Home Remedies for Diarrhea
Diarrhea is characterized by loose and frequent stools. Medically, you are said to have diarrhea when you pass 3 or more stools a day. The stools are not formed properly and are watery. The extra water, in conjunction with the food is taken by the intestine. In the case of diarrhoea, the absorption of water fails to take place. This in turn results in excessive water in the stools. Diarrhea is seen to affect individuals of all age range.
Diarrhea Causes
Diarrhea is seen to accompany improper food intake and poor hygiene. Other contributing factors are chemotherapy, overeating, infected water, food allergies, food intolerance, bacterial or viral infection, intestinal putrefaction, excessive alcohol, bowel disorders, anxiety, organic diseases, nervous inability, emotional stress, antibiotics, excessive intake of laxatives, bowel disorders and organic diseases. In developing countries, PEM or protein energy malnutrition disorders are associated with diarrhoea.
Diarrhea Symptoms
Diarrhea is not a serious condition, if treatment is commenced, right after diagnosis. Typical symptoms of diarrhea include elevation in body temperature, stomach ache, bloating, nausea, vomiting, poor appetite, frequent loose stools and increase in the weight and volume of the stool.
Diarrhea Treatment
Treatment for diarrhea depends on the underlying cause. Absorbents are available in the market, which aid in the absorption of extra water. Bismuth compounds comprise of salicylate and bismuth. They are highly beneficial in individuals with Helicobacter pylori infection and traveler’s diarrhea. These components decrease the water secretion and the salicylates also function as anti inflammatory compounds. Certain anti motility medications help in muscle relaxation. They affect intestinal motility and thus provide more time for the absorption of water. Electrolyte supplementation proves beneficial due to water-electrolyte losses which occur in diarrhea.
Home Remedies for Diarrhea
A number of natural remedies are available for the treatment of diarrhea.
- Diarrhea Treatment with Lemon: Grind a lemon along with its seeds. Stir in a pinch of salt and eat a teaspoon of this paste twice a day.
- Diarrhea Treatment with Banana and Plain Yoghurt: Daily consumption of a banana (particularly over-ripe banana) with a cup of plain yogurt (curd) proves beneficial against diarrhea.
- Diarrhea Treatment with Mango Nut Powder: Take a teaspoon of mango nut powder with a glass of water.
- Diarrhea Treatment with Fenugreek Seeds: Consume half a teaspoon of cumin seeds with the same amount of fenugreek seeds and four teaspoons plain yoghurt (curd).
- Diarrhea Treatment with Honey: Mix four tablespoons if honey to eight ounces of water. This provides immediate relief from diarrhea.
- Diarrhea Treatment with Ginger: A decoction of fresh ginger aids to prevent loose stools and abdominal pain. Add a spoon of honey, to suppress the strong flavor.
- Diarrhea Treatment with ORS: ORS or oral rehydration solution can be made at home by adding a teaspoon of sugar and a pinch of salt to a glass of water. ORS is particularly beneficial to malnourished children and adults to replenish salt-water imbalances which occur due to diarrhea. Alternatively, several OTC products containing electrolytes are beneficial.
Tips for Diarrhea
Diarrhea is easy to prevent by practicing good hygiene and sanitation. Eat a balanced diet with plenty of whole grains, veggies, milk and fruits, so as to improve the immunity levels. This helps in prevention of all kinds of illnesses.
