Stomach flu remedies include rice water, ginger tea, oxidized apples, and various herbal teas. These options help relieve diarrhea, ease intestinal spasms, and prevent dehydration, supporting recovery from gastroenteritis, an illness that affects the digestive system.
Gastroenteritis, also known as the stomach flu, is caused by viruses, bacteria, or contaminated food and can lead to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Stomach flu remedies are often used alongside medical treatment to ease these symptoms.
Home remedies for stomach flu focus on staying hydrated, supporting digestion, and reducing inflammation. Drinks such as rice water, ginger tea, anise, chamomile, or other herbal blends may help ease symptoms, but medical attention is advised if they last longer than two days or become severe.
Some home remedies for the stomach flu include:
1. Rice water
Rice water is a simple and effective home remedy for gastroenteritis. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), treatment for viral gastroenteritis focuses on replacing lost fluids and electrolytes to prevent dehydration. The starch released from the rice may also help make stools firmer.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons of rice
- 4 cups of water
Directions:
Combine the rice and water in a pot. Cover and cook over low heat to prevent the water from evaporating. Once the rice is fully cooked, strain it and save the water. You can add 1 teaspoon of sugar or honey for taste and drink the rice water gradually throughout the day.
2. Oxidized apples
The pectin in apples helps treat gastroenteritis by firming loose stools and supporting digestion.
Ingredients:
- 1 apple
Directions:
Peel and grate the apple onto a plate, then let it sit uncovered until it turns brown (oxidizes). Eat small portions throughout the day.
3. Herbal tea
Catnip may help relieve abdominal cramping and emotional tension that contribute to diarrhea. Peppermint can reduce gas and calm gastrointestinal spasms, while raspberry leaves contain tannins, natural compounds with astringent effects that help soothe intestinal inflammation.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of water
- 2 teaspoons dried catnip tea leaves
- 2 teaspoons dried peppermint leaves
- 2 teaspoons dried raspberry leaves
Directions:
Pour boiling water over the dried leaves and let steep for about 15 minutes. Strain and drink about ½ cup (4 ounces) every hour.
4. Ginger tea
Ginger is commonly used to help relieve nausea. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, ginger has been studied for several types of nausea and vomiting and may be helpful in some cases, although the evidence varies depending on the cause.
For gastroenteritis, ginger tea may be used as a supportive remedy alongside hydration and other medical care when needed.
Ingredients:
- 2 teaspoons diced fresh ginger root
- 1 cup of water
Directions:
In a covered pot, bring the ginger and water to a boil. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, then strain. Sip the tea warm throughout the day.
5. Anise tea
Anise is another effective remedy for supporting digestion during gastroenteritis, as it may help relieve nausea and gas.
Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon dried anise seeds
- 1 cup of water
Directions:
Bring the water to a boil, then add the anise seeds. Cover and let steep for about 10 minutes. Strain before drinking. You can have up to three cups per day.
6. Chamomile tea
Chamomile tea has digestive and anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve symptoms such as abdominal cramping, acid reflux, nausea, dizziness, and gas.
Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon dried chamomile flowers
- 4 cups of water
Directions:
Bring the water to a boil, then remove it from heat. Add the chamomile flowers, cover, and let it steep until slightly cooled. Strain and drink several times throughout the day.