Diarrhea relief nature's way

Few words can cause panic in a public situation like this one: diarrhea. Whether it sneaks up on you or comes along with other conditions such as a gastrointestinal infection, or the result of a chili-eating contest, it's got to be one of the most embarrassing ailments you can experience. From the time we're potty-trained we endeavor to control any unfortunate accidents, especially when away from home. Short of wearing adult diapers, however, many people are plagued with the fear that someday, somewhere, they'll have an attack of the runs and be unable to deal with it. Some victims turn to over the counter medications such as loperamide or bismuth subsalicylate. These may work well for some, however, they can have the boomerang effect of constipation. Additionally, those with problems taking aspirin should avoid bismuth subsalicylate. It is also not recommended for children due to the risk of Reye's Syndrome associated with aspirin.

In any case of diarrhea, attention should be paid to the cause and any other symptoms such as bleeding or fever. It may be wise to consult your physician or other healer due to the possibility of a serious underlying condition such as colitis, gall bladder disease, or numerous other health problems involving the gastrointestinal tract. However, in many events a person suffering from diarrhea needs a gentle means of stopping it, before anything else. No matter whether you plan on seeing a doctor the very same day, you need the eruptions to quit NOW, or you're not going to get out the door.

First and foremost, make sure you do not become dehydrated; this is a bigger risk with children. Electrolytes (sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, chloride, bicarbonate, phosphate and sulfate) can also become out of balance and at worst, this can cause heart and/or neurological damage. Greasy and spicy foods are absolutely forbidden to diarrhea sufferers. Sugary drinks/food should be avoided as they may "feed" any bacteria, viruses or fungi causing the illness. For that reason, probiotics as in some yogurts with live cultures are recommended; they promote "friendly" bacteria such as lactobacilli, acidophilus and bifidobacteria that keep the intestinal tract healthy. Infusions of cilantro leaves (also called coriander) can be effective, as well as that of boiled fenugreek seeds. For those who have no allergy to strawberries, tea made from the leaves of wild strawberries can be a gentle solution, although it must be taken several times. Ginger and cinnamon are both able to quell the queasy digestive system; they also may be taken in the form of tea. If you are able to make it to a practitioner of acupuncture or acupressure, they have suitable treatments available.

Diarrhea is not always a simple matter to solve; in most cases it's not severe and is brief. In the event where it lasts more than a couple days or keeps returning, however, the underlying cause needs to be investigated. In these cases, too, alternative medicine often is able to help get your health under control and back in proper balance.

fenugreek seeds   ginger    

cinnamon