Your large intestine is an important part of your digestive tract that helps absorb water from the food you consume. Your large intestine is composed of several distinct parts, including your ascending, transverse, descending and sigmoid colons and your rectum. Your anal canal is sometimes considered part of your large intestine, too. Certain herbs and vitamins may be helpful in improving the health and function of your large intestine, although you should always speak with your doctor before using these substances.
Large Intestine Problems
Numerous problems can develop in your large intestine, or large bowel. According to the Gastroenterological Society of Australia, some of the most common large intestine-related problems include colorectal polyps, appendicitis, constipation, diverticulitis, diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, inflammatory bowel disease and colon or rectal cancer. The society states that certain large intestine problems may be easier to treat than others. Rectal bleeding is sign or symptom that may be indicative of a serious underlying large intestine problem.
Beneficial Herbs and Vitamins
Beneficial herbs and vitamins for your large intestine, include vitamins A, B, C, D, E and K, burdock root, echinacea, goldenseal, fenugreek, peppermint, red clover, milk thistle, rose hips, aloe vera, ginger, lobelia, marshmallow, pau d'arco, myrobalan, alfalfa, papaya, boswellia and yarrow, reports certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C., and author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing."
More scientific research evidence may be necessary to support the use of these herbs for this health purpose.
Highlighted Herb
Aloe vera may be one of the most effective herbal remedies in improving the health and function of your large intestine. According to Sharol Tilgner, N.D., a naturopathic physician and author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," aloe vera possesses laxative action as well as the ability to stimulate your digestive tract and enhance your digestion. Aloe vera may be healing to your digestive tract, helping reduce the pain associated with large intestine-related problems such as ulcerative colitis.
Disclaimer
Because there are numerous possible causes of large intestine problems, you should not delay seeking treatment if you develop rectal bleeding or other symptoms indicative of a gut problem, such as severe abdominal pain. Your doctor can evaluate your condition and offer you valuable treatment suggestions to help resolve your health issue. The use of vitamins and herbs in improving the health and function of your large intestine does not guarantee a favorable health outcome, and some dietary supplements may cause harm if they are used inappropriately.
References
- MedlinePlus: Large Intestine
- Gastroenterological Society of Australia: Large Intestine
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
Member Comments