Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects the intestinal tracts. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), Crohn's can cause intestinal obstructions and abnormalities, ulcers, anal sores and malnutrition. Crohn's cannot be cured, but lifestyle changes and traditional treatments such as medications and surgery can reduce symptoms. The UMMC says herbs should not be used alone to treat Crohn's, but may complement traditional treatments. Herbal supplements should be taken only under the care of a physician.
Slippery Elm
According to the UMMC, slippery elm is a demulcent, a substance that protects irritated tissues and promotes healing. The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center says there is no known toxicity of slippery elm or reported side effects, but it may slow the absorptions of other medications when taken simultaneously.
Marshmallow
The UMMC also identified marshmallow as a demulcent that may help Crohn's disease. Arabs used marshmallow to reduce skin inflammation. When marshmallow is mixed with water it forms a gel that can coat the throat and stomach to reduce irritation. The UMMC says there are no reported side effects of marshmallow, but it may interfere with the absorption of certain medications and should not be taken by diabetics.
Turmeric
The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine reports that turmeric contains curcumin, a compound that may have anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric can be taken as a capsule, tea or extract. Turmeric is also used in Asian and African cooking and can be found in curry, mustard and certain cheeses. The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center warns that turmeric should not be taken by people receiving chemotherapy and those with bile duct obstructions, gallstones, and stomach ulcers.
Additional Herbs
According to a 2006 article in "Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics" about alternative treatments for IBD, English researchers found that Chinese herbs, aloe vera, wheat grass and boswellia may benefit IBD. More research is needed to confirm their role and efficacy in treatment. The UMMC reports that boswellia and cat's claw appear to have anti-inflammatory properties.
References
- "Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics"; Complementary and Alternative Therapies for Inflammatory Bowel Disease; L. Langmead, D.S. Rampton; February 2006
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: About Herbs
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Turmeric
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Crohn's Disease
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Marshmallow
