top of page

Essential4Health

Evidence-based natural health

Essential4Health

Evidence-based natural health

person-suffering-from-diarrhea-holds-roll-toilet-paper-front-toilet-bowl
"Diarrhea" is a digestive condition marked by frequent, loose, watery stools and is generally classified as either acute or chronic. Acute diarrhea is often caused by infections, food reactions, or medications and usually resolves within a few days. Chronic cases, lasting two weeks or more, may signal underlying issues like IBD or lactose intolerance. Staying hydrated, restoring electrolytes, and avoiding irritants can ease symptoms. Supporting gut health helps restore balance and prevent recurring digestive disturbances.

Description

This page has 52 references

"Diarrhea" is a digestive condition marked by frequent, loose, watery stools and is generally classified as either acute or chronic. Acute diarrhea is often caused by infections, food reactions, or medications and usually resolves within a few days. Chronic cases, lasting two weeks or more, may signal underlying issues like IBD or lactose intolerance. Staying hydrated, restoring electrolytes, and avoiding irritants can ease symptoms. Supporting gut health helps restore balance and prevent recurring digestive disturbances.

Symptoms & Signs

Abdominal Cramps, Abdominal Pain, Bloating, Bowel Urgency, Dehydration, Fever, Frequent Stools, Nausea, Stool Mucus, Vomiting, Watery Stools

medical-practitioner-checking-health-status-patient-blood-pressure-check-essential4health

Diarrhea

Body System

Digestive System

Causes

Food Allergies, Food Intolerances, GI Infections, Intestinal Parasites, Antibiotic Use, Gut Dysbiosis, Certain Medications (e.g. laxatives, antacids), Stress

Things To Do

If you suffer from diarrhea, make sure to pinpoint its origins. Eliminate foods, medications, or stress that cause it. Otherwise, if diarrhea is an effect of an infection, try the following:


  • Consume light foods. Begin with clear liquids, such as broths, clear soups, rice water, etc. If these do not cause you adverse effects, introduce boiled rice, bananas, plain crakers, and unsweetened plain yogurts.

  • stay hydrated. Drink mineral water (it will help you replace electrolytes) and herbal teas. Make sure the liquids you drink are not too cold or too hot. A drastic change in temperature can further upset your digestive tract.

  • If it is not severe, let diarrhea run its course. It is our bodies' natural cleansing mechanism, which effectively helps the system rid itself of any harmful substances, waste products, and pathogens. 


Additionally, remember to:


  • Let your body rest. Diarrhea can be distressing due to fluid loss and insufficient nutrition.

  • Apply a barrier cream and use pH-neutral wet wipes to reduce the risk of inflammation in the anus area. 

Things To Avoid

When suffering from diarrhea, make sure to avoid:


  • triggers that are causing loose stools, such as foods you are allergic to or intolerant of, medications, or stress.

  • foods high in fiber, such as vegetables, fruit, seeds, high-fiber crackers, etc.

  • processed and spicy foods.

  • foods with a high content of fat.

  • sugar and sweetened products

  • carbonated drinks, coffee, caffeinated beverages, alcohol, and fruit juices.

  • dairy products [with the exception of plain yogurt].


In addition, avoid the following:


  • excessive physical activity and movement.

  • cooking for others. Diarrhea can be contagious, depending on the trigger.

  • going out and eating out.

Already a Subscriber? Log In

See a fully unlocked page

Already a Subscriber? Log In

See a fully unlocked page

ℹ️ Guidance Note
Not a protocol—each modality is listed individually with references; anecdotes are flagged
 

Usage rules
 

  • Use one modality per session within the listed frequency and duration

  • Add new modalities one at a time, week by week

  • Stop immediately if adverse symptoms occur
     

Combining rules
 

  • Combine modalities only if explicitly allowed in the entry

  • Avoid overlapping heat or intensive manual therapies on the same day unless specified

  • Use only listed synergies; otherwise do not combine in the same session


Professional Care
 

  • Follow the fixed safe-use lines where indicated (e.g., acupuncture requires a licensed practitioner)

  • See Global Safety Note below

ℹ️ Guidance Note
Not a protocol—each plant active is listed individually with references; anecdotes are flagged
 

Introduce gradually
 

  • Start with one plant active

  • Add one new plant active every 7 days if tolerated

  • Keep ≤2 changes at once
     

Stacking rules
 

  • Avoid combining herbs with the same primary Effect

  • Always check for drug–herb interactions and photosensitivity

  • Use only listed synergies; avoid antagonisms or separate by the stated time


Use Window
 

  • Respect each item’s Timing and Duration caps

  • Patch-test topicals and dilute essential oils to the listed %

  • See Global Safety Note below

Self-care oriented


These options do not replace prescribed care. “Therapeutic Dose” denotes the upper limit (“Up to …”), and “Duration” denotes the Safe Duration cap — at the Recommended Dose you may continue or cycle beyond this window if symptoms persist and no adverse effects occur; at the Therapeutic Dose do not extend without clinician guidance; stopping earlier is appropriate if you improve or have side effects. Upper limits are ceilings, not targets; if unsure, ask a clinician. Review potential interactions with a clinician or pharmacist—especially if you take anticoagulants or medicines for heart disease, diabetes, seizures, or mood disorders. Use quality-tested products; patch test topicals; dilute essential oils; avoid eyes/mucosa.

Already a Subscriber? Log In

See a fully unlocked page

Supplements

Direct Support

(Most Helpful → Least Helpful)

These supplements directly affect diarrhea by restoring electrolyte balance, reducing intestinal inflammation, or supporting rehydration and gut barrier integrity.

1. Electrolyte Blend 🔗 (view details)

  • Function: Electrolyte blend containing sodium, potassium, and chloride is crucial for maintaining hydration and balance in the body. It prevents dehydration and helps restore normal fluid levels, aiding recovery from diarrhea.

  • Recommended Dose: Sodium 1,000–2,000 mg/day, Potassium 600–1,000 mg/day, Magnesium 120–240 mg/day

  • Therapeutic Dose: Up to 2,000 mg/day sodium, Up to 1,000 mg/day potassium, Up to 300 mg/day magnesium [Short term during significant losses]

  • Form: Powder

  • Timing: With meals

  • Duration: 1–2 weeks

  • Cautions & Safety Notes: Avoid in significant kidney disease or hyperkalemia; separate minerals from thyroid hormone, tetracyclines, and fluoroquinolones by 2 hours; if the product lacks sodium, add table salt 2,600 mg (≈½ tsp; ≈1,000 mg sodium) per 1,000 mL water; for acute diarrhea, prepare an ORS per 1,000 mL water with sugar ~25,000 mg (≈6 tsp) + table salt 2,600 mg (≈½ tsp) and take frequent small sips; do not stack with separate sodium/potassium/magnesium supplements—count total daily amounts from all sources (blend + individual products).


2. Colostrum 🔗 (view details)

  • Function: Colostrum, rich in immunoglobulins and bioactive factors with immunological and antimicrobial effects, supports digestive health by combating pathogens and promoting gut healing, helping control both acute and chronic diarrhea.

  • Recommended Dose: 2,000–5,000 mg/day

  • Therapeutic Dose: Up to 10,000 mg/day

  • Form: Capsule or powder

  • Timing: Empty stomach

  • Duration: 4–8 weeks

  • Cautions & Safety Notes: Avoid in dairy allergy.


3. Zinc 🔗 (view details)

  • Function: Zinc enhances intestinal barrier repair, reduces intestinal fluid secretion, and shortens the duration of acute diarrhea.

  • Recommended Dose: 15–25 mg/day elemental

  • Therapeutic Dose: Up to 40 mg/day elemental

  • Form: Capsule

  • Timing: With meals

  • Duration: 8–12 weeks

  • Cautions & Safety Notes: Long-term high doses may lower copper; consider copper if extended; separate from iron/calcium by ≥2 h.

Indirect Support

(Most Helpful → Least Helpful)

These supplements do not target diarrhea directly but may support microbial balance, immune function, or recovery from digestive stress.

1. Glutamine 🔗 (view details)

  • Function: Glutamine maintains intestinal mucosal integrity and reduces diarrhea by enhancing epithelial regeneration and reducing permeability.

  • Recommended Dose: 5,000–10,000 mg/day

  • Therapeutic Dose: Up to 15,000 mg/day

  • Form: Capsule or powder

  • Timing: Empty stomach

  • Duration: 8–12 weeks

  • Cautions & Safety Notes: Avoid in hepatic encephalopathy or hyperammonemia; caution in renal impairment; GI discomfort or bloating possible.


2. Probiotics 🔗 (view details)

  • Function: Probiotics restore the balance of beneficial bacteria in the colon, which is often disrupted by antibiotics. This helps normalize bowel movements and alleviates diarrhea by promoting a healthy gut environment.

  • Recommended Dose: 10–20 billion CFU/day

  • Therapeutic Dose: Up to 50 billion CFU/day

  • Form: Delayed-release/enteric-coated capsule

  • Timing: With meals

  • Duration: 8–12 weeks

  • Cautions & Safety Notes: Start low; transient bloating possible.

Natural Compounds

These natural compounds may help reduce diarrhea by calming the gut, restoring hydration, or supporting microbial balance.

1. Psyllium Husk 🔗 (view details)

  • Function: Psyllium husk, a soluble fiber, absorbs water in the gut, forming a gel-like substance that adds bulk to loose stools and softens hard stools. This process helps regulate stool consistency, promoting regular bowel movements and providing relief from diarrhea.

  • Typical Amount: 5,000–10,000 mg (5–10 g; ≈ 1½–3⅓ tsp)

  • Form & Delivery Method: Powder; mix in water (≈ 200–250 mL, ¾–1 cup) and drink promptly

  • Timing: With meals

  • Frequency: 1–2 times/day

  • Cautions & Safety Notes: Always take with plenty of water to avoid choking or blockage; separate medicines/minerals by 2 hours; may cause gas/bloating—start low and increase; can lower blood sugar—monitor if on antidiabetics; avoid stacking full doses with other bulking/gel fibers at the same time (e.g., glucomannan, guar, methylcellulose, large inulin doses); history of bowel obstruction or swallowing difficulty: clinician guidance.


2. Apple Pectin 🔗 (view details)

  • Function: Apple pectin binds excess water in the intestines, normalizes stool consistency, and slows intestinal transit time.

  • Typical Amount: 3,000–9,000 mg/day (powder ≈ 1–3 tsp)

  • Form & Delivery Method: Powder or capsule; mix powder in water or oral rehydration solution

  • Timing: With meals

  • Frequency: 2–3 times/day

  • Cautions & Safety Notes: Separate medicines/supplements by ≥2 hours. Do not stack with other fibers or GI binders (psyllium, inulin, glucomannan, charcoal, clay, zeolite) to avoid gas/constipation and reduced absorption. Start low; drink water. Avoid with bowel obstruction or severe constipation. For diarrhea, pair with oral rehydration; seek care if fever, blood, or symptoms >72 h.


3. Inulin 🔗 (view details)

  • Function: Inulin acts as a prebiotic, stimulating the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and promoting regular bowel movements. By softening stools and balancing the gut microbiota, it helps relieve diarrhea symptoms.

  • Typical Amount: 3–10 g/day (≈ 1–3 tsp)

  • Form & Delivery Method: Powder; mix into water, yogurt, or smoothies

  • Timing: With meals

  • Frequency: 1–2 times/day

  • Cautions & Safety Notes: Gas, bloating, or cramps common—start low (≈ 1–2 g/day) and increase gradually; high-FODMAP—may aggravate IBS/SIBO; avoid stacking with other prebiotics (e.g., FOS, GOS, PHGG) at first—add one at a time and assess tolerance; separate from oral medicines by 2 hours to avoid reduced absorption; discontinue if significant pain, diarrhea, or hypersensitivity.


4. Bentonite Clay 🔗 (view details)

  • Function: Bentonite clay absorbs excess water and toxins in the gut, forming a soothing gel-like substance that regulates bowel movements and reduces inflammation, promoting firmer stools and relieving diarrhea.

  • Typical Amount: 3,000–6,000 mg/day (powder ≈ 1–2 tsp) or 3,000–6,000 mg/day (capsule)

  • Form & Delivery Method: Powder or capsule; mix powder in water

  • Timing: Empty stomach

  • Frequency: 1–2 times/day

  • Cautions & Safety Notes: Separate medicines/supplements by ≥2 hours. Do not stack with other fibers or GI binders(psyllium, inulin, glucomannan, charcoal, clay, zeolite). Constipation risk—hydrate. Short-term use only (≤2 weeks) unless clinician-guided. Avoid with bowel obstruction or severe constipation.


5. Activated Charcoal 🔗 (view details)

  • Function: Activated charcoal binds to toxins and unwanted substances in the gut, preventing their absorption and reducing irritation. This process helps relieve diarrhea, gas, and bloating, promoting digestive comfort.

  • Typical Amount: 500–1,000 mg (capsule) or 1,000–3,000 mg (powder; ≈ ⅓–1 tsp)

  • Form & Delivery Method: Capsule or powder

  • Timing: Empty stomach

  • Frequency: 1–2 times/day

  • Cautions & Safety Notes: Separates all medicines and supplements by at least 3 hours; may reduce nutrient/medication absorption; constipation and dehydration risk—increase water; black stools are expected; avoid with GI obstruction, severe constipation, or bleeding; do not use for corrosive ingestions or when vomiting/aspiration risk; short-term use only (≤2 weeks) unless clinician-guided.

Plant Actives

Direct Support

(Most Helpful → Least Helpful)

These plant extracts directly support relief from diarrhea by soothing the digestive tract, reducing spasms, or providing antimicrobial effects.

1. Berberine 🔗 (view details)

  • Function: Berberine, found in plants like goldenseal and barberry, helps alleviate diarrhea by reducing inflammation and intestinal spasms. Its antimicrobial action modulates the gut microbiota and reduces fluid secretion, promoting bowel regularity.

  • Recommended Dose: 500–1,000 mg

  • Therapeutic Dose: Up to 1,500 mg

  • Form & Preparation: Capsule

  • Timing: With meals

  • Duration: 8–12 weeks

  • Cautions & Safety Notes: May lower blood glucose—monitor if using antidiabetic medicines or insulin; possible GI cramps, constipation, or diarrhea; may slightly lower blood pressure—use caution with antihypertensives; may affect levels of certain medicines (e.g., anti-rejection drugs such as cyclosporine).


2. Slippery Elm 🔗 (view details)

  • Function: Slippery elm, rich in mucilage, coats and soothes the inflamed lining of the colon, providing relief from irritation and promoting comfort for those with gastrointestinal discomfort.

  • Recommended Dose: 1,000–2,000 mg

  • Therapeutic Dose: Up to 3,000 mg

  • Form & Preparation: Capsule

  • Timing: Empty stomach

  • Duration: 4–8 weeks

  • Cautions & Safety Notes: May reduce absorption of oral medicines—separate by 2 hours; take with adequate water; possible constipation or GI fullness; discontinue if hypersensitivity.


3. Ginger Extract 🔗 (view details)

  • Function: Ginger, rich in gingerol and shogaol, provides relief from diarrhea by reducing intestinal spasms and inflammation. Its antimicrobial properties also inhibit harmful bacteria growth, supporting digestive health and bowel regularity.

  • Recommended Dose: 500–1,000 mg (capsule) or 1–2 mL (tincture; ≈ 20–40 drops)

  • Therapeutic Dose: Up to 1,500 mg (capsule) or 3 mL (tincture; ≈ 60 drops)

  • Form & Preparation: Capsule or tincture

  • Timing: With meals

  • Duration: 8–12 weeks

  • Cautions & Safety Notes: Heartburn possible in some—reduce dose or discontinue if reflux worsens; may increase bleeding risk—use caution with anticoagulants/antiplatelets; may lower blood sugar—monitor if using antidiabetic medicines; use caution with gallstones or biliary obstruction; stop 7 days before surgery; discontinue if hypersensitivity.


4. Chamomile Extract 🔗 (view details)

  • Function: Chamomile reduces intestinal spasms, inflammation, and hypersecretion, helping to control diarrhea symptoms.

  • Recommended Dose: 500–1,000 mg (capsule) or 2–4 mL (tincture; ≈ 40–80 drops)

  • Therapeutic Dose: Up to 1,500 mg (capsule) or 6 mL (tincture; ≈ 120 drops)

  • Form & Preparation: Capsule or tincture

  • Timing: With meals

  • Duration: 8–12 weeks

  • Cautions & Safety Notes: Ragweed/Asteraceae allergy risk; may increase bleeding risk—use caution with blood thinners; may affect levels of certain medicines (e.g., anti-rejection or sedative drugs); stop if rash or hives.

Indirect Support

(Most Helpful → Least Helpful)

These extracts do not act directly on diarrhea but may support gut healing, immune resilience, or inflammatory balance.

No replicated and convincing research studies are available, and there is no anecdotal evidence supporting the effectiveness of this method.

Alternative Treatments

These alternative therapies support digestive comfort, promote intestinal regulation, and help reduce frequency and severity of diarrhea episodes.

1. Acupuncture 🔗 (view details)

  • Function: Acupuncture targets points like ST25 (Tianshu) on the abdomen to reduce bowel movement frequency and improve stool formation. These effects help alleviate diarrhea and support digestive health.

  • Safe & Effective Use: Licensed practitioner; sterile single-use needles; 30 min/session.

  • Session Frequency: 1–2 sessions/week

  • Duration: 4–8 weeks

  • Cautions & Safety Notes: Increased bleeding risk—use caution with anticoagulants or bleeding disorders; avoid needling over infection, open wounds, or active rash; pregnancy—avoid contraindicated points; implanted devices—avoid electroacupuncture over pacemakers/ICDs; recent surgery or lymphedema—practitioner guidance required.


2. Ayurveda 🔗 (view details)

  • Function: Ayurveda uses holistic remedies like ginger, fenugreek, and pomegranate peel to rebalance doshas and soothe gastrointestinal discomfort, providing natural relief from diarrhea.

  • Safe & Effective Use: Initial consult; individualized diet and herb plan; daily routine

  • Session Frequency: Daily home practice; practitioner follow-up every 2–4 weeks

  • Duration: 8–12 weeks

  • Cautions & Safety Notes: Herb–drug interactions are possible—ask your doctor or pharmacist. Use quality-controlled products tested for heavy metals. Intensive detox (Panchakarma) needs clinician supervision due to dehydration/electrolyte risks. Stop herbal formulas 7 days before surgery if they may affect bleeding. Discontinue if hypersensitivity.


3. Aromatherapy 🔗 (view details)

  • Function: Essential oils like peppermint, thyme, or ginger, used in aromatherapy, soothe the digestive tract by reducing inflammation and muscle spasms. These effects help alleviate discomfort and improve bowel regularity.

  • Safe & Effective Use: Inhalation or diluted topical use; diffuser 3–5 drops in water for 10–20 min; topical 1–2% dilution in carrier oil (face 0.5–1%, body 1–2%); patch-test

  • Session Frequency: 1–2 sessions/day

  • Duration: 4–8 weeks or ongoing

  • Cautions & Safety Notes: Never ingest; avoid undiluted oils on skin; photosensitizing citrus (e.g., bergamot, expressed lemon) — avoid sun/UV on treated skin for 12–24 h; asthma or migraines — start with brief inhalation; epilepsy — avoid ketone-rich or high 1,8-cineole oils (e.g., sage, hyssop); anticoagulants — avoid wintergreen; keep from eyes/mucosa; ventilate around pets; discontinue if irritation or rash occurs.


4. Biofeedback 🔗 (view details)

  • Function: Biofeedback improves bowel control by retraining pelvic floor muscles, reducing urgency and frequency in functional diarrhea.

  • Safe & Effective Use: Sessions with trained clinician using biofeedback device; home practice as instructed

  • Session Frequency: 1–2 sessions/week + 10–20 min home practice most days (consistency is key)

  • Duration: 4–8 weeks

  • Cautions & Safety Notes: Noninvasive technique. Stop and rest if you feel lightheaded or overbreathing symptoms. People with serious heart rhythm conditions, uncontrolled seizures, or recent stroke should work under clinician supervision.

Global Safety Note

ℹ️ Guidance Note
Not a protocol—each supplement is listed individually with references; anecdotes are flagged
 

Introduce gradually
 

  • Start with one supplement

  • Add one new supplement every 3–7 days if tolerated

  • Keep ≤3 changes at once
     

Stacking rules
 

  • Don’t combine supplements with the same primary Effect

  • Use only listed synergies; avoid antagonisms or separate by the stated time

  • Track total exposure when items share an active or pathway (e.g., melatonin, zinc)


Use Window
 

  • Respect each item’s Timing and Duration caps

  • Stop early once goals are met; re-evaluate at 8–12 weeks

  • See Global Safety Note below

ℹ️ Guidance Note
Not a protocol—each natural compound is listed individually with references; anecdotes are flagged
 

Introduce gradually
 

  • Start with one natural compound

  • Add one new compound every 3–7 days if tolerated

  • Keep ≤2 changes at once
     

Stacking rules
 

  • Don’t combine compounds with the same primary Effect

  • Use only listed synergies; avoid antagonisms or separate by the stated time

  • Track total exposure when compounds share an active or pathway (e.g., organic acids like ACV, alkalizers like sodium bicarbonate, metal ions like colloidal silver)


Use Window
 

  • Respect each item’s Timing and Duration caps

  • Always patch-test topical applications

  • Do not layer potential irritants on the same area

  • Stop at first signs of irritation or intolerance

  • See Global Safety Note below

Already a Subscriber? Log In

See a fully unlocked page

Already a Subscriber? Log In

See a fully unlocked page

Direct / Indirect Support 

(Most Helpful → Least Helpful)

Direct / Indirect Support 

(Most Helpful → Least Helpful)

Already a Subscriber? Log In

See a fully unlocked page

Already a Subscriber? Log In

See a fully unlocked page

Functional Lab Tests You May Wish to Explore

Currently, no functional lab tests aligned with our integrative and natural health standards are available for this condition. Once reliable tests are identified and validated, we will review and feature them here.

Already a Subscriber? Log In

See a fully unlocked page

Books Worth Considering for Deeper Insight

Happy Gut

Healthy Digestion the Natural Way

Healthy Gut Healthy You

Probiotics

Regular

The Low-FODMAP Diet for Beginners

Currently, no high-quality books meeting our functional, integrative, and natural healing standards are available for this condition. As soon as trusted resources are published, we will review and feature them here.

Already a Subscriber? Log In

See a fully unlocked page

Podcasts That Offer Valuable Perspectives

Currently, no high-quality podcast episodes meeting our functional, integrative, and natural healing standards are available for this condition. We will review and feature trusted resources here as soon as they become available.

Diarrhea: Causes and Treatments

Dr. J and Evan on Diarrhea: Root Causes and Solutions

How to Stop Diarrhea

Probiotics Improve Diarrhea, Constipation, Bloating and Pain

The Food Connection to Diarrhea

Already a Subscriber? Log In

See a fully unlocked page

Educational Videos To Learn From

Currently, no high-quality podcast episodes meeting our functional, integrative, and natural healing standards are available for this condition. We will review and feature trusted resources here as soon as they become available.

Already a Subscriber? Log In

See a fully unlocked page

How Key Nutrients Support the Body

Amino Acids: Amino acids serve as the building blocks of proteins, crucial for muscle growth and repair. Additionally, they play key roles in maintaining proper pH levels, storing nitrogen, synthesizing hormones, and facilitating enzymatic reactions.


Chelators: Chelators bind to metal ions, aiding in their removal from the body and supporting heavy metal detoxification processes. They play a vital role in mitigating the harmful effects of metal toxicity and promoting overall health.


Herbal Extracts: Herbal extracts contain bioactive compounds with various medicinal properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. They have been used traditionally to support digestion, immunity, and overall health.


Minerals: Minerals are essential for various physiological functions, including bone health, nerve transmission, and enzyme activity. They support overall health by ensuring proper cellular function and metabolic processes.


Other Nutrients: Other nutrients encompass a wide array of essential compounds crucial for various physiological functions. This category includes neurotransmitters and their precursors, which facilitate nerve signaling and are vital for central nervous system function. Additionally, naturally occurring structural components and biological detergents, such as phospholipids and bile salts, play critical roles in tissue repair, fat digestion, and overall bodily function. Phospholipids contribute to cell membrane integrity and fat emulsification, while bile salts are key to digesting and absorbing dietary fats. Hormones and their precursors regulate numerous physiological processes, including metabolism, growth, and reproduction. Furthermore, naturally occurring chemicals and metals play pivotal roles in enzymatic reactions, immune function, and overall health maintenance.


Prebiotics: Prebiotics support gut health by promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, aiding digestion, and enhancing nutrient absorption. They are found in dietary fibers and contribute to overall gastrointestinal well-being.


Probiotics: Probiotics are live microorganisms that confer health benefits when consumed. They support gut health, immune function, and oral hygiene by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and inhibiting the growth of harmful pathogens.


Vitamins: Vitamins are essential micronutrients that play diverse roles in supporting cellular processes, immune function, and overall health. They must be obtained through diet or supplementation to ensure proper bodily function.

References

[1] Guarino A, Guandalini S, Lo Vecchio A. Probiotics for Prevention and Treatment of Diarrhea. J Clin Gastroenterol. 2015;49 Suppl 1:S37-S45.
[2] Guandalini S. Probiotics for prevention and treatment of diarrhea. J Clin Gastroenterol. 2011;45 Suppl:S149-S153.
[3] Yang B, Lu P, Li MX, et al. A meta-analysis of the effects of probiotics and synbiotics in children with acute diarrhea. Medicine (Baltimore). 2019;98(37):e16618.
[4] Huang R, Xing HY, Liu HJ, Chen ZF, Tang BB. Efficacy of probiotics in the treatment of acute diarrhea in children: a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials. Transl Pediatr. 2021 Dec;10(12):3248-3260.
[5] Guandalini S. Probiotics for children with diarrhea: an update. J Clin Gastroenterol. 2008 Jul;42 Suppl 2:S53-7.
[6] McFarland LV. Meta-analysis of probiotics for the prevention of traveler's diarrhea. Travel Med Infect Dis. 2007 Mar;5(2):97-105.
[7] Barakat SH, Meheissen MA, Omar OM, Elbana DA. Bovine Colostrum in the Treatment of Acute Diarrhea in Children: A Double-Blinded Randomized Controlled Trial. J Trop Pediatr. 2020 Feb 1;66(1):46-55.
[8] Sarker SA, Casswall TH, Mahalanabis D, Alam NH, Albert MJ, Brüssow H, Fuchs GJ, Hammerström L. Successful treatment of rotavirus diarrhea in children with immunoglobulin from immunized bovine colostrum. Pediatr Infect Dis J. 1998 Dec;17(12):1149-54.
[9] Huppertz HI, Rutkowski S, Busch DH, Eisebit R, Lissner R, Karch H. Bovine colostrum ameliorates diarrhea in infection with diarrheagenic Escherichia coli, shiga toxin-producing E. Coli, and E. coli expressing intimin and hemolysin. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr. 1999 Oct;29(4):452-6.
[10] Jasso Gutiérrez L, Olivos Fernández V. El calostro humano en la prevención de la diarrea y de la enterocolitis necrosante [Human colostrum in the prevention of diarrhea and necrotizing enterocolitis]. Bol Med Hosp Infant Mex. 1980 Jan-Feb;37(1):23-30. Spanish.
[11] Xu LB, Chen L, Gao W, Du KH. Bovine immune colostrum against 17 strains of diarrhea bacteria and in vitro and in vivo effects of its specific IgG. Vaccine. 2006 Mar 15;24(12):2131-40.
[12] Inagaki M, Yamamoto M, Cairangzhuoma, Xijier, Yabe T, Uchida K, Kawasaki M, Nakagomi T, Nakagomi O, Minamoto N, Kanamaru Y. Multiple-dose therapy with bovine colostrum confers significant protection against diarrhea in a mouse model of human rotavirus-induced gastrointestinal disease. J Dairy Sci. 2013 Feb;96(2):806-14.
[13] Clemens J, Elyazeed RA, Rao M, Savarino S, Morsy BZ, Kim Y, Wierzba T, Naficy A, Lee YJ. Early initiation of breastfeeding and the risk of infant diarrhea in rural Egypt. Pediatrics. 1999 Jul;104(1):e3.
[14] Li, J., Xu, YW., Jiang, JJ. et al. Bovine colostrum and product intervention associated with relief of childhood infectious diarrhea. Sci Rep 9, 3093 (2019).
[15] Ried K, Travica N, Dorairaj R, Sali A. Herbal formula improves upper and lower gastrointestinal symptoms and gut health in Australian adults with digestive disorders. Nutr Res. 2020;76:37-51.
[16] Misra SM. Integrative Therapies and Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease: The Current Evidence. Children (Basel). 2014;1(2):149-165. Published 2014 Aug 25.
[17] Ke F, Yadav PK, Ju LZ. Herbal medicine in the treatment of ulcerative colitis. Saudi J Gastroenterol. 2012;18(1):3-10.
[18] Moosavi M. Bentonite Clay as a Natural Remedy: A Brief Review. Iran J Public Health. 2017;46(9):1176-1183.
[19] Thieu NQ, Ogle B, Pettersson H. Efficacy of bentonite clay in ameliorating aflatoxicosis in piglets fed aflatoxin contaminated diets. Trop Anim Health Prod. 2008;40(8):649-656.
[20] Wang M, Hearon SE, Phillips TD. A high capacity bentonite clay for the sorption of aflatoxins. Food Addit Contam Part A Chem Anal Control Expo Risk Assess. 2020;37(2):332-341.
[21] Hou Y, Wu P, Zhu N. The protective effect of clay minerals against damage to adsorbed DNA induced by cadmium and mercury. Chemosphere. 2014;95:206-212.
[22] Abdelnaby A, Abdelaleem NM, Elshewy E, Mansour AH, Ibrahim S. The efficacy of clay bentonite, date pit, and chitosan nanoparticles in the detoxification of aflatoxin M1 and ochratoxin A from milk. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int. 2022;29(14):20305-20317.
[23] Zellner T, Prasa D, Färber E, Hoffmann-Walbeck P, Genser D, Eyer F. The Use of Activated Charcoal to Treat Intoxications. Dtsch Arztebl Int. 2019;116(18):311-317.
[24] Aksay E, Kaya A, Gulen M, et al. Activated Charcoal and Poisoning: Is It Really Effective?. Am J Ther. 2021;29(2):e182-e192. Published 2021 Aug 19.
[25] Silberman J, Galuska MA, Taylor A. Activated Charcoal. In: StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; July 26, 2021.
[26] Juurlink DN. Activated charcoal for acute overdose: a reappraisal. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 2016;81(3):482-487.
[27] Olson KR. Activated charcoal for acute poisoning: one toxicologist's journey. J Med Toxicol. 2010;6(2):190-198.
[28] Hayden JW, Comstock EG. Use of activated charcoal in acute poisoning. Clin Toxicol. 1975;8(5):515-533.
[29] McRorie JW Jr. Evidence-Based Approach to Fiber Supplements and Clinically Meaningful Health Benefits, Part 2: What to Look for and How to Recommend an Effective Fiber Therapy. Nutr Today. 2015;50(2):90-97.
[30] Werlang ME, Palmer WC, Lacy BE. Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Dietary Interventions. Gastroenterol Hepatol (N Y). 2019;15(1):16-26.
[31] Nagarajan N, Morden A, Bischof D, et al. The role of fiber supplementation in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2015;27(9):1002-1010.
[32] DARROW DC, PRATT EL, FLETT JR JA, Gamble AH, Wiese HF. Disturbances of water and electrolytes in infantile diarrhea. Pediatrics. 1949 Feb 1;3(2):129-56.
[33] Oli MW, Petschow BW, Buddington RK. Evaluation of fructooligosaccharide supplementation of oral electrolyte solutions for treatment of diarrhea (Recovery of the intestinal bacteria). Digestive diseases and sciences. 1998 Jan;43:138-47.
[34] Yu M, Jin X, Liang C, Bu F, Pan D, He Q, Ming Y, Little P, Du H, Liang S, Hu R. Berberine for diarrhea in children and adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Therapeutic Advances in Gastroenterology. 2020 Oct;13:1756284820961299.
[35] Chen C, Tao C, Liu Z, Lu M, Pan Q, Zheng L, Li Q, Song Z, Fichna J. A randomized clinical trial of berberine hydrochloride in patients with diarrhea‐predominant irritable bowel syndrome. Phytotherapy research. 2015 Nov;29(11):1822-7.
[36] Chen JC, Huang LJ, Wu SL, Kuo SC, Ho TY, Hsiang CY. Ginger and its bioactive component inhibit enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli heat-labile enterotoxin-induced diarrhea in mice. Journal of agricultural and food chemistry. 2007 Oct 17;55(21):8390-7.
[37] Ma ZJ, Wang HJ, Ma XJ, Li Y, Yang HJ, Li H, Su JR, Zhang CE, Huang LQ. Modulation of gut microbiota and intestinal barrier function during alleviation of antibiotic-associated diarrhea with Rhizoma Zingiber officinale (Ginger) extract. Food & function. 2020;11(12):10839-51.
[38] Rizk SA. Effect of aromatherapy abdominal massage using peppermint versus ginger oils on primary dysmenorrhea among adolescent girls.
[39] Ascension NM, Del Florence MN, Florentine NF, Fronçois-Xavier E, Menut C. Bioactivity of essential oils from medicinal plants of Cameroon and their combination against infant diarrhea induced by bacteria. African Journal of Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicines. 2017;14(6):27-37.
[40] Zhou S, Zeng F, Liu J, Zheng H, Huang W, Liu T, Chen D, Qin W, Gong Q, Tian J, Li Y. Influence of acupuncture stimulation on cerebral network in functional diarrhea. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. 2013 Oct;2013.
[41] Guo J, Xing X, Wu J, Zhang H, Yun Y, Qin Z, He Q. Acupuncture for adults with diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome or functional diarrhea: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Neural plasticity. 2020 Nov 22;2020:1-6.
[42] Niraj S, Varsha S. Chronic and persistent diarrhea in children and its treatment in ayurveda. Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry. 2018;7(6):43-5.
[43] Tewari S, Tripathi AK, Singhai S. Ayurvedic management of diarrhea in children: A case report.
[44] Strand TA, Chandyo RK, Bahl R, Sharma PR, Adhikari RK, Bhandari N, Ulvik RJ, Mølbak K, Bhan MK, Sommerfelt H. Effectiveness and efficacy of zinc for the treatment of acute diarrhea in young children. Pediatrics. 2002 May 1;109(5):898-903.
[45] Lamberti LM, Walker CL, Chan KY, Jian WY, Black RE. Oral zinc supplementation for the treatment of acute diarrhea in children: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutrients. 2013;5(11):4715-4740. Published 2013 Nov 21.
[46] Zhou Q, Verne ML, Fields JZ, Lefante JJ, Basra S, Salameh H, Verne GN. Randomised placebo-controlled trial of dietary glutamine supplements for postinfectious irritable bowel syndrome. Gut. 2019 Jun 1;68(6):996-1002.
[47] Yalçin SS, Yurdakök K, Tezcan I, Öner L. Effect of glutamine supplementation on diarrhea, interleukin-8 and secretory immunoglobulin A in children with acute diarrhea. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr. 2004;38(5):494-501.
[48] Sebai H, Jabri MA, Souli A, Rtibi K, Selmi S, Tebourbi O, El-Benna J, Sakly M. Antidiarrheal and antioxidant activities of chamomile (Matricaria recutita L.) decoction extract in rats. Journal of ethnopharmacology. 2014 Mar 14;152(2):327-32.
[49] Becker B, Kuhn U, Hardewig-Budny B. Double-blind, randomized evaluation of clinical efficacy and tolerability of an apple pectin-chamomile extract in children with unspecific diarrhea. Arzneimittelforschung. 2006 Jun;56(06):387-93.
[50] Palko-Łabuz A, Maksymowicz J, Sobieszczańska B, Wikiera A, Skonieczna M, Wesołowska O, Środa-Pomianek K. Newly obtained apple pectin as an adjunct to irinotecan therapy of colorectal cancer reducing E. coli adherence and β-glucuronidase activity. Cancers. 2021 Jun 12;13(12):2952.
[51] Furman S. Intestinal biofeedback in functional diarrhea: A preliminary report. InBehavior Therapy in Psychiatric Practice 1976 Jan 1 (pp. 99-103). Pergamon.
[52] Chiarioni G, Whitehead WE. The role of biofeedback in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. Nature Clinical Practice Gastroenterology & Hepatology. 2008 Jul;5(7):371-82.

Already a Subscriber? Log In

See a fully unlocked page

Medical Disclaimer

The information provided above is for general educational purposes and is intended to support individuals seeking to better understand natural options for managing specific health concerns. It includes guidance on supplements, plant extracts, natural compounds, and alternative therapies.
 

This content is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease and should not be used as a substitute for personalized medical advice. Individual needs may vary based on diagnosis, medication use, or underlying health conditions.
 

Always consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before starting any new supplement, remedy, or therapeutic approach—especially if you have a medical condition, take prescription medications, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.
 

Use of any protocols or products discussed is at the sole discretion and risk of the individual.

bottom of page