As of now, there is no definitive cure for ulcerative colitis or UC, a chronic disease of the large intestine (colon) in which inflammation brought on by a vulnerable immune response creates sores or ulcers in the lining of the colon.
The chronic condition affects more 800,000 Americans and recent research shows that “westernized” populations and people with diets high in fat are at higher risk for UC. But no one has yet discovered the main source of the disease.
Treatments for ulcerative colitis include medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, immune system suppressors, and steroids to control inflammation and other symptoms of the condition. Removing the colon and rectum has also been favored by physicians as another form of treatment if medication doesn’t prove effective.
Still, there are other treatments worth exploring. Research shows that there are a number of effective natural treatments for colitis that include exercise, stress reduction techniques (tai chi and yoga), and a vegan or vegetarian diet full of foods with soluble fiber have all been named as beneficial to managing UC symptoms.
Herbal therapy is also an alternative. The list of herbs that work best include:
- Aloe vera gel
- Butyrate
- Tormentil extract
- Wheatgrass juice
- Curcumin (the active ingredient in turmeric)
It’s also important to