All about Diarrhea

Bacterial infections are the most common causes of diarrhea which can be due to eating contaminated food or due to poor hygiene. Microscopic parasites cause infection in the small intestine – a condition known as Giardiasis. Some other sources of diarrhea may be alcohol abuse, diabetes, and Crohn’s disease, laxative abuse, medication, hyperthyroidism, diabetes and allergy to certain food.

Symptoms of diarrhea can be vomiting, abdominal pain, gastrointestinal bleeding, fever, abdominal cramps, nausea, fever, fatigue, and pain.

Diarrhea can be acute – lasting for a short time, persistent – lasting anywhere between 2 to 4 weeks or chronic which continues for more than 4 weeks.

Treating Diarrhea

While one is suffering from diarrhea, it is only natural to look for quick remedies. Rushing to the drugstore to take care of the problem is the easiest way out. While medications taken after professional advice cannot be ruled out, addition of supplements for treating diarrhea also goes side-by-side.

1. Home Remedies

The first step in the treatment of diarrhea starts from home itself.

• Green Tea: The regular use of green tea helps to soothe the stomach. It also helps in preventing acute diarrhea and reduces the duration of the sickness.

• Yogurt: One of the best home remedies which is also readily available is yogurt (curd). Two bowls of curd is enough to cure diarrhea.
• Lime Juice: Another quick and readily available home therapy is lime juice which can be taken in lukewarm water. Honey can be added for that extra taste. It should be consumed 2 – 3 times per day for results.

• Ginger: Ginger, a natural remedy for diarrhea can be taken with honey for sweetness but, one should avoid drinking water immediately.
• Coconut Water: Barley / coconut water is starchy and thick, and hence, help in retaining the excessive fluid during bowel movements. It also reduces burning sensation in the stomach.

2. Intake of solid fluids

Lost fluid, which might result in dehydration should be immediately replaced with the intake of fluids either orally or sometimes intravenously. ORS (Oral rehydration solution / salt) should be taken to restore water and electrolytes lost in the process. ORS contains salt and glucose and is an effective treatment for non-severe diarrhea.

3. Augmenting Probiotics

Probiotics, the beneficial bacteria present in the intestinal tract and which helps in digestion should be increased. This can be done by taking yogurt or by taking organic supplements.

4. Herbs

The astringent or sharp and bitter taste of many herbs is due to the presence of tannins. Astringents are capable of reducing intestinal inflammation. The astringents and the protein layer of the inflamed mucus membranes bind and thereby thicken the mucus membranes which results in the reduction of absorption of toxic materials. Astringents also help in reducing secretions.

• Picrorhiza kurroa (Picrorhiza kurroa)

The root and the stem of the Picrorhiza kurroa, which grows in the Himalayan region, are used in the treatment of many ailments. It is used to solve digestive problems which include diarrhea. Being a very bitter herb, it helps to simulate the digestive system. Higher doses may lead to exacerbation of diarrhea and hence, one should take only low doses.

• Goldenseal (Hydrasis Canadensis))

Goldenseal acts as an antibiotic in the intestinal tract and reduces adhesive E.coli. At the same time, the immune system is simulated by its effects. Berberine, which is an active ingredient present in Goldenseal, increases the activity of macrophages. Bacteria and virus are digested by macrophages and hence, this plant plays an important role if used during diarrhea.

• Carob (Ceratonia siliqua)

Rich in tannins, an astringent, Carob binds the mucous membranes of the digestive tract. Sugar is another primary constituent found in the pods of Carob. The gum-like consistency of the pods helps the body to retain water and also fastens the watery stools together. A very effective treatment for diarrhea in adults, its effect on children to treat diarrhea is more powerful.

• Other herbs which can be effectively used during diarrhea are Barberry (Berberis Vulgaris), Echinacea(Echinacea angustifolia) Agrimony (Agrimonia eupatoria) Psyllium (Plantago ovata) to name just a few.

Dealing with diarrhea can be embarrassing as well as painful. But instead of only turning to prescription drugs for instant solution, one can simultaneously go organic.