Relief for IBS, Colitis, Crohn’s, and More
Contributed by Terry Talks Nutrition, All About Herbs
Digestive diseases like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s disease, and ulcer- ative colitis are common and often diffi- cult to treat effectively with conventional medicine. Pharmaceuticals may help, but they frequently come with unwanted side effects.
Microscopic inflammation in the small bowel and colon can both cause and worsen IBS. Inflammation triggers the release of mediators that alter how the digestive system responds, resulting in symptoms like diarrhea or constipation. IBS symptoms include cramping, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, and general digestive discomfort, making daily life unpredictable and challenging.
Crohn’s disease may cause fever, pain, bloody diarrhea, and appetite loss. Ulcerative colitis affects the colon’s mucosal lining, leading to pain, bloody stools, and mucus or pus. These conditions can interfere with nutrient absorption, causing malnutrition, anemia, and weight loss. While drugs and surgery are standard treatments, many people are seeking safer, natural options.
Boswellia, used in traditional medicine for centuries, contains boswellic acids that address inflammation without the harmful side effects of conventional medications. Unlike common drugs that act on the COX pathway and can damage the digestive tract, boswellia targets the 5-LOX pathway, which is linked specifically to gastrointesti- nal inflammation. The most effective com- pound in boswellia is AKBA (Acetyl-11-ke- to-B-boswellic acid). For best results, look for boswellia extracts standardized to at least 10% naturally occurring AKBA.
In clinical studies, boswellia performed as well as standard drugs like mesalazine and sulfasalazine, but without the adverse effects. Patients saw improvements in stool quality, mineral absorption, and symptom remission.
Other helpful herbs include coriander, which helps stop bacterial overgrowth, including E. coli, without contributing to antibiotic resistance. Fennel protects the mucosal lining and reduces inflammation-related stress. It also helps prevent ulcers and has antispasmodic and antidiarrheal properties. Caraway relaxes intestinal muscles, relieves gas and bloating, and helps the digestive system tolerate irritants. It also promotes gallbladder activity and steady digestive movement. Pepper- mint aids digestion and fights harmful bacteria without disturbing beneficial microbes. It’s long used for soothing the stomach after meals.
A change in diet is crucial. Avoid wheat, refined sugar, and dairy, all of which can worsen IBS and other digestive issues. For more, consider reading Breaking the Vicious Cycle by Elaine Gottschall and Wheat Belly by Dr. William Davis.
While dietary changes can be challenging, combining them with boswellia and the herbs mentioned above may restore digestive balance and improve quality of life. www.allaboutherbs.com (907) 376-8327