Natural Remedies for Stomach Virus

Stomach virus, scientifically known as gastroenteritis, is a very common condition that occurs when there is an inflammation in the stomach or the intestines. In most cases, this digestive ailment lasts anywhere between 2 and 6 days. On its own, the stomach virus isn’t serious and does not really require medical treatment. However, this condition is highly contagious, as it can easily spread from one person to the other, especially in case of children.

Yes, you can give your daughter ginger ale when she is suffering from a stomach virus, though the amounts should not exceed 3 to 4 teaspoons in the entire day. This drink contains electrolytes, which is why it is often recommended for many stomach ailments. However, carbonated beverages could further aggravate the digestive system and therefore, it is best to allow the ginger ale to sit for a few hours, until the fizz disappears.

The stomach virus is characterized by symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, lack of appetite, weakness, lethargy and weight loss, which is why it should be checked and treated by a doctor as soon as possible. However, many individuals prefer using home and natural remedies for the stomach virus, instead of taking medication, especially in case of children. Some of the most commonly used natural remedies for a stomach virus in children include:

Chamomile Tea: The soothing properties of this beverage can help calm the digestive tract and ease some of the symptoms. Rooibos tea (red tea) has a similar effect on the body. Give your daughter a few sips of some weak tea.
Peppermint: This is probably one of the most commonly used home remedies for stomach ailments like indigestion, irritable bowel syndrome and the stomach flu. Allow your daughter to chew on some peppermint during the day.
Lemon: Though acidic foods should be avoided when you have an upset stomach, a small amount of freshly squeezed lemon juice can help destroy the problem-causing pathogens. Add a spoon of lemon juice to a glass of water and give it to your daughter at frequent intervals during the day. You could add some honey to make the mixture more palatable
Garlic: The antimicrobial properties present in the remedy help speed up the recovery from a tummy virus. Sprinkle some chopped raw garlic over your daughter’s food or mix the garlic in a spoonful of honey. This remedy is more effective in preventing the stomach virus than it is in treating it though.
Yogurt: The probiotics present in yogurt improve the natural flora balance in the digestive tract. This remedy also has a soothing effect on the stomach.

In addition to the natural cures mentioned above, there are a few self-care steps that should also be followed carefully, such as:

Drinking a high amount of fluids like water, clear soda, or even broth
Following a BRAT (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce & Toast) diet for a few days
Getting ample rest during the day

While the natural remedies and self-care measures mentioned above are quite safe if used correctly, it is best to check with a doctor, before trying any of them.

References

answered by M W

Advice on treating ginger ale -

Yes ginger ale is a good remedy for treating a stomach upset due to a virus or any other infection.
Beware of the dosages .Just 1 tsp of this is enough every 2 hours for just 2 or 3 times if there is acute pain.
With this the diet also should be regulated .The child should not be given too oily food, non vegetarian food should be avoided.

answered by D M K

Can I give my 3 year old ginger ale for a stomach virus?