Natural Herbs for Diarrhea

 ·   Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus)

Due to the anti-viral and antibacterial properties of astragalus, it is considered a good natural remedy for diarrhea.

It contains polysaccharides that provide support for the immune system and stimulate the activity of phagocytes (white blood cells). It also increases the level of natural antibodies found in the bloodstream.

     · Picrorhiza Kuroa (Picorrhiza Kuroa)

This medicinal herb should be given in moderation for diarrhea. High doses can actually aggravate diarrhea and cause flatulence in some people.

As a bitter herb, it incite the digestive process. Picorhiza stimulates the immune system, including B and T cell activity and white blood cell activity. It can be used in the treatment of liver diseases and has anti-malarial properties.

·         Goldenseal (Hydracis canadensis)

Goldenseal has antibiotic action in the intestines and helps reduce adhesive E.coli while stimulating the immune system.

One of the active ingredients in goldenseal is berberine. Berberine has been proven to increase the activity of macrophages that digest bacteria and viruses.

·         Barberry (Berberis Vulgaris)

Barberry also contains berberine, which has anti-protozoic properties. Protozoic diseases that cause diarrhea include giardia, dysentery, candida and cholera vibrio.

Both berberine and palmetine are active ingredients in barberry and have antibacterial properties. Another component of barberry is berbamine.

Berberine and berbamine are alkaloids and strong antibacterials that are believed to increase the production of white blood cells and platelets.

·         Echinacea (Echinacea angustifolia)

Echinacea is known as an immune stimulant. Its active ingredients are polysaccharides and alkamides, which stimulate the body's immune response. It also contains polyacetylenes which have antifungal, antiviral properties, and antibacterial.

Echinacea find to interfere with the activity of the enzyme hyaluronidase. This enzyme breaks down connective tissue and allows bacteria and other microbes to travel throughout the body.

 

·         Agrimony (Agrimonia eupatoria)

 Agrimony has been used as an herbal remedy to treat diarrhea due to its high tannin content. Several clinical trials confirm this use and Commission E supports acuity for common diarrhea.