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DESCRIPTION
Diarrhea is defined as a significant increase in the total weight of stool passed in a single day. Most people, however, think of diarrhea as an illness during which they have more frequent, loose, watery stools.
Almost everyone has had diarrhea at some point in their lives. In developing countries, where illnesses that cause diarrhea are more common and where health care is less readily available, diarrhea is a major health concern because of its potential to cause severe, life-threatening dehydration. Infants and the elderly are more prone to dehydration from diarrhea.
Diarrhea that comes on suddenly and goes away over a period of a couple of weeks is usually referred to as "acute diarrhea." Most people with acute diarrhea recover on their own. Diarrhea that last more than 3 weeks is thought of as "chronic diarrhea." Typically, chronic diarrhea requires medical care to find the underlying cause and treat complications, such as dehydration.
MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Dehydration
CAUSES
Incomplete digestion of foods. A number of non-infectious medical conditions may cause diarrhea, too. These include the inability to digest certain foods, including a lactose intolerance, difficulty digesting sugar found in dairy products; celiac disease, inability to digest wheat and sometimes other grains; and pancreatic problems, such as those caused by cystic fibrosis, which interfere with production of important digestive substances.
Surgery to remove part of your intestine resulting in a shortened intestine that may be unable to absorb all the substances you eat. This is referred to as short-bowel syndrome.
Food allergies. Consumption of certain foods, such as beans, caffeine, unripe fruits, spoiled or rancid foods, and foods the body cannot tolerate.
Excess alcohol consumption.
Food poisoning or consumption of contaminated water. You may get it after eating contaminated food or drinking contaminated water. If you eat food that was improperly cooked or was contaminated after cooking, you may get food poisoning, which can lead to diarrhea. Many people who travel to foreign countries develop what is termed "traveler's diarrhea," usually after drinking contaminated water. Infectious diarrhea is a particular hazard in developing countries where it may be difficult to keep waste water and sewage separate from water used for cooking, drinking, and bathing and where inadequate facilities make it difficult to practice good personal hygiene.
Bacterial, viral, or other infection. Intestinal parasites. Acute Diarrhea can be accompanied by fever and mucus or blood in the stool can be a sign of infection or presence of parasites. An infectious agent can be picked up from contact with another individual who has it. Children who attend day care and their families are more likely to be exposed to certain infectious agents. Acute diarrhea accompanied by fever and mucus or blood in the stool can be a sign of infection or the presence of parasites.
- A virus, such as rotavirus, Norwalk agent, enterovirus, or a hepatitis virus.
- A bacterium, such as E.coli, Salmonella, Shigella, Clostridum, Vibrio cholerae.
- A parasite, such as those that cause giardiasis and amebiasis.
Certain diseases of the endocrine (hormonal) system, including thyroid disease, diabetes, adrenal disease, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Certain rare tumors (including carcinoid tumor and pheochromocytoma) that produced diarrhea-causing substances.
Cancer and cancer treatments. Radiation therapy for prostate cancer or cancers in the abdomen can damage the intestine and cause diarrhea.
Inflammatory bowel disease such as ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis, Crohn's disease or pancreatic disease may all lead to severe intestinal upsets. Inflammation of the intestinal tract (such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease), you will have regular bouts of diarrhea during a flare-up of your disease. Sometimes, people who develop bumps in the intestine from diverticulitis also get diarrhea. Irritable bowel syndrome, which may cause alternating bouts of diarrhea and constipation.
Emotional stress can cause diarrhea.
The use of certain drugs. Many medications can cause diarrhea. Some of the most common include antacids containing magnesium, laxatives, sorbitol (for young children) digitalis, diuretics, an number of antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, cholesterol-lowering agents, lithium, theophylline, thyroid hormone, and colchicine are all known to cause diarrhea in some people.
The use of certain drugs, including antibiotics such as tetracycline, clindamycin (Cleocin), or ampicillin can also contribute to diarrhea.
Consumption of chemicals. Toxins such as insecticides, psychedelic mushrooms, and arsenic can cause diarrhea, and overuse of caffeine or alcohol may contribute to diarrhea.
FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
Diarrhea symptoms include:
- Increased frequency of bowel movements.
- Loose, liquid stools.
- Urgency (having to go right away).
- Incontinence (leakage of stool).
- Bloating, gas.
Symptoms that may accompany diarrhea include:
- Nausea, vomiting.
- Cramping or lower abdominal pain.
- Thirst.
- Rectal pain.
- Blood or flecks of mucus in the stool.
- Loss of appetite, weight loss.
- Fever.
TREATMENT
Your most important consideration should be the cause of your diarrhea. Your health care provider may be an important tool for diagnosing the problem. You will need to inform your health care provider about recent travel and whether other people in your family are ill. Providing details about the stool may be embarrassing to you, but they are very important, such as presence of blood or mucus, how watery it is, it's appearance and consistency, smell and color, how long you have had diarrhea, whether you are also experiencing severe urgency, abdominal pain, or pain in your rectum, and whether if occurs more often after eating certain foods.
Your health care provider may want to examine a sample of your stool and may send it to a laboratory for testing. If food intolerance is suspected, you may be asked to avoid a particular type of food for a while, in order to see if this helps stop your diarrhea. You may need to undergo a sigmoidoscopy, which is an examination of the rectum and lower part of the colon with a lighted tube-like instrument, or a colonoscopy, which is an examination of the entire colon with a similar instrument. If your symptoms suggest food intolerance or an hormonal disturbance, other tests may be ordered.
The most important aspect of treating diarrhea involves avoiding dehydration. Because plain water does not contain sugar, sodium, or potassium, which is also lost from diarrhea, it is important to consume plenty of fluids that contain these substances. Examples of such drinks may include sports drinks, prepared rehydration solutions, chicken or beef broth, or bottled and flavored mineral water.
If you are also vomiting, try taking tiny amounts of liquid every 15 minutes. After you are able to hold down liquids, you can advance to a bland, soft diet. A good diet for children is the "BRAT" diet which consists of bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast.
Medications that slow diarrhea are controversial. Some health care providers do not like people to take these medications because it slows the passage of the virus, bacteria, or parasite causing the problem out of the body. If you wonder whether you should use any of the over-the-counter medications available for diarrhea, ask your health care provider.
SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES
DIARRHEA - NEWBORN TO YOUTH AGE 11
Diarrhea is the sudden increase in the frequency and looseness of bowel movements. Each baby or child has different bowel habits, so the definition of diarrhea can vary from individual to individual. Newborns have frequent bowel movements that can be mistaken for diarrhea. Toddlers and young children tend to produce much firmer stools than babies due to the intake of solid foods. The main indicator of diarrhea in children is a noticeable change in bowel habits from what the parent considers normal. The main complication of diarrhea in children is dehydration from excessive loss of fluids.
Most cases of diarrhea in children are caused by a viral infection of the intestines (gastroenteritis); however bacterial infections, food poisoning, a change in diet or an increase in fruit or juice consumption can also result in diarrhea. On rare occasions, on-going diarrhea in children can be an indicator of a more serious condition.
Symptoms of diarrhea include an increase in the frequency and looseness of bowel movements. Diarrhea can also include abdominal cramping, fever and excessive thirst. Dehydration is the main complication of diarrhea in children, so parents should be aware of these symptoms of dehydration: dry mouth, absence of tears, decreased urine production, and darker and more concentrated urine.
Diarrhea can be prevented by washing hands often, following safe food handling practices and not allowing children to drink untreated water from lakes and streams. When a child has diarrhea, the parent must immediately take action to ensure against dehydration. Offer plenty of fluids and keep oral dehydration solutions on hand for emergencies. Dietary changes are the best course of action when a child suffers from diarrhea. Give the child frequent, small meals made up of easily digestible foods, such as rice cereal, pasta, mashed potatoes, breads, applesauce and bananas. Do not give the child apple juice, soda pop, sports drinks or tea. Do not give the child medication to stop diarrhea unless told to do so by a health care provider.
DIARRHEA & EATING
When diarrhea first strikes, consume only water or clear broths and teas. Avoid any solid foods. When diarrhea begins subsiding, start to reintroduce solids and semisolids. Try thicker soups, steamed greens and fruit juices, as well as, juiced, steamed or grated radishes, carrots and beets, to replace lost nutrients. For nutrients and to help bind material in the intestines, eat apples or apple sauce, bananas and toast or zwieback.
DIARRHEA - ADULT: AGE 12 & OLDER
Diarrhea is a condition that occurs when bowel movements suddenly become more frequent and watery than normal. The stools are watery and loose because the intestines push the stools out before they have the opportunity to absorb the water or the bowel tissues are inflamed, causing water to seep into the stool. Diarrhea is the body's way of eliminating toxins, bacteria and other invaders from its system. Diarrhea affects almost everyone at one time or another and usually clears up by itself in one or two days. Diarrhea is not usually considered serious, but it can lead dehydration, especially in young children and the elderly. See Diarrhea - Newborn - Youth, above, for more specific information on childhood diarrhea.
There are many possible causes of diarrhea. Some of the most common causes include food poisoning, gastroenteritis, food allergies, excess alcohol intake, consumption of contaminated water, emotional stress, some medications and inflammatory bowel disease. Diarrhea can occur on its own or it can exist as a symptom of another problem.
Symptoms of diarrhea include loose, watery stools; abdominal cramping; and excessive thirst. Some people also run a fever while suffering from a bout of diarrhea.
Diarrhea can be prevented by adhering to safe food preparation practices, such as washing hands before preparing meals, keeping kitchen surfaces clean, cooking foods thoroughly and taking special care with dairy and meat products. If diarrhea strikes, drink plenty of fluids and eat easy to digest foods, like cooked potatoes, rice, bananas, toast and applesauce.
DIARRHEA WITH VOMITING
Diarrhea with vomiting is a potentially dangerous condition that can be triggered by food allergies, bacteria, viruses, spoiled food, environmental toxins, metabolic disturbances or antibiotic treatments. Diarrhea may be thin, watery and foul-smelling and accompanied by abdominal pain. The illness may also be accompanied by vomiting and a feeling of being bloated. A fever may also be present. Typically, the body loses a great deal of fluid with diarrhea, often resulting in tremendous thirst. Home remedies begin with a special diet that includes plenty of liquids, such as mineral water and teas made from antibacterial and anti-inflammatory medicinal plants. Warm abdominal compresses can also help. However, if the diarrhea is bloody, if abdominal pain is severe, if the diarrhea lasts longer than 3 days or if fever increases sharply, a serious infection may be at work and a health care provider should be consulted immediately.
PURGING TOXINS
Diarrhea and vomiting are self-help mechanisms you body uses to remove substances that cause illness from the intestines and stomach. In some cases, you must let the illness run its course so that toxins can be completely eliminated. It is never wise to stop diarrhea by taking constipating remedies.
If you are having diarrhea with vomiting, you should not eat anything for the first 3 days, to spare the intestines further work and irritation. However, be sure to drink plenty of liquids - at least 4 times the usual amount - so you do not become dehydrated. Try weak black tea or other therapeutic teas. After three days, you may eat toast, crackers, rice or vegetable broth. You can also apply warm abdominal compresses or take acidophilus supplements.
Illnesses accompanied by diarrhea and vomiting weakening the body because they cause a great loss of minerals and fluids. Therapeutic teas can help restore proper gastrointestinal activity and resupply the body with fluids. See Therapeutic Teas and Recommendations below for more information.
PREVENTION
INFECTION CONTROL
Though some types of diarrhea, such as those due to other medical conditions, are unavoidable, infectious diarrhea can be prevented. The most important way to avoid diarrhea is to avoid coming into contact with infectious agents that can cause it. This means that good hand washing and hygiene are very important.
TRAVELING TIPS
Also if you travel to developing countries and/or tropical regions, these vacations pose great risks for travelers. It can be hard to avoid the germ-infected foods that cause diarrhea and vomiting. Here are some tips for preventing this illness - you should take the following precautions:
- Drink only bottled water, even for tooth brushing. If you must use tap water, drink only boiled water, coffee or tea. Use non-carbonated bottled mineral water to brush your teeth instead of tap water.
- Avoid cold drinks with ice cubes made with tap water, rather than bottled water. Do not eat ice cream.
- Eat only those fruit or vegetables that are cooked or raw fruits that can be peeled. Do not eat raw vegetables, especially salad greens, which are usually washed in tap water.
- Be sure that all foods you eat are thoroughly cooked and served steaming hot.
- Never eat raw or under cooked meat or seafood.
Since diarrhea is common when traveling in other countries, it may be advisable to take certain preparations with you. Lactobacillus GG, a type of probiotic, is a natural alternative to both antibiotics or bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol).
HOLISTIC CONSIDERATIONS
Carob powder is high in protein and helps halt diarrhea.
Kombucha tea, which has detoxifying and immune-boosting properties, may be beneficial for diarrhea and other digestive disorders. See Kombucha Tea.
HerbalRemedies: Green Tea Kombucha, Yogi Tea, Decaffeinated, Immune Support, 16 Tea Bags
HerbalRemedies: Kombucha Tea, 100% Organic, Bottled, Ginger Flavor, Ready to Drink, 12 fl. oz, Case of 24
HerbalRemedies: Kombucha Tea, 100% Organic, Bottled, Original Flavor, Ready To Drink, 12 fl. oz., Case of 24
Use Garlic as a preventive food because of its high sulfur content, it helps to regulate digestive activity and kill germs. Try taking garlic capsules or use liberal amounts of fresh garlic in your cooking as a preventive measure. Avoid garlic if you do not digest onions well.
Apple Cider Vinegar is used for intestinal function. Apple vinegar contains large amounts of potassium, pectin and beta carotene. These gently help restore destroyed intestinal flora so intestinal function can return to normal. Drink a glass of non-carbonated mineral water with 2 teaspoons of apple vinegar 3 times a day until the problem eases. A damp, hot compress soaked with apple vinegar soothes pain. Apply it to the abdomen for 2 hours twice daily.
HerbalRemedies: Organic Apple Cider Vinegar (Mother), Organic, Dynamic Health, 16 fl. oz.
HerbalRemedies: Apple Cider Vinegar, 285 mg, 90 Tabs
HerbalRemedies: Apple Cider Vinegar, NOW Foods, 450 mg, 180 Caps
Soothing flax seed pouch may be helpful. A flaxseed pack relaxes gastrointestinal cramping and discomfort due to inflammation. Fill a pouch with raw flaxseed or rice and stitch closed. Hang the pouch over a pot of boiling water to heat it with steam for about 30 minutes, or heat it in a microwave. Place the pouch (as hot as you can stand) on your abdomen. Cover with a towel and a wool blanket and leave in place for about one hour.
HerbalRemedies: Golden Flax Seeds, NOW Foods, Whole Bulk, 16 oz.
Try a mineral-rich broth when you are ill with diarrhea. Simmer chard, collard greens, kale or other dark green, leafy vegetables for 1 hour with a little apple vinegar. Strain off the broth and drink.
Chronic diarrhea in very young children is evident if the child has five or more watery stools a day. A baby with diarrhea can become dehydrated very quickly, and should be evaluated by a health care provider.
Use of the vaccine against rotavirus, a type of virus that commonly causes diarrhea, especially in infants and small children, was halted after the National Centers for Disease Control & Prevention and the U.S. Food & Drug Administration linked the vaccine to a rare type of bowel obstruction called intussusception. This situation is still being investigated.
If you suffer from frequent bouts of diarrhea and feel it is a chronic problem, assess your eating habits to make sure you do not have a food allergy or intolerance.
If diarrhea is chronic or recurrent, an underlying problem such as a food allergy, infection, or intestinal parasites may be the cause. Allergy testing can determine if you have any food allergies. A stool culture can be done to check for infection or the presence of parasites. Some infectious causes of diarrhea are treated with an antibiotic; others are not.
HERBAL & HOLISTIC RECOMMENDATIONS
HERBS
If you suffer from occasional bouts of diarrhea, use Blackberry root bark, Chamomile, Pau D'Arco, and/or Raspberry leaves. Herbs can be taken in tea form or added to applesauce, bananas, pineapple, or papaya juice. Caution: Do not use chamomile on an ongoing basis, and avoid it completely if you are allergic to ragweed.
Cayenne (capsicum) capsules, taken two or three times daily may be beneficial.
Fenugreek, taken as a tea, lubricates the intestines and reduces fever.
Ginger tea is good for cramps and abdominal pain.
Grapefruit Seed Extract has antiparasitic properties.
HerbalRemedies: Grapefruit Seed Extract (GSE), Liquid Concentrate, 4 fl. oz.
HerbalRemedies: Grapefruit Seed Extract (GSE), Liquid Concentrate, 2 fl. oz.
HerbalRemedies: Grapefruit Seed Extract (GSE), Liquid Concentrate, 1 Gallon
Marshmallow root tea (also known as malva tea) helps calm the stomach and sooth intestinal problems.
Slippery Elm bark, taken in tea or extract form, is soothing to the digestive tract.
Wild Oregano Oil contains antibacterial, antifungal, antiparasitic, and antiviral agents.
HerbalRemedies: Wild Oregano Oil, California Natural, 510 mg, 90 Caps
HerbalRemedies: Wild Oregano Oil, California Natural, 1 oz.
THERAPEUTIC TEA FOR DIARRHEA IN ADULTS
4 Tablespoons Alfalfa leaves.
3 Tablespoons Oat Straw
3 Tablespoons Licorice root, shredded
3 Tablespoons Raspberry or Blackberry leaves
2 Tablespoons Thyme
Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 3 teaspoons of the herb mixture. Steep for 10 minutes. Strain. Drink 2-3 cups a day.
THERAPEUTIC TEA FOR NAUSEA IN ADULTS
3 Tablespoons Peppermint leaves
3 Tablespoons Chamomile flowers
3 Tablespoons Licorice root, shredded
3 Tablespoons Fennel seeds
Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 3 teaspoons of the herb mixture. Steep for 10 minutes. Strain. Drink 2-3 cups a day.
THERAPEUTIC TEA FOR CHILDREN
1 Ounce Marshmallow leaves
1 Ounce Licorice root, shredded
1 Ounce Blackberry leaves
Pour 1 cup of hot water over 1 tablespoon of the herb mixture. Steep and strain. Have the child drink up to 3 cups a day.
HEALING TEA FOR INTESTINAL INFLAMMATION
The potent astringent tannins in Tormentilla Root tightens tissues. They can reduce the inflammation of intestinal mucous membranes. They also thicken the membranes, so toxins are less easily absorbed. To make a tea, pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 teaspoon of the root. Steep for 5-8 minutes, Drink 2-3 cups daily.
HEALING TEA FOR PAINFUL CRAMPING AND BLOATING
1 Ounce Peppermint leaves
1 Ounce Caraway or Fennel seeds
1 Ounce Chamomile flowers
Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 tablespoon of the blend and steep for 15 minutes. Strain. Drink 1 cup several times each day.`
RECOMMENDATIONS
Allow yourself to rest. Moderate fasting the first day helps. Stick to fluids at first, substantially increasing your normal intake; experts suggest at least 10 cups daily. As you begin to eat, choose foods with high levels of nutrients to replace those lost. You will find the suggestions given here helpful. Avoid rich, fatty, heavy foods, which overtax the intestine.
Drink plenty of liquids, such as hot carob drink, carrot juice, and "green drinks," as well as plenty of quality water. The prolonged loss of fluids as a result of diarrhea can lead to dehydration and loss of necessary minerals, such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium. Liquid gelatin, clear broth, sodas such as ginger ale or flat cola, and weak tea with honey can be substituted for water if necessary Carrot juice is also good, and makes the stools less watery. Do not drink apple juice, as this can make diarrhea worse.
Avoid high-fiber foods, which may stress the digestive system. Instead, stick to foods that are easy to digest, such as cooked potatoes, rice, bananas, applesauce and toast. Apples in all forms for recovery - grated apple, applesauce and apple juice (do not use unless the diarrhea has subsided) along with apple pectin, a soluble fiber that binds toxic substances so they will not be absorbed and can be eliminated. Pectin also coats the intestinal lining to soothe it. Of course apples offer vitamins and minerals as well. Even apple cider vinegar mixed with water has similar effects.
Drink 3 cups of rice water daily. To make rice water, boil 1/2 cup of brown rice in 3 cups of water for 45 minutes. Strain out the rice and drink the water. Eat the rice as well. Rice helps to form stools and supplies needed B vitamins. Rice is rich in B vitamins and is easy to digest and solidifies wastes. It soothes intestinal membranes. A two-day rice diet is often recommended.
Do not consume any dairy products (except for low-fat soured products, such as yogurt and kefir). They are highly allergenic. Moreover, diarrhea causes a temporary loss of the enzyme needed to digest lactose (milk sugar). Limit your intake of fats and foods containing gluten, including barley, oats, rye, and wheat. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and spicy foods.
Take brewer's yeast supplements since they are high in vitamin B complex and eat yogurt or kefir with live active cultures of lactobacilli for a healthy flora. This is an essential step in recovery and in prevention of future illness.
HerbalRemedies: Brewer's Yeast, Debittered, NOW Foods, 1 lb.
HerbalRemedies: Brewer's Yeast, NOW Foods, 650 mg, 200 Tabs
Use activate charcoal supplements for absorbing toxins. Charcoal is highly absorbent; it absorbs toxins from both the intestines and bloodstream so they can be eliminated. Take 4 capsules every hour or so with a large glass of water until symptoms abate. Caution: Charcoal should be taken separately from any other medications.
HerbalRemedies: Activated Charcoal Supplement, Nature's Way, 260 mg, 100 Caps
Let a mild case of diarrhea run its course. It is the body's way of cleaning out toxins, bacteria, and other foreign invaders. Do not take any medication to stop diarrhea for at least two days. Stick to a liquid diet for 24 hours to give the bowel a rest.
MINERAL DRINK
Prolonged dehydrating diarrhea deprives the body of essential minerals known as electrolytes - especially sodium and potassium - and they must be replaced. You do not get electrolytes by drinking water alone. You can buy premade electrolyte products or you can make your own mineral-rich drink.
2-1/2 Teaspoons Amino Acids, powdered
6 Tablespoons Honey or Molasses
10 Cups Water, boiled
Dissolve the amino acids and honey or molasses in the water. Drink the entire blend over the course of 1 day.
ELECTROLYTE REPLACEMENT PRODUCTS
HerbalRemedies: 40,000 Volts Electrolyte Concentrate, Trace Minerals, 8 fl oz.
HerbalRemedies: Electrolyte Concentrate, Endure, Trace Minerals, 4 fl. oz.
HerbalRemedies: Electrolyte Stamina Power Pak, Concord Grape Flavor, Trace Minerals, 32 Packets
HerbalRemedies: Electrolyte Stamina Power Pak, Cranberry Flavor, Trace Minerals, 32 Packets
HerbalRemedies: Electrolyte Stamina Power Pak, Lemon Lime Flavor, Trace Minerals, 32 Packets
HerbalRemedies: Electrolyte Stamina Power Pak, Orange Flavor, Trace Minerals, 32 Packets
HerbalRemedies: Electrolyte Stamina Power Pak, Raspberry Flavor, Trace Minerals, 32 Packets
HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES
Consider using homeopathic remedies. Take 1-2 pellets of any of the following homeopathic remedies 3 times daily or as instructed by your homeopathic practitioner.
- Arsenicum album is a homeopathic remedy for burning diarrhea that is troublesome at night. It is used for small, foul-smelling stools, thirst, and nausea before eating or induced by the smell of food, restlessness and exhaustion.
- Podophyllum can be used for watery stools and severe diarrhea immediately after eating or drinking.
- Sulfur is excellent for diarrhea that comes on suddenly. Stools that contain mucus and smell of rotten eggs and queasiness.
- Pectin is known to counteract diarrhea.
Consult with your health care provider if any of the following conditions occur:
- The diarrhea lasts for more than 2 days.
- The stool looks like black tar.
- You have a fever above 101°F.
- You have severe abdominal or rectal pain.
- You suffer from dehydration as evidenced by dry mouth or wrinkled skin, or urination is reduced or stops in any 8-hour period.
- If an infant has a dry diaper for more than 4 hours accompanied by a fever, it is wise to seek the advice of your health care provider.
NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS
Unless otherwise specified, the following recommended doses are for adults over the age of 18. For a child between 12 and 17 years, reduce the dose to 3/4 the recommended dose. For a child between 6 and 12 years old, use 1/2 the recommended dose, and for a child under 6, use 1/4 the recommended dose.
DIARRHEA SUPPLEMENTS & PRODUCTS
Supplements and products for diarrhea in adults, a condition occurs when bowel movements are more frequent and watery than normal.
Acidophilus & Your Health By Frank Murray
A "Good Health Guide" essential for digestion, acidophilus helps cure diarrhea and candida infections, lower cholesterol, prevent and heal cancer and restores healthy intestinal flora after antibiotic treatment.Amalaki - Detoxification & Rejuvenation, Banyan Botanicals, 90 Tabs
Amalaki is said to stimulate the production of red blood cells, enhance cellular regeneration, increase lean body mass and support proper function of the liver, spleen, heart and lungs. It has also been used to purify the blood, improve eyesight, strengthen the bones and teeth, and cause hair and nails to grow.Anantmul (Indian Sarsaparilla), 450 mg, 120 VCaps
Anantmul (Indian Sarsaparilla) has long enjoyed a reputation as tonic, alterative, demulcent, diaphoretic, diuretic and blood purifier.Antibiotic (Without) Poke Root Tincture
Herbal Antibiotic (Without) Poke Root tincture contains three well known herbs: Echinacea Root, Goldenseal Root and Cayenne Pepper.Arsen Alb (Arsenicum Album) Homeopathic Clikpak, 30C, 84 Pellets
Homeopathic Nelson's Arsen alb in the new clikpak is easy to carry and dispense for upset stomach, diarrhea and vomiting and therefore much better suited to a busy lifestyle.Baby Calm, Natural Calm for Babies, Peter Gillham's Natural Vitality, 8 oz.
Baby Clam, Natural Calm for Babies, is absorbed instantly and contains magnesium for baby's relaxation, comfort and growth and vitamin C for immunity.Barberry Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Barberry is used for treating gallbladder disease, heartburn and indigestion and diarrhea. This herb can also be used to treat infections, parasites, psoriasis, and vaginitis.Bentonite Powder, 100% Pure, Vegetarian, NOW Foods, 4 oz.
Bentonite powder is one of the most effective natural intestinal detoxifying agents available. Bentonite powder works in the body much like a sponge by attracting and absorbing toxins before being eliminated by the body.Bilberry Extract Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Helpful with many different diseases of the eyes including vascular retinal disturbances, cataracts, diabetic-induced glaucoma, myopia, and all forms of eye strain.Bio Defender, Antibacterial, Antiviral, & Antifungal Formula, Balanceuticals, 56 Caps
This unique antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal formula is a clinical nutritionist response to bio terrorism such as anthrax.Blackberry Vinegar, 12.5 fl. oz.
Throughout Europe it has been used for hundreds of years for various maladies including burns, boils, blackheads, dysentery, diarrhea, whooping cough, sore throats, wounds and ulcers and has also been employed as a hair dye.Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga Racemosa) Powder, 4 oz. Bulk
Studies support the usefulness of black cohosh for symptomatic relief from menopause symptoms such as hot flashes, and Black cohosh has been used traditionally as a relaxant, sedative, and antispasmodic.Brewer's Yeast, NOW Foods, 650 mg, 200 Tabs
Brewer's Yeast has been shown to help people having difficulty sleeping, fatigued, and diarrhea caused by Clostridium difficile.Cayenne Pepper Oil, 100% Pure Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Cayenne Pepper is beneficial for the heart, kidneys, lungs, pancreas, spleen, and stomach. When combined with other herbs, Cayenne Pepper helps increase their effectiveness by helping them enter the blood stream faster.Chlorofresh Liquid Chlorophyll, Mint, Nature's Way, 16 fl. oz.
Chlorofresh is a special liquid chlorophyll complex, derived from premium alfalfa leaves.Cinnamon Bark Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Cinnamon bark is warming to the body, an analgesic, carminative, antiseptic, and antibacterial.Complete Cleansing & AntiToxin System, 2 Part System
Cleanse your body and start feeling more healthy with this body cleansing system.Curcumin, NOW Foods, 665 mg, 60 VCaps
Through its antioxidant mechanisms, Curcumin supports colon health, exerts neuroprotective activity and helps maintain a healthy cardiovascular system.Diarrhea Stop Formula Tincture, 100% Organic 2 fl. oz.
The Diarrhea Stop Formula can be used as a natural remedy for diarrhea and to use for colitis and as an herbal treatment for dysentery.Digestion Essentials, Ultimate Digestion Formula, Peter Gillham's Natural Vitality, 120 Tabs
Digestion Essentials is a superior formulation of digestive enzymes along with digestive acids. Digestion is a vital process necessary for the breakdown and absorption of nutrients needed for basic health.Eating for IBS; 175 Delicious, Nutritious, Low-Fat, Low-Residue Recipes to Stabilize the Touchiest Tummy By Heather Van Vorous
Eating for IBS confirms what every IBS sufferer instinctively knows: that diet plays a direct role in gut function, and that the abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, and bloating from bowel disorders can be directly controlled through diet. This is true not just for Irritable Bowel Syndrome, but also for inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) such as Crohn's and Ulcerative Colitis, plus diverticulosis and diverticulitis. The Eating for IBS diet can make the difference between living a normal, happy, outgoing life versus spending every day stuck in the bathroom enduring pain, bowel dysfunction, and misery.Grapefruit Seed Extract Liquid Concentrate, 2 fl. oz.
Used Grapefruit Seed Extract topically as an antiseptic wound cleaner and to treat infections of the skin.Haritaki, Detoxification & Rejuvenation, Banyan Botanicals, 90 Tabs
As a natural laxative and purgative, Haritaki removes undigested food and accumulated toxins from the gastrointestinal tract. It strengthens and nourishes the tissues and supports proper function of the colon, lungs, liver and spleen.Heather's Tummy Fiber, Organic Acacia Powder, Heather's Tummy Care, 1 lb.
Heather's Tummy Fiber Supplement Acacia is a natural, pure, certified organic, soluble dietary fiber produced from the gum of the Acacia tree (also known as gum arabic). Acacia is a natural plant water-soluble fiber that has been harvested for millenia in Africa; its recorded dietary use dates back to the Egyptian pharaohs.Heather's Tummy Tamers, Peppermint Oil, Heather's Tummy Care, 90 Caps
Peppermint oil capsules, as part of the diet, have been clinically proven to help IBS symptoms, even in children. A recent survey of clinical trials declared peppermint oil capsules the drug of first choice for IBS patients with constipation or diarrhea, to alleviate general symptoms, and to improve quality of life.Heather's Tummy Tea, Organic Peppermint, Heather's Tummy Care, 36 Tea Bags
Peppermint is a cooling, calming herb that, through dietary management, helps relieve the symptoms of IBS. Clinical studies have shown that peppermint is exceptionally beneficial for IBS abdominal pain and spasms, diarrhea, and urgency (it will not cause or worsen constipation).IntestinEase, TCM Intestines & Colon Formula, Zhushao Anchang, 100% Natural, 400 mg, 60 Caps
This famous IntestinEase, TCM Intestines and Colon Formula is made of extracts from atractylodes, common peony root, siler, cimicifuge and tangerine peel.Kachnar (Bauhinia Tormentosa), 450 mg, 120 VCaps
Kachnar (Bauhinia tormentosa) can be used as a gargle for sore throats, as a paste for skin diseases, or internally as a remedy for diarrhea.Kachnar Powder (Bauhinia Tormentosa), 100% Organic, 8 oz. Bulk
Can be used as a gargle for sore throats, as a paste for skin diseases, or internally as a remedy for diarrhea.Kombucha 2000, Concentrated Kombucha Capsule, 30 Caps
Concentrated Kombucha Capsules are new to the market, but Kombucha 2000 is one of the very first successful kombucha tea producers in the United States.Kombucha Tea Extract Tincture, Certified 100% Organic, Case of 12, 1 fl. oz.
People from all over the world claim drinking Kombucha Tea provides relief from many physical ailments.Marshmallow Root Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
The primary use of Marshmallow root is to relieve digestive and respiratory problems, such as coughs, colds, sore throats and asthma.Mullein Oil, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Mullein has been used medicinally to treat respiratory diseases, hemorrhoids, and diarrhea.Multi-Fiber, Natural Laxative For Internal Cleansing, Nature's Secret, 275 Tabs
Multi-Fiber supports the body's own natural detoxification processes, helping to promote 2 to 3 good bowel movements per day.Multi-Herb With 29 Internal Cleansing Herbs, Nature's Secret, 275 Tabs
Multi-Herb combines 29 powerful cleansing herbs chosen to stimulate and facilitate the release of toxins in one easy-to-take tablet.Natural Calm Magnesium Supplement, Peter Gillham's Natural Vitality, 8 oz.
What makes Natural Calm Magnesium Supplement so special over other forms of magnesium supplements is that it is water soluble and assimilates instantly and thoroughly, and works even in cases of highly impaired digestion.Natural Fiber Supplement, Truman's, 12 oz.
Truman's Natural Fiber Supplement formula helps to give bulk to the stool and to check diarrhea; thus, creating balance in the bowel movements.Oregon Grape Root (Mahonia Aquafolium) Powder, 4 oz. Bulk
Oregon Grape Root (Mahonia aquafolium) was used by Native Americans as a tea to treat jaundice, arthritis, diarrhea, fever, and many other health problems.Pipli, 100% Natural, 360 mg, 50 Caps
Pipli, an Ayurvedic, is good for digestion, inflammations of the nose, throat, larynx. Helpful in constipation, diarrhea, as well as toothaches.Rhubarb Root (Turkey Rhubarb, Rheum Palmatum) Powder, 4 oz. Bulk
Rhubarb root (Rheum palmatum) is an essential ingredient in many old homemade ciders, wines and root beers. A strong decoction of Rhubarb root has a purgative action for use in the treatment of constipation, but also has an astringent effect following this. It therefore has a cleansing action upon the gut, removing debris and then astringing with antiseptic properties as well.Rhubarb Root (Turkey Rhubarb, Rheum Palmatum) Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Rhubarb is used as a natural laxative, also helps with diarrhea. Acts as a blood builder and cleanser. Helps disorders of the colon and liver.SeaGest Intestinal Care, 60 Caps
SeaGest Is No Ordinary Digestive Aid! SeaGest is an extraordinary nutritional breakthrough for intestinal health made from pure white fish found in the depths of the North Pacific Ocean.Stomach Fortifier, Balanceuticals, TCM Formula, 100% Natural, 60 Caps
Chinese medicine uses it to strengthen the spleen and stomach, normalize peristalsis of the stomach and intestines, promote absorption of water and chlorine ion, improve metabolism, nurture the lung, balance bowel movement and increase energy.Sulfur Homeopathic Clikpack, 30C, 84 Pellets
Homeopathic Nelson's Sulfur in the new clikpak is easy to carry and dispense for skin disease, eczema and acne and therefore much better suited to a busy lifestyle.Super Cleanse For Your Colon, Economy Size, Nature's Secret, 200 Tabs
Super Cleanse is an extra-strength bowel formula colon cleansing product composed of 13 powerful cleansing and nutritive herbs.Swedish Bitters Herbal Elixir, NatureWorks, 8.45 fl. oz.
NatureWorks Swedish Bitters Herbal Elixir cleanses and soothes the system, promotes regularity, improves digestion, tones the liver and increases energy.Swedish Bitters NatureWorks, 50 Caps
NatureWorks Swedish Bitters cleanses and soothes the system, promotes regularity, improves digestion, tones the liver and increases energy.
HerbalRemedies: Diarrhea - Newborn - Age 11 Youth Information
HerbalRemedies: Diarrhea - Adult, Age 12 and Older Information
HerbalRemedies: Diarrhea Supplements & Products
NOTIFY YOUR MIDWIFE OR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IF...
You or a family member has diarrhea that lasts for more than 2 days.
Other family members currently are having similar illnesses, too.
There is blood in the stool.
The stool looks like black tar (dark-black in color). Tell your health care provider if you have been taking over-the-counter medications, which also can make the stool look darker than usual.
You have a fever above 101°F.
You have severe abdominal or rectal pain.
You suffer from dehydration as evidenced by dry mouth or wrinkled skin, or urination is reduced or stops.
Recent travel out of the country.
Recent seafood consumption.
Reason to believe that you have food poisoning.
You have symptoms that get worse regardless of treatment currently used.
You have any unexpected or unusual symptoms. Some people may have sensitivity, allergies, or other health conditions which would prevent them from using certain medications, herbs, or other treatments. Some medications may produce side effects.
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Prescription for Herbal Healing: The A-To-Z Reference To Common Disorders
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The Complete Guide to Natural Healing
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