15 Effective Home Treatments For Diarrhoea: Natural Remedies for Relief

What is Diarrhoea?

A Diarrhoea refers to bowel movements wherein one experiences more frequent loose and watery stools than usual. Usually, it occurs in almost everyone once in a while, and there is nothing to be worried about unless the cause is related to other underlying health issues.

Approximately 2 billion cases of diarrhoea are observed in the world every year. However,diarrhoea should not be left unsupervised or untreated as it can be life-threatening. Notably, it is the second leading cause of death among children below the age of 5 years, with about 1.9 million children losing their lives annually.

Causes of Diarrhoea

1. Stress or anxiety

Stress and anxiety are the primary causes of diarrhoea. Extreme stress often impacts the physical health of a person, possibly leading to conditions like diarrhoea.

2. Infection caused by virus or bacteria

Infection by viruses and bacteria, such as enteric adenovirus, astrovirus, rotavirus, viral hepatitis and E can cause diarrhoea and loose motion.

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3. Infected food

The consumption of contaminated food can introduce parasites into the body, resulting in diarrhoea or other health issues. Usually, packaged food that is ordered or eaten outside tends to get contaminated if it is prepared under unhygienic conditions.

4. Infected water

Drinking water infected by disease-causing pathogens can result in severe consequences like diarrhoea, further causing critical stomach problems.

5. Side effects of some medicines

Most antibiotics help in eliminating the disease. But in many cases, these medications allow the growth of a type of bacteria called Clostridiales that can cause severe diarrhoea loose motions.

Symptoms of Diarrhoea

1. Abdominal cramps or pain

Unexpected abdominal pain and cramps after eating food may imply that a person has diarrhoea. It can also be a telltale of a stomach bug or infection.

2. Bloating

Another sign of diarrhoea is bloating. When the stool stays longer in the colon, it gives the bacteria more time to affect other body parts, resulting in gas and bloating.

3. Nausea

Nausea is one of the common symptoms of loose motion and diarrhoea.One may feel nauseous and weak for a couple of days. However, if it lasts longer than that, then it is better to visit a doctor.

4. Vomiting

When diarrhoea arises from bacterial or microbes infection, it can cause food poisoning and adversely affect a person's physical health - which may, in turn, cause vomiting.

5. Fever

When someone with diarrhoea feels nauseous or experiences bloating and stomach cramps, accompanied by high fever, it may indicate that they have a stomach bug or flu.

6. Blood in the stool

Blood in the stool may occur if a person has diarrhoea because of a bacterial infection. It is better to consult a doctor rather than treat it on their own.

7. Mucus in the stool

Diarrhoea can cause mucus in the stool due to eating highly contaminated food, which leads to intestinal infection.

8. Urgent need to have a bowel movement

One may feel the urgent need to rush to the washroom after eating or drinking something, especially contaminated food, to empty the stomach contents when suffering from diarrhoea.

Effective ways to manage Diarrhoea

1. Hydration

Diarrhoea can cause vomiting, resulting in the body losing a large amount of water. The easiest way to deal with diarrhoea is to stay hydrated.

2. Probiotics

Certain probiotics facilitate the growth of good bacteria in the intestinal tract and help in diarrhoea treatment. Available in the form of liquid or capsules, probiotics are easily available at chemists and drug stores.

3. Over-the-counter drugs

Loose motion medicine and diarrhoea medicine can assist one in handling diarrhoea by preventing it with the help of antibiotics.

4. Foods to eat

Including low-fibre and semisolid food in one’s diet, e.g., rice, soda crackers and toast, helps treat the symptoms of diarrhoea. Fibre helps regulate and ease bowel movements and acts as a natural laxative, thus increasing the speed of food movement through the digestive tract.

5. Foods to avoid

Avoid fatty foods, dairy products, high-fibre foods and packaged or processed food items at all costs while undergoing diarrhoea treatment.

15 Home Remedies to Treat Diarrhea Naturally

Diarrhea can cause dehydration, weakness, and digestive discomfort. Fortunately, there are many effective home remedies to restore gut balance and provide quick relief. Below are 15 scientifically-backed home treatments to stop diarrhea naturally.

1. Stay Hydrated

Why it works: Diarrhea causes excessive fluid loss, leading to dehydration. Replenish fluids by:

• Sipping coconut water or clear broths
• Consuming electrolyte-rich drinks (avoid sugary sports drinks)

2. Follow the BRAT Diet

Why it works: The BRAT diet includes easy-to-digest foods that help firm up stool.

• Bananas – Rich in potassium and pectin, which absorb excess water.
• Rice – Provides energy without irritating the gut.
• Applesauce – Contains fiber to improve stool consistency.
• Toast – A light carbohydrate that’s easy on digestion.

3. Yogurt with Probiotics

Why it works: Probiotics restore healthy gut bacteria, aiding digestion.

• Eat plain, unsweetened yogurt with live cultures.
• Drink fermented milk like kefir to boost gut health.

4. Ginger Tea

Why it works: Ginger reduces stomach cramps and soothes inflammation.

• Boil 1-inch ginger root in water for 10 minutes.
• Strain and drink warm.

5. Chamomile Tea

Why it works: Chamomile has antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties that relax the digestive tract.

• Drink chamomile tea 2–3 times a day for relief.

6. Coconut Water

Why it works: High in electrolytes like potassium and sodium, coconut water replenishes lost fluids naturally.

• Drink fresh coconut water several times a day.

7. Apple Cider Vinegar

Why it works: ACV has antimicrobial properties that help eliminate harmful bacteria.

• Mix 1 tablespoon of ACV in a glass of warm water.
• Drink before meals to soothe digestion.

8. Psyllium Husk (Isabgol)

Why it works: Psyllium husk absorbs excess water, making stool firmer.

• Mix 1 teaspoon of psyllium husk with water.
• Drink before bedtime for best results.

9. Cinnamon & Honey Mix

Why it works: Cinnamon’s antibacterial properties help combat infections, while honey soothes the stomach.

• Mix ½ teaspoon cinnamon powder with honey in warm water.
• Drink twice daily for quick relief.

10. Lemon Water

Why it works: Lemon’s antimicrobial and alkaline properties aid digestion and kill harmful bacteria.

• Squeeze half a lemon into warm water and drink once a day.

11. Carrot Soup

Why it works: Carrots provide essential nutrients and soothe the irritated gut.

• Boil chopped carrots in water, blend, and sip the soup warm.

12. Rice Water

Why it works: The starch in rice water coats the stomach lining and reduces bowel movements.

• Boil ½ cup rice in 4 cups of water, strain, and drink the liquid.

13. Cumin Water (Jeera Water)

Why it works: Cumin has antibacterial and antispasmodic properties, making it excellent for digestion.

• Boil 1 teaspoon cumin seeds in water, strain, and drink warm.

14. Blueberry or Blackberry Tea

Why it works: These berries contain tannins, which reduce inflammation in the intestines.

• Steep dried blueberries or blackberries in hot water.
• Drink twice a day for best results.

15. Fenugreek Seeds

Why it works: Fenugreek is high in mucilage, which protects the stomach lining and helps firm up stools.

• Swallow ½ teaspoon of fenugreek seeds with water.
• Take it once or twice a day for relief.

Effective Tips to Avoid Diarrhea Naturally

Here are 15 expert-backed tips to avoid diarrhea, ensuring a healthy gut and optimal digestion.

1. Maintain Proper Hand Hygiene

• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and clean water before eating and after using the restroom.
• Use an alcohol-based sanitizer when soap isn’t available.

2. Drink Clean & Purified Water

• Avoid tap water in unfamiliar places—boil or filter it before drinking.
• Use bottled water when traveling to reduce infection risks.

3. Eat Well-Cooked Foods

• Ensure meat, poultry, and seafood are cooked at safe temperatures to kill harmful bacteria.
• Avoid consuming raw or undercooked eggs, meat, and seafood.

4. Store Food Properly

• Refrigerate perishable foods within 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.
• Keep raw and cooked foods separate to avoid cross-contamination.

5. Consume Probiotic-Rich Foods

• Eat yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi to promote healthy gut bacteria.
• Probiotics improve digestion and strengthen immunity against infections.

6. Avoid Unhygienic Street Food

• Choose food vendors who follow strict hygiene standards.
• Avoid pre-cut fruits, uncovered foods, or items washed in contaminated water.

7. Wash Fruits & Vegetables Thoroughly

• Rinse fresh produce under running water before consuming.
• Soak leafy greens in a vinegar-water solution to eliminate harmful bacteria.

8. Hydrate Properly

• Drink at least 8–10 glasses of clean water daily to keep digestion smooth.
• Hydration prevents stomach irritation and acid buildup that may lead to diarrhea.

9. Be Cautious with Dairy Products

• If lactose intolerant, opt for lactose-free milk or plant-based alternatives.
• Unpasteurized dairy products may contain harmful bacteria—always check labels.

10. Handle Food with Clean Utensils

• Use separate chopping boards for meat and vegetables.
• Disinfect kitchen surfaces to prevent bacterial contamination.

11. Avoid Excessive Artificial Sweeteners

• Sugar substitutes like sorbitol and xylitol can trigger loose stools.
• Consume natural sweeteners like honey or jaggery in moderation.

12. Strengthen Immunity with a Healthy Diet

• Eat a balanced diet rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
• Include garlic, turmeric, and ginger to boost gut health naturally.

13. Be Cautious While Traveling

• Drink sealed bottled water and avoid ice cubes from unverified sources.
• Stick to hot, freshly prepared meals when dining out.

14. Practice Stress Management

• Chronic stress weakens digestion—practice yoga, meditation, or deep breathing.
• Engage in light exercise and proper sleep to keep gut health in check.

15. Be Mindful of Medications

• Certain antibiotics and painkillers can upset stomach flora—take them only when necessary.
• Always consult an internal medicine doctor before consuming over-the-counter medications for digestion issues.

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When to See a Doctor?

Diarrhoea is a common health anomaly nowadays. One does not need to visit a doctor for diarrhoea treatment if it is mild and does not stay for long; usually, it goes away if one keeps a check on their eating habit and uses the above-mentioned home remedies.

But if a person has a high fever along with nausea and stomach pain, it is advisable to make an appointment with the doctor. When diarrhoea and loose motion do not improve in 2-3 days, it may indicate other severe underlying diseases, like IBS (Irritable Bowel System) or some type of stomach infection.