Herbs for Crohn's Disease

Crohn's disease is an inflammatory bowel condition characterized by chronic inflammation of the intestinal tract. It causes a host of problems in the intestinal area; malnourishment is also a possibility since it inhibits the proper absorption of nutrients. Herbal therapies can address its symptoms.

Important Information about Herbal Therapy

Herbs can be useful in treating many conditions. To achieve optimal effectiveness, you must be diligent about taking them. Unlike pharmaceutical agents, they usually take a bit longer to begin working, so consistent use is important. Be patient and give them time to work for you. It can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to see full benefit. While most herbal medicines are generally safe, like drugs, they contain certain chemicals and compounds that can interact with other drugs and herbs. For this reason, it is always a good idea to consult with a health care provider experienced in herbal supplements to design a safe and effective treatment regimen.

Herbs for Crohn's Disease

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, there are not a lot of studies examining herbal treatment for this condition. The following list of herbs has a long history of use in addressing issues with the digestive tract, particularly inflammation. Since many herbs offer similar benefits, it is not necessary to take all of them. Again, herbal therapy is an aspect of natural medicine where consulting with an experienced professional is useful. The medical center does not recommend herbal therapy as a sole means of treatment.

Slippery elm forms a protective layer of mucus that shields irritated tissue from inflammation and encourages healing. Take 60 to 320 mg daily or mix 1 tsp. of powder with water and drink three to four times daily. Marshmallow tea performs a similar function and also protects mucous membranes. Steep 2 to 5 g of dried leaf or 5 g of dried root in 1 cup of boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes. Strain and drink up to three times a day. Do not use marshmallow if you have diabetes.

Cat's claw fights inflammation; take 250 mg daily. According to a review of studies by the University of Maryland Medical Center, turmeric and boswellia might be useful specifically for Crohn's disease. More research is needed to fully determine if there is benefit. Take 1 to 2 g of curcumin daily and 1,200 mg of boswellia daily for no longer than eight weeks at a time.

Complements to Herbal Therapy

Any proponent of natural health strategies will tell you that a holistic approach is necessary, meaning you need to address all aspects of your health and not just treat the symptoms of the condition. In addition to herbal therapy for Crohn's, you might want to consider doing some other things that can alleviate the symptoms.

Your diet is a very important part of managing this condition. Fruits and vegetables are loaded with nutrients and antioxidants that fight inflamamtion; if fiber worsens your symptoms, bake or steam vegetables and stay away from high-fiber fruits like apples. Lessen stress on your digestive system by eating five or six small meals a day rather than three large ones.

Reduce or eliminate your consumption of foods that worsen Crohn's disease like dairy, high-fat foods and spicy foods .Stay away from alcohol and caffeine.

Stress can aggravate your symptoms. Do your best to manage it. Experiment with yoga, meditation, deep breathing, positive visualization and anything else that makes you feel better.

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