Ulcerative colitis is characterized by inflammation of the inner layers of the rectum or large intestine. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that symptoms may depend on which part of the intestine is affected, but often include weight loss, anemia, rectal bleeding and diarrhea. There is no cure for ulcerative colitis but prescription medications may bring on disease remission and help control symptoms. An herb known as Indian frankincense might also help to alleviate inflammation. However, scientific evidence to prove it is efficacious is limited and it should not be used in place of prescription treatments.
Properties and Potential Benefits
Indian frankincense, also known as boswellia, is used in traditional Indian herbal medicine for a number of ailments including asthma, arthritis and menstrual cramps. It contains a compound known as bowellic acid, which exerts ant-inflammatory effects and may help to alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis. UMMC notes that 550 mg of Indian frankincense may be taken three times daily for up to six weeks to help reduce inflammation in ulcerative colitis patients
Effectiveness
Few clinical studies have examined Indian frankincense's efficacy as an ulcerative colitis treatment. However, the results of an early study published in the January 1997 issue of the "European Journal of Medical Research" show that Indian frankincense was as effective as the prescription drug, sulfasalazine. Specifically, 82 percent of patients that took 350 mg of Indian frankincense three times daily for six weeks went into remission; the sulfasalazine remission rate was 75 percent.
Safety Considerations
Indian frankincense is likely safe for most people, according to Rxlist, but it may cause side effects including abdominal pain and diarrhea. Don't use it if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Mississippi Baptist Health Systems adds that its safety has not been established in patients with liver or kidney disease and that it is safer to use manufactured Indian frankincense extract than crude preparations of this herb.
Other Potentially Helpful Herbs
The UMMC website notes of several other herbs that may be beneficial for ulcerative colitis patients although their efficacy is not conclusively proven. Examples include turmeric, which like Indian frankincense may have anti-inflammatory effects, and slippery elm, which might help to soothe intestinal tissue and aid healing. Get medical clearance before using either of these herbs. Like boswellia, they may cause side effects or be unsuitable for you. For example, turmeric should not be used by people taking anticoagulants.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Ulcerative Colitis
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Boswellia
- "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
- Mississippi Baptist Health Systems: Boswellia
