Introduction
Gastrointestinal infection, one of the most common infectious diseases worldwide, is characterized by inflammatory processes in the gastrointestinal tract. It affects people of all ages and often leads to unpleasant symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea and abdominal cramps. This article looks at the causes, symptoms and natural remedies and supplements to treat this condition.
What is a gastrointestinal infection and how does it develop?
A gastrointestinal infection is usually caused by pathogens such as viruses, bacteria or parasites. These enter the body via contaminated food, water or through direct contact with infected people. Rotaviruses, noroviruses and Escherichia coli (E. coli) are particularly frequently responsible for acute infections.
The inflammatory process is triggered when the pathogens attack the mucous membrane of the gastrointestinal tract. This reaction of the body serves as a defense against the intruders, but at the same time leads to the typical symptoms.
Common symptoms of gastrointestinal infection
The symptoms of a gastrointestinal infection vary depending on the type and severity of the illness. Typical signs are
- Diarrhea: often watery and with severe fluid loss.
- Nausea and vomiting: Physical reactions to eliminate toxins.
- Abdominal pain and cramps: Triggered by inflammation and muscle cramps.
- Fever: Signs of an immune reaction.
- Exhaustion and dehydration: Result of loss of fluids and minerals.
In severe cases, circulatory problems and fainting may occur, especially in older people and children.
Causes of gastrointestinal infection
The most common causes of gastrointestinal infections are:
- Viral infections: Rotaviruses and noroviruses are the main culprits.
- Bacterial infections: Salmonella, Campylobacter and E. coli often occur through contaminated food.
- Parasitic pathogens: Giardia lamblia can be found in contaminated drinking water.
- Poor hygiene: Poor hand hygiene or unclean kitchen utensils increase the risk of infection.
Natural remedies for gastrointestinal infection
The treatment of a gastrointestinal infection can be effectively supported by natural remedies. They promote healing and strengthen the body:
1. rehydration with electrolytes
Natural electrolyte solutions are indispensable for severe fluid loss. A mixture of water, salt and honey can help to restore the mineral balance.
Camomile has an anti-inflammatory effect and soothes irritated stomach lining. Drink warm chamomile tea several times a day.
3. Gginger
Ginger has antimicrobial properties and helps with nausea. A tea made from fresh ginger is particularly effective.
4. Probiotics
Natural probiotics such as yogurt, sauerkraut or kombucha promote the regeneration of the intestinal flora. They support the development of a healthy bacterial population in the gut.
5. Healing clay
Healing earth binds harmful substances and promotes their elimination. A teaspoon dissolved in water helps with diarrhea and flatulence.
These herbs have an antispasmodic and digestive effect. They can be used as tea or in food.
Healing gastrointestinal infection naturally
Healing a gastrointestinal infection naturally requires patience and the right combination of diet and medicinal plants.
- Nutrition during recovery
- Rusks and rice: are easy to digest and easy on the stomach.
- Carrot soup: contains pectins that protect the intestinal wall.
- Bananas: They are rich in potassium and are easy on the digestive system.
- Oatmeal: Provides energy and promotes healthy bowel function.
- Supporting food supplements
- Zinc: Helps to repair the intestinal mucosa.
- Vitamin C: Strengthens the immune system and promotes wound healing.
- L-glutamine: Supports the regeneration of intestinal cells.
- Recommended medicinal plants
- Marshmallow root: Forms a protective layer of mucus in the intestine.
- Thyme: has a disinfectant and digestive effect.
- Blackberry leaves: help with diarrhea.
Important tips for a speedy recovery
The following measures are helpful to speed up recovery:
- Sufficient rest: the body needs energy to recover.
- Observe hygiene: Regular hand washing prevents re-infection.
- Avoid stress: Stress weakens the immune system and delays recovery.
- Drink moderately: Regular small sips of water or tea prevent dehydration.
Conclusion
Although a gastrointestinal infection is unpleasant, it is easily treatable with natural remedies. The right combination of fluid intake, a gentle diet and supportive medicinal plants can alleviate the symptoms and help the body to heal. Nutritional supplements such as zinc or probiotics strengthen intestinal health and shorten the recovery time. With patience and natural remedies, the gastrointestinal tract can be gently and sustainably regenerated.
Sources and further information:
- Phytotherapy for gastrointestinal complaints
- Updated S3 guideline of the DGVS for irritable bowel syndrome
- Herbal therapy options for gastrointestinal complaints
- New findings on the development of the gastrointestinal tract
- STW 5 (Iberogast®) in the treatment of functional gastrointestinal disorders
- Gastroenteritis – DocCheck Flexikon
- Natural home remedies for gastroenteritis
- Gastroenteritis: symptoms, causes and treatment
- Building up intestinal flora after a gastrointestinal infection
- Annoying to life-threatening – Pharmazeutische Zeitung
