10 Best Herbal Capsules For Ulcerative Colitis

Herbal capsules for ulcerative colitis are a natural remedy that utilizes plant-based extracts to alleviate symptoms and manage the disease.

These capsules contain herbs such as turmeric, ginger, and slippery elm, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the colon and alleviate abdominal pain, diarrhea, and bloody stools associated with ulcerative colitis. For example, curcumin-rich turmeric capsules have been shown to significantly improve symptoms and quality of life in patients with active ulcerative colitis.

By providing relief from symptoms, herbal capsules can improve overall well-being and enable individuals to live more normal lives despite their condition.

The following article describes in detail the most important capsules for ulcerative colitis, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Curcuma longa

Turmeric capsules helps with ulcerative colitis because they contain curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound that targets the root causes of the disease.

Curcumin has been shown to reduce inflammation in the colon, alleviate symptoms such as abdominal pain and diarrhea, and even induce remission in some cases.

Additionally, curcumin's antioxidant properties help protect against oxidative stress and tissue damage, promoting healing and reducing scarring in the digestive tract.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa capsules that help with ulcerative colitis.

• Curcumin: Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the colon, thereby alleviating symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
• Demethoxycurcumin: DMC, another polyphenolic compound in Curcuma longa, inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are molecules that promote inflammation, and helps to reduce the severity of ulcerative colitis symptoms.
• Beta-sitosterol: Beta-sitosterol, a phytosterol, has anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which help regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation in the colon, thereby providing relief from ulcerative colitis symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make capsules for ulcerative colitis.

• Rhyzomes: Used due to their high curcumin content, a bioactive compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
• Roots: Utilized for their rich source of curcuminoids, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the digestive tract.
• Leaves: Employed for their volatile oil content, including beta-pinene and limonene, which possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help soothe ulcerative colitis symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for ulcerative colitis.

1. Dry curcuma longa roots in a low-temperature oven at 150°f for 2 hours to preserve their properties.
2. Grind 1 gram of dried curcuma longa roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
3. Mix the ground curcuma longa powder with 1 gram of gelatin and 1 tablespoon of water.
4. Fill empty gelatin capsules with the curcuma longa mixture using a small spoon.
5. Store the herbal curcuma longa capsules in an airtight container in a cool dark place.

2. Ulmus rubra

Slippery elm capsules helps with ulcerative colitis because they soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the colon, reducing inflammation and discomfort.

The mucilage present in slippery elm acts as a natural barrier, shielding the gut lining from irritants and toxins that can exacerbate symptoms of UC. Additionally, slippery elm's anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce swelling and irritation, allowing for improved digestion and nutrient absorption.

This natural remedy provides relief from ulcerative colitis symptoms, promoting overall gut health and well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ulmus rubra capsules that help with ulcerative colitis.

• Triterpenoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with ulcerative colitis.
• Flavonoids: Specifically, quercetin, a flavonoid found in Ulmus rubra, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the colon, a common issue in ulcerative colitis.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds, including ellagic acid and gallic acid, have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help protect the gut lining and reduce inflammation in ulcerative colitis.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of slippery elm used to make capsules for ulcerative colitis.

• Barks: Barks are used to make capsules for ulcerative colitis due to their anti-inflammatory properties.
• Leaves: Leaves are used to make capsules for ulcerative colitis due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Roots: Roots are used to make capsules for ulcerative colitis due to their potential to reduce inflammation and improve gut health.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic slippery elm for ulcerative colitis.

1. Harvest 25g of dried ulmus rubra bark from mature trees at the end of summer season.
2. Dry the harvested material at 40c for 2 hours to remove excess moisture completely.
3. Grind the dried material into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 30 minutes.
4. Mix 1g of the ground powder with 20g of gelatin and 20g of glycerin in a clean bowl.
5. Fill the mixture into empty gelatin capsules and store them in an airtight container immediately.

3. Althaea officinalis

Marshmallow capsules helps with ulcerative colitis because they contain mucilages, which are natural soothers that coat and protect the inflamed colon lining.

These capsules reduce inflammation and irritation by forming a protective barrier against irritants and toxins, allowing the gut to heal naturally.

Additionally, marshmallow's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, promoting a healthy gut microbiome and alleviating symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and bloating associated with ulcerative colitis.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis capsules that help with ulcerative colitis.

• Mucilages: Mucilages in Althaea officinalis have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and protect the inflamed mucous membranes in the colon, reducing symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
• Flavonoids: Quercetin, a flavonoid in Althaea officinalis, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the colon, which are key contributors to ulcerative colitis.
• Phenolic acids: Caffeic acid, a phenolic acid in Althaea officinalis, exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory mediators and protect against cellular damage in the colon, thereby alleviating symptoms of ulcerative colitis.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make capsules for ulcerative colitis.

• Roots: The root is the most commonly used part of Althaea officinalis for making capsules for ulcerative colitis due to its high mucilage content.
• Leaves: The leaves are used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe and protect the digestive tract in ulcerative colitis.
• Stems: The stems of Althaea officinalis are used for their mucilaginous properties, which help to coat and protect the gastrointestinal tract in ulcerative colitis.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for ulcerative colitis.

1. Harvest 100g of althaea officinalis roots in the morning after the dew has dried.
2. Clean the roots by gently scrubbing them with a soft-bristled brush under cold running water.
3. Dry the cleaned roots in a low-temperature oven at 60c for 2 hours.
4. Grind the dried roots into a fine powder using a high-speed grinder.
5. Fill 100 empty gelatin capsules with 200mg of the powdered root material each.

4. Aloe vera

Aloe capsules helps with ulcerative colitis because they promote digestive health by soothing and repairing the lining of the colon, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.

The anti-inflammatory compounds in aloe vera, such as aloin and aloe-emodin, have been shown to decrease prostaglandins, which are hormones that cause pain and inflammation in the gut.

Additionally, aloe capsules can help restore the balance of beneficial gut bacteria, improving digestion and reducing symptoms associated with ulcerative colitis, including diarrhea, abdominal pain, and bloody stools.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera capsules that help with ulcerative colitis.

• Aloin: Aloein's anti-inflammatory and laxative properties can help to reduce inflammation and promote bowel movements, potentially alleviating symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
• Aloe-emodin: Aloe-emodin has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the colon, potentially leading to improved symptoms in individuals with ulcerative colitis.
• Aloinic acid: Aloinic acid has been found to inhibit the growth of certain bacteria in the gut, which may help to reduce the severity of ulcerative colitis by mitigating the effects of gut dysbiosis.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make capsules for ulcerative colitis.

• Leaves: Rich in anti-inflammatory compounds, such as aloe-emodin, which helps to reduce inflammation and soothe the gut lining in ulcerative colitis.
• Gel (derived from leaves): Contains a high concentration of mucilages, which helps to protect and heal the gut lining, reducing inflammation and symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
• Aloe juice (derived from leaves): Has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which help to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis, such as diarrhea and abdominal pain.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for ulcerative colitis.

1. Harvest 10-15 aloe vera leaves with thick fleshy parts to ensure sufficient gel extraction.
2. Cut off the aloe vera leaves' spines with a sharp knife or kitchen shears.
3. Peel the leaves' outer skin to expose the transparent gel inside the leaf's fleshy part.
4. Extract the aloe vera gel using a blender or food processor for 2-3 minutes.
5. Fill gel-filled capsules using a capsule machine or spoon with a 500mg dosage per capsule.

5. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice capsules helps with ulcerative colitis because they contain glycyrrhizin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory properties.

This natural ingredient reduces inflammation in the colon, which is a primary symptom of ulcerative colitis. The anti-inflammatory effects also help to heal damaged mucous membranes and reduce bowel symptoms such as diarrhea and abdominal pain. Additionally, licorice root has been shown to stimulate the production of mucus in the digestive tract, protecting it from further irritation and damage.

As a result, licorice capsules can provide relief for individuals with ulcerative colitis, improving their overall quality of life.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra capsules that help with ulcerative colitis.

• Licorice glycosides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the gut, alleviating symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
• Flavonoids: These flavonoids possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities that help protect the gut mucosa from damage, reduce inflammation, and promote healing in ulcerative colitis.
• Terpenoids: These terpenoids have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects that help reduce inflammation, prevent the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and promote a healthy gut microbiome in ulcerative colitis.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make capsules for ulcerative colitis.

• Roots: They are used due to their high content of glycyrrhizin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties.
• Leaves: They are used for their flavonoids and saponins, which exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
• Barks: They are used due to their triterpenoid saponins, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for ulcerative colitis.

1. Harvest glycyrrhiza glabra roots in late summer when the plant is in full maturity stage.
2. Clean and dry the harvested roots in a warm air circulation oven at 50°c for 3 days.
3. Grind the dried roots into a fine powder using a high-speed grinder.
4. Mix the powdered roots with a binding agent like gelatin or starch in a 1:5 ratio to create a uniform mixture.
5. Fill the mixture into empty gelatin capsules in size 0 using a capsule filling machine.

6. Operculina turpethum

Turpeth capsules helps with ulcerative colitis because they contain a natural anti-inflammatory compound that soothes the gut lining, reducing inflammation and irritation.

The herbs in the capsule, such as Turpeth root, also help to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, allowing for easier passage of stool and alleviating symptoms like abdominal pain and cramping.

Additionally, Turpeth capsules promote healing by increasing blood flow to the colon, which helps to repair damaged tissue and promote a healthy gut microbiome.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Operculina turpethum capsules that help with ulcerative colitis.

• Turpethine: Turpethine, an alkaloid found in Operculina turpethum, is believed to help with ulcerative colitis by reducing inflammation and promoting bowel movements due to its laxative properties.
• Steroids: Steroids, such as sitosterol and stigmasterol, found in Operculina turpethum, may help with ulcerative colitis by reducing inflammation and modulating the immune system.
• Saponins: Saponins, a type of glycoside found in Operculina turpethum, may help with ulcerative colitis by reducing inflammation, modulating the immune system, and promoting the healing of the gut lining.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of turpeth used to make capsules for ulcerative colitis.

• Roots: They are used due to their potential anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
• Seeds: They are used because they contain turpethin, a compound that has been traditionally used to treat digestive issues, including ulcerative colitis.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turpeth for ulcerative colitis.

1. Dry the chopped roots of operculina turpethum in a clean and dry environment for 2 days to prevent moisture.
2. Grind the dried roots into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 10 minutes.
3. Mix the powdered roots with a binding agent like gum acacia in a 1:1 ratio by weight.
4. Fill a capsule mold with the powdered root mixture using a small spoon for 5 minutes.
5. Store the herbal capsules in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight for 2 months.

7. Zingiber officinale

Ginger capsules helps with ulcerative colitis because they contain a powerful anti-inflammatory compound called gingerol, which has been shown to reduce inflammation in the colon.

This can help alleviate symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and bloody stools that are characteristic of the condition.

Additionally, ginger's ability to stimulate digestive enzymes and improve gut motility can also aid in reducing symptoms and promoting healing in the affected areas.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale capsules that help with ulcerative colitis.

• Gingerols: Gingerols, specifically 6-gingerol and 8-gingerol, have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the colon and alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
• Shogaols: Shogaols, particularly 6-shogaol, have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help protect the gut lining from damage and reduce oxidative stress associated with ulcerative colitis.
• Zingerone: Zingerone, a compound derived from ginger, has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help mitigate the symptoms of ulcerative colitis by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the colon.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make capsules for ulcerative colitis.

• Roots: Roots of Zingiber officinale are used for their bioactive compounds like gingerols, which help in reducing inflammation and pain associated with ulcerative colitis.
• Stems: Stems of the plant are sometimes used, but their exact mechanisms in treating ulcerative colitis are less documented than rhizomes and roots.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for ulcerative colitis.

1. Harvest 10-20 dried zingiber officinale roots and store them in an airtight container for later use.
2. Grind 5 grams of the dried roots into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 5 minutes.
3. Mix 250 milligrams of the powdered root with 250 milligrams of a natural filler agent such as rice flour.
4. Use a capsule filler machine to fill 100 empty gelatin capsules with the root-filler mixture in 30 minutes.
5. Store the filled capsules in a cool dark place for up to 2 years in an airtight container.

8. Trigonella foenum graecum

Fenugreek capsules helps with ulcerative colitis because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce inflammation in the colon and alleviate symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and cramping.

The capsules also contain mucilages that soothe and protect the lining of the colon, preventing further damage from occurring.

Additionally, fenugreek has been shown to increase the production of mucus, which helps to heal and repair damaged tissue in the colon, promoting a faster recovery for individuals with ulcerative colitis.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Trigonella foenum graecum capsules that help with ulcerative colitis.

• Saponins: These compounds may help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
• Terpenoids: Terpenoids found in Trigonella foenum graecum may exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which could help soothe the gut lining and reduce inflammation associated with ulcerative colitis.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, particularly ferulic acid, may possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which could help protect the gut from oxidative stress and inflammation caused by ulcerative colitis.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of fenugreek used to make capsules for ulcerative colitis.

• Seeds: The seeds of Trigonella foenum-graecum are used to make capsules for ulcerative colitis due to their high concentration of saponins, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Leaves: The leaves of Trigonella foenum-graecum are used to make capsules for ulcerative colitis due to their high levels of flavonoids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Seeds: The seeds of Trigonella foenum-graecum are also used to make capsules for ulcerative colitis due to their high content of isoflavones, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and improve symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fenugreek for ulcerative colitis.

1. Harvest 50 grams of dried trigonella foenum graecum leaves and flowers with a sharp tool under good lighting.
2. Grind the 50 grams of dried herbal material into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 10 minutes.
3. Mix 2 grams of silica gel with the fine powder and stir well to facilitate capsule formation for 5 minutes.
4. Use an encapsulation machine to fill 200 empty gelatin capsules with the powder mixture in 30 minutes.
5. Label and store the 200 herbal capsules in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 years.

9. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint capsules helps with ulcerative colitis because they soothe and calm the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and spasms in the colon.

The menthol in peppermint relaxes the muscles in the gut, allowing for a more regular bowel movement and reducing symptoms such as diarrhea and abdominal pain.

Additionally, peppermint's anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce swelling and irritation in the intestine, providing relief from discomfort and promoting overall digestive health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita capsules that help with ulcerative colitis.

• Rosmarinic acid: A polyphenolic compound that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the colon associated with ulcerative colitis.
• Menthol: A terpene that has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which may help reduce inflammation and prevent infections in the colon, thereby alleviating symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
• Luteolin: A flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the colon, thereby alleviating symptoms of ulcerative colitis.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make capsules for ulcerative colitis.

• Leaves: Used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the colon.
• Roots: Employed for their antioxidant properties, which can help protect the colon from oxidative stress and damage.
• Stems: Utilized for their antimicrobial properties, which can help combat bacterial overgrowth in the gut often associated with ulcerative colitis.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for ulcerative colitis.

1. Harvest 250 grams of fresh mentha x piperita leaves from a pesticide-free area.
2. Dry the harvested leaves in a low-temperature oven at 50 degrees celsius for 2 hours.
3. Grind the dried leaves into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
4. Mix 30 grams of the powdered leaves with 60 grams of vegetable cellulose in a bowl.
5. Fill empty gelatin capsules with the mixture and seal the capsules using a capsule filling machine.

10. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion capsules helps with ulcerative colitis because they contain potent anti-inflammatory compounds that soothe and heal the digestive tract.

The plant's bitter compounds, such as taraxasterol and taraxanthin, have been shown to reduce inflammation in the colon, which can help alleviate symptoms of UC, including abdominal pain, diarrhea, and bloating.

Additionally, dandelion root has been found to have antimicrobial properties, which may help combat harmful bacteria that contribute to the development of ulcerative colitis.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale capsules that help with ulcerative colitis.

• Taraxasterol: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
• Luteolin: This flavonoid phenolic compound has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the gut, thereby alleviating symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
• Taraxasterol acetate: This triterpenoid saponin has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help regulate the immune response and reduce inflammation in the gut, providing relief from ulcerative colitis symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make capsules for ulcerative colitis.

• Leaves: Used due to their high content of flavonoids, which may help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
• Roots: Utilized for their prebiotic properties, which can help regulate gut bacteria and promote a healthy gut microbiome.
• Seeds: Employed for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help soothe and protect the colon lining.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for ulcerative colitis.

1. Harvest 250g of dried taraxacum officinale roots and leaves on a sunny morning after the dew has evaporated.
2. Clean and dry the harvested taraxacum officinale thoroughly to prevent contamination and moisture content.
3. Grind the dried taraxacum officinale into a fine powder using a coffee grinder at 10 minutes.
4. Mix 1g of the taraxacum officinale powder with 2g of gelatin and 1g of water to create a uniform blend at 5 minutes.
5. Fill 10 empty gelatin capsules with the taraxacum officinale blend and seal them immediately to preserve freshness.

What is the best combination of herbal capsules to use for ulcerative colitis?

The best combination of herbal capsules that help with ulcerative colitis is Turmeric/Curcumin, Boswellia, and Slippery Elm.

Turmeric/Curcumin contains curcumin, a potent anti-inflammatory that reduces inflammation and promotes healing. Boswellia, also known as frankincense, helps to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms.

Slippery Elm soothes the gut lining, reducing inflammation and promoting healing. This combination works synergistically to reduce symptoms, promote healing, and improve quality of life for those with ulcerative colitis.

Consult a healthcare professional before adding any supplements to your regimen.

What ailments similar to ulcerative colitis are treated with herbal capsules?

Ailments similar to ulcerative colitis that are treated with herbal capsules are Crohn's disease, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and diverticulitis.

Herbal supplements like Turmeric/Curcumin, Ginger, Slippery Elm, Marshmallow Root, and Aloe Vera have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe inflammation in the digestive tract, reducing symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and constipation.

These herbal capsules can also promote healing and prevent further damage to the gut lining.