Alternative Solutions for Crohn's Disease

Crohn's disease affects many people. It is a condition that involves the intestinal tract and causes constant inflammation, primarily of the intestines. The most common area for Crohn's disease to occur is at the end of the small intestine where it meets the large intestine. Crohn's disease can be treated with conventional medicine, but many people choose alternative treatments for this condition.

Herbs

• Several herbs are known to help with Crohn's disease. Slippery elm is an herb that not only protects tissues that are inflamed and irritated, but also promotes healing. To get the best benefits from slippery elm, take 60 mg to 320 mg each day.

  Marshmallow is considered an emollient that soothes mucous membranes. To take marshmallow, drink one cup of tea three times a day. To make the tea, steep 2 g to 5 g of dried marshmallow leaf or 5 g of the dried root in a cup of boiling water. Strain the leaves and drink.

  Curcumin or turmeric should be taken at 1 g to 2 g per day. Curcumin has proven to be a good anti-inflammatory for the bowels.

  Cat's claw has also been found to be an inflammation fighter. Take 250 mg per day to alleviate symptoms of Crohn's disease.

  Boswellia serrata taken at 1,200 mg three times a day for up to eight weeks is also known to reduce inflammation. However, Boswelia serrata has the potential to interact with other medications and supplements. It is important that you always talk to your doctor before taking any medication, including herbs, to avoid interactions.

Acupuncture

• Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine. It has long been used to treat inflammatory bowel disease and other bowel disorders. There is a form of acupuncture that is known to reach deeper into the body than the traditional use of needles, called moxibustion. Moxibustion elevates immune responses in the body as well as stimulates the circulation of white blood cells. White blood cells fight infection and are the body's safeguard against disease.

  Acupuncture is often used in combination with other forms of treatment. Acupuncture is also a relaxing treatment that can reduce stress and calm nerves, reducing flare-ups of Crohn's. However, although moxibustion is the typical form of acupuncture treatment used for Crohn's and inflammatory bowel disease, your acupuncturist will treat your disease based on your individual case.

Lifestyle Change

• Lifestyle plays a large role in managing Crohn's disease. There are many risk factors that can increase your chances for a flare-up, but making a decision to live a healthy lifestyle can reduce these chances.

  Reducing stress is an important step in decreasing Crohn's flare-ups. Yoga and meditation are excellent ways to reduce stress and relieve anxiety. Adding exercise to your life is another great way to reduce Crohn's symptoms. It reduces stress, as well as promotes a healthier body.

  Living a healthy lifestyle means giving up bad habits. Smoking and alcohol are triggers for Crohn's disease. By cutting out bad habits, you can reduce your risk of Crohn's flare-ups.