonella
• E. coli
• Listeria monocytogenes
• Clostridium botulinum (botulism)

Food allergy or sensitivity

If you’re lactose intolerant, diarrhea may develop after eating dairy products. These include milk, cheese, ice cream, and yogurt.

Having a food allergy or sensitivity may also trigger diarrhea. For example, you may have diarrhea after eating foods containing gluten — wheat, pasta, or rye.

Artificial sweeteners

This is a lesser known cause of diarrhea. But if you’re sensitive to artificial sweeteners, you may have a bout of diarrhea after eating foods or drinks containing these sweeteners. Artificial sweeteners are found in diet drinks, sugar-free products, chewing gum, and even some candy.

Digestive problems

Diarrhea is sometimes a symptom of digestive disorders. You might have frequent bouts of loose stools if you’re diagnosed with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Also, irritable bowel syndrome can cause alternating bouts of diarrhea and constipation.

Diarrhea caused by a virus or bacterial infection is contagious. You can protect yourself by:

• washing your hands frequently
• avoiding sick people
• disinfecting commonly touched surfaces
• not sharing personal items

If you have diarrhea after starting a new medication, ask your doctor about an alternative drug or possibly lowering your dosage.

You can also protect yourself by thoroughly cooking food and washing fruits and vegetables before preparing. Also, make sure you know the proper way to wash your hands.

Use warm, soapy water and wash your hands for at least 20 seconds. If water isn’t available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

To identify possible food allergies or sensitivities, keep a food journal and write down everything you eat for a few weeks. Make a note of days that you have diarrhea.

Keeping a food journal can help determine whether you have a lactose intolerance or a gluten sensitivity. You can then try an elimination diet. Remove suspected problem foods from your diet and see if your symptoms improve.

For a digestive disorder, talk to your doctor if you feel that your current therapy isn’t working. You may need to adjust your medication.

See a doctor for diarrhea that lasts longer than three days, or if you show signs of dehydration. This can include extreme thirst, decreased urination, and dizziness.

You should also see a doctor if you have:

• a fever above 102°F (38.9°C)
• bloody or black stools
• abdominal pain

Diarrhea can come and go within 24 hours. Or it can last for days and disrupt your plans. But between medication, low-fiber foods, and avoiding foods that irritate your digestive system — such as dairy or artificial sweeteners — you can quickly relieve symptoms and enjoy diarrhea-free days.

Best Herbs For Diarrhea | Recipes at home

Let’s be honest, most of the articles in the description of medical symptoms in the first place paint a negative picture of what is happening. When it comes to diarrhea, in most texts you will find: “see a doctor soon”, “immediately an ambulance”, etc.

Indeed, there are some types in which the only way out is immediate hospitalization. Therefore, before describing the herbs for diarrhea, we will analyze with you which one is dangerous and which one can go well at home when adjusting the diet and using folk remedies.

Contents

• Possible hazards
• Diarrhea that does not require hospitalization
• Effects on the body, advantages and disadvantages
• Official medical opinion
• Precautions
• For the elderly
• Rules for brewing herbs and traditional folk recipes
• We treat the cause – we cure the symptom

Possible dangers

The negative consequences of diarrhea are dehydration of the body and loss of essential vitamins and microelements. Indeed, this disease is among the 10 ailments that lead to death. But for this there are a number of signs indicating the need to go to the doctor. These include:

1. Defecation more than 3 times a day (including at night).
2. Incontinence of the stool.
3. Accompanying vomiting, epigastric pain.
4. Increased body temperature (more than 37.5 degrees).
5. Dryness of the mucous membranes, especially the lips, is the first sign of dehydration. And here immediate help is required – an infusion of fluid through the mouth, regardless of the patient’s condition.
6. Diarrhea is accompanied by yellowing of the sclera of the eyes and skin.
7. Black or bloody stool content. Here it is worth clarifying, if there is slight bloody discharge in the feces, these may be traces of broken capillaries. This happens sometimes with frequent defecation. Especially this phenomenon can be observed in children, as their circulatory system is more sensitive.

You also need to pay attention to the general condition. Dangerous types of diarrhea, as a rule, accompany: weakness, apathy, blanching of the skin.

If possible, the blood pressure of an adult should be measured. If it is below 90/50 mm Hg. Art. This is a reason to call an ambulance. Diarrhea that does not require hospitalization lactulose syrups or smectites. The reception of “Regidron” is usually indicated for acute forms of diarrhea to replenish the body with electrolytes.

Now you can consider in detail herbs for diarrhea, their features and effects on the body.

Effects on the body, advantages and disadvantages

Those who think herbs are safe are mistaken. This is a drug that has indications and contraindications. The same goes for people who find plants ineffective for diarrhea. Many herbs and fruits contain so-called tannins. Once in the digestive tract, they contribute to the binding of elements of the intestinal contents. The same applies to folk remedies containing starch or gluten. The simplest and safest remedy for mild diarrhea is rice or rice water. Especially it can be used for diarrhea in children. However, it is important to monitor the condition of the child, and in which case – to use the drugs prescribed by the doctor.

The benefits of herbal and fruit therapy:

1. Organic. All these drugs are not derived synthetically, unlike drugs, and therefore are perceived by our body better.
2. Efficiency. With the right recipe, you can prepare a decoction for diarrhea, which will help eliminate it in a short time.
3. Availability. Even if you do not know herbs, you cannot collect them yourself, they are freely sold in a pharmacy. Moreover, modern phytopharmaceuticals offer ready-made preparations in convenient filter bags.
4. No side effects. Most herbs do not have as wide a list of side effects as synthetic drugs.

The main contraindications to the use of herbs for diarrhea are acute conditions in case of poisoning (intoxication), individual intolerance to the plant.

In addition, some herbs should not be used in the presence of diabetes, systemic lupus erythematosus, some forms of hepatitis. When starting herbs without consulting a doctor, it is best to reduce the recommended dose or break it down into smaller portions (increasing the number of doses). So, according to your own feelings and condition, you can determine how much medicinal herbs help with diarrhea.

The opinion of official medicine

Doctors do not write off herbs for diarrhea, but recommend their use as adjuvant therapy. That is, when prescribing a medicine, they may advise taking one or another infusion, decoction.

Precautions

Pharmaceutical preparations must contain a leaflet that indicates the method of use. Not all herbs can be used internally.

It is better to buy herbs in a pharmacy. In no case do not collect plants, even familiar ones, from roadsides, in industrial areas of cities.

For example, celandine is one of the best anti-papillomavirus remedies for external use, but when taken internally it is a deadly poison.

Therefore, if it is not possible to consult a doctor, it is better to follow the following recommendations:

1. Buy proven herbs. With diarrhea, they help: chamomile, calendula, oak bark, mint, lemon balm, chicory, bird cherry, wormwood (Attention! Not all types of wormwood are suitable for consumption, it is wormwood that helps with diarrhea). Best of all, pharmacy plants that are properly harvested, certified and even packaged for ease of use.
2. Brew according to instructions. The dosage is best done less or divide the intake into several times. Also, if the herb from diarrhea is bought in a pharmacy, it necessarily contains instructions and recommendations for use along with dosage depending on the age, weight or characteristics of the patient.
3. When buying or making your own mixes, check the recipe carefully. There is a whole list of poisonous plants, among them: the mentioned celandine, feather grass, chaff, remeria, fumes, etc. All of them can cause serious violations up to paralysis and death.
4. Stop taking the diarrhea decoction or infusion as soon as the symptom has disappeared (the stool has returned to normal).

When it comes to treating diarrhea in children, if it’s mild and for obvious reasons (rotavirus, indigestion, taking a new product, taking antibiotics), it’s best not to use herbs. Even official medicine does not recommend the use of most pharmaceutical plants orally by children under 18 years of age.

For the elderly

With age, the body’s metabolic processes slow down, it becomes more susceptible, it needs more time to recover. Therefore, taking herbs at the age of 50+ should be as careful as possible for the following reasons:

1. The older a person is, the more likely they are to develop chronic diseases that get worse from time to time.
2. Some herbs can increase/lower blood pressure. The elderly in most cases suffer from either hypotension (low blood pressure) or hypertension (high blood pressure).

The most neutral herbs for diarrhea, relieving inflammation and having a minimum of contraindications, are: chamomile, calendula, oak bark, thyme, dill.

Chamomile Calendula Oak bark Thyme Dill

Rules for brewing herbs and traditional folk recipes

Most herbs (if they are not already packaged in filter bags) are brewed or infused in a water bath. The most traditional way is as follows:

• one tablespoon of monoherb or collection is needed;
• pour 200 ml boiling water;
• put in a “water bath” (for sterilization) for 15 minutes;
• remove and refrigerate for 45 minutes;
• strain the decoction;
• take as directed (depending on the type of herb).

Water bath

However, safe intake can be started with 1 tablespoon 2-3 times a day.

The most effective folk remedies for diarrhea that are used at home are:

1. Pepper (peas). No more than 10 peas are used (without biting): drink a glass of water. It is better to use the product at night.
2. Pomegranate peel. The dried peel of pomegranate (fruit) is boiled for 30 minutes. Apply 2 tablespoons 2 times a day.
3. Potato or corn starch – 1 tablespoon diluted in a glass of warm boiled water. Starch is also found in meadow geranium (crane). This herb for diarrhea is brewed according to a traditional recipe. Apply 1 tablespoon 2 times a day (morning and evening on an empty stomach).
4. Walnut kernel partition. You need 2 tbsp. spoons for 0.5 liters of water. Take raw materials, rinse under running water, brew over low heat for 30 minutes.
5. Bird cherry (dried). Need 2 tbsp. spoons for 0.5 liters of water. The broth is cooked for half an hour over low heat. Taken in 2 tablespoons
6. Elecampane. A herb that slows down intestinal motility and has an antiseptic effect on the gastrointestinal tract. Brewed with 1 cup boiling water in a water bath for 30 minutes.
7. Burnet. An herb that has a hemostatic and astringent effect. It is excellent for diarrhea of ​​various origins. Dry rhizomes are brewed in a water bath. Cold broth can be stored for 2 days. You need to apply 1 tablespoon 3-4 times a day (depending on the severity of the symptoms).

Pepper Pomegranate rind Potato starch Partition of walnut kernel Burnet Elecampane Cherry berries

Also used film from chicken stomachs, dried and crushed. However, not everyone can take this medicine.

Treat the cause – cure the symptom

Diarrhea is a symptom, not a cause. Accordingly, if you do not eliminate what causes loose stools, over time the problem will return. Therefore, here are some useful recommendations for various causes of diarrhea:

1. Nervous. Somatic (physical) problems may well be caused by stressful situations, neuroses, etc. It is not very difficult to establish the cause, it is enough to follow yourself. If sleep is normal at night, and diarrhea occurs only after or during experiences, the reason lies in the work of the nervous system. And here, diarrhea will help eliminate soothing fees: lemon balm, mint, thyme, Ivan tea, St. John’s wort (is a natural antidepressant). The so-called “irritable bowel syndrome” – inflammation of the lining epithelium – can cause unstable stools. The root cause is most often long-term stressful conditions.
2. Food poisoning. It does not have to be caused by serious intoxication (dysentery). For example, eating an expired fermented milk product can lead to mild poisoning. It can be accompanied only by a moderate disorder of the stool. In this case, it is better to remove the inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract caused by harmful microorganisms. Calendula, chamomile, string, flax seeds will help here. All of them have an antiseptic effect, soothe the mucous membranes. In addition, they help with diarrhea and can be used in children with walnut kernel septa. Adults are recommended to take a tablespoon 3 times a day, children – a teaspoon 2 times a day. Dried bird cherry can also be considered a safe remedy.
3. Product incompatibility. Each person has individual characteristics of the body. Some of the melon with honey can occur, popularly called “intestinal volvulus”, while others eat these products without harm to health. The same applies to other products of ambiguous compatibility (herring with honey, for example).
4. Helminths. Parasite infestation can cause diarrhea. And in adults, this is the most common symptom. Diarrhea is treated by eliminating the cause – parasites. To do this, at home, you can use 20 grams of pumpkin seeds (raw) per day or pour garlic with boiling water (2-3 cloves per 200 ml of water), leave for several hours. Take – 1 tablespoon per day. As soon as the worms are eliminated, the diarrhea will pass.
5. Viral infections. The most common is the “intestinal flu” or rotavirus infection. This microorganism settles in the intestinal mucosa, constantly irritating it. Here, such herbs for diarrhea as: raspberries (which, in addition to slowing down intestinal motility, is a natural antiviral and antiseptic agent), wild strawberries, chamomile, echinacea (as an additional immunomodulatory agent) will come to the rescue.

The following herbs can be used to treat diarrhea in preschool children: chamomile, calendula, string, dill. All of them are recommended from birth and allow you to gently get rid of the problem without harming other functions of the baby’s body.

Chamomile

In conclusion, it remains to add that all herbs can only be used in case of controlled diarrhea or on the advice of a doctor. Self-medication at home, which does not bring relief within 2-3 days, should be replaced with a traditional one after a medical examination.

Treatment of diarrhea at home with folk remedies – Comments

Most people prefer not to discuss what happens behind the closed toilet door. However, diarrhea causes a lot of discomfort to the body, because our gastrointestinal tract suffers. “Comments” will tell you what causes intestinal upset and what folk remedies for diarrhea exist.

Diarrhea can be treated with folk remedies. Photo from open sources

Varieties of diarrhea

Intestinal disorder (or, as it is more common in the common people – diarrhea), like any disease, can be of different types. Most often, diarrhea is distinguished either by the cause of occurrence or by duration.

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In the first case, diarrhea can be alimentary (poor-quality or spoiled food, an allergic reaction), drug-induced (most often due to antibiotics), dyspeptic (gastrointestinal enzymes do not work properly), neurogenic (the effect of stress) and toxic (kidney disease or poisoning heavy metals, etc.).

Diarrhea is divided into acute and chronic in terms of the duration of the disease. In the first case, the entire process lasts no more than three days; in the second, it exceeds this number of days.

Symptoms of diarrhea

Many people, even in adulthood, mistakenly believe that diarrhea consists solely of loose stools and possible abdominal pain. However, this disease is characterized by other symptoms, and can also cause complications.

If a person suffering from diarrhea suddenly has a fever (up to 38 °C or more), vomiting and itching of the skin (mucous membranes), and a headache, it is time to see a doctor. Also, complications of diarrhea may be indicated by the presence of blood or pus in the stool, as well as changes in the color of the stool itself. It also requires medical advice.

If the bowel disorder is mild, treatment can be done at home. There are several common effective ways to help get rid of the disease with folk remedies.

Natural remedies for diarrhea

Most often, diarrhea takes us by surprise, so even ordinary activated charcoal is not at hand. Although it is this medicine that is most often the first “lifesaver” for diarrhea. However, when medicine is powerless (that is, the necessary drugs are not available), you can look at the kitchen shelf or in the refrigerator. Help will come from available resources.

There are some of the most popular ways to stop diarrhea.

• Drink strong black tea

It is believed that this hot drink can prevent diarrhea, because it has fixative properties. It is important to drink only loose tea, not tea bags. Also pay attention to the fact that black tea is without additional flavors – this will not help an already irritated gastrointestinal tract.

• Brew onions in tea

The method may seem a little wild in mixing ingredients, but its effectiveness has been time-tested. The peeled onion must be cut crosswise so that the juice begins to stand out. The vegetable should be laid with this same cut down in a 200-ml cup of strong brewed tea. 10 minutes of “brewing” will be enough. However, do not drink this infusion all at once. It should be consumed throughout the day, drinking small sips. And, of course, the main condition is no sugar.

• Eat some black pepper

An important clarification – we are not talking about ground pepper, but about peppercorns. The thing is that black pepper has a strengthening effect on the gastrointestinal tract, and also helps rid the internal flora of microbes and even partially eliminates the infection.

A dozen peas will be enough for an adult. They should be swallowed without chewing and washed down with at least a glass of water. For a child under 5 years of age, such treatment is not recommended. But older children can use such a folk remedy, but the “dose” of peas should be halved.

• Use rice water

This is considered one of the safest home remedies for diarrhea. To prepare the “medicine” you will need 500 ml of water and 2 tablespoons of white rice, previously well washed. Rice should be cooked for about 50 minutes over low heat. When the broth has cooled, it should be filtered, and then consumed throughout the day. It is interesting that such a rice remedy will also have a beneficial effect on restoring the water balance in the body.

• Look for walnuts

If your bowel is not too bad, regular walnuts can help to quickly eliminate all unpleasant consequences. The method is as simple as possible – you should eat a few nut kernels. Drinking water is not worth it. For adults, the dose of such a medicine will be about five nuts, for children – two is enough. However, if the kids are still unable to chew the kernels on their own, such a folk remedy for diarrhea should not be applied to them.

• Eat an apple

If there is no severe pain and the condition allows, you can treat diarrhea with regular apples. It is recommended to eat at least 12 fruits per day (an apple every two hours). At the same time, they should be peeled. To heighten the effect, they even offer to grate the apples into a “gruel”. With this method of treating diarrhea, eating other foods and even drinking water is not recommended. It is believed that apples help the stomach to cleanse and improve work.

• Use starch

It is believed that this prescription for diarrhea can be used by both adults and children. And although the process of using the medicine itself may not seem very pleasant, its effectiveness has long been tested.