Melena is the term used to described black and/or bloody stools that have a tar-like substance. Healthy stools should range in color from brown to light brown and are the result of the digestive system eliminating bilirubin from the body.1 2 If you pass a black or bloody stool instead of a healthy stool, then it is usually a sign of a problem within the digestive tract. Problems with the digestive tract that cause melena can range from internal or external factors.2
Melena is a symptom of an underlying condition rather than a condition in itself. Melena causes range depending on the underlying condition. Any form of bleeding that takes place in the esophagus, stomach or at the beginning of the small intestine can cause your stool to appear black and tarry.2 Some of the possible melena causes that start in the upper part of digestive tract can include:2
A change in diet can also be a possible melena cause. This can happen due to eating foods that are dark in color like black licorice, blackberries, blueberries or a lot of chocolate. Foods that are black, green or dark blue can produce melena stools.1 Having an increase in iron or lead can also cause melena. Taking medications like pepto bismol can also lead to darkened stools.1
Melena symptoms can be seen in the stool. Some melena symptoms may include:1
Melena symptoms may pass on their own depending on the cause. There are many melena natural treatments that can help improve digestive health and produce regular stools.
Buttermilk is the most effective natural product for Melena (Black Stool) CuresDecoded worldwide community recommends
Buttermilk can help improve stools and stop bleeding. Drink 1 glass of buttermilk daily until stools return to normal.
Sesame seeds can help treat black stool and stop bleeding. Eat ½ teaspoon of sesame seeds in water of buttermilk daily until stools return to normal.
Spinach is a remedy for helping improve digestion and preventing melena. Eat 1 cup of clean, organic spinach daily until stools return to normal.
Pantothenic acid is also known as vitamin B5, which can help regulate blood flow and prevent bloody or black stools. Pantothenic acid is available as a supplement to take daily. Follow the dosage instructions on the product label.
Flaxseed can help regulate digestion and stop melena. Take 2 tablespoons of flaxseed mixed into cereal or yogurt daily.