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The Best Natural Remedies for Norovirus You Need to Know

Norovirus [¹] is an RNA virus from the Caliciviridae family, commonly known as a major cause of gastroenteritis (stomach flu), and outbreaks are frequent.  

It’s a highly contagious [²] virus often spread through food and water, with deli sandwiches, prepared meals, and buffet foods being common sources of outbreaks. 

Understanding the Connection of Norovirus
and Stomach Flu

 According to Dr. Himabindu Sreenivasulu, Norovirus is a highly contagious virus   that causes gastroenteritis, which is inflammation of the stomach and   intestines. Although anyone can get norovirus, some individuals might be more   prone to  getting sick than others. Young infants, elderly people, and those with   compromised immune systems are at higher risk of contracting norovirus.

Moreover, the stomach flu also referred to as viral gastroenteritis [³], is not the same as the regular flu. It’s caused by viral or parasitic infections that impact the digestive system. While stomach flu symptoms can be severe and draining, natural remedies can help provide relief. For instance, exploring norovirus natural treatment options can be beneficial in managing symptoms and aiding recovery.

Key factors that make norovirus spread easily: 

  • A small amount of the virus (fewer than 100 particles) can cause infection.
  • The virus stays in the body for a long time, spreading even after symptoms end.
  • It can survive in the environment for extended periods.

Common Symptoms of Stomach Flu

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  • Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever.
  • Symptoms can appear up to a day after infection, with a virus being the usual cause.
  • Dehydration signs to watch for: excessive thirst, dark urine, and dizziness.

Causes of Norovirus Infection

Norovirus is highly contagious and spreads through:

  1. Contact with an infected person’s stool or vomit.
  2. Contaminated food and water.
  3. Moreover, those with weakened immune systems (like people with digestive or kidney diseases) are at higher risk for infection.

Foods to Avoid When You Have the Stomach Flu

  • Fatty and fried foods (e.g., French fries, fried chicken)
  • Dairy products (e.g., milk, cheese, ice cream)
  • Spicy foods (e.g., spicy curries, hot sauces)
  • Caffeinated beverages (e.g., coffee, energy drinks, soda)
  • Sugary foods (e.g., candy, sweetened cereals)
  • Acidic foods (e.g., citrus fruits, tomatoes)
  • Alcohol (e.g., beer, wine, spirits)
  • Raw or undercooked foods (e.g., sushi, undercooked meat, eggs)

Natural Remedies for Relief

Although there's no cure for norovirus, norovirus natural treatment options can help ease symptoms and speed up recovery. Additionally, these remedies aim to reduce discomfort and prevent dehydration.

Here are some suggestions:

1. Stay Hydrated

  • Water: Drink plenty of water to keep hydrated.
  • Electrolyte drinks: Oral rehydration solutions (ORS), such as Pedialyte, or homemade solutions with water, salt, and sugar, help replace lost electrolytes.
  • Coconut water: A natural source of electrolytes that helps prevent dehydration.

2. Ginger

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  • Ginger tea: Known for reducing nausea and improving digestion, ginger tea or ginger candies can help settle your stomach.
  • Ginger root: Chewing on a small piece of ginger root is another way to ease nausea.

3. Peppermint

  • Peppermint tea: This can relax stomach muscles and reduce nausea and cramps.
  • Peppermint oil: Inhaling peppermint oil or using it in a diffuser may also provide relief.

4. Chamomile Tea

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Additionally, chamomile has natural anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce stomach cramps and discomfort. It also has a calming effect on the digestive system, making it a beneficial option for norovirus natural treatment.

5. Bananas

Bananas are easy to digest and rich in potassium, which helps replenish lost electrolytes due to vomiting and diarrhea.

6. Bone Broth

Additionally, bone broth is easy on the stomach and can provide nutrients while aiding hydration. It can also help soothe stomach discomfort and restore electrolyte balance

7. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple-cider vinegar - norovirus natural treatment

Diluted apple cider vinegar may help with digestion and soothe nausea. Mix one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of warm water and sip slowly.

8. Rest

Moreover, getting plenty of rest is crucial for recovery. Allow your body time to heal by staying in bed and avoiding any strenuous activities.

9. BRAT Diet

Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, and Toast are gentle on the stomach and may help firm up stools as your digestive system recovers.

Supplements and Teas for Relief

  • Probiotics: Help restore gut health and alleviate symptoms.
  • Charcoal: Can help detoxify the body and relieve digestive issues.
  • Immunoglobulins: Support a healthy immune system and can prevent future infections.

Conclusion

While no remedy can cure norovirus outright, norovirus natural treatment options like supplements (such as probiotics and activated charcoal) and soothing teas (like ginger, peppermint, and chamomile) can provide relief, support your immune system, and help your digestive system recover more quickly.

Furthermore, always remember to stay hydrated and get plenty of rest. Additionally, these remedies aim to reduce discomfort and prevent dehydration.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. When to Seek Medical Attention?

Seek medical attention if you experience severe dehydration, vomiting, or diarrhea, or if you have a weakened immune system. Medical treatment may be necessary to manage severe symptoms or dehydration, especially in individuals with underlying digestive and kidney diseases

2. What foods get rid of norovirus?

  • Bananas: Easy to digest and rich in potassium, making them a great choice for soothing your digestive system.
  • Rice: Part of the BRAT diet, which is gentle on the stomach and promotes easier digestion.
  • Applesauce: A gentle and easy-to-digest food that can provide relief during illness.
  • Toast: Simple carbohydrates that are easy to digest, making it an ideal food when recovering from norovirus.
  • Bone Broth: Helps hydrate and soothes stomach discomfort, supporting both digestion and overall recovery.

3. Is ginger good for norovirus?

Yes, ginger is effective for norovirus. It helps reduce nausea and improve digestion. Drinking ginger tea or chewing ginger root can calm your stomach.

4. How long can norovirus last?

According to Dr. Rinta M. Babu, the virus typically lasts for about 1-2 days. However, in certain cases, it can last up to 1 week. This variation could be due to the alteration in gut flora. After the period of infection, the virus leaves the body completely. There is no known carrier state for the virus.

5. What tea kills norovirus?

While tea can't kill norovirus, it can help with symptom relief:

  • Ginger tea: Helps with nausea and digestion.
  • Peppermint tea: Can calm stomach cramps and reduce nausea.
  • Chamomile tea: Has anti-inflammatory properties and can soothe digestive discomfort.

6. What fruit is good for norovirus?

Bananas: Easy to digest and provide essential nutrients and electrolytes.
Applesauce: Also part of the BRAT diet, easy on the stomach and helps firm up stools

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