16 Home Remedies To Stop Loose Motions (Diarrhoea)

We all experience (rather suffer) from bouts of loose motions every now and then. Whatever the reason, loose motions are unpleasant and can make your life miserable. Usually, loose motions or diarrhoea is not a cause of worry. It is the body’s response to the disorders in the gastrointestinal system, and if you have diarrhoea, you will have to make frequent trips to the toilet for a couple of days. However, the condition can worsen and become chronic owing to bacterial or viral infection. The common symptoms of loose motion symptoms include abnormally watery stools, bloating, nausea, and abdominal cramping. It can result in dehydration and weakness. Simple home remedies can prove useful in battling diarrhoea and keeping the body and tummy healthy.

What Can Cause Loose Motions?

When you have diarrhoea, you may make trips to the toilet 4 to 5 times a day, and this problem may last for more than a couple of days. However, if you have loose motions for over a week, it can be worrisome and would require immediate medical attention. Several factors can contribute to the onset of loose motions. Some of the common causes of loose motions are:

• Bacteria like E.coli, salmonella, campylobacter present in contaminated water and foods can cause loose motions.
• Viral infections like viral hepatitis, herpes simplex virus, norovirus, and rotavirus can trigger loose motions.
• Irritable bowel syndrome due to stress can trigger the condition of loose motions.
• Some individuals are intolerant to certain foods or specific ingredients in foods. Their incapability to digest them can prompt loose motions. For example, people who are intolerant to lactose can experience loose motions on consuming milk or additional dairy products. Similarly, individuals can be intolerant to fructose in fruits.
• At times, intestinal issues like inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, ulcerative colitis, or gallbladder disease can become a reason for loose motions.
• Altered immune function or tumours can cause loose motions.
• Hereditary disorders like cystic fibrosis can be another cause of loose motions.
• Consuming unpasteurized or raw milk can negatively impact the digestive system which may lead to diarrhoea.
• Malnutrition or deficiency of nutritious food can also be responsible for loose motions.
• Taking certain medicines like antibiotics can have a laxative effect which can trigger loose motions.

Effective Home Remedies for Loose Motions

Usually, loose motions or diarrhoea is not a serious problem and may resolve on its own. However, it is bothersome owing to its irritable symptoms. Recurrent loose motions can lead to severe dehydration as the body tends to lose essential nutrients, and this could be dangerous for your health. Some natural remedies for loose motions include:

Yoghurt

Consuming plain yoghurt is one of the best ways to deal with loose motions.

Ingredients

A bowl of plain yoghurt

Directions

Eat a bowl of plain yoghurt.

You can sprinkle some salt or pepper if required.

How Often You Should Take

You can consume it 2 or 3 times every day for a week.

Why This Will Work

Yoghurt contains a good quantity of probiotics (the good bacteria) which play a significant role in keeping the gut healthy. They fight the loose motion-causing bad bacteria. Yoghurt possesses live cultures that produce lactic acid, that line the intestines and kill the nasty bacteria. Consumption of yoghurt also supports better digestion by creating a healthy environment for microorganisms in the gastrointestinal tract.

Apple Cider Vinegar

It can be a wonderful remedy for loose motions. Apple cider vinegar may also provide relief from stomach pain.

Ingredients

A glass of lukewarm water

Two teaspoons apple cider vinegar

A teaspoon of honey

Directions

Take a glass of lukewarm water and add apple cider vinegar to it.

Add honey for flavour.

Mix well and drink right away.

How Often You Should Take

You can drink this mixture twice a day for a few days.

Why This Will Work

Apple cider vinegar acts as a natural antibiotic which helps destroy the harmful organisms present in the intestine and soothes the irritated colon lining. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties shield the digestive system from soreness and infection. The pectin content aids in bulking up the stool and balancing the pH levels in the stomach, thus restoring regularity.

Coconut Water

This refreshing beverage is a potent remedy for loose motions. Drinking coconut water is no doubt good for health, but it can also cure and prevent loose motions.

Ingredients

Two glasses of fresh coconut water

Directions

You don’t have to do anything in particular to make this drink. Buy coconut water and drink it fresh.

How Often You Should Take

You can consume this once or twice daily until you get better.

Why This Will Work

Coconut water contains electrolytes like potassium and sodium which can help restore the electrolyte balance of the body. It helps replenish the lost fluids in the body and boosts blood circulation. Its exceptional chemical composition does not only rehydrate, but also provides essential nutrients like amino acids, fatty acids, Vitamin C, magnesium, and enzymes which in turn promote stronger immunity.

Bananas

Eat raw bananas if you have loose motions. Consuming bananas is tried and tested remedy for diarrhoea and you will feel better soon.

Ingredients

A banana

One cup yogurt

Directions

You can eat a banana.

If you don’t like to eat raw banana, you can prepare a smoothie by blending an unripe banana with yogurt.

How Often You Should Take

You can eat 2 -3 bananas or consume the banana and yoghurt smoothie twice a day for a couple of days.

Why This Will Work

The pectin content in bananas facilitates the absorption of fluids in the intestines which helps bulk up the stool. Bananas are also rich in potassium, which when consumed, can replenish the lost fluids in the body, thus diminishing the requirement of intravenous fluids or oral rehydration solutions.

Cumin Water

This popular spice can prove very beneficial in providing relief from loose motions.

Ingredients

A cup of water

One teaspoon of cumin seeds

Directions

Grab a saucepan and add water to it.

Add the cumin seeds and bring the water to a boil.

Allow it to simmer for a few minutes.

Strain the water and drink when it cools.

How Often You Should Take

You can consume this solution three to four times every day.

Why This Will Work

The antiseptic properties of cumin can assist in eliminating the damaging bacteria in the gut and settling the irritated bowels. It can rehydrate the body and help in keeping the body temperature normal. The high potassium content in it also helps balance and maintain the electrolyte levels in the body.

Ginger

According to Ayurveda, ginger can be an effective home remedy for loose motions which happen due to indigestion.

Ingredients

Two teaspoons of ginger juice (freshly extracted)

A teaspoon of honey

Directions

Mix ginger juice and honey.

Consume it directly.

You can also blend ginger juice in a cup of lukewarm water and drink it.

How Often You Should Take

You can try this remedy three or four times daily.

Why This Will Work

Ginger has antibacterial properties which attack the harmful pathogens that trigger loose motions. It can lessen food stagnation and stimulate abdominal enzymes that improve proper digestion. It can relax stomach muscles and soothe distressed intestines.

Lemon Juice

Lemon juice works wonder for treating loose motions.

Ingredients

Half a lemon

A glass of water

A teaspoon of sugar

A pinch of salt

Directions

Squeeze the juice of half a lemon in a glass of water.

Add the sugar and salt and mix well.

Drink fresh.

How Often You Should Take

You can drink lemon juice two or three times daily for best results.

Why This Will Work

Lemon juice has high anti-inflammatory and acidic properties which can both calm the sore intestines and restore the body’s pH balance. It also possesses minerals like magnesium and potassium which may help make up for the body’s lost nutrients.

Turmeric

This useful spice can work well to resolve the annoying problem of loose motions.

Ingredients

Half a teaspoon of turmeric powder

A glass of lukewarm water

Directions

Add the turmeric powder in warm water.

Stir well and drink right away.

How Often You Should Take

You can drink turmeric water two to three times daily.

Why This Will Work

Turmeric’s antibiotic property can improve the symptoms of loose motions by fighting bacteria in the intestines. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and is high in antioxidants, which can promote healthy digestion.

Chamomile Tea

Chamomile tea is a popular beverage and drinking it can provide relief from loose motion to adults.

Ingredients

A cup of water

Two teaspoons of chamomile tea

Honey

Directions

Pour a cup of water in a saucepan and bring it to a boil.

Add chamomile tea and allow it to simmer for a few minutes.

Strain and let it cool.

Add honey and consume immediately.

How Often You Should Take

You can drink this tea for about three times a day.

Why This Will Work

Chamomile had antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties which can ease abdominal pain and help prevent loose motions. It can relieve inflammation and relax the abdominal muscles to promote proper functioning of the digestive system.

Buttermilk

This healthy drink can be instrumental in bringing the digestive system back on track.

Ingredients

A glass of fresh buttermilk

Salt or pepper to taste

Directions

Drink a glass of fresh buttermilk, chilled if possible.

You can add a little salt or a pinch of pepper if you don’t like plain buttermilk.

How Often You Should Take

You can drink buttermilk three times a day for a couple of days.

Why This Will Work

Buttermilk is a good source of probiotics which is the friendly bacteria that can eradicate the bad bacteria from the intestines. It can also soothe the intestines and aid digestion.

Blueberry Tea

It is a popular home remedy for tummy problems and should provide you relief from diarrhoea as well.

Ingredients

Two teaspoons of blueberry root powder

A cup of warm water

Honey

Directions

Add blueberry root to a mug of hot water. You can also use a tea bag.

Let it steep for about 8 to 10 minutes.

Strain the water and add honey.

Mix well and drink it warm.

How Often You Should Take

You can drink this tea at least three times every day.

Why This Will Work

Blueberries contain antioxidants like anthocyanins and polyphenols which can positively impact the digestive system and combat the problem of loose motions. The anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of blueberries can help fight destructive pathogens, reduce abdominal pain, and alleviate the symptoms of loose motions.

Fenugreek Seeds

Fenugreek seeds can immensely benefit in battling loose motions.

Ingredients

Two teaspoons of fenugreek seeds

A glass of water

Directions

Soak the fenugreek seeds in water for about 15 minutes.

Grind them to a fine paste and mix in a glass of water to consume.

You can also reduce dried fenugreek seeds to powder using a blender.

Add the powder to a glass of water and drink.

How Often You Should Take

You can drink it two or three times every day for a few days, preferably on an empty stomach.

Why This Will Work

Fenugreek seeds are high in mucilage which assists in adding bulk to the stool and treating loose motions. The antibacterial and anti-fungal properties of fenugreek kill infection-causing microbes and promote better digestion.

Mint and Honey

Mint and Honey

This combination can prove advantageous for combating the problem of loose motions.

Ingredients

A teaspoon of mint juice (freshly extracted)

A teaspoon of lemon juice (freshly extracted)

Honey

A glass of warm water

Directions

Blend the lemon juice, mint juice, and honey together.

Add this mix to a glass of lukewarm water and stir properly.

Drink while warm.

How Often You Should Take

You can take this preparation twice every day for best results.

Why This Will Work

Mint and honey together can reduce inflammation and calm the abdomen, thus easing the irritable symptoms of loose motions. Their antibacterial properties help regulate digestion by engaging the harmful pathogens responsible for digestive complications.

Cinnamon and Honey

This recipe is highly recommended for the loose motions.

Ingredients

Half a teaspoon of cinnamon powder

Honey

A cup of lukewarm water

Directions

Add the cinnamon powder and honey to a cup of warm water.

Stir well and consume right away.

How Often You Should Take

You can try this remedy for two to three times a day for a couple of days.

Why This Will Work

The blend of cinnamon and honey can help in killing the harmful bacteria in the intestines that cause loose motions. It can activate the digestive enzymes to promote the well-being of the digestive system. Its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties can help lessen the symptoms that usually accompany loose motions.

Drumstick Leaves

This herb can significantly reduce the discomfort of an upset tummy.

Ingredients

A teaspoon of juice of drumstick leaves

Honey

Directions

Mix the juice of drumstick leaves and honey properly.

Consume immediately.

You can also incorporate dried drumstick leaves in your day-to-day diet.

How Often You Should Take

You can do this once daily.

Why This Will Work

Drumsticks are not only nutritious but also have antimicrobial and antioxidant properties that can help treat a troubled tummy. It can help tackle gut issues by clearing toxins from the body and providing respite from digestive problems like nausea, abdominal pain, and gas.

Oat Bran

Oat bran can also work for treating a disturbed tummy.

Ingredients

Half a cup of oat bran

Water

Directions

Pour enough water in a saucepan and heat it on medium flame.

Add oat bran and cook till it absorbs the water (about 2 minutes).

How Often You Should Take

You can eat this twice daily.

Why This Will Work

Oat bran is rich in fibre and nutrients like magnesium, potassium, and calcium. These nutrients help in bulking the watery stools and restoring the electrolytes balance in the body.

What Foods Should You Eat While Suffering From Diarrhoea?

Some foods that you should consume while suffering from diarrhoea include:

1. Pomegranates

It can suitably hydrate the body and its astringent properties can help treat loose motions.

2. Bananas

Bananas contain starch which can make the stool firm. Bananas are high in potassium which can improve digestion and cure loose motions.

3. Sugar Syrup

Having a cup of sugar syrup can fight the symptoms of loose motions.

4. White Rice

Plain white rice is high in carbohdydrates and can be easily digested. Rice is binding in nature, which means that it can help firm up the loose stools. When suffering from diarrhoea, you should eat plain rice or rice with chicken broth. Avoid biryani or masala rice.

5. Guavas

Guavas also have astringent properties that can prove effective in dealing with loose motions.

6. Carrots

Eating carrots can bring about immediate relief from loose motions as it contains pectin. You can either eat steamed carrots or drink a glass of fresh carrot juice.

7. BRAT Diet

Following a BRAT diet – bananas, rice, apples, and toast – can also help provide relief from diarrhoea.

8. Strawberries

The high fibre content in strawberries can bulk up the watery stools and enhance the functioning of the digestive system.

9. Sago

Sago or tapioca seeds can be valuable in providing some relief from diarrhoea. Soak them in water before drinking it.

10. Bottle Gourd Juice

This water vegetable can prove advantageous when suffering from loose motions. Drinking its fresh juice can help retain proper hydration levels in the body.

11. Mashed Potatoes

Including starchy foods like boiled potatoes can add weight to the stools and refuel the body with adequate energy as the body tends to absorb nutrients from starchy foods. Potatoes are a great comfort food but they are also high in potassium. You can boil them and have them in the mashed form. Add a little salt and eat. Your tummy will feel better.

Tips to Prevent Loose Motions

Follow these tips to prevent loose motions. After all, prevention is better than cure!

Ensure that you consume hygienic and healthy food.

Incorporate fibre-rich foods in your daily diet. You can eat foods like peas, broccoli, and bananas.

Try and identify foods that you are allergic to and avoid consuming them.

Drink plenty of water and healthy beverages to stay hydrated. And drink clean, boiled water.

Limit excessive intake of alcohol and caffeine.

Wash your hands often to prevent bacterial and viral infections from spreading.

FAQs

1. What Foods Should I Avoid During Loose Motions?

You may want to avoid dairy products like cottage cheese and cheese while suffering from diarrhoea. Also, avoid spicy and greasy foods, raw vegetables, fish, meat, processed foods, etc.

2. Which Juices Can Treat Diarrhoea?

Juices extracted from carrots, oranges, pomegranates, and bottle gourd can help treat diarrhoea.

Home remedies are an inexpensive and natural way to treat loose motions in no time. Furthermore, they don’t have any side effects. So the next time you feel sick in your stomach, do consider trying some of these remedies. You will feel better soon. However, do consult a doctor if the problem persists for long.