Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease characterized by bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping, unintended weight loss and fever. People with ulcerative colitis may also experience fissures, hemorrhoids or fistulas. Anti-inflammatory herbs may be helpful for ulcerative colitis when they are part of a personalized and well-rounded treatment plan. Before taking herbs, consult a health-care provider for proper diagnosis and advice on herbal combinations, forms, dosage and safety.
Quercetin
Quercetin is a plant flavonoid with notable anti-inflammatory effects. According to Drs. Alex Vasquez and Michael Murray, naturopathic physicians and contributors to the "Textbook of Natural Medicine," quercetin can be particularly useful for inflammatory bowel disease. Quercetin works by interacting with various enzyme systems in the body. It is particularly active with the immune system, where it regulates numerous inflammatory processes. Quercetin is also an antioxidant -- a substance that neutralizes damage-causing free radicals. Quercetin is found in fruits and vegetables, especially apples, citrus fruits, grapes, berries, onions and parsley. Herbs that contain quercetin include bilberry, ginkgo and green tea. Quercetin is also available as an encapsulated supplement.
Marshmallow
Marshmallow, also known by its Latin name Althea officinalis, is a Malvaceae family herb. The marshmallow plant is completely different than the puffed white candy used in hot chocolate, smores and baked goods. Marshmallow grows in parts of Europe, Asia and North America. The leaves and stem are soft and velvety, and the flowers are reddish-white. The root is used to make medicine, and it has a slightly sweet taste. Marshmallow has a long history of medical use for inflammatory conditions. It's helpful for inflammation of the respiratory tract, urinary tract and gastrointestinal tract -- the latter of which applies to ulcerative colitis. Marshmallow root contains polysaccharides, mucilage, starch, pectin, saccharose, flavonoids, phenolic acids and coumarins. The mucilage forms a slick gel that coats mucous membranes are reduces irritation. Marshmallow may be prepared as a decoction, liquid extract, tincture or capsule.
Geranium
Geranium maculatum is an astringent and drying herb. The root and aerial parts are used medicinally to treat overly-relaxed tissues in the gastrointestinal tract and veins. It treats ulcers, stomach inflammation, blood in the urine and diarrhea. Geranium is especially useful for ulcers and gastrointestinal bleeding, as in ulcerative colitis. According to Dr. Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician and author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," geranium contains gallic acid, tannic acid, gum, pectin, starch and resin. The tannin content is responsible for alleviating bleeding, and it's highest in the roots before flowering. To ensure high tannin content, obtain geranium from a high-quality source. Geranium may be taken as a tea, liquid extract or capsule.
References
- "Textbook of Natural Medicine"; Joseph E. Pizzorno, N.D. & Michael T. Murray, N.D.; 2006
- "Herbal Medicine from the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Quercetin
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Marshmallow
