Crohn's disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease. The National Center for Biotechnology Information states that Crohn's disease often targets your intestines, but it can cause problems in any part of your gastrointestinal system. Although the precise cause of this condition is unclear, Crohn's may be associated with your immune response. Before using herbs to help manage your Crohn's-related pain and other symptoms, review the safety and effectiveness of herbs with your doctor.
About Crohn's Disease
The National Health Service of the United Kingdom says that Crohn's disease is a long-term condition that involves inflammation of your gastrointestinal tract lining. Some of the more common signs and symptoms of this condition include abdominal pain, diarrhea and fatigue. Although Crohn's may occur at any age, people between the age of 15 and 35 are particularly susceptible. Other risk factors for this condition include a family history of the condition, a history of smoking and having Jewish ancestry.
Herbal Management
The University of Maryland Medical Center lists several herbs that have historically been used to treat pain and inflammation in your digestive tract, although they note that the use of herbs in treating Crohn's disease has not yet been fully validated by contemporary scientific research. Herbs that may help manage your Crohn's-related pain and other symptoms include slippery elm, marshmallow, turmeric, cat's claw and boswellia. Some of these substances help protect inflamed tissues and encourage their healing, while others help reduce inflammation in your digestive tract.
Highlighted Herb
Slippery elm is an herbal remedy that may be helpful in reducing your Crohn's-related pain and other symptoms. In her book "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," naturopathic physician and herbalist Sharol Tilgner states that slippery elm possesses anti-inflammatory, diuretic and mucus-membrane soothing action. This herbal remedy may help reduce inflammation in your mouth, throat, stomach, intestines and elsewhere throughout your body. This herb may be a helpful adjunct therapy in treating Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis and gastritis.
Warning
There are numerous possible health complications that are associated with Crohn's disease, including bladder, skin and vaginal fistulas, joint inflammation and eye lesions. Optimal management of your Crohn's disease usually involves a combination of therapies, including complementary alternative and more conventional therapies. If you experience Crohn's related symptoms, visit your doctor for an evaluation of your condition. Discuss the possible risks and benefits of all treatment options before using herbs in treating this condition.
References
- National Center for Biotechnology Information: Crohn's Disease
- National Health Service: Crohn's Disease
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Crohn's Disease
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
