Treat Diarrhea Naturally

What is diarrhea?

Diarrhea is a common and uncomfortable digestive disorder characterized by loose, watery stools that cause frequent need to defecate (usually at least three times a day). It can be acute or chronic. Acute diarrhea typically lasts a day or two and resolves on its own. Chronic diarrhea usually lasts longer than a month and may be a sign of conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or malabsorption problems (the poor absorption of certain nutrients).

What are the symptoms of diarrhea?

Diarrhea typically causes symptoms such as:

· Abdominal pain

· Bloating

· Cramping

· Frequent loose, watery stools

· Nausea

· Urgency

In adults, temporary diarrhea in itself usually isn’t harmful, but it can sometimes signal more serious problems. In part because of their smaller body volume, children can suffer serious consequences from prolonged diarrhea. Patients should see the doctor if they experience any of these symptoms:

· Blood or pus in the stool

· Black, tarry-looking stools

· Diarrhea that lasts longer than three days

· Fever of 102 degrees Fahrenheit or higher

· Severe abdominal or rectal pain

· Signs of dehydration

Causes of Diarrhoea

The most common causes of diarrhea are as follows:

· Bacteria: Various types of bacteria may be responsible for causing diarrhea. These bacteria are usually present in contaminated food and water.

· Viruses

· Parasites: These can cause infection in the digestive system when they enter the body through food and water.

· Intolerance to Certain Foods: Some individuals cannot digest the components present in certain foods. Lactose allergy is one of the most common food allergies.

· Medications: The intake of certain medications can result in adverse reactions in the body. Many individuals react in this manner to antibiotics or medications used to treat hypertension.

· Diseases: Conditions that affect the intestine such as celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease usually trigger diarrhea.

· Bowel Disorders: Irritable bowel syndrome and other conditions that hamper the functioning of the intestine commonly cause bouts of diarrhea.

· Hormone Disorders: Conditions that arise due to hormonal imbalances such as hyperthyroidism and diabetes can also lead to diarrhea.

· Cancer: One of the symptoms of bowel cancer is diarrhea.

Home Remedies for Diarrhea

Both acute and chronic diarrhea can greatly affect your day-to-day activities. To get rid of the symptoms associated with diarrhea, you can try some simple home cures.

Sugar and Salt Solution

Fenugreek Seeds

Due to the high mucilage content present in fenugreek seeds, they are considered a useful natural cure for diarrhea. Fenugreek seeds will bulk up your stool and thereby significantly improve the severity and discomfort of diarrhea.

· Swallow one teaspoon of fenugreek seeds along with one tablespoon of yogurt.

· You can also mix one-half teaspoon of ground fenugreek seeds in a little water. Drink this solution for immediate symptom relief.

· Another option is to mix one-half teaspoon of powdered fenugreek seeds in a glass of water and drink it.

NOTE: Remedies with fenugreek seeds are not suitable for small children suffering from acute or chronic diarrhea.

Ginger

As ginger is simply good for your overall digestive health, it is always a good option for treating diarrhea.

·  Mix one teaspoon each of dried ginger powder, cumin powder, cinnamon powder, and honey. Consume it three times a day.

·You can use dry ginger or fresh ginger to make a cup of ginger tea as well. Drinking ginger tea two or three times a day will help ease cramps and abdominal pain that sometimes accompany diarrhea.

· Another option is to mix equal amounts of ginger juice and lemon juice and add some crushed pepper to it. Have this solution at least three times a day to get rid of diarrhea quickly.