This post provides readers with a comprehensive overview of home remedies for diarrhea. It covers causes of diarrhea, natural remedies to treat it, and helpful tips to prevent it. It also provides information on when to seek medical attention and advice on dietary modifications. With this post, readers can learn how to manage and prevent diarrhea using natural remedies and other lifestyle changes. Whether the cause is viral, bacterial, or dietary, readers can find useful information to help them manage their symptoms and find relief.
What is Diarrhea?
Diarrhea is also known as stomach flu, loose motions, diarrhoea, Dasta (Hindi/Urdu), Atisara (Marathi), Vayiṟṟuppokku (Tamil), diarrea (Spanish), Atisāra (Bengali), diareya (Russian). Diarrhoea is the frequent passing of loose or watery stools, typically three or four times a day. It can be acute or chronic, often known as “loose motion.” Causes include overeating, wrong foods, intestinal putrefaction, incomplete carbohydrate digestion, nervous irritability, antibiotic use, and excessive laxative intake. Other factors may include parasites, viruses, bacteria, food allergies, emotional stress, or fright in children.
Root Causes
Diarrhea is caused by a variety of factors, including viruses, bacteria, parasites, medications, and certain foods. It can also be caused by a reaction to stress, food intolerance, or a medical condition such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The duration of diarrhea can vary from a few days to several weeks. It is important to seek medical attention if your diarrhea lasts more than a few days, or if you experience severe abdominal pain, fever, or blood in your stool.
- Infections: Diarrhea can be caused by a variety of infectious agents, such as bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi. The most common causes of bacterial diarrhea include Salmonella, Campylobacter, Shigella, and Escherichia coli (E. coli). Viral diarrhea is often caused by rotavirus, norovirus, and adenovirus.
- Food intolerance or allergy: Some people have difficulty digesting certain foods, such as lactose (found in dairy products), gluten (found in wheat, oats, and barley), fructose (found in some fruits and processed foods), or artificial sweeteners. Eating these foods can cause diarrhea.
- Medications: Certain medications, such as antibiotics, can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the gut and cause diarrhea.
- Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, and irritable bowel syndrome, can cause chronic diarrhea.
- Stress or anxiety: Stress and anxiety can cause diarrhea in some people because it can trigger a rush of hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones can speed up digestion and cause food to pass quickly through the digestive tract, leading to loose or watery stools. Stress can also cause the body to secrete more acid, which can irritate the lining of the intestines, leading to diarrhea.
Types of Diarrhea
- Acute Diarrhea: A virus or bacteria often causes this type, which typically lasts a few days.
- Chronic Diarrhea: Underlying medical conditions, such as Crohn’s disease or irritable bowel syndrome, can cause this type, which lasts longer than three weeks.
- Secretory Diarrhea: An increase in fluid secretion into the intestines, potentially due to certain medications or hormone imbalances, causes this type.
- Osmotic Diarrhea: An imbalance of electrolytes and fluids in the intestines, possibly due to certain medications or digestive disorders, causes this type.
- Inflammatory Diarrhea: Inflammation of the intestines, caused by an infection or a digestive disorder, leads to this type.
- Black diarrhea: Also known as melena, results from bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract. Common causes include ulcers, cancer, and esophageal varices (enlarged veins in the esophagus), as well as certain medications like aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). In some cases, the cause of bleeding may remain unknown.
Home Remedies
The best way to treat diarrhea is to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, clear broths, or sports drinks. Avoid caffeinated, alcoholic, and sugary drinks. Eat small, frequent meals that are high in complex carbohydrates, such as rice and potatoes, and avoid foods that are high in fat and fiber. Avoid dairy products and spicy, greasy, or acidic foods. Over-the-counter antidiarrheal medications, such as loperamide, can help slow down the digestive process and reduce symptoms. If your symptoms persist for more than a few days or you become severely dehydrated, contact your doctor.
1. Buttermilk
Buttermilk, a byproduct of yogurt, is an effective remedy for diarrhea due to its ability to neutralize harmful intestinal flora and establish a healthy gut environment. Its acidity also fights germs and bacteria. Consume buttermilk mixed with a pinch of salt three or four times a day for optimal results. In Buttermilk is often used in various Ayurvedic preparations such as “Takra” or “Takram” to treat digestive disorders. Or boil a spoonful of fenugreek seeds in water and then fry in butter. Eat these seeds with a cup of buttermilk.
2. Moringa Leaves
A mixture of drumstick leaves juice, honey, and coconut water combats diarrhea effectively. Administer small quantities of this mixture to the patient thrice a day for relief. People often utilize moringa leaves in decoctions or as poultices for their medicinal properties.
3. Barley or Coconut Water
Starchy liquids like barley water (arrowroot water, rice gruel and coconut water) replenish lost fluids and bind stools, making them highly beneficial for diarrhea treatment. Consume barley water several times a day to alleviate symptoms. Doctors frequently prescribe barley water in decoction form to address digestive problems. Coconut water is rich in electrolytes and can help replace lost fluids as well as ease symptoms of diarrhea.
3. Carrot Soup
Carrot soup combats dehydration, replenishes essential minerals, and soothes inflammation. Administer small amounts of carrot soup to the patient every half an hour for relief. To prepare carrot soup for diarrhea relief, start by peeling and chopping 1 pound of carrots into small pieces. Bring 5 ounces of water to a boil in a pot, then add the chopped carrots and simmer until soft, about 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, blend the carrots and water until smooth using a blender or immersion blender. Optionally, add salt to taste. Reheat the soup gently if needed before serving. Serve small amounts of the soup to the patient every half an hour for relief from diarrhea. Adjust the consistency by adding more water if necessary and consider adding ginger or mint for added flavor and digestive benefits.
4. Honey + Nutmeg
Another simple domestic remedy is to mix 1 teaspoon honey, ½ teaspoon ghee, a pinch of nutmeg, and a pinch of saffron.. Consume this mixture multiple times a day until symptoms improve. Nutmeg contains compounds like myristicin and eugenol, which possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. These properties help soothe inflammation in the digestive tract and combat harmful bacteria, potentially contributing to the relief of diarrhea symptoms. Furthermore, nutmeg is renowned for its carminative properties, which can alleviate digestive discomfort and diminish intestinal spasms.
5. Curd or Probiotics
Another remedy using yogurt is to blend together equal parts of yogurt and water (about half cup each), add about 1/8 teaspoon of fresh grated ginger, and drink. Incorporating probiotics like yogurt, kefir, or sauerkraut into the diet restores the balance of gut bacteria and reduces diarrhea symptoms. Health experts often recommend probiotic-rich foods to bolster digestive health and enhance the immune system. Another effective remedy for children’s diarrhea is serving cooked rice with yogurt. Take about a cupful of cooked basmati rice, add 1 tablespoon of ghee and 3 or 4 tablespoons of plain fresh yogurt, stir together, and eat.
6. Applesauce
Cook one or two apples until they are mushy, then add 1 teaspoon ghee, a pinch of cardamom, and a pinch of nutmeg. Eat slowly. This mixture is not only delicious, it will also help stop diarrhea right away. Feeding the child some cooked apple can typically correct a baby’s diarrhea. Remove the skin and seeds, cook the apple, and add ½ teaspoon ghee, a pinch of cardamom, and a small pinch of ginger. Stir it up well, and cool to room temperature.
7. Banana
If you don’t have apples, you can use bananas, only you don’t have to cook them. Chop 1 or 2 ripe bananas into pieces, and as with the apples, add 1 teaspoon of warm ghee and a pinch each of cardamom and nutmeg. Bananas are high in potassium, which helps to bind the stool. Bananas are rich in potassium and can help replace lost electrolytes. Eat a banana a few times a day to help reduce symptoms of diarrhea.
8. Whey
Treat baby or toddlers diarrhea with whey. Whey is a natural source of lactobacillus. Since a baby’s diarrhea is often due to altered ora in the gastrointestinal tract, the whey should help restore the normal flora. It is also a good source of potassium and of calcium, which binds the stool. Bring 1 cup of milk to a boil; when it just begins to boil, squeeze a little lime juice (about half teaspoon) into the pot. The milk will curdle. Then strain the thick part out by pouring the mixture through cheesecloth or a sieve. The remaining watery part is the whey. Giving 4 to 5 teaspoons of the whey to the child every 10 to 15 minutes should stop the diarrhea.
9. Mint + Lemon
Lemon water can help reduce symptoms of diarrhea, as it helps to balance the acidity in the stomach and aids digestion. A mixture of mint juice, honey, and lemon juice provides immediate relief from loose motions. To stop loose motions immediately, mix 1 tablespoon of mint juice, honey and lemon juice. Consume this mixture several times a day for optimal results. People often combine mint and lemon in remedies for digestive disorders because of their cooling and soothing properties.
10. Sesame Seeds
Take 2 big tablespoon of sesame seeds. Dry roast and blend. Add 1 tablespoon of cow milk ghee in it. Make 3 equal parts of this mixture. Each time take one of mixture with half cup of boiled goat milk. Repeat this for 6 days. Sesame seeds contain compounds like lignans, fiber, and antioxidants that contribute to their potential effectiveness in treating diarrhea. The high fiber content in sesame seeds helps to absorb excess water in the digestive tract, thereby firming up loose stools and reducing the frequency of bowel movements. Additionally, sesame seeds possess anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe irritation in the gastrointestinal tract and alleviate diarrhea symptoms.
11. Pomegranate
Pomegranate is effective against diarrhea due to its natural astringent properties. Astringents have a contracting effect on tissues, including the lining of the intestines. This action helps to reduce inflammation and irritation in the gastrointestinal tract, which can contribute to diarrhea. Additionally, pomegranate contains compounds such as tannins, which possess antimicrobial properties. These compounds can help combat harmful bacteria and parasites in the digestive system that may be contributing to diarrhea. If the patient experiences weakness from extensive and ongoing purging, administer approximately 50 ml of pomegranate juice repeatedly for drinking..
12. Ginger Powder
Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory and can help reduce symptoms of diarrhea. Try ginger powder (about ½ teaspoon) with 1 teaspoon raw natural sugar. Mix together, and chew the mixture with some warm water. Take 2 or 3 times a day for 2 to 3 days. It will bring quick relief as ginger, being carminative, aids digestion by stimulating the gastrointestinal tract. OR Mix 1 teaspoon ghee, quarter teaspoon nutmeg, quarter teaspoon ginger powder and 1 teaspoon natural sugar together and eat. Take this formula 2 or 3 times a day for 2 to 3 days.
13. Mango Seeds
In this folk remedy, mango seeds play a valuable role in treating diarrhea. Collect the seeds during the mango season, dry them in the shade, and powder them for storage until needed as medicine. Administer doses of approximately one and a half grams to two grams, with or without honey.
14. Black Coffee / Tea + Lemon
Black coffee or tea with lemon serves as a home remedy for diarrhea due to caffeine’s stimulation of bowel movements and tea’s tannins’ ability to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract. Lemon’s vitamin C and antibacterial properties complement these effects by potentially combating harmful pathogens. To prepare, brew a cup of black coffee or tea, add lemon juice (about 10 drops), and consider sweetening with honey. Sip slowly to ease discomfort, ensuring adequate hydration alongside. While beneficial for mild cases, consult a healthcare professional for persistent or severe diarrhea.
15. Apple Cider Vinegar
To use apple cider vinegar (ACV) as a home remedy for diarrhea, dilute one to two tablespoons of raw, unfiltered ACV in a glass of warm water, optionally adding a teaspoon of honey for taste. Sip the mixture slowly over 15 to 20 minutes, limiting consumption to three times a day. Ensure adequate hydration alongside. Although some find relief from diarrhea symptoms with ACV, its effectiveness lacks robust scientific evidence, and excessive consumption may cause adverse effects.
16. Chamomile Tea
To utilize chamomile tea as a home remedy for diarrhea, steep a chamomile tea bag or dried chamomile flowers in hot water for 5 to 10 minutes, optionally adding honey for taste and soothing properties. Sip the warm tea slowly throughout the day, ensuring adequate hydration alongside. While generally safe, individuals allergic to plants like ragweed should exercise caution, and pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare provider before use.
17. Fennel Seeds
To use fennel seeds as a home remedy for diarrhea, steep one to two teaspoons of crushed fennel seeds in a cup of hot water for 5 to 10 minutes, optionally straining the tea before drinking. Sip the warm tea slowly throughout the day to soothe the digestive tract. Alternatively, chew on a teaspoon of fennel seeds directly to benefit from their carminative properties. Ensure adequate hydration alongside by drinking plenty of water.
Diarrhea Diet Tips
- Due to water loss during diarrhea a person may feel thirsty all time. Bottle gourd is very effective in such cases. Drink 1 cup of bottle gourd juice with a pinch of salt.
- Use two to three teaspoons of Agrimony (high tannin content) leaves to make a tea. Apple pulp is rich in pectin.
- Try eating applesauce. Use cooked carrots to treat diarrhea in infants. Will soothe the digestive tract while providing nutrients that are lost during the attack.
- In all cases, drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.
FAQs.
Q. Why do eggs cause diarrhea?
Eggs can cause diarrhea if they are contaminated with bacteria, such as Salmonella, which can be found on the shells of raw eggs. Consuming raw or undercooked eggs can lead to food poisoning, which can cause diarrhea as a symptom. Additionally, some people may have an intolerance to eggs, which can cause diarrhea.
Q. Why does coffee sometimes cause diarrhea?
Coffee can cause diarrhea due to its caffeine content and its ability to stimulate the gut and increase the production of acid. The caffeine in coffee can stimulate the muscles in the digestive system, which may cause food to pass through the intestines more quickly than normal. This can lead to loose stools. Additionally, coffee can irritate the lining of the intestines and increase the production of stomach acid, which can also lead to diarrhea.
Q. What should I do if my diarrhea is like water? When should I be worried about watery diarrhea?
It is important to pay close attention to watery diarrhea and if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, abdominal pain, vomiting, or blood in the stool, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Few things to try mean while:
- Increase fluid intake: It is important to replace the lost fluids from diarrhea. Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water each day to prevent dehydration.
- Take an electrolyte replacement: Electrolytes help the body to absorb fluids and can help replace those lost through diarrhea. Try drinks like Pedialyte, Gatorade, or coconut water.
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol: These can both increase dehydration and worsen diarrhea symptoms.
- Consider probiotics: Probiotics may help to reduce the severity of diarrhea and can be found in yogurt, kefir, and supplements.
- Avoid high-fiber foods: These can worsen symptoms and should be avoided until symptoms improve.
- Eat small, frequent meals: Eating smaller meals more often can help to reduce symptoms. Avoid fatty or greasy foods as these can worsen symptoms.
- Get plenty of rest: Resting can help the body to recover and reduce symptoms.
Q. What is the best food when recovering from diarrhea?
- Plain Rice: White rice helps absorb water and electrolytes in the body.
- Bananas: Bananas are high in potassium, which can help replace electrolytes that are lost due to diarrhea.
- Bone Broth: Bone broth is easy to digest and contains a variety of vitamins and minerals that can help replenish the body.
- Applesauce: Applesauce is a simple and easy-to-digest food.
- Toast: Toast is low in fiber, which can help settle an upset stomach.
- Yogurt: Yogurt can help restore beneficial bacteria in the gut and reduce diarrhea.
- Ginger: Ginger tea can help soothe an upset stomach and reduce inflammation.
- Chamomile: Chamomile tea has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce diarrhea.
- Coconut Water: Coconut water is full of electrolytes that can help replenish the body.
- Potatoes: Potatoes are easy to digest and can help bind stools.
Q. How can Ayurveda stop diarrhea? Is there any ayurvedic treatment for diarrhea? Which Ayurvedic medicine is best?
Ayurveda provides a natural approach to treating diarrhea, such as taking a few home remedies and dietary changes. For example, triphala, a combination of three fruits, can be taken in capsule, tablet, or powder form to help with digestion and reduce the frequency of stooling. Additionally, foods that are easy to digest, such as cooked rice, mung dal, and steamed vegetables, are recommended. Herbs such as ginger, cumin, coriander, and fennel can be added to meals to help reduce symptoms of diarrhea. Lastly, staying hydrated and avoiding processed foods, caffeine, and alcohol can help to reduce symptoms.