Seeking A Natural Stomach Flu Remedy? Try These Herbs

Herbs make excellent remedies for stomach “flu.”

Wide varieties of common, easy to obtain herbs relieve nausea, ease cramps, and provide soothing relief. Many of them are commonly found in home gardens and in herb and spice racks.

Herbs to Settle the Stomach

Fennel is a delicious vegetable and herb plant. Any part of the plant may be used to calm a nauseous stomach; however, the seeds are considered the most active medicinal parts of the plant. I grow fennel, so I often just nibble on a few leaves if my stomach is upset. It is easy to grow in a large pot.

Fennel relieves painful spasms which are often a distressing aspect of stomach flu. It also helps to relieve gas. For adult use, simply make a fennel tea. Since fennel is a gentle herb with a flavor similar to anise, it is an excellent herb for all ages.

While a baby with stomach flu should be taken to a health care provider as vomiting and diarrhea can be serious in the young children, the herb is safe for babies. It is a great remedy for colic in addition to relieving the distress of stomach flu. Children may prefer a frozen pop made of the tea. The tea may even be added to bathwater, before placing a baby in the tub if an infant is ill with stomach flu or colic. Infant’s skin is so delicate that it absorbs the healing qualities from the bathwater.

Another great herb to treat adults or children with stomach flu is dill. Use it just like fennel. If a baby is ill and will not consume the herbs, a nursing mother can drink a tea made of dill or fennel and nurse the baby. The healing power of the herbs will be contained in the milk.

Ginger may be eaten fresh or made into a tea of dried or fresh ginger. It is an excellent herb to combine with the other herbs used to treat stomach flu as it is a warming herb and reduces discomfort and cramping. Ginger is one of the best herbs to relieve nausea.

The Runs

Stomach flu usually affects the upper and lower gastrointestinal tract. An herb which relieves cramps and settles the stomach is catnip. It is a member of the mint family. Spearmint and peppermint work well and taste better than catnip, however catnip is better than other mints for a couple of reasons. It excels when used to treat diarrhea in children. It also relieves fevers which are sometimes present when stomach flu strikes. Catnip is safe for all ages. It may be prepared just like fennel or dill. It does not taste good. I like to combine it with a little lemon balm.

Black or green tea is a time tested remedy for stomach flu. The tannins, especially in black tea, help to stop diarrhea.

Blackberry leaf or root is effective treatment for loose stools. Raspberry leaf may be used as well.

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