Colitis is an inflammation of the colon, or the large intestine, and symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal bloating, discomfort and intestinal gas. As an herb, bayberry is sometimes used to treat gastrointestinal disorders, and it may be beneficial in easing the symptoms of mild colitis. Herbal remedies are not a substitute for conventional medical care, however, and they may produce side effects, so check with your doctor before using herbs to treat any medical condition.
Bayberry: The Herb
There are numerous plants in the bayberry family, but American bayberry, or Myrica cerifera, is the one found in herbal remedies. This shrub, also known as wax myrtle, reaches a height of approximately 8 feet. Bayberry's leaves and root contain volatile oils, resins and tannins that are stimulating and astringent, according to the "PDR for Herbal Medicines." Bayberry is diaphoretic, meaning it induces perspiration. But additional properties of bayberry, including those of benefit for treating colitis, are unknown, due to lack of testing.
Bayberry for Colitis
Clinical evidence supporting bayberry as beneficial for treating colitis is nonexistent. The herb, however, has a long history of use for treating dysentery, a condition whereby the patient suffers from severe diarrhea, according to the "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine." In addition, Chinese medicine uses an infusion made from bayberry leaves to soothe stomach disorders.
Preparation/Method
You may prepare a decoction, which is just a boiled tea, by adding approximately 1 tsp. of the dried root to one cup of water and bringing the mixture to a boil. Simmer the liquid gently for up to 20 minutes before straining. Alternatively, prepare a tea from bayberry leaves by pouring one cup of boiling water over 1 tsp. of the dried leaves and steeping for 10 minutes before straining. Drink up to three cups of decoction or tea per day to treat occasional mild colitis, with your doctor's approval.
Considerations
See your doctor for an initial diagnosis and if colitis symptoms persist or worsen. Pregnant women should not use bayberry, as there is a risk of abortion. The "Gale Encyclopedia" lists no known side effects from using bayberry as directed, although the herb should not be used long-term to reduce the risk of damage to the liver and kidneys. There are no known interactions with other medications or food, but this may be, in part, because testing on the herb is inadequate.
Use bayberry only under a doctor's supervision.
References
- MedlinePlus: Colitis
- "PDR for Herbal Medicines, 2nd Edition"; Joerg Gruenwald, PhD, 2000
- "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, Volume 2"; Jacqueline L. Longe; 2005
