Herbs and Supplements for Ulcerative Colitis

Dietary Changes and Nutritional Supplements

Many people with ulcerative colitis (UC) respond to medications such as sulfasalazine, asacol, and prednisone. There are some people that either do not respond to drug therapy, or can not continue it long term because of side effects or other considerations.

For these people, the only "cure" (and I use the word loosely) is through surgical removal of the colon resulting in either an ileostomy, or a pelvic pouch procedure. This "cure", while of great benefit to some patients like myself, comes with new risks and problems (pouchitis, body image issues) for others. Additionally, it does not guarantee that extraintestinal manifestations of UC such as arthritis or primary sclerosing cholangigits will not occur.

It is no wonder that people are turning to other methods besides drugs and surgery to help their UC symptoms. Dietary and lifestyle changes, nutritional supplements, and herbs are what some people are experimenting with to find relief.

The standard dietary changes for improving overall health may also be beneficial to UC. Reducing fat and sugar intake have not been proven to reduce symptoms in UC, but can improve general health.

The role food sensitivities and allergies play in UC is controversial. Some doctors have observed that eliminating allergenic foods has been beneficial to their patients. This theory is not proven, but is being utilized by some doctors.

Remember to discuss any dietary changes with your healthcare provider.

Fish oil has been studied as a therapy for UC. In one study (patients were given 3.2 grams of EPA and 2.2 grams of DHA per day), patients observerved a decrease in inflammation, and were also less dependent on prescription drugs. Another study showed the same reduction in the need for drug therapy, but patients were still at risk for a relapse of symptoms. A prescription is not necessary for fish oil, which can be found in health food and vitamin stores.

Folic acid is also be beneficial to people with UC. The drug sulfasalazine depletes the body of folic acid, so anyone taking sulfasalazine should be supplementing their diet with folic acid. Additionally, studies indicate that supplementing with folic acid may play a role in reducing the risk of colon cancer by as much as 60%. A prescription is not necessary for folic acid, which can be found in quality multivitamins.

Butyrate, a fatty acid made in the intestines, may also be helpful in UC. Butyrate is used as a fuel by the cells lining the colon. In one study, 2 weeks of butyrate enemas (sodium butyrate 100 mmol/L) given to 10 patients resulted in less trips to the restroom and fewer bloody stools. A prescription from a doctor is necessary for butyrate enemas.

Herbs are being recognized for their healing properties for many health concerns, including UC.

Aloe vera has known anti-inflammatory properties. However, it has not been studied specifically for use in treating inflammation in UC. Other herbs with anti-inflammatory properties include calendula, linseed, licorice, marshmallow, myrrh, and yarrow.

These herbs can be taken either orally, or in enema form, however enemas may not be beneficial for severe flare-ups. Calendula, licorice, marshmallow, and yarrow are often taken as teas. Myrrh can't be made into a tea, so it comes in the forum of a tincture that can be mixed with water. Linseed (flaxseed) is an oil, and can be a substitute for fish oil. When replacing fish oil, as much as 10 times more linseed oil is needed to provide the necessary essential fatty acids. Aloe vera and these other anti-inflammatory herbs can be found in health food and vitamin stores.

Chamomile, known for its calming properties, may also be useful in curbing UC symptoms. Chamomile is most often taken as a tea, but can also be used in enema form. Peppermint, taken in enteric-coated capsules, also relaxes the bowel. Chamomile tea and peppermint capsules are widely available.

Boswellia (also known as Frankincense) is a little-known herb that may reduce inflammation in the colon. In one study, complete remission was achieved by 82% of those taking boswellia 350 mg three times a day. Boswellia can be found in vitamin stores.

Studies on the use of herbs and dietary supplements for UC have indicated that they can be beneficial, but more research is necessary. For now, herbs and dietary supplements should be used with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Ulcerative colitis is a serious, chronic condition, so please, when making any change to your diet or healcare plan, always consult the members of your healthcare team.