Bali Belly: Natural Remedies That Actually Work

I'm not a medical professional, but after years of living in Bali with my family and helping countless clients relocate here, I've learned what works when it comes to managing Bali Belly. These are the remedies that have helped me, my kids, and the families I work with – and I often gift them to new arrivals because they're that important. Trust me, these should always be in your medicine cabinet or travel bag, whether you're visiting or living in Bali or Indonesia.

What Is Bali Belly?

Bali Belly is simply traveller's diarrhoea – a digestive upset caused by consuming contaminated food or water. It's incredibly common here, affecting up to 60% of visitors at some point. Symptoms typically include diarrhoea, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes a mild fever. Most cases clear up within a few days, but knowing how to treat it can make all the difference between spending your holiday in bed or getting back out to enjoy the island.

My Go-To Remedies (What I Always Recommend)

These are the tablets and remedies I swear by and recommend to every client:

1. Wang Ling Shu Pian (黄连素片) This is my first line of defence. Take 1-2 tablets as directed on the box – the instructions are on the side.

Active ingredients: Berberine hydrochloride (from Coptis root/Huang Lian), which has natural antibacterial and anti-diarrhoeal properties.

2.  Po Chai Pills (保济丸) You can take Po Chai at the same time as Wang Ling Shu Pian. Take one vial every 2 hours, or half a vial if you prefer a gentler approach. This traditional Chinese remedy is brilliant for digestive upset.

Active ingredients: A blend of herbs including patchouli, chrysanthemum, tangerine peel, Job's tears, and kudzu root – all known for soothing stomach distress.

3. Norit (Activated Charcoal) Available at any pharmacy, Norit is activated charcoal that helps with diarrhoea by absorbing toxins in your gut. Follow the package directions.

4. Coconut Water – Lots of It Hydration is absolutely critical. Coconut water is nature's perfect rehydration drink, packed with electrolytes. Drink plenty throughout the day.

Where to Get These Remedies

You can find Wang Ling Shu Pian and Po Chai Pills at:

• Bali Buda (multiple locations across Bali)

• Bali Direct

Both deliver via Gojek, so you can have them at your door within the hour if needed.

A Word of Caution: IV Drips

Many people turn to IV vitamin drips when they're sick with Bali Belly, but I urge caution – especially with children. These drips can overwhelm your system with vitamins, and I learned this the hard way when my daughter had a frightening reaction. Her system simply couldn't handle the sudden influx. If you're considering an IV drip, please consult with a doctor first and ensure it's truly necessary.

Prevention Tips

Let's be honest – it's incredibly difficult to prevent Bali Belly completely. You're not in control of how your food was prepared, how it was stored, or what's been crawling around the kitchen. That's just the reality of travelling or living in a tropical developing country.

While I always keep these remedies on hand (because let's face it, Bali Belly happens), here are a few practical things you can do to reduce your risk:

1. Drink bottled or filtered water only. This is non-negotiable. Tap water in Bali isn't safe to drink, and that includes ice cubes in your drinks.

2. Wash your hands frequently. Before eating, after using the toilet, and throughout the day. It's simple but effective.

3. Don't let your kids play in the water run-offs. Those small rivers that flow across the beach might look fun, but they're often contaminated. My kids learned this the hard way.
   

That's it. Don't drive yourself mad trying to avoid every possible risk. You'll miss out on amazing local food and experiences. Just be sensible, keep these remedies in your bag, and enjoy Bali.

When to See a Doctor

Most cases of Bali Belly resolve within 2-3 days with these remedies and rest. However, seek medical attention if you experience:

• High fever above 38.5°C (101.3°F)

• Blood in your stool

• Severe dehydration (dizziness, dry mouth, very little urination)

• Symptoms lasting more than 3 days without improvement

Final Thoughts

Bali Belly doesn't have to ruin your holiday or your first weeks in your new home. With the right remedies on hand and a calm approach, you'll be back to enjoying paradise in no time. I keep these products stocked at all times, and I encourage everyone moving to or visiting Bali to do the same.

Safe travels and healthy living in Bali! and beyond. About the Author

Miki operates Navigate Bali, a boutique real estate agency specialising in quality homes and high-end villas across Bali and Indonesia. As a mum living in Bali with children in local schools, she combines professional property expertise with real, lived experience of island family life.

She also runs Positive Impact Global, offering wellness services including yoga, Reiki, and retreats. If you are looking to relocate to Bali or elsewhere in Indonesia, or need trusted help on the ground, Miki will help you navigate everything Bali. Connect with Navigate Bali:

• Instagram: @navigate.bali

• Website: navigatebali.com

• Email: hello@navigatebali.com