Colitis is a digestive disease that affects the colon. The Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America states that colitis, sometimes called ulcerative colitis, is an ongoing disease that occurs in the large intestine, or colon. Colitis is characterized by inflammation and ulcer formation within the inner lining, or mucosa, or the large intestine. Though an herbal approach to treating ulcers may effectively manage symptoms, you should discuss the potential risks and side effects with your doctor before using herbs.
About Colitis
Colitis, like Crohn's disease, can be crippling, keeping you from performing your normal activities of daily living and possibly leading to life-threatening health complications. Although colitis often affects just the inner lining of your large intestine, it may stretch through longer segments of your colon. If you have colitis, you are likely to experience certain symptoms, including periodic abdominal cramping and pain, bloody diarrhea, fatigue, unexplained and unwanted weight loss and rectal pain.
Herbal Approach
In her book "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," naturopathic doctor Sharol Tilgner lists several herbs that can effectively protect your gut from inflammation and mucus membrane damage. Among the best herbs for colitis and other inflammatory bowel conditions include licorice, goldenseal, echinacea and slippery elm. Herbal approaches to the treatment of colitis may also include marshmallow, geranium, turmeric, aloe, boswellia, chamomile, bromelain, buchu, lobelia, nettle and quercetin.
Highlighted Herb
Licorice is one of the most effective herbal medicines for treating colitis. As an herbal medicine, licorice has been used to treat an incredibly broad range of conditions and is well-known for its many actions, including reducing inflammation, improving the immune system and treating many types of infection. Licorice has been used to treat colitis and other inflammatory bowel disorders, low adrenal gland function, asthma, chronic fatigue syndrome and many other conditions. The root of the licorice plant contains many medicinal substances.
Additional Information
If you have ulcerative colitis, there are many simple things you can do to help your condition in addition to taking herbs. For example, avoid clothing that is constricting at the waist, and try drinking a large glass of water when you experience sudden bouts of pain. When your colitis symptoms flare up, consider eating only soft foods until your pain dissipates. Eating a significant amount of dark green leafy vegetables may improve your levels of vitamin K. Vitamin K deficiencies have been linked to this condition.
References
- Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America: About Ulcerative Colitis & Proctitis
- Mayo Clinic: Ulcerative Colitis
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
