10 Effective Home Remedies for Loose Motions

Nov 09, 2022

Loose motion is a very common issue that almost everyone goes through at some point in time. Stools that are looser or more watery than normal, which may sometimes have a strong or foul odour, are referred to as loose motions. In general, loose motion is not a serious health issue and can be treated with simple home remedies, or with over-the-counter medicine for loose stools (in the more serious cases). Apart from watery and loose bowels, symptoms of loose motion may include bloating, cramps, and pain in the abdomen.

Understanding the Difference between Diarrhoea and Loose Motions

Loose motions simply refer to the condition where stool has too much water content, which cannot be absorbed properly by the large intestine, resulting in watery and loose bowels. Loose motion is at times a temporary condition that resolves itself without needing treatment. Diarrhoea on the other hand also involves frequent intestinal evacuations with loose stools, what differentiates it from loose motions is the number of times one has bowel movements. Having loose motions three or more times during a day is referred to as diarrhoea.

Diarrhoea can be mild or even life-threatening and is generally indicative of medical conditions like IBS, celiac disease, bile acid malabsorption, dumping syndrome, etc.

There are several home remedies for diarrhoea that are quite effective for treating mild cases at home. Treatment of diarrhoea may include medication, rehydration, antibiotics, etc., based on its severity and cause.

Home Remedies for Loose Motion

Being a short-term issue, loose motions can be treated with home remedies. An upset stomach, spicy or oily food, food allergies new medication, certain supplements, infections, food poisoning, indigestion, etc. are some of the most common causes of loose motion, the cure of which can involve increasing fibre intake, hydration, and certain medication. Lactose intolerance is also a very common cause of stomach pain and loose motions.

Popular and effective remedies for loose motion treatment include:

• Lemon Juice

Lemon juice has anti-inflammatory properties, which make it one of the best medicines for loose motion. It has a soothing effect, rehydrates the body, and relieves intestinal pain. Lemon juice can be combined with water and a pinch of salt, coriander powder, and mint.

• Salt-Sugar Water

• Yoghurt

Yoghurt is one of the best home remedies for loose motions. It is rich in probiotics, which are living microorganisms that promote good gut health and can help prevent diarrhoea as well.

• Bananas

Considered by many to be the best food for loose motion, bananas are high in potassium and pectin (a soluble fibre) and work very well to improve bowel movement. Other than this, bananas also help replenish lost electrolytes.

• Pomegranate

Pomegranates have anti-inflammatory properties and are among the most effective home remedies for an upset stomach and loose motions.

• Fenugreek Seeds

Fenugreek seeds are also a popular at-home treatment for loose motion and abdominal discomfort, thanks to their antibacterial and antifungal properties. One can take 1-2 teaspoons of dried fenugreek seeds and powder them. The fine powder can be mixed in a glass of water and consumed every day in the morning on an empty stomach. Doing this for 2-3 days can relieve the discomfort and pain caused by the symptoms.

• Honey

Honey has been used as a natural medicine for loose motion for ages. A teaspoon of honey and a teaspoon of cinnamon, mixed in a glass of warm water should be consumed in the morning on an empty stomach for best results.

• Cumin Seeds

Cumin seeds can do much more than just add flavour to a dish. Cumin tea can help treat loose motion as it helps improve digestion. Cumin tea can be prepared by boiling a teaspoon of cumin seeds in a cup of water and straining it.

• Sago

Sago is another effective home remedy for treating loose motions and improving digestion. A handful of sago, soaked in enough water for 3 hours and strained, can provide quick relief from stomach pain.

• Mustard Seeds

The antibacterial properties of mustard seeds make them a great cure for loose motion. Consuming 1/4^th teaspoon of mustard seeds that have been soaked in a tablespoon of water for an hour is an effective treatment and can be repeated 2-3 times a day.

Loose motions generally get resolved quite soon and may even be a one-time occurrence. But if the symptoms continue to get worse and last for more than 2-3 days, they may be indicative of a more serious underlying medical condition. Chronic loose motions, sudden weight loss, blood in stools, tar-like stools, severe dehydration, fainting, confusion, chills, fever, etc. are signs that one should visit their doctor at the earliest for proper diagnosis of their condition.