Diarrhea is a common digestive disorder caused by various factors such as infections, food intolerances, and stress. Although usually not serious, diarrhea can be uncomfortable and disrupt daily life. Many natural remedies can help alleviate diarrhea symptoms and promote digestive health.
In this article, we'll first describe the top remedies for diarrhea from Earth Clinic readers and then explore remedies from various regions of the world, each with unique benefits. Discover how North American herbs like fennel and peppermint can soothe the digestive tract while natural remedies such as slippery elm bark and white oak bark reduce diarrhea symptoms. Explore how South American remedies like cat's claw and passionflower reduce inflammation and cramps and how papaya and pomegranate have antimicrobial properties.
Learn how herbs like cascara sagrada, chaparral, and wild yam have been used for centuries in traditional North American healing practices to alleviate diarrhea and other digestive issues. Finally, discover how lemon myrtle, manuka honey, and tea tree oil have been used for generations in Australia and New Zealand to promote healthy digestion and fight harmful bacteria.
Home Treatments for Diarrhea
Diarrhea is a common condition with frequent, loose, and watery bowel movements. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including viruses, bacteria, parasites, medications, and certain medical conditions. While diarrhea usually resolves on its own within a few days, it can cause dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and other complications in some cases. Fortunately, several remedies can help alleviate diarrhea symptoms and promote recovery.
Fluid Replacement - Most Important
The most important remedy for diarrhea is to replace fluids and electrolytes lost due to frequent bowel movements. Drinking plenty of water, clear broths, and sports drinks that contain electrolytes can help prevent dehydration and maintain a healthy balance of sodium, potassium, and other minerals in the body.
Probiotics
Probiotics are live microorganisms that can help restore the natural balance of bacteria in the gut and reduce diarrhea symptoms. Some studies use probiotic supplements and foods that contain live cultures, such as yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut, to reduce the duration and severity of diarrhea.
BRAT Diet
The BRAT (bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast) diet is a well-known remedy for diarrhea that involves eating bland, low-fiber foods that are easy to digest. This diet can help reduce the frequency and severity of diarrhea symptoms and relieve an upset stomach. However, it is important to gradually reintroduce a balanced diet once diarrhea symptoms subside to ensure that the body receives adequate nutrition.
Herbal Remedies
Certain herbs and plant extracts, such as chamomile, peppermint, and ginger, have been traditionally used to alleviate digestive issues, including diarrhea. These herbs have anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties that can help soothe the digestive tract and reduce diarrhea symptoms. We explore more of these in depth below.
Alleviating Diarrhea Naturally: Earth Clinic's Top Remedies
1. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a popular remedy for many digestive issues, including diarrhea. It contains acetic acid, which has antibacterial properties that can help fight off harmful bacteria in the gut. Additionally, the pectin in apple cider vinegar can help soothe an upset stomach and reduce diarrhea symptoms. It is recommended to dilute apple cider vinegar in water or a beverage before consuming and to use it in moderation, as excessive consumption can lead to negative effects such as tooth enamel erosion.
Take 1 - 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water once or twice daily.
2. Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal is a form of carbon treated with oxygen, making it highly porous and able to absorb toxins and other substances in the digestive tract. It is sometimes used as a remedy for diarrhea, particularly when caused by food poisoning or bacterial infections. Activated charcoal is available in supplement form and should be taken under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Activated charcoal powder, available in powder or capsules online or at your health food store, works for diarrhea. Mix one teaspoon of charcoal powder into a glass of water, or take four charcoal capsules or tablets with a glass of water. For severe diarrhea, this remedy may need to be repeated every 2-4 hours.
Activated charcoal is a remedy for chronic or acute diarrhea, as it can adsorb toxins effectively. However, it's important to note that activated charcoal can also adsorb medications. Therefore, to avoid any potential interactions, it is recommended to wait at least two hours after taking any medication before consuming activated charcoal.
3. Turmeric
Turmeric works very well for diarrhea. A spice widely used in Asian cuisine, it has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and may be effective in reducing diarrhea symptoms. Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, has been found to reduce inflammation in the gut and prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that curcumin effectively reduced diarrhea symptoms in rats with induced diarrhea. Another study showed that a turmeric extract effectively reduced diarrhea symptoms in people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
One teaspoon of the powder can be mixed into almond or rice milk, or 4 capsules can be taken several times daily. Turmeric will often stop diarrhea very quickly.
4. Colloidal Silver
If you are dealing with diarrhea from food poisoning or an infection, colloidal silver is a great option.
Colloidal silver is a natural remedy used for centuries for its antimicrobial properties. While it has not been extensively studied for the treatment of diarrhea specifically, it has been found to be effective against a wide range of harmful bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Colloidal silver works by interfering with the enzymes these microorganisms use to metabolize oxygen, effectively suffocating them. This makes it a potential remedy for diarrhea caused by harmful bacteria or other microorganisms. Colloidal silver is best taken on an empty stomach.
North American Remedies for Diarrhea
American Elm Bark
American elm bark is a traditional remedy used in North American folk medicine to treat digestive issues, including diarrhea. It contains mucilage, a type of fiber that can help soothe the digestive tract and reduce diarrhea symptoms. American elm bark can be consumed in the form of capsules or added to food. [1]
Blue Cohosh
Blue cohosh is a traditional remedy that has long been used in North American healing practices to treat digestive issues, including diarrhea. It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the gut and relieve cramps and abdominal pain. Blue cohosh can be consumed as tea, capsules, or supplements. [2]
Cascara Sagrada
Cascara sagrada is a natural laxative commonly used in North American traditional medicine to treat constipation and diarrhea. It contains compounds that can help stimulate the muscles in the digestive tract and promote regular bowel movements. Cascara sagrada can be consumed in the form of tea, capsules, or supplements. [3]
Chaparral
Chaparral is a traditional remedy used in North American folk medicine to treat various health conditions, including digestive issues like diarrhea. It has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help reduce inflammation in the gut and fight off harmful bacteria. Chaparral can be consumed as tea, capsules, or supplements. [4]
Echinacea
Echinacea is a plant used in North American traditional medicine to treat various health conditions, including digestive issues like diarrhea. It has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help reduce inflammation in the gut and fight off harmful bacteria. Echinacea can be consumed in the form of tea or supplements. [5]
Ginger Root
Ginger root is a traditional remedy used in North American healing practices to treat various health conditions, including digestive issues like diarrhea. It has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help reduce inflammation in the gut and fight off harmful bacteria. Ginger root can be consumed as tea, capsules, or supplements. [6]
Lobelia
Lobelia is a traditional remedy used in North American folk medicine to treat digestive issues, including diarrhea. It has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that can help reduce inflammation in the gut and relieve cramps and abdominal pain. Lobelia can be consumed in the form of tea, capsules, or supplements. [7]
Oregon Grape Root
Oregon grape root is a traditional remedy used in North American folk medicine to treat digestive issues, including diarrhea. It has antimicrobial properties that can help fight off harmful bacteria in the gut and reduce diarrhea symptoms. Oregon grape root can be consumed in the form of tea or supplements. [8]
Slippery Cherry Bark
Slippery cherry bark is a traditional remedy used in North American folk medicine to treat digestive issues, including diarrhea. It contains mucilage, a type of fiber that can help soothe the digestive tract and reduce diarrhea symptoms. Slippery cherry bark can be consumed as tea or added to food. [9]
Wild Yam
Wild yam is a traditional remedy used in North American healing practices to treat digestive issues, including diarrhea. It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the gut and relieve cramps and abdominal pain. Wild yam can be consumed in the form of tea, capsules, or supplements. [10]
Asian Remedies for Diarrhea
Here are some natural remedies from India, Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia that are traditionally used for diarrhea:
Black Cumin Seeds
Black cumin seeds, also known as Nigella seeds, have been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries to treat digestive issues, including diarrhea. They have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help reduce inflammation in the gut and fight off harmful bacteria. Black cumin seeds can be consumed in the form of capsules, tea, or added to food. [11]
Betel Leaf
Betel leaf, also known as Paan, is a popular traditional remedy for digestive issues in Southeast Asia. It has antimicrobial properties that can help fight off harmful bacteria and reduce diarrhea symptoms. Betel leaf can be chewed or brewed into tea for consumption. [12]
Ginger
Ginger is a spice used in Ayurvedic and Thai traditional medicine to treat digestive issues, including diarrhea. It has anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties that can help reduce inflammation in the gut and relieve cramps and abdominal pain. Ginger can be added to food or consumed in the form of tea or supplements. [13]
Guava Leaves
Guava leaves have been traditionally used in Indonesian medicine to treat diarrhea. They contain tannins and flavonoids that can help reduce inflammation in the gut and fight off harmful bacteria. Guava leaves can be brewed into tea or consumed as supplements. [14]
Caribbean Remedies for Diarrhea
Traditional Caribbean remedies offer a rich source of natural treatments for a range of ailments, including digestive issues such as diarrhea.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a succulent plant that has been used in traditional Caribbean medicine to treat various health conditions, including digestive issues like diarrhea. It has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help reduce inflammation in the gut and fight off harmful bacteria. Aloe vera gel can be consumed in the form of juice or added to food. [15]
Bay Leaf
Bay leaf is a popular spice used in Caribbean cuisine and has medicinal properties. It has antimicrobial properties that can help fight off harmful bacteria in the gut and reduce diarrhea symptoms. Bay leaf can be added to food or brewed into a tea for consumption. [16]
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a spice traditionally used in Caribbean medicine to treat digestive issues, including diarrhea. It has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help reduce inflammation in the gut and fight off harmful bacteria. Cinnamon can be added to food or consumed as tea or supplements. [17]
Sour Sop
Sour sop, also known as Graviola, is a tropical fruit traditionally used in Caribbean medicine to treat various health conditions, including digestive issues like diarrhea. It has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help reduce inflammation in the gut and fight off harmful bacteria. Sour sop can be consumed as juice or added to food. [18]
European Remedies for Diarrhea
Europe has a long history of using natural remedies to soothe digestive issues like diarrhea, and many herbs and plant-based treatments continue to be used today.
Fennel
Fennel is a herb used in European traditional medicine to treat digestive issues, including diarrhea. It has anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties that can help reduce inflammation in the gut and relieve cramps and abdominal pain. Fennel can be consumed in the form of tea, capsules, or added to food. [19]
Peppermint
Peppermint is a popular herb used in European cuisine and has medicinal properties. It has anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties that can help reduce inflammation in the gut and relieve cramps and abdominal pain. Peppermint can be consumed in the form of tea, capsules, or added to food. [20]
Slippery Elm Bark
Slippery elm bark is a natural remedy used in European traditional medicine to treat digestive issues, including diarrhea. It contains mucilage, a type of fiber that can help soothe the digestive tract and reduce diarrhea symptoms. Slippery elm bark can be consumed as capsules or added to food. [21]
White Oak Bark
White oak bark is a natural astringent used in European traditional medicine to treat diarrhea. It contains tannins, which can help reduce inflammation in the gut and promote the absorption of excess fluid in the digestive tract. White oak bark can be consumed as a tea or added to food. [22]
South American Remedies for Diarrhea
South America boasts a wealth of natural remedies that have been used for generations to ease diarrhea symptoms, from plant-based treatments to traditional healing practices.
Cat's Claw
Cat's claw is a vine that grows in South America and has been used in traditional medicine to treat various health conditions, including digestive issues like diarrhea. It has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help reduce inflammation in the gut and fight off harmful bacteria. Cat's claw can be consumed in the form of tea or supplements. [23]
Passionflower
Passionflower is a plant that grows in South America and has been traditionally used to treat digestive issues, including diarrhea. It has anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties that can help reduce inflammation in the gut and relieve cramps and abdominal pain. Passionflower can be consumed in the form of tea or supplements. [24]
Plantain Leaf
Plantain leaf is a natural remedy used in South American traditional medicine to treat digestive issues, including diarrhea. It contains mucilage, a type of fiber that can help soothe the digestive tract and reduce diarrhea symptoms. Plantain leaf can be consumed as tea or added to food. [25]
Pomegranate
Pomegranate is a fruit traditionally used in South American medicine to treat various health conditions, including digestive issues like diarrhea. It has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help reduce inflammation in the gut and fight off harmful bacteria. Pomegranates can be consumed in the form of juice or added to food. [26]
Australian and New Zealand Natural Remedies for Diarrhea
Australia and New Zealand have a long history of using natural remedies for various ailments, including digestive issues like diarrhea. Indigenous remedies such as lemon myrtle, manuka honey, and tea tree oil have been passed down through generations and are still used today.
Lemon Myrtle
Lemon myrtle is a native Australian plant traditionally used by indigenous communities to treat various health conditions, including digestive issues like diarrhea. It has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help reduce inflammation in the gut and fight off harmful bacteria. Lemon myrtle can be added to food or consumed as tea or supplements. [27]
Manuka Honey
Manuka honey is produced in New Zealand and has been used in traditional medicine to treat various health conditions, including digestive issues like diarrhea. It has antimicrobial properties that can help fight off harmful bacteria in the gut and reduce diarrhea symptoms. Manuka honey can be consumed directly or added to food. [28]
Papaya
Papaya is a tropical fruit native to Australia and has been traditionally used in indigenous medicine to treat digestive issues, including diarrhea. It contains enzymes that can help break down proteins in the gut and reduce inflammation. Papaya can be consumed directly or added to food. [29]
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is a natural remedy used by indigenous Australians for centuries to treat various health conditions, including digestive issues like diarrhea. It has antimicrobial properties that can help fight off harmful bacteria in the gut and reduce diarrhea symptoms. Tea tree oil can be added to food or consumed as supplements. [30]
Summary
In summary, natural remedies from around the world offer a wealth of options for treating diarrhea. Traditional practices from North America, Europe, South America, the Caribbean, Australia, and New Zealand have all developed unique remedies over generations that can alleviate diarrhea symptoms and promote digestive health. Some of the most effective natural remedies include herbs like ginger, turmeric, peppermint and natural laxatives like cascara sagrada and rhubarb. Additionally, probiotics, honey, and fermented foods have shown promise in promoting healthy gut flora and reducing diarrhea symptoms.
When considering natural remedies for diarrhea, it is important to consult a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for individual needs. Overall, natural remedies can offer a safe and effective alternative to traditional medications, promoting healing and overall health.
Citations:
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- Blue Cohosh: Felter HW. Blue Cohosh. Eclectic Materia Medica, Pharmacology and Therapeutics. Portland, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications; 1922.
- Cascara Sagrada: Bullock ML, Bergan JJ. Cascara sagrada. Pharmacology and therapeutic uses. Journal of Herbal Pharmacotherapy. 2003; 3(2): 77-90. doi: 10.1080/J157v03n02_06.
- Chaparral: Seamon KB, Daly JW. A review of the literature on the application of pharmacological and biochemical techniques to studies of the plant alkaloid chaparral. Annual Review of Pharmacology and Toxicology. 1981; 21: 437-464. doi: 10.1146/annurev.pa.21.040181.002253.
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Keep reading to discover the natural remedies that have been effective for our readers over the years. Do you have a personal home remedy for diarrhea? Share it with us in the comments!
(1) 
Activated charcoal has such great absorbtion qualities but that can cause problems when mixed with medications. I urged my adult son used it for his diarrea and I think it absorbed too much of his seizure medication and he began to have tiny petit mal seizures within a while. Just be careful that you don't absorb a life saving medicine to cure diarrhea.
