Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis or colitis is a disease associated with chronic inflammation of the colon, that is the cause of diarrhea, abdominal pain and rectal bleeding. Closely related to Crohn's disease, they are collectively referred to as inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD. This disease if somewhat uncommon. Once it has developed, it is usually a disease that lasts for the entire lifetime of the patient. It is also known as ulcerative when there is ulceration of the rectum and colon.
Symptoms
Symptoms may include bloody diarrhea, fever, abdominal pain, weight loss and general malaise. One may also notice rectal bleeding, a feeling of urgency, an inability to have a bowel movement despite the urge to do so and cramping. Colitis causes nutritional deficiencies because minerals and water are not absorbed. This can cause anemia, dehydration and other problems associated with malnutrition.
Causes
The cause of ulcerative colitis is unknown and is thought to be inherited autoimmune. There is no evidence to link this disease to infection and it is not contagious. Some possible causes may include problems with the immune system because the auto antibodies turn against the intestinal epithelial cells. There may be some genetic susceptibility associated with the disease. Smoking is negatively associated with this disease. There may also be environmental factors that affect it. Consuming milk products may make symptoms worse. Appendectomies have an adverse reaction with colitis. It often affects people who have a diet too rich in refined sugars. Flare ups can be caused by stress, infections and using antibiotics.
Cautions
People suffering from colitis or ulcerative colitis need to be under proper medical care. It is recommended that alternative therapies are used in conjunction with medical treatment to relieve the symptoms of this disease.
Herbal Treatments
Internal Applications
To relieve inflammation and soothe the gut:
- Aloe vera – studies have shown that taking 100 ml of oral aloe vera gel may provide clinical remission.
- Boswellia – this herb can be taken as pills to relieve symptoms of colitis. Do not take this herb for longer than 8 to 12 weeks unless under the care of a skilled care provider.
- Marshmallow – this herb contains a mucilage that is believed to coat the inside of the stomach and intestines to reduce the inflammation caused by colitis.
- Slippery Elm – start this herb gradually. Once you are accustomed to it, take up to 6 capsules three times per day or a large tablespoon mixed with water twice a day. This herb will help relieve the inflammation in the colon.
- Chamomile – this soothing herb can help relieve the discomfort when taken internally as tea. Infuse 1 sachet of chamomile flowers in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-10 minutes. Sip the tea throughout the day as needed.
To ease spasms and diarrhea:
- Angelica – this herb is a tonic for the digestive system, it is useful for spasms. Take it as a tincture or supplement. Infuse 1-2 grams of dried root in 1 cup of boiling water for 10 minutes, strain and drink 3 cups a day.
- Mandrake – this herb is another good tonic herb for the digestive system. It also helps the liver and gall bladder.
- Papaya – combined with peppermint or garlic, this herb will help heal the colon and improve the digestion.
- Wild yam – this herb helps reduce gastrointestinal upset and spasmodic pain. It is anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic.
- Ginger – this herb is commonly used for bloating, diarrhea, vomiting and coughing. It can be taken as powder, liquid extract or as a tincture.
- Cayenne – use this herb for stomachache, cramping and gas. It is helpful for many conditions of the gastrointestinal tract, including ulcerative colitis. Sprinkle a few pinches of cayenne over food.
External Applications
- Cayenne – rub the extract over your abdomen to improve circulation and your bowel movements.
Aromatherapy
For stomach cramps, use the following essential oils in a massage or bath: basil, marjoram, peppermint, rosemary. When using oils in massage, add a few drops to 5 - 10 ml of carrier oil, such as jojoba oil.
Used to combat vomiting, use the following essential oils in a massage, inhalation, burner or bath: basil, bergamot and chamomile.
Used agianst diarrhea, use the following essential oils in massage or burner: chamomile, eucalyptus, neroli, patchouli and peppermint.