diarrhea - #41

Dear Rajesh, Do you remember what you had eaten or any specific reason that may have caused this? Do you have fever or abdominal pain too? Also having a quick stool test should confirm any infection or infestation. Don’t forget to check CBC, ESR & CRP levels to rule out inflammation. Ayurvedic treatment for severe diarrhoea focuses on restoring balance in the body, calming the digestive system, and addressing the underlying causes. Here are some effective strategies: 1. Dietary Recommendations Avoid heavy, fried, spicy, fermented foods altogether. Warm Foods: homemade fresh food is ideal. Opt for easily digestible warm foods such as khichdi (a mixture of rice and lentils). Avoid Irritants: Steer clear of spicy, oily, and heavy foods, as well as dairy products & fruits like bananas, papaya, guava etc 2. Herbal Remedies Pomegranate: Pomegranate juice or dried pomegranate seeds can help reduce diarrhea. Ginger: Ginger tea can soothe the digestive system and reduce inflammation. Turmeric: A paste made from turmeric and warm water can help with inflammation and digestion. Bilva (Bael Fruit): The pulp of bilva is known to be beneficial for diarrhea. 3. Hydration Electrolyte Solutions: Drink coconut water or oral rehydration solutions to replenish lost fluids and electrolytes. Herbal Teas: Ginger or chamomile tea can aid digestion and soothe the stomach. 5. Lifestyle Modifications Rest: Ensure adequate rest to allow the body to recover. Mindfulness: Stress management techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing, can help improve digestion over some period. 6. Consultation If diarrhea persists or is accompanied by severe symptoms (like dehydration, blood in stool, or high fever), seek immediate medical attention and consult an Ayurvedic practitioner for personalized treatment. Always approach treatment with caution and ensure hydration is prioritised during episodes of severe diarrhoea .

In Ayurveda, chronic diarrhea, often referred to as "Atisara," is seen as an imbalance of the Vata dosha, sometimes involving Pitta or Kapha depending on the underlying cause. The aim is to restore balance to the digestive system and nourish the body. Ayurvedic remedies such as bilva, the fruit of the bael tree, are highly effective for managing diarrhea due to their astringent properties. Another powerful remedy is kutaj, known for its ability to treat diarrhea and dysentery. Kutajarishta, a fermented herbal liquid, can be beneficial for chronic diarrhea. Pomegranate rind, boiled in water, can be consumed to strengthen digestion and control loose stools. Buttermilk, with added rock salt and cumin, is also commonly recommended to enhance digestion and reduce diarrhea. In terms of diet, Ayurveda recommends light and easily digestible foods like rice, moong dal khichdi, and barley water. Dairy products should be avoided as they may aggravate the condition. Coconut water can help replenish lost fluids and electrolytes, and it’s essential to stay hydrated by drinking water with a small amount of salt and sugar. Chronic diarrhea can lead to dehydration and weakness, so rest and proper replenishment are critical. Incorporating stress management techniques like yoga or pranayama can also be beneficial, as stress often worsens digestive issues. If available, therapies like virechana or basti, used in Ayurvedic panchakarma, can further support digestive healing. However, it's important to consult an Ayurvedic practitioner for a personalized approach, especially if diarrhea persists.