Stomach flu, or gastroenteritis, can hit hard, leaving you feeling nauseous, exhausted, and dealing with frequent diarrhea and vomiting.
If you’re wondering how to relieve stomach flu symptoms naturally, this guide offers effective home remedies to help you feel better faster.
Contents
What is Gastroenteritis?
Gastroenteritis is inflammation of the stomach and small intestine.
It often causes sudden bouts of diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps.
This condition comes in two types:
- Acute Gastroenteritis: Typically viral, lasting several days to a week.
- Chronic Gastroenteritis: Persistent and may require medical attention.
It’s highly contagious and can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites.
How to tell stomach flu apart from food poisoning
Both conditions cause similar symptoms, but here’s how to differentiate them:
- Food poisoning: Develops quickly after eating contaminated food, often within hours, with sudden diarrhea and stomach pain.
- Gastroenteritis: Incubates for 24-48 hours and develops more gradually.
Symptoms are not linked to specific food intake.
Signs you have stomach flu
The main symptoms of stomach flu are:
- Sudden diarrhea (3 or more loose stools within 24 hours)
- Frequent nausea and vomiting
- Painful abdominal cramps
- Headaches and fatigue
7 natural remedies to relieve stomach flu
Clay for detoxification and protection
Clay is an ancient remedy known for its absorbent properties.
It works by absorbing toxins present in the intestines, thereby reducing diarrhea and protecting the intestinal lining.
– How to use: Use French Green Clay (ad).
Mix a teaspoon of clay with a glass of water, let it sit, then drink the cloudy water without stirring.
– Frequency: Twice daily for 4-5 days.
– Precaution: Avoid taking with medications, as clay may reduce their effectiveness.
Wait at least two hours.
Lemon Balm to ease cramps
Lemon balm is a plant with antispasmodic and antiviral properties, making it an excellent choice for easing cramps and intestinal spasms associated with gastroenteritis.
It also aids digestion and reduces acidity.
– How to use: Take 2-4 ml of lemon balm extract three times daily (ad).
– Precaution: Check for allergies, especially if you’re pregnant or sensitive to plants in the mint family.
Propolis for immunity and fever reduction
Propolis is a resinous substance collected by bees from the buds and bark of poplar and conifer trees.
It has anti-infective, healing, antioxidant, and immune-boosting properties.
In treating gastroenteritis, it helps reduce fever while strengthening the immune system.
– How to use: Mix 5-6 drops of propolis extract with honey, holding it in your mouth before swallowing (ad).
– Frequency: Two to three times a day until symptoms improve.
– Precaution: Avoid if you’re allergic to bee products.
Probiotics to restore gut health
Stomach flu disrupts your gut flora.
Probiotics help replenish beneficial bacteria, aiding faster recovery.
– How to use: Take a quality probiotic supplement as soon as symptoms appear, continuing for at least two weeks (ad).
Rice water to reduce diarrhea
Rice water is rich in starch, which can soothe and regulate digestion, reducing diarrhea symptoms.
– How to use: Boil 4 tablespoons of rice in a liter of salted water for 30 minutes, strain, and drink the cooled water.
– Frequency: Several times throughout the day.
Colloidal Silver for antibacterial benefits
Colloidal silver has antimicrobial properties and can help combat harmful bacteria in the digestive tract.
– How to use: Take 6 tablespoons of colloidal silver (10 ppm) throughout the day for up to a week.
Coca-Cola for nausea relief
Though surprising, flat Coke is sometimes recommended in small amounts to relieve nausea due to its phosphoric acid content.
– How to use: Let the Coca-Cola go flat, then drink in small sips.
– Precaution: Limit the amount to avoid worsening diarrhea.
How long does stomach flu last?
Stomach flu duration depends on the cause, the person’s health, and treatment methods.
Generally, viral gastroenteritis lasts 2-4 days, though fatigue may linger for up to a week.
Here’s an approximate timeline:
- Diarrhea and vomiting: Peak during the first 24-48 hours, with some lingering effects for up to 7 days.
- Abdominal cramps: Typically subside with diarrhea, though mild discomfort can remain.
- Fatigue: Can persist due to dehydration and loss of electrolytes.
To speed up recovery:
- Rest: Allows your body to heal.
- Hydrate: Drink water, broth, or rehydration solutions (ad).
Herbal teas like chamomile can also soothe. - Light eating: Gradually reintroduce easily digestible foods, like rice, bananas and boiled potatoes.
If symptoms persist beyond a week, or if dehydration signs occur (dry mouth, dark urine, dizziness), seek medical attention.
FAQ: Natural remedies for stomach flu
What foods should I avoid during stomach flu?
Avoid fatty, spicy, and high-fiber foods, as well as dairy products and sugary drinks, which can irritate the stomach and intestines. Caffeine and alcohol should also be temporarily avoided, as they can increase dehydration and abdominal cramps.
What drinks are best for preventing dehydration?
Water is essential to prevent dehydration. However, herbal teas (such as chamomile, ginger, or fennel) can help soothe nausea. Oral rehydration solutions, available at pharmacies, are ideal for replenishing electrolytes lost due to diarrhea and vomiting.
Can essential oils help with stomach flu?
Yes, certain essential oils like peppermint or lemon can help ease nausea and abdominal pain. They should be diluted and applied carefully (on the skin, on the abdomen, or inhaled lightly). For ingestion, strictly follow a healthcare professional’s recommendations.
When should I see a doctor for stomach flu?
It’s advised to consult a doctor if symptoms last more than 3-4 days without improvement, if you experience a persistent high fever, signs of severe dehydration (such as dry mouth or dizziness), blood in the stool, or if symptoms are intense in young children, older adults, or individuals with weakened immune systems.
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