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The Eclectic Physician
Natural Health Care
by Beth Burch N.D.
Diarrhea-
Acute diarrhea is usually caused by a bacterial or viral infection and
usually resolves in a day or two. Chronic diarrhea can indicate an underlying
disease process including irritable bowel syndrome, parasites, inflammatory
bowel disease, hepatitis, malabsorption, pancreatitis, hyperthyroidism,
food allergies, lactose intolerance and heavy metal poisoning. Diarrhea
can also be caused by laxative abuse or use of antibiotics. If diarrhea
lasts more than a day or two, if stools are bloody or very frequent or
you are dehydrated, you should consult with their health care provider
for further evaluation.
General measures for self-limiting diarrhea include stopping solid
foods,avoid dairy products, drink lots of fluid with electrolytes (herb
teas, vegetable broths and electrolyte replacement drinks), use pectin
to solidify the stool, and in the case of antibiotic induced diarrhea,
supplement with Lactobacillus acidophilus to restore the normal intestinal
bacteria.
Herbal treatment-
Goldenseal-the constituent,
berberine has been shown to be very effective in treating acute diarrhea,
both because it has demonstrated antibacterial activity. immune stimulating
activity and is tonic and astingent to the intestinal mucosa.
Liquid extract- 1 teaspoon three times a day
Dry herb in capsules- 1000 mg three times a day
Standardized extract (8-12% alkaloid content)- 250 mg three times a
day
Other herbs- Blackberry Root, Carob, Bistort, Oak Bark
* The information presented in this web site is intended to inform and educate.
It is not intended replace a qualified medical practitioner to diagnose or treat medical conditions.
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