Ulcerative colitis, a chronic disease affecting the colon or large intestine, begins with inflammation and ulcers on the lining of the colon. Symptoms like abdominal pain and diarrhea often accompany this condition. The cause of ulcerative colitis is unknown, although it seems to be genetic. Ginger tea might improve this condition, but you should talk to your doctor before using it as a treatment.
Ginger Plant
Ginger has been used throughout history for relief of digestive concerns and other ailments. Ginger is a tropical plant that grows about 12 inches high and blossoms with white or yellow-green flowers. You use the rhizome of the ginger plant for its healing benefits. The rhizome contains volatile oils and phenol compounds, which seem to be the healing properties of ginger.
Properties
One of ginger's healing benefits is its ability to reduce inflammation, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center. In this way, ginger might relieve the inflammation associated with ulcerative colitis A study published in the August 13, 2008 issue of the "Journal of Ethnopharmacology" found that ginger extract improved symptoms of ulcerative colitis in rats. Researchers surmised the improvement was caused by the anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant qualities found in ginger.
Method
To make tea from the ginger rhizome, peel and cut it into small pieces. Use 2 tbsp. for every cup of water. Add the root to the water in a saucepan, and boil the water. Lower the heat, and simmer the ginger for one hour. Then strain the tea and drink it. Alternatively, purchase packaged ginger tea bags, and follow the package instructions.
Warning
Do not take more than 4 g of ginger per day. Ginger does not normally have side effects, but it can cause mouth irritation, burping, upset stomach, heartburn and diarrhea. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that taking ginger in the form of ginger supplement capsules might prevent these symptoms. As always, talk to your doctor before taking ginger, especially if you have gallstones, are having surgery, have a bleeding disorder or are taking blood-thinning medications.
References
- Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America: About Ulcerative Colitis and Proctitis
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Ginger
- "Journal of Ethnopharmacology"; Modulating Effect of Ginger Extract on Rats with Ulcerative Colitis; H.S. El-Abhar, et al.; Aug. 13, 2008
- "20,000 Secrets of Tea"; Victoria Zak; 1999
