Herb
Treatment Support
antibacterial, immune stimulant
Application
tincture, tablet, capsule
Gastroenteritis
Christopher Hobbs:
“Gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines often associated with food poisoning or a bacterial or viral infection.”
Etiologic Factors of Gastroenteritis:
Gastroenteritis, or inflammation of the stomach and intestines, is typically caused by:
- Infections:
- Viral: Norovirus, rotavirus (most common in children).
- Bacterial: E. coli, Salmonella, Shigella, Campylobacter.
- Parasitic: Giardia, Cryptosporidium.
- Non-infectious Causes:
- Food intolerances/allergies (e.g., lactose intolerance).
- Contaminated food or water.
- Side effects of medications (antibiotics, NSAIDs).
Signs to Seek Professional Help:
- Severe dehydration (dry mouth, decreased urination, extreme thirst).
- Blood or mucus in stool.
- High fever (above 102°F or 39°C).
- Persistent vomiting (unable to keep fluids down).
- Symptoms lasting more than 2–3 days.
- Severe abdominal pain.
- Symptoms in vulnerable populations (infants, elderly, pregnant individuals, or immunocompromised persons).
Treatment Plan for Gastroenteritis
When and How to Treat at Home with Herbs:
If symptoms are mild, herbs may help:
- Ginger (Zingiber officinale): Eases nausea and soothes the stomach. Use in tea or as a supplement.
- Peppermint (Mentha x piperita: Relieves cramps and promotes digestion. Peppermint tea is effective.
- Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla): Reduces inflammation and promotes relaxation; drink as tea.
- Slippery Elm (Ulmus rubra) or Marshmallow (Althea officialis) Root: Coats the stomach lining and soothes irritation.
Important Considerations:
- Ensure adequate hydration with oral rehydration solutions (ORS).
- Avoid herbal remedies if symptoms worsen, involve severe dehydration, or blood in stool—these require medical attention.
- Consult a healthcare provider if unsure or if symptoms are severe.
Christopher Hobbs:
“An herbal treatment program can include demulcents and anti-inflammatories for the gastrointestinal tract, heat-clearing antimicrobial herbs and immune stimulants. A soothing diet for a week or so is usually indicated. A good probiotic supplement should be used for several weeks to promote a healthy microflora in the colon.”
Generated by ChatGPT; edited and supplemented by Dr Christopher Hobbs PhD
Herbal Remedies for Gastroenteritis
Herb
Treatment Support
Application
Herb
Treatment Support
antimicrobial
Application
tincture, tablet, capsule
Herb
Treatment Support
demulcent, anti-inflammatory
Application
tea, tincture, capsule
Herb
Treatment Support
heat-clearin
Application
tincture, tea
Herb
Treatment Support
Application
Herb
Treatment Support
anti-inflammatory
Application
tincture, tea
Related Gastroenteritis conditions
Additional Ailment
Herb
Application
No additional ailments found.
The information given here is designed to help you make informed choices about your health. The information is drawn from numerous sources—both traditional medicine practice, from the clinical experience of many herbalists currently practicing, and supported by decades of scientific research from the author. The research most consulted includes human clinical trials that help to determine the most effective and safe herbs for various needs, the best doses, and types of preparations.
The information offered in this database is not intended as a substitute for any that may have been prescribed by your health practitioner or physician.
