Remedy for Diarrhea

Diarrhea is characterised by the too regular passing of stools that are loose and without consistency. Although diarrhea is an unpleasant condition, it is an effective way for the body to rid itself of undesirable substances. This is why diarrhea usually follows conditions like food poisoning; the body is trying to rid itself of the substances that are unsuitable for the digestive system. Diarrhea is also associated with the following symptoms: vomiting, stomach cramps, thirst, fever, nausea and dehydration. Diarrhea is especially problematic in babies and persons over 65–if dehydration and loss of electrolytes occur, diarrhea can be fatal.

Apart from food poisoning, and bacteria in food and water, diarrhea is commonly caused by viruses, excessive alcohol consumption, laxatives, and caffeine. Also, some medications, like penicillin, can trigger diarrhea as a side effect; finding blood or mucus in the stool is a sign of infection or parasites.

Because the body uses Diarrhea as a natural way to rid harmful toxins from the body, it may be harmful to stop diarrhea too soon. However, sometimes diarrhea does not work to flush the body of the toxin, and so will go on for days, which causes complications such as dehydration and loss of important nutrients.

Natural Remedies for Diarrhea

There are drugs available for the treatment of diarrhea, but they tend to interfere with the natural process of cleansing the body requires. In using natural remedies, we help the body to feel better without interfering with the immune systems functions.

1. Blueberry root has been a folk remedy for diarrhea for many generations. Blueberries are rich in anthocyanosides, which contain antioxidant and antibacterial properties, as well as tannins which combat diarrhea. Eat blueberries raw, or use the root to make a warm tea.
2. Camomile tea is great for treating inflammations of the intestines. It has antispasmodic properties as well; brew a cup of camomile tea from packaged tea bags, or from the camomile flower. Steep 1 teaspoon of camomile and 1 teaspoon of peppermint leaves in a cup of boiling water for 15 minutes. Drink 3 cups daily, or until diarrhea is not persistent. Notably, the tannins in ordinary black tea also have anti-diarrhoea effects.
3. Cooked cereals or starchy foods, such as pre-cooked rice or tapioca cereals help ease the symptoms associated with diarrhea, especially stomach cramps. Follow cereal’s package instructions to prepare, making it as thick as you can stomach it. Avoid adding too much sugar or salt as these will irritate, rather than soothe, diarrhea. Of the common cereals, oatmeal is the least suitable for this purpose due to its high fibre content. Your intestines will not be able to tolerate the added bulk during a bout with diarrhea.
4. Orange peel is a remedy believed to aid in digestion. Chop orange peel and place into a pot; cover with 1 pint boiling water and let it stand until the water is cooled. Sweeten it with a bit of sugar or honey and drink.