10 Best Herbal Creams For Ulcerative Colitis

Herbal creams for ulcerative colitis are topical treatments containing plant extracts that help alleviate symptoms of this inflammatory bowel disease.

These creams work by reducing inflammation, soothing the gut, and promoting healing. Examples include aloe vera, chamomile, and calendula creams, which have anti-inflammatory properties.

By applying these creams directly to the affected area, individuals with ulcerative colitis can experience improved digestion, reduced discomfort, and enhanced quality of life, enabling them to manage their condition more effectively.

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

1. Curcuma longa

Curcuma longa, also known as turmeric, creams helps with ulcerative colitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The active compound curcumin in turmeric has been shown to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the gut, which are key contributors to the development of ulcerative colitis.

By inhibiting pro-inflammatory enzymes and promoting the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines, curcumin creams can help to reduce symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and rectal bleeding, improving overall quality of life for those affected by this condition.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa creams 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, alleviating symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
• Demethoxycurcumin: DMC, another polyphenolic compound, has been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, which contribute to the development of ulcerative colitis.
• Volatile oil β-sesquiphellandrene: β-sesquiphellandrene, a sesquiterpene, has been found to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help protect the colon from oxidative damage and inflammation associated with ulcerative colitis.

Parts Used

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

• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are the most used part due to their high concentration of curcumin, a bioactive compound with anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
• Roots: Roots of Curcuma longa are also commonly used for their ability to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the colon, making them a popular ingredient in creams for ulcerative colitis.
• Seeds: Seeds of Curcuma longa contain a high amount of curcumin, which is often extracted and used in creams to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress associated with ulcerative colitis.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Infuse 2 tablespoons of dried curcuma longa root in 1 cup of carrier oil like coconut oil for 2 hours.
2. Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass container.
3. Combine 1/2 cup of the infused oil with 1/4 cup of beeswax and 1/4 cup of shea butter in a double boiler.
4. Whip the mixture with an electric mixer until it thickens and becomes a smooth cream consistency after 5 minutes.
5. Package the cooled curcuma longa cream in airtight containers and store them in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.

2. Zingiber officinale

Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, creams helps with ulcerative colitis because of its anti-inflammatory properties.

The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols, have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which contribute to the inflammation and damage associated with ulcerative colitis.

Additionally, ginger's ability to relax the smooth muscles in the gastrointestinal tract can help to reduce spasms and improve bowel movements, making it a potential natural remedy for managing ulcerative colitis symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Gingerols: These lipophilic compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the colon, a key factor in ulcerative colitis.
• Shogaols: Shogaols have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which can help mitigate the oxidative stress and inflammation associated with ulcerative colitis.
• Terpenoids: Zingerone has been demonstrated to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the colon.

Parts Used

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

• Rhyzomes: They are the most commonly used part of ginger due to their high concentration of active compounds like gingerols and shogaols, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Roots: The roots of ginger contain a significant amount of gingerol, a key compound that helps reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
• Leaves: The leaves of ginger are also used in creams due to their high content of flavonoids, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help soothe ulcerative colitis symptoms.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 50g of fresh zingiber officinale roots at dawn when the plant is in full bloom.
2. Dry the harvested roots in a low-temperature oven at 50°c for 24 hours.
3. Grind 20g of dried zingiber officinale roots into a fine powder using a spice grinder.
4. Combine 10g of the powdered zingiber officinale with 50g of shea butter and 20g of coconut oil.
5. Mix the ingredients in a double boiler at 60°c for 30 minutes until a smooth cream forms.

3. Aloe vera

Aloe vera, also known as aloe, creams helps with ulcerative colitis because it has potent anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and calm the digestive tract.

The gel extracted from the aloe plant contains compounds such as aloin and aloe-emodin, which reduce inflammation and promote healing of the damaged gut lining.

By reducing inflammation and promoting healing, aloe vera creams can help alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis, including abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding, providing relief and comfort to those affected.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Aloe-emodin: Aloe-emodin, a anthraquinone compound, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress associated with ulcerative colitis.
• Glycoproteins: Aloe vera's glycoproteins, particularly acemannan, may help modulate the immune system and promote healing in the gut, reducing symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
• Anthraquinones: The anthraquinones present in Aloe vera may help stimulate the movement of the gut and promote the healing of the intestinal lining, reducing symptoms of diarrhea, abdominal pain, and rectal bleeding associated with ulcerative colitis.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of aloe-emodin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Gel from leaves: A clear gel extracted from the inner part of the leaves, which has soothing and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Aloin from leaves: A compound found in the outer layer of the leaves, which has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Mix 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel with 2 ounces of distilled water in a bowl.
2. Combine 2 teaspoons of shea butter with 2 teaspoons of coconut oil in a separate bowl.
3. Whisk the aloe mixture with a hand mixer for 2 minutes or until smooth and creamy.
4. Gradually add the shea butter mixture to the aloe mixture while continuously whisking for 5 minutes.
5. Pour the final mixture into a glass jar and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

4. Ulmus rubra

Ulmus rubra, also known as slippery elm, creams helps with ulcerative colitis because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

The bark of the Ulmus rubra tree contains mucilages, which form a protective barrier on the intestinal lining, reducing inflammation and irritation. This helps to calm the digestive system and promote healing of the colon, providing relief from the symptoms of ulcerative colitis, such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss.

Regular application of Ulmus rubra creams may help to alleviate these symptoms and improve overall digestive health.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Flavonoids: These plant compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the colon, alleviating symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, which could help reduce inflammation and prevent infections in the colon, contributing to ulcerative colitis management.
• Tannins: Tannins have astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation and protect the mucous membranes in the colon, potentially alleviating symptoms of ulcerative colitis.

Parts Used

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

• Barks: Barks are used due to their high mucilage content, which helps to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the gut.
• Roots: Roots are used due to their high mucilage content and potential anti-inflammatory properties.
• Stems: Stems are used due to their high mucilage content, similar to barks and roots.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 100g of dried ulmus rubra bark and 50g of dried leaves in the early morning to ensure highest potency.
2. Infuse the bark in 500ml of organic carrier oil such as sweet almond oil for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place.
3. Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth into a clean glass container and discard the solids.
4. Add 20g of beeswax to the infused oil and heat the mixture in a double boiler until the beeswax is fully incorporated.
5. Pour the cooled mixture into small tin containers and store in the refrigerator to thicken the cream to desired consistency.

5. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, creams helps with ulcerative colitis because of its anti-inflammatory properties.

The active compound glycyrrhizin reduces inflammation and irritation in the digestive tract, alleviating symptoms such as abdominal pain and diarrhea. Additionally, licorice cream's antimicrobial properties help combat bacterial overgrowth, which can exacerbate the condition.

By promoting healing and reducing inflammation, licorice creams offer relief for individuals suffering from ulcerative colitis, providing a natural approach to managing symptoms and improving quality of life.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Glycyrrhizin: Glycyrrhizin has anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties, which help reduce inflammation and prevent further damage to the colon lining in ulcerative colitis patients.
• Liquiritigenin: Liquiritigenin has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help protect the intestinal lining from oxidative stress and inflammation, a common issue in ulcerative colitis.
• 18-β-glycyrrhetinic acid: 18-β-Glycyrrhetinic acid has anti-inflammatory and protective effects on the gut lining, which can help repair and maintain the integrity of the colon epithelium in ulcerative colitis patients.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: Rich in glycyrrhizin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory properties, which helps to reduce inflammation in ulcerative colitis.
• Leaves: Contain flavonoids, terpenoids, and other compounds that exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory effects, which helps to soothe and calm the gut lining.
• Stems: Contain glycosides, flavonoids, and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which helps to protect the gut mucosa and reduce inflammation.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 50-100 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots and grind them into a fine powder using a spice grinder.
2. Steep the powdered glycyrrhiza glabra in 500 milliliters of distilled water for 30 minutes to 1 hour to create a liquid extract.
3. Combine the liquid extract with 100 grams of beeswax and 100 grams of coconut oil in a double boiler to melt the mixture.
4. Blend the mixture with 50 milliliters of jojoba oil and 20 grams of vitamin e oil to create a smooth cream consistency.
5. Pour the cream mixture into a sterilized container and let it cool and solidify at room temperature for 2-3 hours.

6. Althaea officinalis

Althaea officinalis, also known as marshmallow, creams helps with ulcerative colitis because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

The root of the plant contains mucilages that form a protective barrier on the intestinal lining, reducing inflammation and irritation. This helps to calm the symptoms of ulcerative colitis, such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and rectal bleeding.

By providing a soothing and protective effect, Althaea officinalis creams can help to promote healing and reduce the severity of the condition.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Mucilages: These complex polysaccharides help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the gut, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with ulcerative colitis.
• Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds, particularly isorhapontigenin, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the gut, alleviating symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
• Oligosaccharides: These complex sugars may have prebiotic properties, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, which can help regulate the gut microbiome and reduce inflammation in ulcerative colitis.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: Althaea officinalis roots are used due to their high mucilage content, which helps to soothe and protect the gastrointestinal tract.
• Leaves: Althaea officinalis leaves are used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in reducing inflammation associated with ulcerative colitis.
• Rhyzomes: Althaea officinalis rhyzomes are used for their ability to act as a protective barrier, shielding the affected area from further irritation.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Weigh and combine 50g of dried althaea officinalis roots with 200ml of distilled water in a saucepan.
2. Boil the mixture over medium heat for 10-15 minutes then reduce the heat to low.
3. Steep the mixture for 30-40 minutes then strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a bowl.
4. Combine 50g of beeswax, 50g of shea butter, and 20g of vitamin e oil in a heat-resistant bowl.
5. Melt the mixture in a double boiler over low heat then mix in the althaea officinalis liquid and allow to cool.

7. Arctium lappa

Arctium lappa, also known as burdock, creams helps with ulcerative colitis because of its anti-inflammatory properties.

The roots of the plant contain arctiin, a compound that has been shown to reduce inflammation in the gut and promote healing of the intestinal lining. Additionally, burdock creams may also help to soothe and calm the digestive tract, reducing symptoms such as diarrhea and abdominal pain associated with ulcerative colitis.

This natural remedy may provide relief and improve the quality of life for individuals suffering from this condition.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Arctium lappa creams that help with ulcerative colitis.

• Inulin: Inulin is a type of fructan found in Arctium lappa, which may help reduce inflammation and improve gut health by serving as a prebiotic, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.
• Lignans: Lignans are a type of phenolic compound found in Arctium lappa, which may help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
• Arctiin: Arctiin is a type of lignan found in Arctium lappa, which may help reduce inflammation and improve gut health by inhibiting the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes and promoting the production of anti-inflammatory compounds.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of burdock used to make creams for ulcerative colitis.

• Roots: Rich in inulin, which acts as a prebiotic, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.
• Seeds: Contain a significant amount of inulin, similar to the roots, helping to soothe and heal the gut lining.
• Leaves: May be used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and discomfort associated with ulcerative colitis.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 50g of dried arctium lappa roots from a trusted supplier and sift them through a fine mesh.
2. Combine the sifted arctium lappa roots with 20g of beeswax and 20g of coconut oil in a double boiler.
3. Heat the mixture over low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beeswax has fully melted.
4. Remove the double boiler from heat and let the mixture cool and thicken for 1 hour, then whisk in 10g of shea butter.
5. Pour the cooled mixture into glass jars and store them in a cool dry place for up to 6 months.

8. Calendula officinalis

Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with ulcerative colitis because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

The cream's active compounds, such as triterpenoids and carotenoids, have been shown to reduce inflammation and promote wound healing. This can be beneficial for individuals with ulcerative colitis, as it may help soothe and calm irritated tissues in the digestive tract, reducing symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and rectal bleeding.

The cream's moisturizing properties also aid in healing and protecting the skin.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Triterpenoid saponins: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the colon and alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds have antioxidant properties, which can help protect the colon from oxidative stress and reduce the severity of ulcerative colitis symptoms.
• Flavonoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can 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 pot marigold used to make creams for ulcerative colitis.

• Flowers: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can help soothe and protect the skin.
• Leaves: They contain antioxidants and other compounds that may aid in reducing inflammation and promoting wound healing.
• Stems: The stems of Calendula officinalis may be used for their potential anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help in managing symptoms of ulcerative colitis.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest calendula flowers in the morning when they are fully open and dry them immediately.
2. Steep the dried calendula flowers in a carrier oil such as sweet almond oil for 2 weeks.
3. Strain the infused oil and discard the solids then add a small amount of beeswax.
4. Heat the infused oil and beeswax mixture in a double boiler until the beeswax is fully melted.
5. Pour the melted mixture into a clean glass jar and let it cool and solidify completely.

9. Matricaria chamomilla

Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, creams helps with ulcerative colitis because of its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to soothe the digestive tract.

The cream's active compounds, such as apigenin and luteolin, work to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the colon. Chamomile has also been shown to have a protective effect on the gut lining, reducing symptoms of ulcerative colitis, including abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding.

This natural remedy can provide relief and support for individuals with ulcerative colitis.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla creams that help with ulcerative colitis.

• Apigenin: Apigenin, a flavonoid, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the colon, alleviating symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
• Α-bisabolol: α-Bisabolol, a sesquiterpene alcohol, exhibits anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which can help calm inflammation in the colon and reduce symptoms of ulcerative colitis, such as diarrhea and abdominal pain.
• Furanobenzofuran lignans: Furanobenzofuran lignans, a type of phenolic compound, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help protect the colon from damage and reduce the severity of ulcerative colitis symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make creams for ulcerative colitis.

• Flowers: They are the most commonly used part for creams due to their high content of chamazulene, which has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Seeds: Chamomile seeds contain apigenin, a flavonoid that may help reduce inflammation and soothe the gut, making them a useful addition to creams for ulcerative colitis.
• Leaves: Although less common than flowers, chamomile leaves also contain flavonoids and terpenoids that may help reduce inflammation and promote healing in creams for ulcerative colitis.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest the dried flowers of matricaria chamomilla.
2. Combine the dried flowers with 100 milliliters of carrier oil.
3. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter.
5. Mix the infused oil with beeswax in a ratio of 1 part oil to 2 parts wax.

10. Taraxacum officinale

Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, creams helps with ulcerative colitis because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The cream's active compounds, such as taraxasterol and inulin, have been shown to reduce inflammation in the colon, promoting healing and soothing the digestive tract.

By reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, Taraxacum officinale cream may help alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis, including diarrhea, abdominal pain, and rectal bleeding, providing relief and improving quality of life for those affected.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Flavonoids: These plant compounds help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the gut, which can alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
• Taraxasterol: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the colon and alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
• Taraxol: This triterpenoid saponin has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help protect the gut lining and reduce inflammation in ulcerative colitis.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help in soothing and reducing inflammation in the colon.
• Roots: The roots are used because they contain bioactive compounds like saponins and sesquiterpenes, which have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects that help in managing ulcerative colitis symptoms.
• Flowers: The flowers are used due to their high content of flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the colon.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Infuse 20 grams of dried taraxacum officinale flowers in 100 milliliters of carrier oil for 2 weeks.
2. Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth and discard the solids after 2 weeks.
3. Melt 20 grams of beeswax and 10 milliliters of vitamin e oil in a double boiler.
4. Combine the infused oil with the melted beeswax mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Pour the mixture into a glass container and allow it to cool and solidify at room temperature.

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

The best combination of herbal creams that help with ulcerative colitis is a blend of Aloe vera, Calendula, and Chamomile.

Aloe vera soothes and calms the digestive tract, reducing inflammation. Calendula promotes wound healing and tissue repair, while Chamomile alleviates stress and anxiety, common triggers of flare-ups. Additionally, incorporating Turmeric and Ginger into the cream can further reduce inflammation and promote overall gut health.

This combination of herbs has been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis and promote natural healing.

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

Ailments similar to ulcerative colitis that are treated with herbal creams are inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's disease, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and proctalgia.

Herbal creams containing ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and calendula have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and calm irritated mucous membranes in the digestive tract, reducing symptoms of abdominal pain, diarrhea, and constipation.

These herbal remedies may also promote healing and reduce inflammation in the affected areas.