How to Use Bilberry to Treat Diarrhea
Because it can decrease inflammation in the intestines, bilberry is often used to treat the symptoms of diarrhea. By eating fresh bilberries or by drinking a hot cup of bilberry tea, you may be able to treat your diarrhea.
Instructions
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Use dried bilberry, as opposed to fresh bilberry, to treat your diarrhea. Fresh bilberries may actually cause a laxative effect, and make your condition worse. Boil the dried berries in distilled water for 10 minutes, and then strain the berries and eat them.
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Drink bilberry tea, which can be made from the leaves, berries and blossoms of the bilberry plant, for a soothing way to treat your diarrhea. Bilberry tea may also be used as a general tonic for all digestive tract concerns, such as indigestion, stomachaches and heartburn. Use distilled water to make the tea and reduce the impurities that could worsen your condition.
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Try bilberry extract, which may contain the most concentrated amount of anthocyanidins available. Anthocyanidins are flavonoids that increase blood circulation, thereby reducing the intestinal swelling that may be causing the diarrhea. Take a few drops of bilberry extract in a glass of distilled water 2 to 3 times per day until your symptoms disappear.
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Drink plenty of distilled water with the bilberry, since diarrhea can cause dehydration quickly. Drink at least 8 to 10 8-oz. glasses of water while you are suffering from diarrhea.
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Contact your doctor immediately if the diarrhea persists for more than 3 days. Diarrhea may be a symptom of a serious medical condition. Be sure to let the doctor know you have been taking bilberry to treat your diarrhea, since this may affect how he chooses to treat you.
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Tips & Warnings
Bilberry may actually aggravate symptoms of diarrhea when taken in combination with certain prescription medications.
If you are diabetic, bilberry can lower your blood sugar if you take certain medications for your condition. Check with your doctor about the use of bilberry in conjunction with any drugs you may be taking.
Avoid taking bilberry with other types of herbal remedies such as garlic, fenugreek, ginger and ginseng, which can lower blood sugar to dangerous levels. You should avoid taking bilberry with aspirin, which can cause your blood to thin.
