Treat Ulcerative Colitis with Five Natural Remedies
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic intestinal disease that continuously affects the colon (large intestine) by causing damage to its inner lining. Its exact cause is unknown, but it is often related to genetic factors, alterations in the microbial flora, and increased intestinal permeability.
It can be confused with an episode of common diarrhea since in some cases they occur together. However, due to the inflammation of the colon, colitis tends to manifest itself with other symptoms.
In turn, there may be bleeding and small sores on the internal walls of the intestine, which triggers severe abdominal pain, swelling, and blood or pus in the stool.
Treatment of ulcerative colitis
Indeed, there’s no cure for this disease, although there are several treatment options to control it.
In this respect, the specialists of the Fundación Española del Aparato Digestivo (FEAD) indicate that some of the drugs to control inflammation include antibiotics, corticosteroids, salicylates, immunomodulatory, and immunosuppressants, among others.
There are also biological therapies that consist in the administration of drugs designed by genetic engineering, from cell cultures. Also, surgical treatment is only for cases of urgency and exhaustion.
Despite the fact that these are the main treatment options (and that have proven good results) some consider they can resort to certain home remedies to complement it and thus relieve some discomfort. Let’s take a look at some of the most commonly proposed below.
1. Cabbage water
Cabbage water is a naturally hydrating beverage that can also reduce the discomfort caused by ulcerative colitis. This is because it can help you relax whether you drink it hot or cold.
Ingredients
- 2 c. of water
- 5 cabbage leaves
Preparation
- Firstly, pour the cups of water into a pot and add the cabbage leaves
- Boil the drink and, when it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to a minimum and leave it for 3 minutes
- Wait for it to reach room temperature and, when it is suitable for consumption, strain it
2. Chamomile tea
The classic remedy to reduce abdominal pain turns out to be a good option for the treatment of ulcerative colitis. Its also anti-inflammatory, analgesic and has refreshing properties that help reduce the symptoms of this condition.
Ingredients
- 1 c. of water
- 1 tbsp. of honey
- 2 tsp. of chamomile
Preparation
- Boil a cup of water and, when it reaches its boiling point, add chamomile flowers
- Then, cover the drink, let it rest at room temperature and, when it’s warm, strain it
- Finally, add a spoonful of honey to sweeten
Chec out these Home Treatments for Ulcerative Colitis
3. Aloe vera and honey juice
Mixing some aloe gel together with honey can be a good remedy to relieve ulcerative colitis, according to popular wisdom. This is because both ingredients have healing and regenerative potential.
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp of aloe vera gel
- 1 tbsp of honey
- ½ c. of water
Preparation
- Firstly, extract the aloe vera gel
- Wash it thoroughly to remove the yellowish film
4. Oat milk
This vegetable milk can supposedly soothe diarrhea, pain, and an upset stomach as oats have anti-inflammatory and digestive properties.
Ingredients
- 1 c. of water
- 1 tbsp. of honey
- 3 tbsp. of oatmeal
Preparation
- Firstly, add the oatmeal to the water and let it soak for a couple of hours
- Then, incorporate it into a blender and process it for a few moments
- Finally, add the honey after you have a smooth drink
Check out these Five Tips to Avoid Episodes of Ulcerative Colitis
5. Infusion of fenugreek seeds
The infusion of fenugreek seeds is a traditional remedy against digestive problems. It has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that diminish the irritation of the colon.
It is essential to consult your doctor before taking this remedy. Especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Ingredients
- 1 c. of water
- 1 tsp ground fenugreek seeds
Preparation
- Firstly, boil one cup of water and add the fenugreek seeds
- Then, cover the drink and let it rest for 10 minutes
Would you try the above remedies?
Have you been diagnosed with ulcerative colitis? Follow your doctor’s instructions and consult them in regard to home remedies. This is because it’s the only way to find out whether they recommend it or not and avoid side effects.
Finally, keep in mind that no remedy can cure a disease. It’s for this reason that you should never support your health through it alone. Instead, follow your doctor’s recommendations and maintain a healthy and consistent lifestyle.
All cited sources were thoroughly reviewed by our team to ensure their quality, reliability, currency, and validity. The bibliography of this article was considered reliable and of academic or scientific accuracy.
- Al-Snafi, P. D. A. E. (2016). Beneficial medicinal plants in digestive system disorders (part 2): plant based review. IOSR Journal of Pharmacy (IOSRPHR). https://doi.org/10.9790/3013-067038592
- Butt, M. S., Tahir-Nadeem, M., Khan, M. K. I., Shabir, R., & Butt, M. S. (2008). Oat: Unique among the cereals. European Journal of Nutrition. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00394-008-0698-7
- Langmead, L., Dawson, C., Hawkins, C., Banna, N., Loo, S., & Rampton, D. S. (2002). Antioxidant effects of herbal therapies used by patients with inflammatory bowel disease: An in vitro study. Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1365-2036.2002.01157.x
- Miraj, S., & Alesaeidi, S. (2016). A systematic review study of therapeutic effects of Matricaria recuitta chamomile (chamomile). Electronic Physician. https://doi.org/10.19082/3024
- Rajeswari, R., , M. Umadevi, C. S. R., & , S. Selvavenkadesh, K. P. Sampath Kumar, D. B. (2012). Aloe vera: The Miracle Plant Its Medicinal and Traditional Uses in India. Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry.
