Common causes of diarrhea in infants are gastrointestinal infections, colds, food intolerance and antibiotic treatment, according to Dr. William Sears, a pediatrician and co-author of "The Baby Book." The main concern with diarrhea, especially in babies, is dehydration; diarrhea disrupts the body's balance of minerals and water, which can quickly lead to dehydration. There are several natural remedies you can try if your baby has diarrhea, but call a doctor if your child is lethargic, has a high fever or abdominal pains or is showing signs of worsening dehydration.
Probiotics
Adding the power of a probiotic to your baby's diet during a gastrointestinal infection or after a round of antibiotics can help his body resume proper digestion. Probiotics are foods or supplements containing "good" bacteria that aid digestion. Acidophilus, Lactobacillus bifidus and Lactobacillus reuteri are all safe probiotic choices for infants. L. reuteri contains the same probiotic elements found in breast milk and creates a much thicker wall of healthy bacteria than other probiotics, but any refrigerated option will be effective. Look for live probiotic strains in the refrigerated section of most health food stores. Consult with your doctor or naturopathic practitioner for appropriate dosages.
Homeopathic Options
According to naturopathic physician and author Robert Ullman, homeopathy is a safe, nontoxic and effective way to treat many forms of infant diarrhea. Ullman recommends homeopathic aloe for loose stools containing mucus, Croton tiglium for diarrhea accompanied by a red rash, Podophyllum for "shooting" diarrhea with lots of intestinal rumbling and Veratrum album for diarrhea accompanied by chills and heavy sweating. Always consult with your naturopathic or homeopathic practitioner before using homeopathic medicines to ensure you give your child the correct remedy and dosage.
Herbal Help
Master herbalist Elaine Sheff of Meadowsweet Herbs in Montana recommends red raspberry leaf tea to help ease intestinal inflammation caused by diarrhea. For babies, brew red raspberry tea leaves in hot water to make tea and allow to cool; give 1/2 teaspoon every four hours. Sheff also advises making a very weak infusion of yarrow. If this doesn't stop the diarrhea, add a small pinch of tormentil and give 3 teaspoons for each dose up to six times a day. To make a weak infusion, let the herb steep until it is barely colored. Stronger herbal tea concoctions may stimulate a very young baby too much so be sure to check with your holistic practitioner for precise dosages and strengths. For babies accustomed to solid food, offer small amounts of rice water, pumpkin or applesauce mixed with carob powder to help solidify stools.
Aromatherapy
To ease the stomach cramping and pain of diarrhea in babies, add one drop each of therapeutic-grade lavender, ginger and orange essential oils into a few drops of a light carrier oil, such as sunflower oil, which serves to dilute the essential oils. Massage the infused oil gently onto the child's abdomen in a clockwise motion.
References
- "The Baby Book"; William Sears and Martha Sears; 2002
- "Homeopathic Self-Care: The Quick & Easy Guide For The Whole Family"; Dr. Robert Ullman & Judyth Reichenberg Ullman; 2007
- "The Aromatherapy Book: Inhalations and Applications"; Jeanne Rose; 1992
- "Homeopathic Medicine for Children and Infants"; Dana Ullman, MPH; 2007
Member Comments