What are the Home Remedies for Intestinal Infections?
February 3, 2024 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Intestinal infections, also known as gastroenteritis, can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites and typically lead to symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. While home remedies may help alleviate symptoms and support recovery, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional, especially if symptoms are severe or persistent. Here are some home remedies and lifestyle changes that may help manage symptoms of intestinal infections:
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, clear broth, herbal tea, or electrolyte solutions, to replace lost fluids and prevent dehydration caused by diarrhea and vomiting.
- BRAT diet: Follow a bland diet consisting of bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast, which are easy to digest and may help firm up stools and alleviate diarrhea.
- Probiotics: Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help restore the balance of gut flora and support digestive health. Consider taking a probiotic supplement or consuming probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt, kefir, or sauerkraut.
- Ginger: Ginger has natural anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea properties that may help alleviate symptoms of intestinal infection. Drink ginger tea or chew on a small piece of fresh ginger to help reduce nausea and improve digestion.
- Garlic: Garlic has antimicrobial properties that may help fight off infection and promote healing. Add raw or cooked garlic to your meals or take garlic supplements under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
- Chamomile tea: Chamomile tea has anti-inflammatory and calming properties that may help soothe the digestive tract and alleviate symptoms of intestinal infection. Drink chamomile tea between meals to help reduce nausea and abdominal discomfort.
- Avoid irritants: Avoid consuming foods and beverages that may irritate the digestive tract, such as spicy, greasy, or acidic foods, caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated drinks.
- Rest: Get plenty of rest to allow your body to recover and heal from the infection. Avoid strenuous activities and take it easy until symptoms improve.
- Hygiene practices: Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially before eating and after using the bathroom, to prevent the spread of infection to others and reduce the risk of reinfection.
- Apple cider vinegar: Some people find relief from intestinal infections by consuming diluted apple cider vinegar. Mix one to two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water and drink it before meals.
While these home remedies may help alleviate symptoms of intestinal infections, they are not a substitute for medical treatment. If you experience severe or persistent symptoms such as bloody diarrhea, high fever, dehydration, or severe abdominal pain, seek medical attention promptly for proper diagnosis and treatment.