Natural Cures for Diverticulitus

Diverticulitis is a condition in which diverticula, which are small protrusions in the intestinal wall, become infected and inflamed. This condition usually occurs in those who are suffering from constipation that is brought on as the result of a low-fiber diet. When fiber is not sufficient to soften digestive substances, hardened stool results. This results in the need for increased pressure to force the stool through the bowels and this pressure can create the protrusions that cause diverticulitis. Certain natural treatments exist to deal with this condition.

Alfalfa

• Alfalfa is an excellent natural source of vitamin E and other minerals. Many people suffering from diverticulitis are deficient in vitamin E and these minerals. Alfalfa also contains chlorophyll, which helps in the healing process. Those suffering from diverticulitis are encouraged to take 2,000 milligrams either in capsule form or as an extract.

Fiber

• The recommendation from the American Dietetic Association is to increase your daily fiber intake to anywhere from 20 to 35 grams a day. Instead of eating white rice and white bread, add bran cereal, oatmeal, whole grain breads and brown rice to your diet. Eating more fiber enhances the digestive process, but if you are not used to regularly eating these kinds of food, it is advisable to add them gradually to avoid potentially painful gas.

Castor Oil and Ginger Oil

• Apply a heating pad to the abdomen after mixing 10 drops of ginger oil into castor oil. Rub this mixture over your stomach and apply the heating pad. Castor oil is excellent for fighting inflammation while the ginger oil creates a warm, soothing sensation. Ginger oil on the stomach can also help dilate the blood vessels beneath the skin, allowing the castor oil to penetrate more deeply.

Aloe Vera

• The application of aloe vera on an inflamed area of the body assists in the healing process. Aloe vera is also an excellent method for preventing the constipation that is behind the development of diverticulitis. Drink one-half cup of aloe vera three times a day. If you simply cannot get this down, try mixing it with one cup of your favorite herbal tea.

Increased Fluid Intake

• One of the best and easiest natural ways to deal with diverticulitis is to increase your daily intake of fluids. Eight glasses of water a day is the typical recommendation, but it is important to realize that you get that eight glasses in ways other than actually drinking water. Water can be found in fruit juices and soup and this counts toward the goal of eight glasses of water a day.

Acupuncture

• Acupuncture is effective for treating the inflammation that causes the protrusions at the heart of diverticulitis. The recommended acupuncture points to deal with this condition are LI 11 and LI 5. These points are located on the top of the arm near the elbow joint and the top of the wrist, respectively. If the idea of needles is just too much to consider, these spots are also effective for treating diverticulitis with acupressure.