Ulcerative colitis is a disease in which the lining of the digestive tract becomes inflamed, causing significant pain and diarrhea. The exact cause of ulcerative colitis is unknown, although speculation among researchers points to a combination of hereditary predisposition and dysfunction of the body's immune system. Treatment generally involves managing symptoms; however, many of the medications can cause side effects that may cause further impairment. The University of Maryland explains that certain herbs have anti-inflammatory effects that may help relieve symptoms of colitis, without side effects.
Step 1
Drink 3 to 4 cups of German chamomile tea daily. Purchase either loose-leaf tea or prepackaged tea bags. Steep the tea leaves in 8 oz. of hot water for 10 to 15 minutes before consuming. German chamomile has antispasmodic properties that can help relax the lining of the digestive tract.
Step 2
Steep the leaves of the marshmallow herb in a tea bag in 8 oz. of hot, but not boiling water. Take 6 g of marshmallow daily in tea form. This herb, when combined with water, becomes a gel-like substance that coats the lining of the digestive tract, reducing inflammation.
Step 3
Take 400 to 500 mg of slippery elm in capsule form, three to four times a day with a full glass of water for no more than six weeks. Slippery elm forms a gel when it comes in contact with water, coating the lining of the colon.
Step 4
Mix 20 g of ground psyllium seeds in juice or into soft food like oatmeal. Take twice a day. Psyllium is a form of insoluble fiber, which helps move food through the digestive tract.
Step 5
Take 550 mg of boswellia in capsule form three times a day for a maximum of six weeks. Boswellia has anti-inflammatory effects that may help relieve the symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
Tips and Warnings
- Speak with your doctor before using herbal remedies for your condition.
- Avoid taking German chamomile if you have asthma, are pregnant or have a history of allergies to ragweed or similar plants.
Things You'll Need
- German chamomile
- Marshmallow herb
- Slippery elm capsules
- Psyllium seeds
- Boswellia capsules
References
- University of Maryland: Herbs and Supplements for Ulcerative Colitis
- University of Maryland: German Chamomile
- University of Maryland: Marshmallow
- University of Maryland: Slippery Elm
- Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics: Antioxidant Effects of Herbal Therapies Used by Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease: An In Vitro Study
- University of Maryland: Ulcerative Colitis
