Food poisoning is caused primarily by improper and unhygienic handling of food—which can breed and spread harmful bacteria.
Many thousands of cases of supposed flu are actually food poisoning cases demonstrating similar symptoms like abdominal pain and fever.
When you are suffering from food poisoning, your body is likely to lose more water than normal. Hence, consuming a good intake of fluids and avoiding solid food becomes the initial plan of action.
Rather than rushing to your doctor immediately, you can start your treatment at home with some readily ingredients that could be found in your own kitchen.
Here are 8 home remedies for food poisoning:
1. Garlic
It’s antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties provide relief from symptoms such as diarrhoea and abdominal pain. Suck on a fresh garlic clove and follow it up a glass of warm water. Alternatively, you could boil some water along with a few garlic cloves and sip on it through the day.
2. Lemon water
Lemon helps get rid of the bacteria playing havoc in your stomach, thanks to its acidic properties. In order to cleanse your digestive system, add a pinch of sugar to a teaspoon of lemon juice and drink this solution two to three times a day. You could also squeeze the juice of one whole lemon into a glass of warm water and drink it through the day.
3. Apple cider vinegar (ACV)
The acids in apple cider vinegar can help soothe inflammation along the gastrointestinal lining, providing immediate relief. Mix two tablespoons of ACV with a glass of hot water and drink before eating.
4. Basil
This herb is known to provide relief from any abdominal discomfort, including food poisoning. Besides, its anti-microbial properties help get rid of any bacteria or micro-organisms in the tummy. Boil a handful of fresh basil leaves along with two to three cups of water. Once it cools, add some honey and sip on this through the day. You could also add a few fresh basil leaves to a bowl of plain yoghurt for an instant dose of taste.
5. Orange juice
Fresh orange juice is rich in minerals, vitamins and nutrients that help restore your body’s blood pressure levels within the normal range. Blend six to seven medium-sized oranges in a blender and add two tablespoons of corn starch syrup. Drink this juice several times a day for instant relief.
6. Honey
Known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, honey helps to cure indigestion along with the other symptoms of food poisoning. Relish a teaspoon of organic honey thrice a day to control the formation of excess acid, which in turn will help heal your upset stomach.
7. Bananas
On account of diarrhoea and vomiting, you may lose out on potassium. Consuming a ripe banana will help maintain the potassium levels, thereby restoring the lost energy. You can also make a banana shake by blending two bananas with a cup of milk that has been boiled and cooled. Add a pinch of cinnamon to this shake and consume it thrice a day.
8. Yoghurt and fenugreek seeds
The antimicrobial and antibacterial properties in yoghurt help fight the bacteria causing food poisoning. Fenugreek seeds treat abdominal discomfort. Soak a teaspoon of fenugreek seeds until they soften. Consume these seeds followed by a teaspoon of yoghurt. Repeat this at regular intervals throughout the day.
