Herbal Remedies for Diarrhea - Diarrhea

Herbal Remedies for Diarrhea

The roots of Oregon grape and goldenseal contain berberine, an antimicrobial that may be effective against harmful food-borne bacteria, and other alkaloids. They also appear to decrease colon secretion, helping decrease diarrhea. Their immune-stimulating action will help many people who have viral diarrhea as well. These herbs are often used to treat even serious cases of diarrhea when supervised by a knowledgeable health care provider. They can be taken as tea or tincture. Blackberry roots are another good diarrhea remedy.

Bilberry also has mild antimicrobial properties, plus it is an astringent and helps to tone the muscles of the colon. Eat the berries or syrup made from them or drink an infusion from the leaves. Fresh bilberries or their close cousins, blueberries, may worsen diarrhea, but dried berries are an excellent remedy for it.

All geranium and red raspberry leaves have astringent qualities, which are useful for treating diarrhea because they help the colon contract and slow down the passage of feces, giving the body a chance to withdraw water from the mass as it passes through. These herbs also bind toxins.

Mullein may be useful for reducing inflammation of the digestive tract. Other herbs such as chamomile, fennel, and peppermint may also soothe the lining of the colon.

Nettle soothes an inflamed colon but also has mild laxative properties. Be sure to use it with discretion.

In large quantities, psyllium seeds and husks, familiar as a constipation remedy, can also help diarrhea. They provide bulk to slow down the passage of liquid material through the large intestine. Use a teaspoon or less at frequent intervals. Do not take them with prunes, figs, or dates.

As soon as diarrhea has subsided enough for you to tolerate solid food, get plenty of foods rich in potassium and sodium--two major electrolytes. Garden produce, especially asparagus, beet greens, berries, citrus fruits, cruciferous vegetables, melons, plums, potatoes, salad greens, sweet potatoes, and squash, are teeming with potassium. Potato skins are especially beneficial.

Echinacea or other immune-stimulating herbs are critical during bouts of diarrhea caused by infectious microbes.

Diarrhea is a symptom -- the body is trying to get rid of something harmful. It is generally recommended to let diarrhea run its course, being careful to replace fluids and electrolytes by drinking broth and eating potassium-rich vegetables. Children and babies should be watched carefully and medical attention sought if diarrhea is severe, persists longer than one day, or worsens after one day. The same is true for adults.

If stools are bloody, get medical attention immediately.