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Effective Natural Remedies for Managing Diarrhea

| Modified on Nov 28, 2023
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Turmeric for Diarrhea

Diarrhea is a common health issue that affects people of all ages, causing discomfort and dehydration. While over-the-counter medications are widely used, many are turning to natural remedies for a gentler approach. In this article, we explore safe and effective natural solutions to alleviate diarrhea symptoms.

Effective Natural Remedies 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. 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. This remedy may need to be repeated every 2-4 hours for severe diarrhea.

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, waiting at least two hours after taking any medication before consuming activated charcoal is recommended.

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.

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

Colloidal silver is a great option if you are dealing with diarrhea from food poisoning or an infection.

Colloidal silver is a natural remedy used for centuries for its antimicrobial properties. While it has not been extensively studied for treating diarrhea specifically, it is 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. 

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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, which is fiber that can help soothe the digestive tract and reduce diarrhea symptoms. Slippery cherry bark can be consumed as a tea or added to food. 

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.

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 as capsules, tea, or added to food.

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. 

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.

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.

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 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 as juice or added to food.

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 tea.

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.

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.

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. 

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.

Slippery Elm Bark

Slippery elm bark is a natural remedy used in European traditional medicine to treat digestive issues, including diarrhea. It contains mucilage, fiber that can help soothe the digestive tract and reduce diarrhea symptoms. Slippery elm bark can be consumed as capsules or added to food. 

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. 

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.

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. 

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. 

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.

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. 

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. 

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. 

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.

Summary

In summary, natural remedies worldwide 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 essential to consult a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for individual needs. Natural remedies can offer a safe and effective alternative to traditional medications, promoting healing and overall health.

Please 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!



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Activated Charcoal

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Posted by Marcia (Kansas City Area) on 09/23/2015
 ★★★★★

I was in complete and total distress. I found myself the night before with food poisoning Im guessing. I have no idea what else could make me so violently ill. I felt fine when I went to bed...but woke about 11:30 pm with the most horrible pain in my stomach area which continued to get worse with each passing minute. Wound up with a succession of vomiting sessions within the next 6 hours. I had to be awake to call in to work at 6 am. I stayed homethat day and didnt really feel bad....but certainly not better rather puny and weak.

This morning, I got up to diarrhea of the watery kind. I knew I had to go to work no matter how I feel. They will fire you for more than 2 points on your attendence...and I already had 2 points....both due to a car problems. Next point would be termination. I sat here at my pc and found the info about diarrhea and the activated charcoal was what hit me as most important. I wound up at WalGreens Pharmacy this morning and found a bottle there. I took it just like someone I had read about this morning had taken it which was 2 capsules. I was so surprised that I didnt have any more bouts with diarrhea. I still didnt feel good and could hardly wait for 4 pm to roll around.

I am soooooo very grateful to Earth Clinic and all who put out there what worked best for them. If it hadnt been for this forum....I dunno where Id be. fired...maybe. Thank you again.

Activated Charcoal
Posted by Healer J (Phoenix, Az) on 02/24/2014
 ★★★★★

I had severe Diarrhea for 2 weeks. I was getting weak and dehydrated. it was embarrassing and scary. I took 2 capsules of activated charcoal in the morning, then in the middle of the night I took 2 more. It worked 100%. I'm totally better. I also took ACV 2 tbsp, with 1 tbsp of honey, with a splash of warm water. I am a huge fan of ACV. I think it was the charcoal that cured me though, or perhaps the combo. THANK GOD! I was really sick. I'm good now. Thank you everyone for your posts. :o)

Activated Charcoal
Posted by Kentucky Mama (Clinton, Ky) on 07/23/2012
 ★★★★★

I have been married to my husband for 23 years. I just realized that I haven't bought pink diarrhea medicine for over a year. I used to have to buy it for him regularly. If he gets diarrhea, he (and even my teenage sons! ) head for the charcoal. Some take a few tablets, some put a teaspoon of powder into glass of water. It is amazing how much it helps. My husband's diarrhea has probably decreased also because he doesn't consume much dairy. Ice cream more than once a week always gets him started again. He can tolerate raw goat milk from our goats with no problem. Keep charcoal on hand at all times and read about what it is good for. It is cheap and amazing!

Activated Charcoal
Posted by Doats (Hamel, Minnesota, Usa) on 05/18/2012

Warning
WARNING!

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.

Replied by Peacock05
(New York, Ny)
06/07/2012
★★★★★

It is true you are not supposed to take this medicine within a few hours of taking other medicines. I too have seizures and I make sure to take charcoal many hours before I take other medicines.

Activated Charcoal
Posted by Jeanie (Los Angeles, Ca) on 02/10/2012
 ★★★★★

When growing up we always had charcoal for an upset stomach. It still works on food poisoning also.

Activated Charcoal
Posted by David (Lake Worth, Fl) on 01/28/2012
 ★★★★★

This stuff is amazing! I did a Google search for something that would stop diarrhea. I've had it for a week and it intensified yesterday for some reason. I had to go every 30 minutes (even waking up from sleep and having to go)! Apple Cider Vinegar, apples, and yogurt would not stop it. I went this morning to The Vitamin Shoppe and picked up their version of Activated Charcoal since many people on this site swear by it. I took it at 9 am. I haven't had to go since. DEFINITELY a keeper for my medicine cabinet! I thank you and so does my toosh!

Activated Charcoal
Posted by Kelly (Cincinnati , Ohio) on 09/01/2010
 ★★★★★

Just wanted to put my 2 cents in. A friend had diarrhea a few weeks ago and could not take off work. He tried to use immodium anti diarrhea med with no success. I remembered activated charcoal from this website and went with him to the hf store. The directions said to take w/ food so he did and the diarrhea was put in check w/ the first dose (2 caps). Thanks again earthclinic!

Activated Charcoal
Posted by Crista (Pekin, Illinois) on 05/06/2009
 ★★★★★

My husband and I are currently in school so our diet is not always the best because we are always studying. Because of this on the occasion food does not agree with us and of course the diarrhea happens, or even just a really upset stomach with maybe quite softer poo later. Anyways, I looked this up on the website and actually other websites as well. I found the activated charcoal in the stomach section of a pharmacy store. It really works. My husband had a particularly bad case so I made him take I think two capsules. He was reluctant, but after he took it he stopped having diarrhea and at the time he was vomitting as well. This stopped it all. It wasn't a miracle feel better, but the erradication stopped instantly. Because he was having an aweful time it took him till the next day to feel better. After that moment when either one of us has a thought of upset stomach we go straight to the activated charcoal. I usually just take one capsule and am done with it. Like I said it doesn't make you feel purfect, but it stops the problems out right. Not only did I use it for this, but because of its absorbtion properties I put it on a bug bite as a paste with water applied it to a bandaid and it stopped itching rather quickly. I think I made that to runny, but it worked well despite my mixing abilities.

Activated Charcoal
Posted by Odilon (Palm Coast, Fl)
★★★★★

Raw Activated Charcoal, works like a dream for diarrhea, in hours not days.

Aloe Vera

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Posted by Bobbi (Auburn, California) on 03/30/2010
 ★★★★★

At the first sign of gastro-intestinal upset take 1/3 cup of aloe vera juice. Relieves diarrhea and associated cramping within 15 minutes. Better than Kaopectate or Immodium AD. It can be purchased in the Health Food section of most grocery stores. The taste is not horrible but not great either. For children the aloe vera juice can be added to orange or apple juice to disguise the taste. I have been using this remedy since 1991 and swear by it.

Apple

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Posted by Suseeq (Sydney, Australia) on 10/07/2016
 ★★★★★

An old fashioned cure for diarrhea is to peel an apple, throw away the peel, grate the flesh let it go brown, then eat. Especially good for children. The flesh takes on change which seems to cure the diarrhea. My passed mother in law told me this years ago and has always worked..

Apple
Posted by Frankie (Chattanooga Tn) on 09/25/2014
 ★★★★★

Reading some of the posts on how to eliminate or manage GI problems I wanted to put my 2 cents in.

I have been managing my GI problems now for over a decade; going to two different GI doctors and being told there is nothing wrong that it is just stress. There are times that doctors can't fix you so you have to do it yourself.

I have tried prescriptions from the doctors, activate charcoal, Aloe Juice, OTC and none of it is a true fix. Either I feel more dehydrated or backed up; the activated charcoal messed with my life saving medications. I have had my gallbladder removed, doctors thought that was the problem.

I have found one simple thing that works. The old saying of an apple a day keeps the doctor away. It's true! As long as I eat one apple a day I don't have diarrhea or painful cramps. It doesn't matter the type of apple, I do change them up so I can have a bit of variety. Apples have pectin, which will help bind better than Prevalite powder, and apples taste way better.

I am not saying don't take the prescriptions your doctor say to take but try a apple a day. I have found that for me if I limit how much onions, garlic, tomatoes, and greasy foods I eat it helps. But on my cheat day and I get fried chicken I make sure I eat at least two apples.

By eating a apple a day I was able to cut out 3 medications; I do have breakthrough days but it is only if I don't eat apples or went over broad on the fried chicken.

Replied by Lou
(Tyler, Tx)
08/18/2015

Have you ever tried eliminating gluten? I think it is the #1 cause for IBS.

Apple
Posted by Kelli (Launceston, Tas, Australia) on 08/21/2012
 ★☆☆☆☆

This totally didn't work for me :( I've had diarrhea for five days and this is the only remedy I can try until I get paid tomorrow, the apple has made the nausea worse, and my stomach feels like its burning. Glad it works for some, but will be steering clear from now on I think.

Replied by Molly
(Spring Valley, Ny)
11/04/2012

Have yourself tested for c.difficile, do some research on it.

Apple
Posted by Norak (South Salt Lake, Utah) on 03/09/2011
 ★★★★☆

I've had a terrible bout of LD for the last 2 days -- going between every 20 min to 2 hours or so -- and just a bit ago found this site. After reading all of the comments, I figured I'd try at least one of these remedies where I had the ingredients immediately available. After eating the apple, it seems to have at least calmed my stomach, hopefully it stays that way. This is a great site. Thanks to all who've posted.

Apple
Posted by Leriejane (Seattle, Wa, Usa) on 07/17/2010
 ★★★★★

Eating an apple has always helped my family get rid of diarrhea. It helps your body begin to have tighter stools. We used to have a 'body ailments' chart that listed foods as remedies, and that was one of them.


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