By Leen Randell
Updated: Nov 13, 2024
10 Best Herbal Teas For Ulcerative Colitis
Herbal teas for ulcerative colitis are a natural and holistic approach to managing this chronic inflammatory bowel disease.
These teas help alleviate symptoms by reducing inflammation, soothing the digestive tract, and promoting healing. The best herbal teas for ulcerative colitis include Althaea officinalis, Zingiber officinale, Curcuma longa, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Taraxacum officinale, Aloe barbadensis, Ulmus rubra, Foeniculum vulgare, Peumus boldus, and Cinchona officinalis.
If left untreated, ulcerative colitis can lead to severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, fatigue, and weight loss, significantly impacting daily life, work, and social activities, ultimately affecting mental health and overall well-being.
1. Althaea officinalis
Althaea officinalis teas helps with ulcerative colitis because it contains mucilages, which are complex carbohydrates that form a protective gel-like barrier on the mucous membranes.
This barrier helps to soothe and calm the inflamed tissues in the colon, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of the tea also help to reduce the severity of symptoms, such as diarrhea and abdominal pain, associated with ulcerative colitis, providing relief and comfort to those affected.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis teas that help with ulcerative colitis.
- Mucilages: These gel-like substances help to soothe and protect the inflamed lining of the colon, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with ulcerative colitis.
- Polysaccharides: These complex carbohydrates have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce the severity of symptoms and promote healing in the gut.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the colon, alleviating symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Althaea officinalis used to make teas for ulcerative colitis.
- Roots: They are the primary part used due to their high mucilage content, which helps to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the digestive tract.
- Leaves: They contain similar mucilage properties as the roots, making them a suitable alternative for tea preparation and ulcerative colitis treatment.
- Stems: The stems are also a rich source of mucilage, which can be extracted to create a soothing and anti-inflammatory tea for ulcerative colitis sufferers.
2. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale teas helps with ulcerative colitis because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms in the digestive tract.
The bioactive compounds in ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols, have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes that contribute to the progression of the disease.
Additionally, ginger has been found to promote the healing of the gut lining and improve the overall gut microbiome, making it a potential complementary therapy for managing ulcerative colitis symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale teas that help with ulcerative colitis.
- Gingerols: They help with ulcerative colitis by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the colon, which in turn alleviates symptoms such as diarrhea and abdominal pain.
- Shogaols: They possess anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce the severity of ulcerative colitis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes.
- Terpinen-4-ol: It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that help to protect the colon from oxidative damage and reduce inflammation, which are key factors in the development and progression of ulcerative colitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Zingiber officinale used to make teas for ulcerative colitis.
- Roots: Used in teas for ulcerative colitis due to their ability to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms.
- Leaves: Used in teas for ulcerative colitis due to their antioxidant properties and potential to soothe digestive issues.
3. Curcuma longa
Curcuma longa teas helps with ulcerative colitis because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms in the digestive tract.
The active compound curcumin has been shown to modulate the immune response and inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes. This leads to a decrease in symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding, improving the quality of life for individuals with ulcerative colitis.
Regular consumption of Curcuma longa tea may also promote healing and reduce the severity of flares.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa teas that help with ulcerative colitis.
- Curcumin: It helps with ulcerative colitis by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress through its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which contribute to the healing of the colon lining.
- Demethoxycurcumin: It helps with ulcerative colitis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, thereby reducing inflammation and promoting the repair of the colon mucosa.
- Bisdemethoxycurcumin: It helps with ulcerative colitis by acting as a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, which helps to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the colon, promoting healing and reducing symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Curcuma longa used to make teas for ulcerative colitis.
- Rhyzomes: They contain turmeric, a compound with potent anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and pain associated with ulcerative colitis.
- Roots: They are rich in curcumin, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
- Leaves: They are also a source of curcumin and other bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, helping to manage ulcerative colitis symptoms.
4. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra teas helps with ulcerative colitis because it has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce inflammation and swelling in the digestive tract.
The licorice root in the tea also has antimicrobial effects, helping to eliminate harmful bacteria that can exacerbate the condition. Additionally, the tea's antioxidants and flavonoids may help to soothe and protect the lining of the colon, reducing symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding associated with ulcerative colitis.
This makes it a potentially beneficial complementary therapy for managing the condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra teas that help with ulcerative colitis.
- Triterpenoid saponins: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
- Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds have antioxidant properties, which can help protect the gut lining from oxidative stress and damage caused by inflammation.
- Liquiritin: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help regulate the immune response and reduce inflammation in the gut.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Glycyrrhiza glabra used to make teas for ulcerative colitis.
- Roots: They contain glycyrrhizin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
- Leaves: They are rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which can help reduce inflammation and improve digestive health.
- Barks: They contain compounds that may help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the digestive tract, potentially reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with ulcerative colitis.
5. Taraxacum officinale
Taraxacum officinale teas helps with ulcerative colitis because it contains flavonoids and sesquiterpenes that have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the digestive tract.
The tea also has prebiotic properties, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, and may help to regulate the gut microbiome. Additionally, the diuretic properties of Taraxacum officinale can help reduce fluid buildup and alleviate symptoms of bloating and constipation often associated with ulcerative colitis.
This may contribute to its potential benefits for the condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale teas that help with ulcerative colitis.
- Flavonoids: They help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the colon, which are key factors in the development and progression of ulcerative colitis.
- Phenolic acids: They exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and rectal bleeding associated with ulcerative colitis.
- Lignans: They have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation in the colon, leading to improved symptoms and quality of life for individuals with ulcerative colitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Taraxacum officinale used to make teas for ulcerative colitis.
- Leaves: Taraxacum officinale leaves are the most commonly used part for teas due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds that help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
- Flowers: The flowers are another key part used for teas, containing flavonoids and other compounds that aid in reducing inflammation and promoting healing in the digestive tract.
- Roots: Taraxacum officinale roots are also used in teas, providing a rich source of inulin and other prebiotics that support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and promote a healthy gut microbiome.
6. Aloe barbadensis
Aloe barbadensis teas helps with ulcerative colitis because it possesses anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which can help reduce inflammation and irritation in the digestive tract.
The gel from the aloe vera plant contains compounds like aloin and aloe-emodin, which have been shown to have prebiotic effects, promoting a healthy balance of gut bacteria. This can lead to improved digestion, reduced symptoms, and enhanced overall gut health, making it a potential natural remedy for managing ulcerative colitis symptoms.
Regular consumption may also promote healing and mucosal repair in the colon.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe barbadensis teas that help with ulcerative colitis.
- Aloin: Helps reduce inflammation in the colon by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thereby alleviating symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
- Anthraquinones: Exhibits anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties, which help in reducing the severity of ulcerative colitis by modulating the immune system and reducing inflammation in the gut.
- Polysaccharides: Acts as a prebiotic, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, which in turn helps to reduce inflammation and improve the integrity of the gut mucosa in ulcerative colitis patients.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Aloe barbadensis used to make teas for ulcerative colitis.
- Leaves: The leaves are used to make teas due to their high gel content, which has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and heal the gut.
- Gel (from the leaves): The gel is the clear, jelly-like substance extracted from the leaves, which is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can aid in ulcerative colitis management.
- Exudate (from the leaves): The exudate, a sap-like substance, is also extracted from the leaves and used in teas for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that can help alleviate ulcerative colitis symptoms.
7. Ulmus rubra
Ulmus rubra teas helps with ulcerative colitis because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.
The tea's flavonoids and phenolic acids have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria that can exacerbate the condition, while also promoting the healing of damaged intestinal tissue. Additionally, the tea's antioxidant properties help to protect against oxidative stress, which can contribute to the development of ulcerative colitis.
This makes Ulmus rubra tea a potentially beneficial natural remedy for managing the symptoms of this condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ulmus rubra teas that help with ulcerative colitis.
- Flavonoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the colon, alleviating symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce inflammation and prevent infections in the gut, contributing to the management of ulcerative colitis.
- Tannins: These compounds have been found to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and prevent damage to the gut lining, potentially alleviating symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Ulmus rubra used to make teas for ulcerative colitis.
- Leaves: They are used for their anti-inflammatory properties to help soothe and calm the digestive system.
- Barks: They are used for their astringent properties to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the digestive tract.
- Roots: They are used for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties to help reduce symptoms and promote healing in the digestive system.
8. Foeniculum vulgare
Foeniculum vulgare teas helps with ulcerative colitis because it contains compounds like anethole and fenchone, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
These compounds help to reduce inflammation in the gut, promoting healing and soothing symptoms such as diarrhea and abdominal pain. Additionally, the tea's antispasmodic properties can help to calm and relax the muscles in the digestive tract, further alleviating symptoms associated with ulcerative colitis.
This natural remedy has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to support digestive health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare teas that help with ulcerative colitis.
- Ferulic acid: Acts as an antioxidant to reduce inflammation and protect the colon from oxidative damage associated with ulcerative colitis.
- Anethole: Exerts anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects to alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis, such as diarrhea and abdominal pain.
- Sesquiterpenes: Possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties to reduce gut inflammation and prevent the growth of pathogens that contribute to the development of ulcerative colitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Foeniculum vulgare used to make teas for ulcerative colitis.
- Leaves: Used due to their anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and calm the digestive tract.
- Seeds: Used due to their high concentration of essential oils, particularly anethole, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that aid in ulcerative colitis relief.
- Stems: Used due to their ability to act as a natural anti-inflammatory agent, helping to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract and alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
9. Peumus boldus
Peumus boldus teas helps with ulcerative colitis because it contains compounds that have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The tea's active ingredients, including boldine, have been shown to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the gut, which are key factors in the development and progression of ulcerative colitis.
By promoting a healthy gut environment, Peumus boldus teas may help alleviate symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding, offering relief for individuals suffering from this chronic condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Peumus boldus teas that help with ulcerative colitis.
- Boldine: Helps with ulcerative colitis by exerting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the colon.
- Chlorogenic acid: Contributes to the management of ulcerative colitis by inhibiting the growth of gut bacteria that produce inflammatory compounds and by reducing inflammation in the gut lining.
- Lignans: Play a role in alleviating ulcerative colitis symptoms by modulating the gut microbiome, reducing inflammation, and exerting antioxidant effects that protect the gut lining from damage.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Peumus boldus used to make teas for ulcerative colitis.
- Leaves: Leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of boldine, a compound that has anti-inflammatory properties beneficial for ulcerative colitis.
- Barks: Barks are also used to make teas due to their content of boldine and other compounds that help to soothe and protect the gastrointestinal tract.
- Roots: Roots are used in teas as they contain a combination of compounds, including boldine, that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help to manage symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
10. Cinchona officinalis
Cinchona officinalis teas helps with ulcerative colitis because it contains quinine and other alkaloids with anti-inflammatory properties.
These compounds help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with the condition. The tea's flavonoids and terpenoids also exhibit antioxidant activity, protecting the colon from oxidative stress and promoting healing. Additionally, Cinchona officinalis may help regulate the gut microbiome, which is often imbalanced in individuals with ulcerative colitis, further contributing to its potential therapeutic benefits.
This may lead to symptom relief and improved quality of life.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cinchona officinalis teas that help with ulcerative colitis.
- Quinine alkaloid: Quinine alkaloid exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with ulcerative colitis.
- Quinovic acids: Quinovic acids have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which contribute to the reduction of oxidative stress and inflammation in ulcerative colitis.
- Quinic acid: Quinic acid has been reported to have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which may help regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation in the gut, thereby alleviating symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Cinchona officinalis used to make teas for ulcerative colitis.
- Leaves: Used for their anti-inflammatory properties to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
- Barks: Utilized for their alkaloid content, which has been shown to reduce inflammation and modulate the immune system in ulcerative colitis patients.
- Stems: Employed for their anthraquinone content, which has been traditionally used to stimulate bowel movements and alleviate constipation associated with ulcerative colitis.