Home remedies for stomach infection: ORS, rice kanji, curd and plenty of rest
A stomach infection brings loose motions, vomiting, cramps and sometimes fever. Most mild cases settle in a few days with good home care. These home remedies for stomach infection focus on what matters most: replacing fluids with ORS and rice kanji, eating light foods like curd rice and banana, and resting.
Important: this remedy is only a supportive home measure. Keep taking any medicine your doctor has prescribed, monitor your readings, and consult your doctor before adding anything new.
About stomach infections
Gastroenteritis is usually caused by viruses or bacteria spread through contaminated food, water or hands. It is more common in summer and the monsoon. The biggest danger is dehydration, which can come on quickly in children and older adults.
Rice kanji (the starchy water from cooking rice), thin buttermilk and curd rice are traditional Indian foods for an upset stomach.
Ingredients
- ORS sachets
- Half a cup of rice and 4 cups of water for kanji
- Curd, banana, khichdi
How to prepare
- Mix ORS exactly as directed on the packet.
- Boil rice in plenty of water until very soft; strain the starchy water, add a pinch of salt and cool to warm.
How to use
- Sip ORS after every loose motion or vomit — about half to one glass for adults.
- Have rice kanji, thin buttermilk or coconut water through the day.
- Eat small meals of curd rice, khichdi and banana as appetite returns.
Helpful habits
- Wash hands with soap after using the toilet and before eating or cooking.
- Drink boiled or purified water.
- Rest at home until you feel better, and avoid cooking for others while unwell.
Precautions
- Avoid anti-diarrhoea medicines unless a doctor advises them, especially with fever or blood in stools.
- See a doctor urgently for blood in stools, high fever, severe pain, confusion, very little urine, or inability to keep fluids down.
- Children, older adults, pregnant women and people with chronic illness should seek medical advice early.
Frequently asked questions
How can I cure a stomach infection at home?
- Most mild stomach infections settle on their own. Home care focuses on ORS, light food and rest. See a doctor if symptoms are severe or don't improve in 2 days.
What to eat during a stomach infection?
- Rice kanji, khichdi, curd rice, banana, boiled potato and toast are gentle choices. Avoid oily, spicy and street food.
How long does a stomach infection last?
- Usually 1–3 days, sometimes up to a week. Longer or worsening symptoms need a doctor.
