10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Ulcerative Colitis

Herbal tinctures for ulcerative colitis are concentrated plant extracts that have been used to alleviate symptoms of this chronic inflammatory bowel disease.

These tinctures help by reducing inflammation, soothing the digestive tract, and promoting a healthy balance of gut bacteria. Examples of herbal tinctures that show promise in managing ulcerative colitis include turmeric, ginger, marshmallow root, and slippery elm.

By using these tinctures, individuals with ulcerative colitis can experience reduced symptoms, improved bowel function, and enhanced overall quality of life.

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

1. Curcuma longa

Turmeric tinctures helps with ulcerative colitis because it contains curcumin, a potent anti-inflammatory compound that targets the root causes of the condition.

Curcumin has been shown to reduce inflammation in the gut, which is a hallmark of ulcerative colitis, and promote healing by reducing oxidative stress and improving the balance of beneficial gut bacteria.

By addressing these underlying factors, turmeric tinctures can help alleviate symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and bleeding, offering relief from this chronic and debilitating condition.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Curcuminoids: These polyphenolic compounds have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the colon, thereby alleviating symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
• Demethoxycurcumin: DMC exhibits anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects, which help regulate the immune response and reduce inflammation in the gut, contributing to the management of ulcerative colitis.
• Turmerone: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the colon, while also promoting the healing of damaged tissues and reducing symptoms of ulcerative colitis.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots are also widely used as they contain a significant amount of curcumin and other bioactive compounds that help to reduce inflammation in the colon.
• Leaves: The leaves of Curcuma longa are occasionally used to make tinctures for ulcerative colitis, although their curcumin content is generally lower than that of the rhizome or roots.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 cup of fresh curcuma longa rhizomes for tincture preparation and chop into small pieces weighing approximately 250 grams.
2. Combine chopped rhizomes with 500ml of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar sealing it tightly for 2 weeks.
3. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 weeks allowing the mixture to infuse and separate.
4. Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container discarding the solids.
5. Bottle the tincture in dark glass containers and store it in a cool dark place for 6 months before using.

2. Zingiber officinale

Ginger tinctures helps with ulcerative colitis because it has potent anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe and calm the inflamed digestive tract.

The bioactive compounds in ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols, have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, reducing inflammation and promoting healing in the colon.

Additionally, ginger's natural antispasmodic effects can help alleviate abdominal cramps, diarrhea, and other symptoms associated with ulcerative colitis, providing relief and improving overall digestive health.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Gingerols: These compounds, particularly 6-gingerol, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress associated with ulcerative colitis.
• Shogaols: Shogaols, especially 6-shogaol, have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and pro-apoptotic properties, which may help in reducing inflammation and promoting the death of damaged cells in the colon, potentially alleviating symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
• Zingerone: Zingerone has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the colon, potentially alleviating symptoms of ulcerative colitis.

Parts Used

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

• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of gingerols and shogaols, which possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
• Roots: Roots are often used in tinctures as they contain a significant amount of ginger's bioactive compounds, including gingerols and shogaols, which help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with ulcerative colitis.
• Barks: Barks are occasionally used in tinctures for their secondary metabolites, such as gingerols and shogaols, which possess anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and protect the gastrointestinal tract in cases of ulcerative colitis.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest the fresh zingiber officinale rhizomes in late autumn when the plant's foliage begins to yellow.
2. Clean and peel the harvested rhizomes under cold running water to remove dirt and debris thoroughly.
3. Combine 1 part of the prepared rhizomes with 2 parts of 95% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
4. Store the mixture in a dark place at room temperature for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar daily.
5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids and label the tincture properly.

3. Althaea officinalis

Marshmallow tinctures helps with ulcerative colitis because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

The mucilage extracted from the marshmallow root coats and protects the intestinal lining, reducing inflammation and irritation caused by UC. It also has a calming effect on the gut, reducing symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and bloating.

By nourishing and healing the colon, marshmallow tinctures can help promote a healthy gut microbiome, leading to improved digestion and reduced inflammation in individuals with ulcerative colitis.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Mucilages: These complex carbohydrates help to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the gut, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with ulcerative colitis.
• Althaea polysaccharides: These water-soluble polysaccharides have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to reduce the severity of inflammation in the gut and promote healing.
• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the gut, alleviating symptoms of ulcerative colitis.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots of Althaea officinalis contain mucilages that help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the digestive tract, making them a common choice for ulcerative colitis tinctures.
• Leaves: The leaves of Althaea officinalis contain anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation and irritation in the digestive tract associated with ulcerative colitis.
• Seeds: The seeds of Althaea officinalis are rich in mucilages and other compounds that can help to protect and heal the mucous membranes in the digestive tract, reducing symptoms of ulcerative colitis.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1:8 to 1:10 ratio of dried root material of althaea officinalis by hand or with a tool.
2. Chop 500g of the harvested material into smaller pieces to increase surface area for extraction.
3. Combine the chopped root material with 1:1 ratio of 95% ethanol by volume in a glass container.
4. Steep the mixture for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional agitation.
5. Strain the liquid through a coffee filter or cheesecloth into a clean glass container to remove solids.

4. Ulmus rubra

Slippery elm tinctures helps with ulcerative colitis because of its mucilaginous properties, which soothe and protect the intestinal lining.

The herb's natural demulcent action forms a protective barrier against irritation and inflammation, reducing the severity of symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding. Additionally, slippery elm tinctures may help reduce oxidative stress and promote healing by stimulating the production of mucins, which are essential for maintaining a healthy gut lining.

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

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Phenolic acids: Help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the colon, which can alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
• Flavonoids: Exert anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help protect the intestinal lining and reduce inflammation in the colon.
• Tannins: Have astringent properties that can help reduce inflammation and soothe the mucous membranes in the colon, potentially providing relief from ulcerative colitis symptoms.

Parts Used

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

• Barks: Ulmus rubra barks are used to make tinctures for ulcerative colitis due to their anti-inflammatory properties.
• Leaves: Ulmus rubra leaves are used to make tinctures for ulcerative colitis due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Roots: Ulmus rubra roots are used to make tinctures for ulcerative colitis due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of fresh ulmus rubra bark and 1 part of fresh ulmus rubra leaves from mature trees in late summer.
2. Chop the harvested ulmus rubra into small pieces and place them in a clean glass jar.
3. Cover the chopped ulmus rubra with 3 parts of 80 proof vodka or 35% abv in a clean glass jar.
4. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks with occasional shaking every day.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass bottle and discard the solids.

5. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice tinctures helps with ulcerative colitis because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe the gut lining and reduce inflammation in the colon.

The flavonoids present in licorice root also enhance the production of mucin, a protective substance that shields the gut from irritation and damage.

Additionally, licorice tinctures have been shown to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria in the gut, promoting a healthy balance of microflora and reducing symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and bloating associated with ulcerative colitis.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
• Liquiritin: This phenolic glycoside has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help protect the colon from oxidative stress and inflammation associated with ulcerative colitis.
• Liquorice flavonoids: These flavonoids have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which may help regulate the immune response and reduce inflammation in the colon, potentially alleviating symptoms of ulcerative colitis.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: They contain glycyrrhizin, a triterpenoid saponin with anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which helps alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
• Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, contributing to the treatment of ulcerative colitis.
• Barks: They contain a combination of saponins and flavonoids, which work synergistically to reduce inflammation, promote healing, and alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 25 grams of glycyrrhiza glabra roots and clean them thoroughly with water to remove dirt.
2. Chop the cleaned roots into small pieces and place them in a clean glass jar to prepare for maceration.
3. Fill the jar with 50% glycerin and 50% 80% ethanol mixture in a ratio of 1:2 to achieve a final tincture strength.
4. Allow the mixture to steep in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks to facilitate extraction of active compounds.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve and discard the solids to obtain the final tincture.

6. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion tinctures helps with ulcerative colitis because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce inflammation in the digestive tract and alleviate symptoms such as abdominal pain and diarrhea.

The herb's prebiotic properties also help promote a healthy gut microbiome, which is essential for maintaining a balanced immune system and reducing the severity of inflammatory bowel disease.

Additionally, dandelion tinctures may help to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the colon, further reducing symptoms and discomfort associated with ulcerative colitis.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Inulin: Inulin has prebiotic properties, which can promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, improving the gut microbiome and potentially alleviating symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
• Taraxasterol: Taraxasterol is a triterpenoid saponin with anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the colon, contributing to the management of ulcerative colitis.
• Taraxasterol acetate: Taraxasterol acetate, another triterpenoid saponin, has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which may help mitigate the inflammatory response and oxidative stress associated with ulcerative colitis.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: Used due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and irritation in the digestive tract associated with ulcerative colitis.
• Roots: Used because of their ability to inhibit inflammation and oxidative stress, potentially reducing symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
• Flowers: Utilized for their potential to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the gut, which can be beneficial for individuals with ulcerative colitis.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 to 2 pounds of fresh or dried roots and leaves of taraxacum officinale in late spring.
2. Chop the harvested taraxacum officinale into small pieces and add 2 cups of 80 proof vodka.
3. Transfer the chopped taraxacum officinale mixture to a clean glass jar with a lid and seal it tightly.
4. Place the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks to allow the tincture to steep.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.

7. Carthamus tinctorius

Safflower tinctures helps with ulcerative colitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.

The tannins and flavonoids present in safflower help to soothe and calm irritated tissues, alleviating symptoms such as abdominal pain, cramping, and diarrhea.

Additionally, safflower's ability to improve blood flow to the colon may also help to promote healing and reduce the risk of complications associated with ulcerative colitis.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Carthamus tinctorius tinctures that help with ulcerative colitis.

• Saffloric acid: This phenolic acid compound has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
• Carthamine: This flavonoid glycoside has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help protect the colon from oxidative stress and inflammation associated with ulcerative colitis.
• Carotenoids: These antioxidant compounds can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the colon, alleviating symptoms of ulcerative colitis.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of safflower used to make tinctures for ulcerative colitis.

• Flowers: Safflower flowers are rich in anti-inflammatory compounds, which help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
• Seeds: Safflower seeds contain a high amount of omega-6 fatty acids, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and help manage symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
• Roots: Safflower roots are a good source of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and protect the digestive tract in ulcerative colitis.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest carthamus tinctorius flowers and leaves in the morning after the dew has dried for best quality.
2. Chop 50 grams of fresh carthamus tinctorius flowers and leaves into small pieces for maximum extraction.
3. Steep the chopped carthamus tinctorius in 500 milliliters of 40% ethanol for 14 days in a dark glass container.
4. Strain the carthamus tinctorius tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle after steeping is complete.
5. Store the tincture in a cool dark place for at least 30 days before using it to allow the flavors to mature.

8. Matricaria chamomilla

Chamomile tinctures helps with ulcerative colitis because it offers a natural approach to managing symptoms.

The anti-inflammatory properties of chamomile work to soothe and calm irritated digestive tissues, reducing inflammation and pain associated with the condition. Additionally, chamomile's antioxidant capabilities help protect against oxidative stress and promote healing in the colon, which can lead to improved bowel habits and reduced severity of symptoms.

By addressing the underlying causes of ulcerative colitis, herbal chamomile tinctures provide a holistic approach to achieving relief from this debilitating condition.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Apigenin: This flavonoid is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress associated with ulcerative colitis.
• Luteolin: This flavonoid has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, potentially helping to regulate the immune response and reduce symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
• Α-bisabolol: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which may help calm the gut mucosa and reduce inflammation in the colon.

Parts Used

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

• Flowers: They contain apigenin and luteolin, flavonoids that may help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
• Leaves: They possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can contribute to soothing the digestive tract and reducing inflammation.
• Stems: They contain flavonoids and terpenoids that may help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the digestive tract, alleviating symptoms of ulcerative colitis.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 25 grams of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers and place them in a clean glass jar.
2. Combine the dried flowers with 50 percent vodka and 50 percent distilled water in a ratio of 1:2.
3. Seal the jar and let it steep in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.
5. Discard the solids and store the tincture in a cool dark place for at least 6 weeks before use.

9. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint tinctures helps with ulcerative colitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.

The menthol in peppermint oil relaxes the muscles in the colon, reducing spasms and cramping associated with IBS-C symptoms. Additionally, peppermint's natural soothing effects help to calm inflammation in the digestive tract, alleviating symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea.

By promoting relaxation and reducing inflammation, herbal peppermint tinctures provide a holistic approach to managing ulcerative colitis symptoms, offering relief from discomfort and improving overall quality of life.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
• Menthol: A terpene that has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help soothe the gut and reduce the growth of harmful bacteria associated with ulcerative colitis.
• Caryophyllene: A sesquiterpene that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the gut, contributing to the management of ulcerative colitis.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: Peppermint leaves are the most commonly used part for making tinctures due to their high concentration of menthol and menthone, which have anti-inflammatory properties beneficial for ulcerative colitis.
• Roots: Peppermint roots are also used due to their ability to stimulate digestion and alleviate nausea, which are common symptoms associated with ulcerative colitis.
• Stems: Peppermint stems are used as they are rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which can help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the digestive tract.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 25-30 grams of fresh or dried mentha x piperita leaves in the morning after dew has evaporated.
2. Chop the leaves into small pieces using a sharp blade or tool to increase surface area.
3. Combine the chopped leaves with 50-60% vodka or glycerin in a clean glass jar to create a 1:3 ratio.
4. Store the jar in a cool dark place and shake it every few days for 2-3 weeks to facilitate extraction.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.

10. Foeniculum vulgare

Fennel tinctures helps with ulcerative colitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

The bioactive compounds present in fennel, such as anethole and limonene, have been shown to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with the condition. These compounds work by suppressing pro-inflammatory molecules, improving gut motility, and enhancing the integrity of the colonic mucosa.

Additionally, fennel's antimicrobial properties help combat harmful bacteria in the gut, promoting a balanced microbiome and further contributing to its therapeutic benefits for ulcerative colitis patients.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare tinctures that help with ulcerative colitis.

• Anethole: Anethole, a phenolic monoterpene, has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the colon, a common symptom of ulcerative colitis.
• Foeniculin: Foeniculin, a sesquiterpene, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities that can protect the colon from oxidative damage and promote healing in ulcerative colitis.
• Cumarins: Cumarins, a class of phenolic compounds, have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects that can help regulate the immune response and reduce inflammation in the colon, alleviating symptoms of ulcerative colitis.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make tinctures for ulcerative colitis.

• Seeds: They are used due to their high content of volatile oils, specifically anethole, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
• Leaves: The leaves are utilized for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the digestive tract.
• Roots: The roots are used because they contain a range of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help manage ulcerative colitis.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest foeniculum vulgare leaves and stems when the plant is in full bloom.
2. Dry the harvested plant material in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit.
3. Chop the dried plant material into small pieces to increase its surface area for infusion.
4. Steep 1 part of the chopped plant material in 2 parts of high-proof vodka or ethanol for 2 to 6 weeks.
5. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.

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

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with ulcerative colitis is a blend of triphala, marshmallow root, and licorice root.

Triphala, a traditional Ayurvedic formula, promotes digestive health and reduces inflammation. Marshmallow root soothes and protects the intestinal lining, while licorice root helps to calm inflammation and reduce symptoms. This combination may also be enhanced with dandelion root to support liver health and reduce oxidative stress.

However, consult a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedies.

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

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

Herbal tinctures such as peppermint, ginger, and turmeric have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and alleviating symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal pain, and bloating.

These natural remedies can be used in conjunction with conventional treatments to provide relief from chronic digestive issues.