Acute diarrhea is usually viral or from food. Most cases resolve in 2-3 days. Herbs can ease symptoms and prevent dehydration. Chronic diarrhea needs evaluation.
Acute diarrhea is usually viral or from food. Most cases resolve in 2-3 days. Herbs can ease symptoms and prevent dehydration. Chronic diarrhea needs evaluation.
Loose watery stools, urgency, abdominal cramping, frequency, sometimes fever or vomiting (infectious causes).
Bloody or black diarrhea, severe dehydration, fever over 102°F, lasting over 2 days in adults (24h in children), severe abdominal pain, recent travel, antibiotic use.
Hydration with electrolytes (oral rehydration solution best), BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast), rest, avoid dairy/fatty foods temporarily, probiotics.
Slippery Elm and Marshmallow Root for GI coating. Carob powder traditional for children. Raspberry leaf astringent. Blackberry root (astringent). Goldenseal or Oregon Grape for infectious. Probiotics (S. boulardii especially). Activated charcoal for toxins.
Try our Herbal Support Finder for safety-checked recommendations.
