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Ulcerative Colitis Holistic Cures

Ulcerative colitis is a disease where inflammation to the colon and rectum causes symptoms such as diarrhea and pain in the abdomen. Unlike Crohn's Disease, which only affects pieces of your colon, ulcerative colitis involves the inflammation of big sections of the large intestine. Though there are no cures for ulcerative colitis, there are many therapies, conventional and holistic, that can potentially cut down symptoms and improve the quality of life of those who suffer from it.

  1. Alternative Medicine

    • According to the Mayo Clinic, about half of the people who suffer from diseases like ulcerative colitis and Crohn's Disease, use non-conventional medicine to treat their condition. While many people prefer natural cures, heavy side effects from conventional medicines may also push people towards a more holistic approach. It is important to note that most alternative medications and therapies are not approved by the FDA and many allopathic doctors will not be well-versed in how to utilize them. If you are interested in finding out more about holistic cures for ulcerative colitis, it is best to consult a naturopathic physician, as well as your gastroenterologist to find out the risks and if interactions exist with any other drugs you are taking.

    Supplements

    • According to the Mayo Clinic, although there is no conclusive evidence pointing the efficacy of alternative therapies, early findings indicate that many of them may actually help in controlling the symptoms associated with ulcerative colitis. It is thought that certain bacteria may trigger the condition, so much of the holistic theory involves adding more beneficial bacteria to the gut. For example, people who take prebiotics, compounds derived from plants, have shown positive signs. Most commonly found in the artichoke, these prebiotics work by stimulating the growth and activity if helpful bacteria in the digestive system. Your doctor may also recommend you take probiotics, live microorganisms thought to alleviate chronic inflammatory bowel conditions.

    Other Therapies

    • Your naturopathic doctor may also prescribe other supplements and therapies to aid your ulcerative colitis. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oils act as anti-inflammatory agents. According to the Mayo Clinic, one study suggested that large doses of fish oil--15 capsules per day--helped quell the symptoms associated with ulcerative colitis, but more evidence was required. While another study suggested aloe vera could be helpful, but the most useful therapy is acupuncture. When needles are inserted into the body during acupuncture, it releases natural painkillers that can help reduce the discomfort associated with ulcerative colitis.

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