By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Diarrhea
Herbal tinctures for diarrhea are liquid extracts made from concentrated plant-based ingredients, used to soothe and calm digestive issues.
These natural remedies help alleviate symptoms by reducing inflammation, relaxing muscles, and replenishing electrolytes, providing quick relief from diarrhea. Examples of herbal tinctures that aid in diarrhea include peppermint, chamomile, and licorice root, which have anti-inflammatory properties that ease digestive discomfort.
By using these tinctures, individuals can quickly recover from diarrhea episodes, reducing stress and anxiety, and improving overall quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for diarrhea, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Berberis aquifolium
- 2. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 3. Taraxacum officinale
- 4. Aloe vera
- 5. Zingiber officinale
- 6. Sambucus nigra
- 7. Althaea officinalis
- 8. Plantago major
- 9. Matricaria chamomilla
- 10. Foeniculum vulgare
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for diarrhea?
- What ailments similar to diarrhea are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Berberis aquifolium
Oregon grape tinctures helps with diarrhea because it contains berberine, a natural compound that has antimicrobial properties.
Berberine has been shown to inhibit the growth of certain bacteria and viruses that can cause diarrhea, such as E. coli and rotavirus. Additionally, Oregon grape tincture's anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe the digestive tract and reduce inflammation, which can further contribute to resolving diarrhea symptoms.
By addressing the underlying causes of diarrhea, Oregon grape tinctures may provide relief from frequent and urgent bowel movements.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Berberis aquifolium tinctures that help with diarrhea.
- Berberine: Berberine, an alkaloid, has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce the frequency and severity of diarrhea by inhibiting the growth of pathogens and soothing the gastrointestinal tract.
- Vescalagin: Vescalagin, a stilbenoid, has antioxidant properties that help protect the gut lining from oxidative stress and inflammation, which can contribute to diarrhea.
- Isoferulic acid: Isoferulic acid, a phenolic acid, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the gut, which can contribute to diarrhea.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of oregon grape used to make tinctures for diarrhea.
- Roots: They are used due to their high content of berberine, a compound with antimicrobial properties that can help alleviate diarrhea.
- Leaves: They are used because they contain berberine, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate diarrhea symptoms.
- Barks: They are used due to their berberine content, which can help inhibit bacterial growth and alleviate diarrhea.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic oregon grape for diarrhea.
- Gather 100g of berberis aquifolium roots and stems and chop them finely into small pieces.
- Combine the chopped berberis aquifolium with 600ml of high-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 6 to 8 weeks, shaking it daily.
- Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.
- Discard the solids and store the tincture in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.
2. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice tinctures helps with diarrhea because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm the digestive tract.
The bioactive compounds present in licorice root, such as glycyrrhizin and glycyrrhetic acid, have been shown to reduce inflammation and irritation in the gut, thereby alleviating symptoms of diarrhea. Additionally, licorice tinctures can help regulate bowel movements, preventing loose stools and promoting regularity.
By addressing underlying digestive issues, herbal licorice tinctures offer a natural and effective solution for managing diarrhea.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with diarrhea.
- Glycyrrhizin: It helps with diarrhea by reducing inflammation in the gut, soothing the intestinal lining, and inhibiting the release of histamine, a compound that can exacerbate diarrhea symptoms.
- Licoricidin: It helps with diarrhea by stabilizing the gut lining, reducing the permeability of the intestinal wall, and minimizing the absorption of toxins that can contribute to diarrhea.
- Licorisoflavonoids: They help with diarrhea by displaying anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the gut, thus alleviating diarrhea symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for diarrhea.
- Roots: They are used to make tinctures due to their high glycyrrhizin content, which helps in alleviating diarrhea by reducing inflammation in the gut.
- Leaves: They are used in tincture form for their anti-inflammatory properties, which help in soothing the digestive tract and reducing diarrhea symptoms.
- Flowers: They contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that contribute to their anti-diarrheal properties, making them a suitable choice for tincture production.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for diarrhea.
- Harvest the roots of the plant in the spring or fall after the plant has gone dormant for 2-3 months.
- Clean and dry the roots in a low temperature oven at 100 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
- Use a solvent such as ethanol or glycerin in a ratio of 1 part plant to 2 parts solvent to extract the properties.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks shaking the container every day to speed up the process.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter and discard the solids then bottle the liquid.
3. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion tinctures helps with diarrhea because of its unique ability to soothe and calm the digestive tract.
The herb contains a rich source of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and taraxasterol, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and improve gut health.
By addressing underlying issues such as gut inflammation and irritation, dandelion tinctures can help restore normal bowel function and alleviate symptoms of diarrhea, providing rapid relief from uncomfortable and inconvenient episodes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale tinctures that help with diarrhea.
- Inulin: Inulin is a fructan that helps to slow down the movement of food through the digestive system, reducing the frequency of bowel movements and alleviating diarrhea.
- Apolactone: Apolactone is a saponin that helps to reduce the inflammation in the gut and improve the integrity of the gut lining, thereby preventing excessive fluid loss and alleviating diarrhea.
- Taraxasterol: Taraxasterol is a triterpene that exhibits anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, helping to reduce the infection and inflammation that can cause diarrhea, and promoting a healthy gut environment.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for diarrhea.
- Leaves: The leaves of Taraxacum officinale are used to make tinctures for diarrhea due to their high concentration of saponins, which help reduce inflammation and soothe the digestive system.
- Roots: The roots of Taraxacum officinale are used to make tinctures for diarrhea due to their ability to absorb and retain water, helping to firm up stool and reduce loose bowel movements.
- Flowers: The flowers of Taraxacum officinale are used to make tinctures for diarrhea due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation and soothe the digestive system.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for diarrhea.
- Gather fresh or dried roots and leaves of the plant in sufficient quantities for making tincture.
- Combine the plant material with 70 ethanol or 80 vodka as solvent in a ratio of 1:2.
- Steep the mixture in a glass jar with a lid for 2-6 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the liquid from the solids through cheesecloth or a coffee filter and discard the solids.
- Transfer the liquid to glass dropper bottles and store them in a cool dark place for later use.
4. Aloe vera
Aloe tinctures helps with diarrhea because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm the digestive tract.
The aloe extract contains compounds like aloin and aloe-emodin, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and irritation in the gut, alleviating symptoms of diarrhea such as cramping, bloating, and frequent bowel movements.
Additionally, aloe tinctures can help restore the balance of good bacteria in the gut, promoting a healthy digestive system and reducing the frequency and severity of diarrhea episodes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera tinctures that help with diarrhea.
- Aloin: Aloein is an anthraquinone glycoside that helps to slow down the movement of intestinal contents, thereby reducing the frequency and urgency of bowel movements, which can alleviate diarrhea symptoms.
- Alo-emodin: This anthraquinone compound has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the gut, alleviate diarrhea, and prevent the growth of pathogenic microorganisms that may cause diarrhea.
- Catechins: Catechins are a type of phenolic compound found in Aloe vera that may help reduce the severity of diarrhea by inhibiting the growth of gut bacteria and reducing inflammation in the gut, promoting a balance in the gut microbiome.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make tinctures for diarrhea.
- Leaves: Aloe vera leaves are used to make tinctures for diarrhea due to their gel content, which is high in anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
- Leaves: The leaves are also used for their gel content, which helps to slow down bowel movements and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.
- Leaves: Aloe vera leaf tinctures contain compounds that help to absorb excess water in the intestines, thus reducing the frequency and severity of diarrhea.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for diarrhea.
- Harvest 10-15 mature aloe vera leaves and clean them thoroughly with distilled water.
- Dry the aloe vera leaves in a dehydrator at 95-100 degrees fahrenheit for 6 hours.
- Chop the dried aloe vera leaves into small pieces using a sharp knife.
- Steep 2 ounces of the chopped aloe vera in 4 ounces of 80-proof vodka for 2 weeks.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth and store it in a dark glass bottle.
5. Zingiber officinale
Ginger tinctures helps with diarrhea because of its natural anti-inflammatory and carminative properties.
The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols, work to calm the digestive system, reducing inflammation and soothing irritated gut lining. This helps to slow down bowel movements, allowing for more effective absorption of nutrients and water reabsorption, ultimately resulting in a reduction in diarrhea frequency and severity.
Additionally, ginger's natural antimicrobial properties help to combat harmful bacteria that may be contributing to the diarrhea.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale tinctures that help with diarrhea.
- Gingerols: Gingerols, particularly [6]-gingerol, have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce intestinal inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with diarrhea.
- Shogaols: Shogaols, like [6]-shogaol, have been found to inhibit the growth of certain bacteria that can cause diarrhea, such as E. coli, and also exhibit anti-inflammatory effects.
- Zingiberene: Zingiberene, a sesquiterpene, has been shown to have anti-diarrheal properties by inhibiting the secretion of intestinal fluids and reducing gut motility, thus alleviating diarrhea symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make tinctures for diarrhea.
- Roots: The roots are also used for their anti-inflammatory and carminative properties, helping to alleviate digestive issues.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for diarrhea.
- Harvest 50g of fresh zingiber officinale roots in the morning after the dew has dried.
- Chop the roots into small pieces using a sharp knife to increase surface area.
- Combine the chopped roots with 250ml of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 weeks shaking it every day.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
6. Sambucus nigra
Elder tinctures helps with diarrhea because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm the digestive tract.
The herb's anthraquinones help to slow down bowel movements, reducing the frequency and urgency of bowel movements. Additionally, elder tincture's antimicrobial properties combat the underlying infection or inflammation causing diarrhea, promoting a healthy gut environment.
By addressing both symptoms and their root causes, herbal elder tinctures can effectively alleviate diarrhea and restore digestive balance.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra tinctures that help with diarrhea.
- Phenolic acids: They have antimicrobial properties that can help reduce the growth of pathogens in the gut, thereby alleviating diarrhea symptoms.
- Flavonoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help soothe the intestinal lining and reduce inflammation that may contribute to diarrhea.
- Tannins: They have astringent properties that can help firm up loose stool and reduce the frequency of bowel movements, providing relief from diarrhea.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make tinctures for diarrhea.
- Flowers: The flowers of Sambucus nigra are used to make tinctures due to their high anthocyanin and flavonoid content, which helps to soothe and calm the digestive tract.
- Leaves: The leaves of Sambucus nigra are used to make tinctures because they contain bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, helping to reduce inflammation and infection in the digestive tract.
- Fruits: The fruits of Sambucus nigra (also known as elderberries) are used to make tinctures due to their high content of anthocyanins, which have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that help to soothe and protect the digestive tract.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for diarrhea.
- Harvest 1 part of fresh sambucus nigra flowers in the summer months when they are in full bloom.
- Dry the flowers for 1-2 weeks in a warm ventilated area until they are brittle and crumbly.
- Combine 1 part of dried flowers with 2 parts of 80-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 4-6 weeks shaking the jar every day.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
7. Althaea officinalis
Marshmallow tinctures helps with diarrhea because of its soothing properties that calm inflammation in the digestive tract.
The herb's mucilage, a thick, sticky substance, coats and protects the intestines, reducing irritation and discomfort caused by diarrhea. As the tincture is absorbed into the body, it helps to repair and strengthen the gut lining, allowing for regular bowel movements and a reduction in frequency of loose stools.
This natural remedy can bring quick relief from symptoms associated with diarrhea, promoting a healthier digestive system.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis tinctures that help with diarrhea.
- Mucilages: These complex carbohydrates help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and irritation that can contribute to diarrhea.
- Gallic acid: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce the severity and frequency of diarrhea by inhibiting the growth of pathogens and reducing inflammation in the gut.
- Althaea polysaccharides: These polysaccharides have been shown to have prebiotic properties, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and improving gut health, which can help alleviate diarrhea symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make tinctures for diarrhea.
- Roots: The roots are the primary part used due to their high mucilage content, which helps to soothe and protect the digestive tract.
- Leaves: The leaves are also used, as they contain similar mucilage properties to the roots, providing relief from diarrhea.
- Barks: The barks may be used, as they contain a smaller amount of mucilage but are still effective in treating diarrhea due to their anti-inflammatory properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for diarrhea.
- Harvest 1 part of the roots of the medicinal plant in the late summer or early fall season.
- Wash the roots under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris thoroughly.
- Dry the roots in a single layer at a temperature not exceeding 40 degrees celsius for 2 weeks.
- Steep 1 part of the dried roots in 5 parts of high-proof neutral spirits such as ethanol or vodka for 2-6 weeks.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a dark glass bottle to collect the tincture.
8. Plantago major
Plantain tinctures helps with diarrhea because they contain a compound called mucilage, which forms a protective coating on the gut lining.
This coating soothes irritated tissues, reduces inflammation, and prevents further irritation from occurring. Additionally, plantain's anti-inflammatory properties help to calm the digestive tract, reducing spasms and cramping that can exacerbate diarrhea.
By soothing and protecting the gut, plantain tinctures can effectively alleviate symptoms of diarrhea, promoting a sense of relief and comfort for those suffering from this uncomfortable condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Plantago major tinctures that help with diarrhea.
- Apolypodin: This flavonoid glycoside helps with diarrhea by reducing inflammation and modulating gut permeability.
- Aucubin: This iridoid glycoside has anti-inflammatory and astringent properties, which can help to reduce the frequency and severity of diarrhea.
- Rutin: This flavonoid glycoside has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to soothe and protect the gut lining, reducing the symptoms of diarrhea.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of plantain used to make tinctures for diarrhea.
- Leaves: Used due to their astringent properties, which help to reduce the frequency of bowel movements and alleviate diarrhea symptoms.
- Stems: Employed for their anti-inflammatory and soothing effects, which can help to calm the digestive tract and reduce inflammation associated with diarrhea.
- Roots: Utilized for their anthraquinone content, which acts as a natural laxative and helps to regulate bowel movements while alleviating diarrhea symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic plantain for diarrhea.
- Harvest 250g of fresh plantago major leaves and flowers on a dry sunny morning.
- Clean and dry the harvested plant material in a well-ventilated area for 2 hours.
- Chop the dried plant material into small pieces using a sharp knife and a cutting board.
- Combine 250g of chopped plant material with 750ml of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks, shaking daily for 5 minutes.
9. Matricaria chamomilla
Chamomile tinctures helps with diarrhea because its anti-inflammatory properties soothe and calm the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and irritation that can contribute to diarrhea.
The natural oils in chamomile also help to relax the muscles in the intestines, allowing them to function more efficiently and slowly absorb fluids and electrolytes, thereby reducing the frequency and severity of loose stools.
Additionally, chamomile's anti-spasmodic properties help to ease cramping and discomfort associated with diarrhea.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla tinctures that help with diarrhea.
- Apigenin: This flavonoid helps with diarrhea by reducing inflammation in the gut and promoting a balance of the gut microbiome.
- Luteolin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help soothe the digestive tract, reducing diarrhea symptoms.
- Chamazulene: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help protect the gut lining, reducing inflammation and promoting the healing of irritated tissues, which in turn helps to alleviate diarrhea.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make tinctures for diarrhea.
- Flowers: They are commonly used due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which help to calm digestive issues.
- Leaves: They are used to treat diarrhea because they contain apigenin, a flavonoid that has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects.
- Seeds : They are used to treat diarrhea due to their potential anti-diarrheal properties and their ability to soothe the digestive system.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for diarrhea.
- Harvest 100g of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
- Chop the dried flowers into smaller pieces and combine them with 500ml of vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks shaking the jar daily to ensure even extraction.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into another clean glass container discarding the solids and press on the solids to extract more liquid.
- Transfer the tincture to dark glass dropper bottles and label them with the date and ingredients used for future reference.
10. Foeniculum vulgare
Fennel tinctures helps with diarrhea because its active compounds, such as anethole and fenchone, have natural antispasmodic properties that can help relax the muscles in the digestive tract.
This relaxation can slow down the movement of food through the intestines, allowing the body to absorb more nutrients and water, reducing the frequency and severity of diarrhea episodes.
Additionally, fennel's anti-inflammatory properties may also help reduce inflammation in the gut, further contributing to its ability to alleviate diarrhea symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare tinctures that help with diarrhea.
- Anethole: A terpene that helps alleviate diarrhea by reducing spasms in the gastrointestinal tract and acting as a mild anti-inflammatory, thereby soothing the digestive system.
- Foeniculin: A phenolic compound that has been found to have antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help calm digestive issues such as diarrhea.
- Ferulic acid: A phenolic acid with antioxidant properties that can help protect the gut lining and reduce inflammation, leading to a decrease in diarrhea symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make tinctures for diarrhea.
- Seeds: They are used due to their high content of essential oils, particularly fenchone and anethole, which have anti-inflammatory and carminative properties that help alleviate diarrhea symptoms.
- Leaves: They are used due to their high content of volatile oils, which help to relax the digestive system and reduce inflammation, thus alleviating diarrhea.
- Stems: They are used due to their high content of volatile oils, particularly fenchone and anethole, which have anti-inflammatory and carminative properties that help to alleviate diarrhea symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for diarrhea.
- Harvest 1 part of dried foeniculum vulgare roots and 2 parts of dried foeniculum vulgare seeds.
- Combine the harvested parts with 80-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into another clean glass container.
- Bottle the tincture and label it with the preparation date and ingredients used.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for diarrhea?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with diarrhea is a blend of Peppermint, Ginger, and Triphala.
Peppermint soothes the digestive tract and reduces inflammation, while Ginger helps to calm nausea and ease stomach cramps. Triphala, a combination of three herbs (Amalaki, Bibhitaki, and Haritaki), works to balance the gut microbiome and promote regular bowel movements.
This combination can be taken in equal parts, 10-20 drops, 2-3 times a day, under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
What ailments similar to diarrhea are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to diarrhea/tinctures.html">diarrhea/tinctures.html">diarrhea that are treated with herbal tinctures are various forms of digestive disorders, including constipation, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Herbal tinctures, such as those containing peppermint, chamomile, and licorice root, can help soothe and calm the digestive system, reducing symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, and inflammation.