A healthy digestive system isn’t the sexiest thing to covet, but anyone who suffers chronic diarrhea will agree this stomach-churning ailment can make or break your day.

The good news is that you can hit the ground running with four natural remedies that don’t require a trip to the doctor or a prescription. Save yourself a trip – or 20 – to the bathroom with these tried-and-true remedies. 

First off, what is diarrhea? 

Knowing how to battle the bathroom blues is only half the battle. It’s important to be aware of what causes this annoying health issue. The intestinal tract moves food and water through the body and absorbs nutrients and fluid into the body. But when infection, medication or even sugar substitutes impedes that absorption, that fluid has to go somewhere. And the end result is often a bad case of diarrhea. 

This lack of absorption on the part of the intestines, however, is not a pleasant ordeal, accompanied by: 

• abdominal pain;
• cramps;
• occasional fever and chills;
• thirst; and
• weight loss. 

As for causes, you can expect the usual culprits: 

• bacteria;
• parasites; and
• viral infections. 

Even medications are known to throw the digestive system into a downward spiral. People who suffer from lactose intolerance may experience diarrhea when consuming certain dairy products. Sensitivity to diet products – and the common ingredient sorbitol – frequently contribute to gastric disturbances like diarrhea as well. 

While a case of the trots may seem harmless enough, it can lead to bigger problems. Too much diarrhea means risking dehydration. It's important to return the digestive system to a proper balance so that the digestive tract assumes that water-soaking responsibility. 

Simple Supplements 

Did you know that more than 60 percent of the immune system resides in the gut? That means, undoubtedly, that how you eat and drink and what you put into your body directly relates to how you feel and how well you stave off infection. 

We often would like to rely on the “quick fixes,” taking medications to “help” our systems regulate again. Ironically, getting back to the basics is often the best medicine in getting the stomach back on track. Not everyone’s alike when it comes to diet, but natural supplements can help tremendously. 

Supplements that may help, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, include: 

• rice or barley water;
• fresh vegetable juice;
• miso broth;
• live yeast;
• bovine colostrum;
• glutamine;
• lactase enzymes; and
• zinc. 

Natural supplements don't require a prescription or doctor’s approval, but you should discuss any supplement with your doctor before taking it. Some supplements may be more appropriate, depending on the diarrhea's cause, and some supplements might interfere with medications. 

What about herbs? 

Nothing beats a warm cup of tea by a fireplace, and it sure can do a number on a bout of diarrhea! 

Some herbs can act as astringents and inflammation reducers, two heavy fighters in the war against diarrhea, such as: 

• blackberry/raspberry leaves;
• carob powder;
• extract of bilberry;
• agrimony;
• quercetin;
• chamomile;
• marshmallow root; and
• slippery elm powder. 

Even in the case when infection causes diarrhea, talk to your doctor about the benefits of herbs like: 

• barberry (Berberis vulgaris);
• goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis); and
• Oregon grape (Berberis aquifolium). 

Again, certain herbs may be dangerous for some patients, such as women who are pregnant or breastfeeding or those taking medications. Consult a physician to check for drug interactions. 

Homeopathy Takes It One Step Farther 

Many consider homeopathic remedies to combat diarrhea. These are natural treatments that have proven effective in treating stomach woes. 

Homeopathic therapies can include: 

• Arsenicum album – this might be helpful for those suffering from "traveler's diarrhea";
• Chamomilla – probably one of the most difficult cases of diarrhea involves the smell of rotten eggs in the stool. This might help remedy the situation, especially in children; and
• Calcarea carbonica – homeopathic practitioners might recommend this for children with a fear of the dark and who sweat excessively, according to UMD Medical Center. 

It's always important to check drug interactions and consult a doctor when choosing a homeopathic remedy. 

Imbalance and Probiotics 

Humans have protective mechanisms called “good bacteria.” They exist in the stomach and intestinal tract. Without the good bacteria, bad bacteria may cause infections. Although antibiotics kill infection-causing bacteria, they often take the good bacteria down with it. 

Go with Your Gut 

Don’t let diarrhea get you down. Any one of these remedies or even a combination can help make those tummy troubles a thing of the past. Consult with your doctor before trying anything new.