Best Natural Treatments for Diarrhea: Top 5 Remedies

Diarrhea is a common yet uncomfortable condition characterized by frequent, loose, or watery bowel movements. It can be caused by a variety of factors including infections, food intolerances, medications, and underlying health conditions. While over-the-counter medications are available to treat diarrhea, many people prefer to use natural remedies to alleviate symptoms and support digestive health. Here, we explore the five best natural remedies for diarrhea, providing an in-depth look at their benefits, how to use them, and the science behind their effectiveness.

1. Probiotics

What Are Probiotics?

Probiotics are live microorganisms that provide health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts. They are often referred to as "good" or "friendly" bacteria because they help maintain the balance of the gut microbiome.

How Probiotics Help with Diarrhea

Probiotics can help restore the natural balance of gut bacteria, which can be disrupted by factors such as infections or antibiotic use. Studies have shown that probiotics can reduce the duration and severity of diarrhea, especially in cases of infectious diarrhea and antibiotic-associated diarrhea.

Types of Probiotics for Diarrhea

• Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG: Effective in reducing the duration of acute diarrhea in children and adults.
• Saccharomyces boulardii: A yeast probiotic that has been shown to prevent and treat various types of diarrhea, including antibiotic-associated and traveler’s diarrhea.
• Bifidobacterium lactis: Known to improve gut health and reduce the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which can include diarrhea.

How to Use Probiotics

Probiotics can be found in fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi. They are also available as dietary supplements in the form of capsules, tablets, and powders. It's important to choose a high-quality probiotic supplement with a sufficient number of live bacteria (measured in colony-forming units, or CFUs) and to follow the dosage instructions provided by the manufacturer.

Trusted Sources

• National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH): https://nccih.nih.gov/health/probiotics/introduction.htm
• Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/probiotics/about/pac-20385039

2. Ginger

What Is Ginger?

Ginger is a flowering plant whose rhizome (commonly known as ginger root) is widely used as a spice and medicinal herb. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including digestive issues.

How Ginger Helps with Diarrhea

Ginger has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral properties that can help alleviate the symptoms of diarrhea. It aids digestion by promoting the production of digestive enzymes and increasing gastrointestinal motility. Additionally, ginger can reduce nausea and vomiting that may accompany diarrhea.

How to Use Ginger for Diarrhea

• Ginger Tea: Peel and slice a small piece of fresh ginger root. Boil the slices in water for 10-15 minutes. Strain and drink the tea 2-3 times a day.
• Ginger Powder: Add 1-2 teaspoons of ginger powder to a glass of warm water. Drink this mixture once or twice daily.
• Ginger Capsules: Available as dietary supplements, follow the dosage instructions provided by the manufacturer.

Trusted Sources

• National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH): https://nccih.nih.gov/health/ginger
• WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-ginger

3. BRAT Diet

What Is the BRAT Diet?

The BRAT diet stands for Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, and Toast. This bland, low-fiber diet is often recommended for people experiencing digestive issues, including diarrhea.

How the BRAT Diet Helps with Diarrhea

The foods included in the BRAT diet are easy to digest and can help firm up stools by adding bulk. Bananas provide potassium, an essential electrolyte that can be depleted during bouts of diarrhea. Rice and toast help absorb excess fluid in the intestines, reducing the frequency and urgency of bowel movements. Applesauce contains pectin, a type of soluble fiber that can help solidify stools.

How to Follow the BRAT Diet

• Bananas: Eat ripe bananas throughout the day. They can be eaten alone or mashed for easier consumption.
• Rice: Opt for plain white rice. Cook it until it is soft and easy to digest. Avoid adding butter or spices.
• Applesauce: Choose unsweetened applesauce to avoid added sugars that can worsen diarrhea.
• Toast: Eat plain white toast without butter or other toppings. Whole wheat or fiber-rich breads should be avoided as they can be harder to digest.

Trusted Sources

• Cleveland Clinic: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/21556-brat-diet
• Healthline: https://www.healthline.com/health/brat-diet

4. Chamomile

What Is Chamomile?

Chamomile is a herb derived from the daisy-like flowers of the Asteraceae plant family. It is widely known for its calming effects and has been used in traditional medicine to treat various gastrointestinal disorders.

How Chamomile Helps with Diarrhea

Chamomile has anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and carminative properties that can help soothe the digestive tract. It can reduce intestinal spasms, decrease inflammation, and relieve gas, all of which can contribute to the alleviation of diarrhea symptoms.

How to Use Chamomile for Diarrhea

• Chamomile Tea: Add 1-2 teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers to a cup of boiling water. Steep for 5-10 minutes, then strain and drink the tea 2-3 times a day.
• Chamomile Extract: Available in liquid form, follow the dosage instructions provided by the manufacturer.
• Chamomile Capsules: Take as a dietary supplement, adhering to the recommended dosage on the label.

Trusted Sources

• National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH): https://nccih.nih.gov/health/chamomile
• Medical News Today: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320031

5. Hydration

Importance of Hydration in Diarrhea

One of the most crucial aspects of managing diarrhea is maintaining proper hydration. Diarrhea can lead to significant fluid loss, which can result in dehydration if not addressed promptly. Replenishing lost fluids and electrolytes is essential to prevent dehydration and support overall health.

How to Stay Hydrated

• Water: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to replace lost fluids. Small, frequent sips are often more tolerable than large amounts at once.
• Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS): ORS contains a precise mixture of salts, sugars, and water designed to replenish fluids and electrolytes. They are available over the counter and can be made at home using salt, sugar, and water.
• Clear Broths: Chicken or vegetable broths can provide both fluids and electrolytes, making them an excellent choice for rehydration.
• herbal Teas: Non-caffeinated herbal teas, such as peppermint or chamomile, can contribute to fluid intake and provide additional soothing effects.

Signs of Dehydration

• Increased thirst
• Dry mouth and skin
• Decreased urine output
• Dark yellow urine
• Fatigue and dizziness

Trusted Sources

• World Health Organization (WHO): https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/diarrhoeal-disease
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/emergency/drinking/drinking-water-during-diarrhea.html

Conclusion

Diarrhea, while often a temporary condition, can be both uncomfortable and disruptive to daily life. Natural remedies such as probiotics, ginger, the BRAT diet, chamomile, and proper hydration can provide effective relief and support recovery. Incorporating these remedies into your routine can help manage symptoms and promote overall digestive health. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.