Herbal Medicine For Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is an inflammation of your pancreas. The Cleveland Clinic states that pancreatitis is associated with activated digestive enzymes that attack your pancreas -- a large gland in your upper abdomen that performs several important functions in your body. Pancreatitis can be short-lived or long-term. This condition usually comes on gradually and gets worse over time. Herbal medicine has been used to treat pancreatitis. Before using herbal medicines for your condition, however, check with your doctor about possible side effects and drug interactions.

About Pancreatitis

The University of Maryland Medical Center states that both acute and chronic pancreatitis can lead to bleeding and tissue death in your pancreas and the structures surrounding your pancreas. Mild bouts of acute pancreatitis often self-resolve following appropriate dietary changes. In cases of chronic pancreatitis, however, your pancreas may suffer severe damage that, if not treated, may lead to malnutrition and diabetes. Some of the most common indications that you have pancreatitis include sharp pain in your upper abdomen that radiates to your back or chest, nausea, and vomiting and oily stools.

Herbal Medicines

According to Phyllis A. Balch, a certified nutritional consultant and author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," some herbal remedies may help reduce your pancreas inflammation and prevent irreversible pancreas damage. Balch recommends burdock, red clover and milk thistle to help cleanse your liver and bloodstream, which in turn reduces your pancreas' burden. Herbal medicines that may strengthen your pancreas include gentian, goldenseal, cedar and echinacea. And licorice root, notes Balch, supports all glandular functions, including the functions of your pancreas.

Featured Herb

Dandelion root is an effective and often used herbal medicine in the treatment of pancreatitis. Dandelion root promotes bile production and bolsters the health of your pancreas. Dandelion, states Balch, acts as a diuretic and improves the functioning of your kidneys, spleen, stomach and pancreas. Dandelion root has been used to treat abscesses, anemia, boils, liver cirrhosis or scarring, constipation, fluid retention, hepatitis, jaundice, and rheumatism. The flowers, leaves, roots and tops of the dandelion plant are used in herbal preparations.

Considerations

Pancreatitis is a serious condition that usually requires the help of a health care professional. Do not attempt to self-treat your condition. If you develop the symptoms of pancreatitis, seek medical attention as quickly as possible. Balch states that pancreatic cancer is the fourth leading cause of death among Americans. If you have pancreatitis, you have a greater risk for developing pancreatic cancer. It is believed that elevated triglyceride levels are a major factor in the onset of pancreatitis, as is excessive alcohol consumption.