Ulcerative colitis is a form of inflammatory bowel disease characterized by inflammation of the inner layer of the large intestine and rectum. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, this condition affects a half million Americans and causes a range of unpleasant symptoms including watery diarrhea, abdominal cramps, fever and weight loss. Treatment aims to reduce inflammation and prevent further flareups, and may include dietary modifications and drug treatment. Some herbs may have anti-inflammatory effects and are sometimes used alongside conventional treatments. Talk to your doctor before adding herbal remedies to your treatment plan.
Examples and Administration
UMMC cites several herbs that may be beneficial for people with ulcerative colitis. These include boswellia and turmeric. Also known as Indian frankincense, boswellia is extracted from the resin of a plant commonly used in traditional Indian medicine. Its main ingredient, boswellic acid, is thought to confer this herb's therapeutic properties, according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Turmeric is commonly used to flavor foods and as a fabric dye. However, it it is also used as an alternative remedy for a variety of ailments including gastrointestinal problems. UMMC suggests taking 550 mg of boswellia three times daily for up to six weeks, or you may prefer to take 1g to 2g of turmeric daily. Check with your doctor to see whether these doses are appropriate for you.
Effectiveness
Clinical studies evaluating the role of turmeric in the treatment of colitis are limited. The results of a randomized, multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial published in the December 2006 issue of the "Clinical Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology" showed that curcumin, a compound found in turmeric, helps to maintain remission of ulcerative colitis. The authors add that further studies are needed to confirm this effect. Findings from an early study published in the January 1997 "European Journal of Medical Research" show that boswellia is as effective as the prescription treatment sulfasalazine. However more up-to-date clinical data is lacking.
Side Effects
Medline Plus states that turmeric is likely safe when used in medicinal quantities but adds that it may cause side effects including nausea and diarrhea. Boswellia is also likely safe for most people, according to RxList.com, but it can cause side-effects that may include abdominal pain and nausea. If you experience any unpleasant or usual effects after taking either of these herbs, discontinue use immediately and consult your doctor.
Contraindications
Do not use either of these herbs if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Turmeric may be unsuitable for you if you have gallstones or a bile duct obstruction, according to Medline Plus. Do not use this herb alongside anticoagulants such as aspirin or warfarin as it may heighten their effects. Avoid using turmeric if you are scheduled for surgery as it may increase your risk of bleeding.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Ulcerative Colitis
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center: Boswellia
- MedlinePlus:Turmeric
- Clinical Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology;" Curcumin Maintenance Therapy for Ulcerative Colitis: Randomized, Multicenter, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial; H. Hanai et al; December 2006
- "European Journal of Medical Research;" Effects of Boswellia Serrata Gum Resin in Patients with Ulcerative Colitis; I. Gupta et al; January 1997
- RxList: Indian Frankincense
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