What is Diarrhea?
At some stage of our lives, most of us will experience a bout of the rather unpleasant condition - diarrhea. Most of us experience two bowel movements per day, and have firm stools. When stools are watery or liquid and very loose – and this occurs three or more times a day, it is known as diarrhea. For most, this condition lasts a day or two, but if it persists, it may be a reason for concern, or point to a more serious condition.
What Causes Diarrhea?
Most times, diarrhea is caused by our diet – eating too much fruit or spicy food, a drastic change in diet, or weather temperature. Acute diarrhea is usually related to a bacterial, viral, or parasitic infection, with chronic diarrhea related to digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome or inflammatory bowel disease. As is commonly the case with vomiting, diarrhea causes the body to lose vital amounts of fluids, and so dehydration is always a concern.
Always consult your doctor if you or children experience prolonged periods of diarrhea, if it is accompanied by pain in the abdomen, or blood in the stools.
Help for Diarrhea
Natural Remedies
Many herbal and homeopathic remedies have been formulated with specific ingredients to support firm stools and encourage solid waste elimination, while also providing a good foundation for digestion. Matricaria recutita is a natural anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic and carminative herb making it an extremely effective treatment for digestion problems. A homeopathic remedy such as Mag. Phos (a biochemic tissue salt) helps to quickly ease digestive discomfort including cramps, flatulence and hiccups. It also helps to improve general functioning of the intestines, preventing constipation and diarrhea.