Diarrhea, or watery stool, is caused by many factors. It could be the result of intestinal parasite infection, bacterial infections, amebiasis, lactose intolerance, and some drugs containing magnesium. Ions in the body are eliminated faster than the normal rate during diarrhea, hence if left unchecked it could lead to dehydration which is a painful experience. Special consideration should be taken among children and old people since they are more vulnerable to the disease. Your local drugstore may have over the counter drugs such as ORESOL (oral rehydration solution) which replenishes the ions that you discharge along with your watery stool. Some stores may even have flavored hydrites for those who despise the salty sweet taste of traditional hydrites. Below are some alternative remedies for diarrhea:
- You can make your own rehydration solution at home by mixing 2 tablespoon sugar with 1 tablespoon salt in water. Drink amount of solution equal to the amount of fluids eliminated during excretion. Don't drink in one gulp. Drink little by little sips. Drinking the solution continuously without stopping could cause one to vomit.
- Chop jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophylus) root into small pieces. Place in boiling water. Drink decoction at least three times a day.
- Pour acacia (Samanea saman)in boiling hot. Drink decoction 3 times a day.
