Causes of Loose Motion and Its Home Remedies

What is Loose Motion?

Loose motion refers to frequent, watery bowel movements that can occur due to a wide range of causes. While they are usually harmless and self-limiting, they can sometimes indicate an underlying issue that requires medical attention. Loose motions are most commonly seen after meals, though they can happen at any time of the day. When these episodes occur multiple times in a short duration, it is referred to as diarrhoea. A loose stool is typically softer and more liquid than normal stools and may occur occasionally without being a cause for concern.

Although most cases are mild and resolve on their own, persistent or severe loose motion may require evaluation and treatment.

Causes of loose motion

1. It Depends on Eating Habits

Diet plays a major role in digestive health. Consuming excessive amounts of caffeine and alcohol can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, leading to loose stools. Similarly, certain types of sugars, such as lactose and sugar alcohols (found in sugar-free products), are poorly absorbed by some individuals. This malabsorption can lead to bloating, cramping, and diarrhoea. People who are lactose intolerant often experience loose motion after consuming milk or dairy products, as their body lacks the enzyme needed to digest lactose.

2. Infections or Food Poisoning

Infections or food poisoning are one of the most common causes of loose motion. Bacteria, parasites, or viruses can cause inflammation in the intestines and stomach, which can result in diarrhoea.

3. Crohn’s Disease is One of the Causes of Loose Motion

Crohn’s disease is a chronic disorder in which the digestive system’s lining becomes inflamed. It might cause diarrhoea and sluggish bowel movements.

4. Celiac Disease is One of the Causes of Loose Motion

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder in which the ingestion of gluten (a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye) causes inflammation and damage to the small intestine. This damage impairs nutrient absorption and often leads to symptoms like diarrhoea, weight loss, and bloating. People with celiac disease must strictly avoid gluten to manage their symptoms.

5. Malabsorption of Bile Acids

Bile acids are essential for fat digestion, and any disruption in their absorption can lead to diarrhoea. Conditions such as gallstones or liver cirrhosis can impair bile function. In bile acid malabsorption, excess bile acids enter the colon, stimulating water secretion and resulting in loose stools. This condition may require medical treatment with bile acid-binding agents.

6. Thyroid Hyperactivity (Hyperthyroidism):

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces an excess of thyroid hormones. This can speed up metabolism and gastrointestinal motility, often leading to frequent or loose bowel movements. Other symptoms may include weight loss, increased heart rate, anxiety, and heat intolerance.

7. Chronic Pancreatitis:

Chronic pancreatitis is the long-term inflammation of the pancreas, which impairs the production of digestive enzymes necessary for breaking down fats, carbohydrates, and proteins. As a result, undigested food passes quickly through the intestines, causing oily, foul-smelling diarrhoea known as steatorrhoea. This condition requires medical evaluation and often enzyme replacement therapy.

8. Cystic Fibrosis:

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that affects the lungs and digestive system. Thick, sticky mucus builds up in the pancreas and blocks the release of digestive enzymes. This leads to poor nutrient absorption and frequent loose stools. While it is more common in children, cystic fibrosis-related diarrhoea may continue into adulthood if untreated.

9. Dumping Syndrome (Rapid Gastric Emptying):

Dumping syndrome occurs when food moves too quickly from the stomach to the small intestine, often as a result of gastric surgery. This rapid emptying can overwhelm the digestive process and cause symptoms such as nausea, cramping, and diarrhoea. It is most commonly seen after bariatric (weight-loss) procedures or stomach surgery.

Home remedies for loose motion

In most mild cases, loose motion resolves on its own and doesn’t require medical intervention. However, prolonged diarrhoea can lead to dehydration and nutrient loss. To manage symptoms and support recovery, several home remedies can be effective:

• Eat high-fibre foods
• Anti-diarrhoea medicine prescribed by  your doctor.
• Drink plenty of water and electrolytes 
• Take probiotics

Most loose motions caused by dietary habits or mild infections improve with these simple steps. However, if diarrhoea persists for more than a week, or if it is accompanied by blood in stools, fever, or severe abdominal pain, medical evaluation is necessary. Infections may sometimes require antibiotics, and chronic conditions like pancreatitis may need hospital care.

Some illnesses, such as Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, cystic fibrosis, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), have no definitive cure but can be managed with a combination of medication and lifestyle modifications.

Some home remedies for loose stools include:

1. Cumin seeds (Jeera): 

Cumin seeds boiled in water create a soothing drink that can help ease mild diarrhoea and reduce flatulence. This remedy is safe for adults and children over six months of age. The mixture should be cooled before consumption.

2. Turmeric: 

Turmeric is an anti-inflammatory spice that contains the chemical curcumin, which aids in bowel movement control. To treat gastrointestinal pain and diarrhoea, mix turmeric powder with warm water and drink.

3. Seeds of fennel (Saunf):

Fennel seeds have carminative properties that help reduce gas and bloating. Boiling fennel seeds in water and drinking the cooled broth can help soothe the digestive tract. It is considered safe for children above six months, though a paediatrician should be consulted before giving herbal remedies to infants.

4. Honey:

Honey is known for its antimicrobial and soothing effects. It may help firm up stools and improve hydration. A tablespoon of honey can be taken on its own or added to herbal teas like ginger or fennel tea. However, honey should not be given to children under one year due to the risk of infant botulism.

5. Curd/yoghurt: 

Curd is an excellent cure for loose motion because it contains probiotics, which are essential for the normal functioning of the gut and intestines. You can eat it plain or mix it with honey.

6. Ginger: 

Ginger is well-known for its ability to relieve stomach and abdominal discomfort. It’s one of the most incredible foods to eat if you’re having trouble with your bowel movements. To gain health advantages, drink ginger water or ginger tea.

7. Mint leaves:

Mint has antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. It also helps in calming the digestive tract and improving bile flow. To use mint as a remedy, soak fresh leaves in water for an hour, strain, and consume the water. It may help reduce the frequency of loose motions and promote better digestion.

If you do not experience relief with these home remedies, it is important to consult a doctor to identify and treat the underlying cause. Early medical intervention can prevent complications and ensure a quicker recovery.

References

• De, B., Leke Wangchu, Debnath, S., & Chakraborty, H. (2025). Gastric Ailments and It’s Mystery to Get Relief. ResearchGate, 20(02). https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Hridoy-Chakraborty/publication/392696651_Gastric_Ailments_and_It
• Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition. (2024). Wiley Online Library. https://doi.org/10.1002/(ISSN)1536-4801
• Bagchi, D., & Ohia, S. E. (2021). Nutrition and functional foods in boosting digestion, metabolism and immune health. Academic Press.
• Kori, M., Sahoo, H., Sahoo, S., Sarangi, S., & Sagar, R. (2014). Anti-diarrhoeal investigation from aqueous extract of Cuminum cyminum Linn. Seed in Albino rats. Pharmacognosy Research, 6(3), 204. https://doi.org/10.4103/0974-8490.132596
• Andayani, R. P., Nurhaeni, N., & Agustini, N. (2019). The Effect of Honey with ORS and a Honey Solution in ORS on Reducing the Frequency of Diarrhea and Length of Stay for Toddlers. Comprehensive Child and Adolescent Nursing, 42(sup1), 21–28. https://doi.org/10.1080/24694193.2019.1577922