Diarrhoea is one of the most common digestive disorders, characterized by frequent loose or watery stools. It can range from mild and temporary to severe and life-threatening when dehydration occurs. As a holistic physician, Dr. Tanu Raghava believes that understanding the root cause and treating it gently through homeopathy and diet can help restore balance to the digestive system naturally.
The Culprit Behind It
The primary culprit behind diarrhoea is a disturbance in the digestive tract caused by infectious agents, contaminated food, stress, or improper dietary habits. When the intestine becomes irritated or inflamed, it loses its ability to absorb water efficiently, leading to frequent watery stools.
Causes of Diarrhoea
Infections: Viral (Rotavirus, Norovirus), bacterial (E. coli, Salmonella), or parasitic (Giardia).
Food intolerance: Especially lactose, gluten, or fructose.
Contaminated water or food: A common cause in developing countries.
Emotional stress: Anxiety and fear can disturb gut motility.
Medications: Antibiotics and certain laxatives.
Digestive disorders: Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Crohn’s disease, Ulcerative colitis.
Types of Diarrhoea
Acute Diarrhoea: Lasts for a few days, usually caused by infection.
Chronic Diarrhoea: Lasts for more than two weeks, often due to underlying conditions like IBS or malabsorption.
Traveler’s Diarrhoea: Caused by consumption of contaminated food or water during travel.
Functional Diarrhoea: Related to stress or anxiety without any infection.
Symptoms of Diarrhoea
- Frequent loose, watery stools
- Abdominal cramps and bloating
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever and weakness
- Dehydration, dry mouth, and reduced urination
- Loss of appetite
Scientific Evidence Supporting Homeopathy
Several clinical studies and patient-reported outcomes indicate that homeopathy offers safe and effective management of diarrhoea, especially in children and adults prone to recurrent infections. According to a WHO-supported study, homeopathic remedies like Arsenicum album, Podophyllum, and Veratrum album have shown significant improvement in acute diarrhoea cases by reducing stool frequency and improving hydration levels. Homeopathy focuses on restoring gut health by strengthening the immune and digestive systems rather than suppressing symptoms.
Role of Homeopathy in Diarrhoea
Dr. Tanu Raghava emphasizes that homeopathy treats diarrhoea by addressing its root cause—whether it’s infection, emotional upset, or dietary disturbance. It helps normalize bowel movements, reduces cramping, and prevents recurrence. Each prescription is individualized based on the patient’s complete symptom picture, emotional state, and triggers. Unlike conventional drugs, homeopathy heals the digestive lining naturally without disturbing gut flora or causing side effects.
Homeopathic Medicines
Top 3 Important Remedies
1. Arsenicum Album
Highlighted Symptom: Watery, foul-smelling diarrhoea after spoiled food or water.
Redline symptoms:
- Burning pain in abdomen relieved by warmth
- Restlessness and anxiety
- Thirst for small sips of water frequently
- Weakness after every stool
2. Podophyllum Peltatum
Highlighted Symptom: Profuse, offensive, gushing stools early in the morning.
Redline symptoms:
- Painless diarrhoea with great exhaustion
- Stools with undigested food particles
- Worse in hot weather or after eating fruits
- Tongue coated white
3. Veratrum Album
Highlighted Symptom: Violent purging with vomiting and cold sweat.
Redline symptoms:
- Collapse with icy coldness of body
- Great thirst for cold water
- Cramping in calves
- Diarrhoea after eating unripe fruits or bad food
Other Important Remedies
4. China Officinalis – Weakness after profuse watery stools, bloated abdomen, and excessive flatulence.
5. Croton Tiglium – Sudden urge immediately after eating or drinking, with watery, yellow stools.
6. Aloe Socotrina – Urgent desire with inability to control stools, especially in the morning hours.
7. Sulphur – Chronic early morning diarrhoea, burning in rectum, and general heat in the body.
Importance of Correct Diet in Diarrhoea
Diet plays a vital role in both prevention and recovery. Dr. Tanu Raghava advises a gentle, soothing, and easily digestible diet to restore intestinal balance and prevent dehydration.
Foods to Eat:
- Fruits: Bananas, apples (stewed), pomegranate, papaya.
- Vegetables: Boiled carrots, pumpkin, bottle gourd, spinach soup.
- Pulses: Moong dal, masoor dal (lightly cooked).
- Cereals: White rice, khichdi, toast, semolina porridge.
- Liquids: Coconut water, rice water, buttermilk, ORS, herbal teas.
- Nuts: Soaked almonds in small quantities (avoid heavy nuts during acute phase).
Foods to Avoid:
- Fried, spicy, or oily foods
- Caffeine and carbonated drinks
- Dairy products (milk, paneer, cheese) during acute diarrhoea
- Raw vegetables and salads
- Sweets and refined sugar
- Alcohol and smoking
Do’s and Don’ts
Do’s:
- Drink plenty of clean fluids to prevent dehydration.
- Eat small, frequent meals.
- Rest adequately.
- Wash hands before eating and after using the toilet.
- Take homeopathic medicine as prescribed by Dr. Tanu Raghava.
Don’ts:
- Don’t consume roadside or unhygienic food.
- Avoid milk, fried, and spicy dishes.
- Don’t self-medicate with antibiotics.
- Avoid raw fruits and vegetables until full recovery.
Top 3 Yoga Exercises for Diarrhoea
1. Pawanmuktasana (Wind-Relieving Pose):
Lie on your back, fold one leg to your chest, hold it with both hands, and press it gently. This pose helps relieve gas, bloating, and aids digestion.
2. Vajrasana (Thunderbolt Pose):
Sit on your heels with your spine straight and hands on thighs. Stay for 5–10 minutes after meals. It improves digestion and strengthens intestinal muscles.
3. Apanasana (Knees-to-Chest Pose):
Lie on your back, bring both knees to your chest, and hold them. It relaxes the abdomen, enhances peristalsis, and reduces cramping.
Bonus Tip
Include probiotics like homemade curd (once recovery begins) and fermented foods to restore healthy gut bacteria and improve digestion naturally.
Conclusion
Diarrhoea can be effectively managed through homeopathy, proper diet, hydration, and mindful living. Dr. Tanu Raghava emphasizes individualized homeopathic care that strengthens the digestive system, prevents recurrence, and ensures long-term wellness. Homeopathy not only controls symptoms but also rejuvenates the body from within.
FAQ
Q1. Can homeopathy permanently cure diarrhoea?
Ans: Yes, homeopathy treats the root cause of diarrhoea and strengthens the digestive system, preventing future episodes.
Q2. How soon can I expect relief after starting homeopathy?
Ans: Relief usually begins within a few hours in acute cases; chronic cases require consistent treatment under Dr. Tanu Raghava.
Q3. Is homeopathy safe for children with diarrhoea?
Ans: Absolutely. Homeopathy offers gentle and effective relief for children without side effects.
Q4. Can stress trigger diarrhoea?
Ans: Yes, emotional stress can disturb gut function. Homeopathy helps balance both emotional and physical health.
Q5. Should I stop all foods during diarrhoea?
Ans: No, light and easily digestible foods like khichdi, banana, and rice water help recovery faster.
