10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Gastroenteritis

Herbal decoctions for gastroenteritis are concentrated liquid extracts made from a combination of herbs, which have been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms associated with digestive disorders such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps.

These herbal decoctions help to soothe the digestive tract, reduce inflammation, and promote healing by modulating gut bacteria, reducing spasms, and increasing fluid absorption.

Examples of herbal decoctions that show promise in managing gastroenteritis include peppermint, chamomile, ginger, and turmeric blends, which have been shown to improve symptoms and quality of life for individuals suffering from this condition.

The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for gastroenteritis, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Ginkgo biloba

Maidenhair tree decoctions helps with gastroenteritis because they possess potent anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the digestive tract and alleviate symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and vomiting.

The decoction's flavonoids and saponins have been shown to reduce inflammation in the gut, promoting healing and regeneration of the intestinal lining.

Additionally, maidenhair tree has natural antimicrobial properties that help combat bacterial and viral infections, further contributing to its effectiveness in treating gastroenteritis.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba decoctions that help with gastroenteritis.

• Flavonoids: These compounds help alleviate gastroenteritis by reducing inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract and improving blood flow, which can help to heal and protect the gut lining.
• Bilobalide: A sesquiterpene trilactone, bilobalide has antioxidant properties that help to protect the gut from oxidative stress, inflammation, and damage caused by gastroenteritis.
• Quercetin: A type of flavonoid, quercetin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help to soothe and calm the gastrointestinal tract, reducing symptoms of gastroenteritis such as diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make decoctions for gastroenteritis.

• Leaves: The leaves of Ginkgo biloba are the most commonly used part for decoctions due to their high concentration of flavonoids and terpenoids, which are believed to aid in the treatment of gastroenteritis.
• Barks: The barks of Ginkgo biloba are also used for decoctions as they contain a compound called bilobalide, which may help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with gastroenteritis.
• Seeds: Ginkgo biloba seeds are another part used for decoctions, containing compounds that may aid in soothing the digestive tract and reducing inflammation, thus helping to alleviate symptoms of gastroenteritis.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for gastroenteritis.

1. Gather 250-500mg of dried ginkgo biloba leaves and 1 quart of water for decoction.
2. Rinse the ginkgo biloba leaves in a fine mesh strainer under cold running water for 30 seconds.
3. Combine the rinsed ginkgo biloba leaves with water in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer the mixture for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
5. Strain the decoction through a fine mesh strainer into a cup or tea infuser to remove the leaves.

2. Peumus boldus

Chilean boldo decoctions helps with gastroenteritis because of its unique ability to soothe the digestive system.

The decoction's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce inflammation in the gut, which alleviates symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, and nausea. Additionally, the decoction's antimicrobial properties help eliminate the underlying infection, promoting a speedy recovery.

By regulating bowel movements and reducing discomfort, Chilean boldo decoctions provide natural relief from the debilitating effects of gastroenteritis, allowing the body to recover more efficiently.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Peumus boldus decoctions that help with gastroenteritis.

• Boldine: Acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, helping to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the gut, which can contribute to gastroenteritis symptoms.
• Flavonoids: Exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, helping to combat bacterial and viral infections that can cause gastroenteritis, as well as reducing inflammation and promoting healing in the gut.
• Alkaloids: Display antimicrobial activity, helping to eliminate pathogens that can cause gastroenteritis, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi, and also exhibit anti-inflammatory properties to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the gut.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of chilean boldo used to make decoctions for gastroenteritis.

• Leaves: They are rich in boldine, a compound that has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help alleviate gastroenteritis symptoms.
• Roots: The roots contain boldine and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which aid in treating gastroenteritis.
• Stems: The stems of Peumus boldus also contain boldine, which helps to soothe and calm the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with gastroenteritis.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chilean boldo for gastroenteritis.

1. Harvest 2-3 cups of fresh or dried peumus boldus leaves and stems from the wild or cultivated sources.
2. Rinse the harvested material with cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Combine the rinsed peumus boldus with 4 cups of water in a large saucepan.
4. Boil the mixture for 10-15 minutes or simmer for 30 minutes to extract the active compounds.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl or container.

3. Zingiber officinale

Ginger decoctions helps with gastroenteritis because they possess anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and discomfort.

The decoctions' natural antibacterial and antiviral compounds also help combat the underlying infection, alleviating symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Additionally, ginger's carminative properties aid in relieving gas and bloating, allowing the body to recover more efficiently from the illness.

This holistic approach can provide relief and promote a faster recovery.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale decoctions that help with gastroenteritis.

• Gingerols: Gingerols have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and nausea associated with gastroenteritis.
• Shogaols: Shogaols have antimicrobial properties that help combat the underlying bacterial or viral infections causing gastroenteritis.
• Zingerone: Zingerone has a calming effect on the digestive system, reducing spasms and cramps that often accompany gastroenteritis.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make decoctions for gastroenteritis.

• Rhyzomes: The part of Zingiber officinale commonly used for decoctions is its rhyzomes, as they contain the highest concentration of active compounds, particularly gingerols and shogaols, which have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties beneficial for treating gastroenteritis.
• Roots: The roots of Zingiber officinale are also used for decoctions, as they contain a significant amount of gingerols and other bioactive compounds that help alleviate nausea, vomiting, and stomach discomfort associated with gastroenteritis.
• Leaves: The leaves of Zingiber officinale are used in decoctions, particularly in traditional medicine, as they contain some of the plant's bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects in treating gastroenteritis.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for gastroenteritis.

1. Wash 3-4 inches of fresh zingiber officinale root under running water for 1-2 minutes.
2. Chop the washed root into small pieces and soak them in 2 cups of water for 30 minutes.
3. Bring the soaked root mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container discarding the solids.
5. Store the prepared herbal decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer use.

4. Althaea officinalis

Marshmallow decoctions helps with gastroenteritis because of its soothing properties that calm inflammation in the gut, reducing discomfort and pain.

The saponins present in marshmallow root work to protect and heal the mucous membranes lining the digestive tract, providing a protective barrier against further irritation.

Additionally, the anti-inflammatory compounds help to reduce diarrhea and vomiting, promoting a gentle and balanced elimination of toxins from the body, ultimately aiding in the recovery process.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis decoctions that help with gastroenteritis.

• Mucilages: Mucilages help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and promoting healing in cases of gastroenteritis.
• Gallic acid: Gallic acid has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help combat bacterial and viral infections that cause gastroenteritis, and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.
• Isoquercitrin: Isoquercitrin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce inflammation, oxidative stress, and damage to the intestinal lining, promoting recovery from gastroenteritis.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make decoctions for gastroenteritis.

• Roots: The roots of Althaea officinalis are primarily used due to their rich content of mucilage, a thick, protective gel-like substance that soothes irritated stomach and intestines.
• Leaves: The leaves are often employed for their secondary use, but some studies suggest that they contain similar mucilaginous properties as the roots, making them a viable alternative.
• Stems: Although less commonly used than the roots, the stems of Althaea officinalis are also employed in decoctions to utilize their mucilaginous content for treating gastroenteritis.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for gastroenteritis.

1. Harvest 10 to 15 grams of althaea officinalis roots in the early morning.
2. Clean the roots thoroughly with cold running water to remove any dirt.
3. Combine the cleaned roots with 1 liter of water in a saucepan.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce the heat to a simmer for 10 to 15 minutes.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl.

5. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion decoctions helps with gastroenteritis because its anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce inflammation in the gut, alleviating symptoms such as diarrhea and abdominal pain.

The decoction's bitter compounds also stimulate digestive enzymes, promoting healthy digestion and absorption of nutrients.

Additionally, dandelion's prebiotic fibers help to restore the balance of good bacteria in the gut, further supporting the body's natural healing processes and reducing the duration of symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale decoctions that help with gastroenteritis.

• Inulin: Inulin helps with gastroenteritis by promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, which aids in digestion and alleviates diarrhea symptoms.
• Taraxasterol: Taraxasterol has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the gut, which can alleviate symptoms of gastroenteritis, such as abdominal pain and inflammation.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help combat bacterial and viral infections that cause gastroenteritis, while also reducing inflammation and promoting healing in the gut.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make decoctions for gastroenteritis.

• Leaves: The leaves of Taraxacum officinale are used because they contain flavonoids and sesquiterpene lactones with anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help alleviate gastroenteritis symptoms.
• Roots: The roots of Taraxacum officinale are used because they contain inulin, a prebiotic that helps promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and alleviate gastroenteritis symptoms.
• Flowers: The flowers of Taraxacum officinale are used because they contain flavonoids and sesquiterpene lactones with anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help alleviate gastroenteritis symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for gastroenteritis.

1. Gather 10-20 fresh or dried taraxacum officinale root and leaf material for decoction preparation.
2. Crush the taraxacum officinale material using a mortar and pestle to release active compounds.
3. Combine 1-2 teaspoons of crushed taraxacum officinale with 1 quart of boiling water in a saucepan.
4. Simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes to extract the bioactive compounds from the taraxacum officinale material.
5. Strain the decoction and discard the solids to obtain the final herbal remedy solution.

6. Calendula officinalis

Pot marigold decoctions helps with gastroenteritis because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The decoction's flavonoids and phenolic acids help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, alleviating symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and nausea. Additionally, pot marigold's antibacterial properties can target the underlying cause of the infection, promoting a faster recovery.

By soothing the gut lining and reducing oxidative stress, pot marigold decoctions provide natural relief from gastroenteritis, supporting the body's natural healing process.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis decoctions that help with gastroenteritis.

• Carotenoids: These pigments, particularly beta-carotene, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation and protect the epithelial lining of the gastrointestinal tract, alleviating symptoms of gastroenteritis.
• Flavonoids: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities, which can help combat infections and reduce inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, making them beneficial in treating gastroenteritis.
• Triterpenoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory effects, which can aid in reducing inflammation, fighting off infections, and stabilizing the gut barrier, all of which are essential in treating and preventing gastroenteritis.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make decoctions for gastroenteritis.

• Flowers: The flowers of Calendula officinalis are the most commonly used part for decoctions due to their high content of flavonoids and carotenoids, which provide anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties beneficial for gastroenteritis.
• Leaves: The leaves of Calendula officinalis are used due to their ability to soothe and calm the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and promoting healing of the mucous membranes.
• Roots: The roots of Calendula officinalis are used because they contain a higher concentration of saponins, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects, helping to alleviate symptoms of gastroenteritis.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for gastroenteritis.

1. Collect 20-30 fresh calendula officinalis flowers or 10-15 dried flowers for decoction.
2. Rinse the flowers with filtered water to remove any impurities from the plant.
3. Combine the flowers with 2 cups of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to a simmer and let the mixture steep for 20-30 minutes.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

7. Cinnamomum verum

Ceylon cinnamon decoctions helps with gastroenteritis because of its potent antimicrobial properties that target the underlying cause of the infection.

The decoction's active compounds, such as cinnamaldehyde and cinnamic acid, inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and viruses, reducing inflammation and alleviating symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and nausea. Additionally, Ceylon cinnamon's natural anti-inflammatory properties soothe the digestive tract, promoting healing and restoring normal bowel function.

As a result, it can help alleviate the discomfort and pain associated with gastroenteritis.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cinnamomum verum decoctions that help with gastroenteritis.

• Cinnamaldehyde: This terpene has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce the severity of gastroenteritis by inhibiting the growth of pathogens and alleviating inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.
• Cinnamic acid: This phenolic compound has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to protect the gut lining from oxidative stress and inflammation caused by gastroenteritis, thereby reducing the duration and severity of the condition.
• Cinnamate esters: These esters have anti-diarrheal and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to slow down the movement of food through the digestive system, reduce inflammation, and alleviate symptoms such as diarrhea and abdominal cramps associated with gastroenteritis.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ceylon cinnamon used to make decoctions for gastroenteritis.

• Barks: Cinnamomum verum barks are used due to their antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe the digestive system.
• Leaves: Cinnamomum verum leaves are used because of their carminative properties, which help relieve gas and alleviate symptoms of gastroenteritis.
• Rhyzomes: Cinnamomum verum rhyzomes are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce inflammation and protect the digestive system from further damage.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ceylon cinnamon for gastroenteritis.

1. Gather 2 teaspoons of dried cinnamomum verum bark and 1 quart of water for the decoction.
2. Crush the dried cinnamomum verum bark into smaller pieces to enhance its potency and release its active compounds.
3. Combine the crushed cinnamomum verum bark with the water in a saucepan and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the decoction steep for 15 to 20 minutes.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove the solids.

8. Foeniculum vulgare

Fennel decoctions helps with gastroenteritis because of its natural properties that soothe the digestive system.

The decoction's mucilages help to calm irritated gut lining, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with diarrhea, cramping, and nausea. Additionally, fennel's carminative effects promote gas relief, easing bloating and flatulence often experienced during gastroenteritis.

Its antimicrobial properties may also aid in combating the underlying infection, promoting faster recovery and alleviating symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare decoctions that help with gastroenteritis.

• Furanocoumarins: These compounds exhibit antispasmodic and carminative properties, which help in relieving abdominal cramps and discomfort associated with gastroenteritis.
• Terpenoids: Terpenoids present in Foeniculum vulgare decoctions possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, helping to reduce inflammation and combat bacterial infections in the gastrointestinal tract.
• Phenolic compounds: Phenolic compounds in Foeniculum vulgare decoctions have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help in protecting the gastrointestinal mucosa from oxidative stress and inflammation caused by gastroenteritis.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make decoctions for gastroenteritis.

• Leaves: Foeniculum vulgare leaves are commonly used in decoctions for gastroenteritis due to their antispasmodic and carminative properties.
• Seeds: Foeniculum vulgare seeds are used in decoctions for gastroenteritis because they contain a compound called anethole, which has anti-inflammatory and soothing effects on the digestive system.
• Roots: Foeniculum vulgare roots are employed in decoctions for gastroenteritis due to their ability to relax the smooth muscles in the digestive tract and alleviate symptoms of nausea and vomiting.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for gastroenteritis.

1. Harvest a handful of fresh foeniculum vulgare leaves and stems or 1 teaspoon of dried herb for decoction.
2. Combine the herb with 250 milliliters of boiling water in a saucepan.
3. Reduce heat to a simmer and let the mixture infuse for 5 to 10 minutes.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a cup.
5. Discard the solids and serve the decoction warm or at room temperature.

9. Sambucus nigra

Elder decoctions helps with gastroenteritis because they possess anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that soothe the digestive tract.

The mucilages present in elderberry help to reduce inflammation and irritation, alleviating symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, and nausea. Additionally, the antimicrobial compounds in elderberry work to combat the underlying infection, promoting a swift recovery from gastroenteritis.

By reducing inflammation and combating the infection, elder decoctions provide natural relief for those suffering from this common and often uncomfortable condition.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra decoctions that help with gastroenteritis.

• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly quercetin and kaempferol, exhibit anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with gastroenteritis.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, including ferulic and caffeic acids, possess antimicrobial properties that help combat bacterial and viral infections causing gastroenteritis, while also reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.
• Anthocyanins: Anthocyanins, a type of powerful antioxidant found in Sambucus nigra, help mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation in the gut, thereby promoting a faster recovery from gastroenteritis.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make decoctions for gastroenteritis.

• Flowers: The flowers of Sambucus nigra are used to make decoctions for gastroenteritis due to their astringent and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Stems: The stems of Sambucus nigra are used to make decoctions for gastroenteritis as they contain flavonoids and other compounds that help to soothe the digestive system.
• Fruits: The fruits of Sambucus nigra are used to make decoctions for gastroenteritis due to their high content of anthocyanins, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for gastroenteritis.

1. Harvest a handful of fresh sambucus nigra flowers and leaves in the morning.
2. Clean the harvested sambucus nigra flowers and leaves by gently rinsing with water.
3. Combine 20 grams of the cleaned sambucus nigra flowers and leaves with 500 milliliters of boiling water.
4. Steep the mixture for 5 to 10 minutes or until the liquid has cooled down.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

10. Plantago major

Plantain decoctions helps with gastroenteritis because its anti-inflammatory properties soothe irritated mucous membranes in the gut, reducing inflammation and discomfort.

The decoction's antimicrobial effects also help combat the underlying infection, promoting a swift recovery from diarrhea, cramping, and stomach pain.

Additionally, plantain's demulcent qualities form a protective barrier on the gut lining, shielding it from further irritation and allowing the body to heal naturally.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Plantago major decoctions that help with gastroenteritis.

• Apolysaccharides: These complex carbohydrates help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the gastrointestinal tract, reducing inflammation and promoting healing during gastroenteritis.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Plantago major decoctions have anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach cramps associated with gastroenteritis.
• Saponins: Saponins in Plantago major decoctions exhibit antimicrobial activity, helping to combat bacterial and viral infections that cause gastroenteritis, and also have a protective effect on the gut lining.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of plantain used to make decoctions for gastroenteritis.

• Leaves: They are used due to their high mucilage content, which helps to soothe and protect the digestive tract.
• Roots: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of gastroenteritis.
• Seeds: They are used due to their astringent properties, which help to reduce diarrhea and alleviate symptoms of gastroenteritis.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic plantain for gastroenteritis.

1. Gather 30-60 grams of dried plantago major leaves and flowers to make a decoction.
2. Crush the dried plant material into smaller pieces to increase its surface area.
3. Combine the crushed plantago major with 1 liter of water in a saucepan.
4. Bring the plant and water mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer.
5. Allow the decoction to steep for 10-30 minutes before straining and serving.

What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for gastroenteritis?

The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with gastroenteritis is a blend of ginger, peppermint, and licorice root.

Ginger's anti-inflammatory properties help soothe the digestive tract, while peppermint oil calms nausea and reduces inflammation. Licorice root, rich in glycyrrhizin, aids in repairing the gut lining and reducing symptoms of diarrhea and vomiting.

This combination can be prepared by steeping equal parts of dried ginger and peppermint roots, along with a smaller amount of licorice root, in boiling water and straining after 5-7 minutes.

What ailments similar to gastroenteritis are treated with herbal decoctions?

Ailments similar to gastroenteritis/decoctions.html">gastroenteritis/decoctions.html">gastroenteritis that are treated with herbal decoctions are irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, and chronic diarrhea.

Herbal decoctions made from plants such as turmeric, ginger, peppermint, and slippery elm have been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of these conditions, including abdominal pain, bloating, and inflammation.

These natural remedies may also help reduce symptoms of nausea, vomiting, and fever associated with gastroenteritis.