Home Cures for Diarrhea

Whether you are sick with a virus or you have eaten something that disagrees with you, diarrhea is never pleasant. When an attack of diarrhea strikes, one of the first things you want to do is to replace the fluids that you are rapidly losing. According to Carolyn De Marco, M.D., in the Book of Herbal Home Remedies, drinking vegetable or chicken broth is a good way to prevent dehydration that often accompanies diarrhea. While a bout of diarrhea can't be ignored, there are many home treatments that can help deal with this problem.

What to Avoid

• If you have a sudden case of diarrhea, consider eliminating certain foods from your diet until you feel better. Steer clear of solid food, milk products and food that is greasy, high-fiber or very sweet for the first two days of an attack. This will give your digestive tract a break. From there, you can proceed with some home remedies.

Cinnamon Tea

• Cinnamon is a natural digestive aid, and cinnamon tea will help alleviate diarrhea. Drink one cup as needed. Look for cinnamon tea at most health food stores or make your own brew. Add one tsp. of powdered cinnamon to one cup of boiling water and steep for between 10 to 15 minutes. Strain the tea through a paper towel.

Green and Black Tea

• Both green and black teas contain high amounts of tannins. Tannins help your bowel with a protective coating that eliminates the absorption of certain toxins that are leading to diarrhea. The only difference in the two teas is the way in which they are prepared. Green tea is dried right after harvesting, which helps it to retain higher amounts of tannins. Black teas are fermented slightly before drying and contain a slightly less concentrated form of tannins. Whichever type you pick, let the tea bag steep for 15 to 20 minutes to release as many tannins as possible. Drink one to five cups daily for relief.

Carrots

• Carrots contain high amounts of pectin, components that help soothe your digestive tract. They also help slow down the passage of stool through the colon. Carrot puree can be eaten for relief and stabilization. Prepare the puree by cooking some cleaned carrots until just soft. Put in a blender with some water and blend the mixture to the consistency of baby food. Eat 1/4 cup to 1/2 cup every hour until symptoms subside.

Applesauce

• Applesauce is another food that contains high levels of pectin, and like carrot puree, can be eaten to eliminate diarrhea. Eat 1/4 cup to 1/2 cup every hour for relief.

  If you continue to be bothered with diarrhea for more than one week, consult your physician.