Updated: Nov 30, 2024
10 Herbal Tinctures For Ulcerative Colitis
If you're living with ulcerative colitis, you might be looking for ways to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Herbal tinctures can be a helpful addition to your treatment plan. These are concentrated extracts of herbs that are made by soaking the plant material in a solvent, like alcohol or glycerin. The herbs I want to talk about are Curcuma longa, also known as turmeric, Ulmus rubra, also known as slippery elm, and Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice root. Curcuma longa contains a powerful compound called curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory properties. This means it can help reduce swelling in the digestive tract and alleviate symptoms like abdominal pain and diarrhea. Ulmus rubra is a natural demulcent, which helps soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the digestive tract. This can help reduce inflammation and irritation, making it easier to manage your symptoms.
Glycyrrhiza glabra has anti-inflammatory properties as well, and it's also known for its ability to reduce stomach acid and promote healing in the digestive tract. Using herbal tinctures can be beneficial for several reasons. For one, they're often more gentle on the body than pharmaceutical medications, which can have harsh side effects. Additionally, herbal tinctures can be more effective in managing chronic symptoms, as they work to address the underlying causes of the condition rather than just treating the symptoms. By incorporating herbal tinctures into your treatment plan, you may find that you're able to reduce your reliance on pharmaceutical medications and improve your overall well-being. To use herbal tinctures, you can add a few drops to water or take them sublingually (under the tongue). It's always a good idea to talk to a healthcare professional before adding any new supplements to your routine.
They can help you determine the best course of treatment and ensure that the herbal tinctures won't interact with any medications you're already taking.
This article explains in detail what are the best herbal teas for ulcerative colitis and wh.
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Table of Contents
1. Curcuma longa
Curcuma longa tinctures contains a high concentration of curcuminoids, including curcumin, demethoxycurcumin, and bisdemethoxycurcumin.
These compounds have potent anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract and alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis. Curcumin, in particular, has been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, such as COX-2 and TNF-alpha, which contribute to the development of inflammation. The bioactive constituents in Curcuma longa tinctures also have antioxidant properties, which help to protect the intestinal lining from oxidative damage and promote healing.
By reducing inflammation and promoting healing, Curcuma longa tinctures may help to manage symptoms and improve quality of life for individuals with ulcerative colitis.
- Gather 1 cup of Curcuma longa roots, 2 cups of 80% vodka, and a clean glass jar.
- Chop the Curcuma longa roots into small pieces and add them to the glass jar.
- Pour 2 cups of 80% vodka over the chopped Curcuma longa roots, making sure all roots are covered.
- Close the jar and store it in a cool, dark place for 2 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
- After 2 weeks, strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass jar, discarding the solids.
2. Ulmus rubra
Ulmus rubra tinctures contains a combination of flavonoids, terpenoids, and phenolic acids, which are responsible for its medicinal properties.
The flavonoids, including quercetin and kaempferol, have anti-inflammatory effects that can help reduce inflammation in the colon. The terpenoids, such as ursolic acid and oleanolic acid, have antioxidant properties that can protect against oxidative stress and damage to the colon lining. The phenolic acids, including gallic acid and ellagic acid, have antimicrobial properties that can help reduce the growth of harmful bacteria in the gut.
By reducing inflammation and protecting against oxidative stress and microbial overgrowth, Ulmus rubra tinctures may help alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
- Gather 1 cup of fresh Ulmus rubra leaves, flowers, and small branches.
- Combine the gathered Ulmus rubra with 2 cups of 95% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another glass jar, discarding the solids.
- Store the final tincture in a dark glass bottle, labeled and dated, in the refrigerator.
3. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures contains the bioactive constituents glycyrrhizin and flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.
The anti-inflammatory effects of these compounds can help alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis, such as abdominal pain and bloody stools. Glycyrrhizin also has a protective effect on the gut lining, preventing damage and promoting healing of the damaged tissue. Flavonoids, on the other hand, have antioxidant properties that neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, which can contribute to the development of ulcerative colitis.
By reducing inflammation and promoting healing, Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures may help manage symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
- Gather 1 cup of dried Glycyrrhiza glabra root, 2 cups of vodka (95% or higher), and a clean glass jar.
- Combine the dried root and vodka in the glass jar. Make sure the root is fully covered by the vodka.
- Close the jar and shake it well for 10 seconds. Store the jar in a dark place and shake it every day for 2 weeks.
- After 2 weeks, strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar. Discard the solids.
- Store the tincture in the dark glass jar and take 10-20 drops, 3 times a day, under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
4. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale tinctures contains a compound called gingerol, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.
The other active constituents, such as shogaol and paradol, have a similar effect, making it easier to manage ulcerative colitis symptoms. These compounds help prevent the formation of prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that cause pain and inflammation in the digestive tract. Zingiber officinale tinctures also contain antioxidants like gingerol and shogaol, which help protect the digestive tract from damage and promote healing.
By reducing inflammation and protecting the digestive tract, Zingiber officinale tinctures can help alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
- Gather 250ml of 80% vodka and 1 cup of fresh Zingiber officinale root.
- Chop the Zingiber officinale root into small pieces and place it in a clean glass jar.
- Pour 250ml of 80% vodka over the chopped Zingiber officinale root and make sure the root is completely covered.
- Seal the jar and let it sit in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
- After 2-3 weeks, strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass bottle and discard the root.
5. Aloe barbadensis
Aloe barbadensis tinctures contains aloin, barbaloin, and aloe-emodin, which are powerful anti-inflammatory compounds.
These bioactive constituents help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, a common symptom of ulcerative colitis. The anthraquinones, including aloin and aloe-emodin, have been shown to inhibit the growth of inflammatory cells and reduce oxidative stress, which can damage the lining of the colon. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of Aloe barbadensis tinctures may help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the colon, reducing symptoms of ulcerative colitis such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and rectal bleeding.
By reducing inflammation and promoting the healing of the colon lining, Aloe barbadensis tinctures can help alleviate the symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
- Gather 1 cup of Aloe barbadensis leaves and 2 cups of 80% vodka in clean glass jars.
- Chop the Aloe leaves finely and pack them tightly into a clean glass jar, leaving 1 inch of space.
- Pour 2 cups of 80% vodka over the Aloe leaves, making sure they are completely covered.
- Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar daily.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar, discarding the solids.
6. Althaea officinalis
Althaea officinalis tinctures contains mucilages, mainly consisting of polysaccharides and flavonoids like 2,3,7-trihydroxy-4'-methoxyflavone and 2,3,7-trihydroxy-4'-hydroxy-5'-methoxyflavone.
These compounds contribute to its soothing and protective properties, which can help reduce inflammation and irritation in the digestive tract. The mucilages in Althaea officinalis tinctures form a protective barrier on the surface of the mucous membranes, shielding them from further damage and promoting healing. Additionally, the flavonoids present in the tincture have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis, such as pain, diarrhea, and bleeding.
By reducing inflammation and promoting healing, Althaea officinalis tinctures can help manage ulcerative colitis symptoms and support the body's natural healing processes.
- Gather 1 cup of dried Althaea officinalis root, 2 cups of 80-proof vodka, and a clean glass jar.
- Combine the dried root and vodka in the glass jar. Stir well to coat the root.
- Seal the jar and let it sit in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar daily.
- After 2-3 weeks, strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar. Discard the solids.
- Label the jar with the date and the name of the tincture. Store it in a cool, dark place. Use 20-30 drops, 2-3 times a day, as needed for ulcerative colitis symptoms.
7. Foeniculum vulgare
Foeniculum vulgare tinctures contains a compound called limonene, which is an anti-inflammatory.
This compound helps to reduce swelling and pain in the digestive tract, a common issue for people with ulcerative colitis. The tincture also contains fenchone, a volatile oil that has antimicrobial properties, which helps to fight off infections that can exacerbate the condition. Foeniculum vulgare tinctures have a soothing effect on the gut, reducing inflammation and promoting healing of the intestinal lining.
The anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of limonene and fenchone in Foeniculum vulgare tinctures make it a potential natural remedy for ulcerative colitis.
- Gather 1 cup of Foeniculum vulgare roots and leaves, and 2 cups of 80% vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Combine the Foeniculum vulgare roots and leaves with the vodka in the jar, making sure they are completely covered.
- Seal the jar and store it in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking it every day.
- After 2-3 weeks, strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar, discarding the solids.
- Store the Foeniculum vulgare tincture in the jar and use 20-30 drops, 2-3 times a day, as needed, mixed with water or taken directly.
8. Terminalia chebula
Terminalia chebula tinctures contains a high concentration of bioactive constituents, including chebulinic acid, chebulagic acid, and corosolic acid.
These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the colon, which is a common symptom of ulcerative colitis. The tannins in Terminalia chebula also have a protective effect on the gut lining, preventing damage from oxidative stress and promoting healing. Additionally, the antioxidants in the tincture help neutralize free radicals that can exacerbate inflammation and worsen symptoms.
By reducing inflammation and promoting healing in the colon, Terminalia chebula tinctures can provide relief from the symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
- Gather 1 cup of dried Terminalia chebula and 2 cups of 80% ethanol in a clean glass container.
- Combine the dried Terminalia chebula and ethanol in the container. Make sure the herb is completely covered by the liquid.
- Seal the container and store it in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks. Shake the container every day to help the herb extract.
- After 2-3 weeks, strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container. Discard the solids.
- Transfer the tincture to small glass bottles and store them in a cool, dark place. Use 20-30 drops of the tincture in water 2-3 times a day to help manage ulcerative colitis symptoms.
9. Boswellia serrata
Boswellia serrata tinctures contains boswellic acids, including acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid (AKBA) and 11-keto-beta-boswellic acid (KBA), which have anti-inflammatory properties.
These compounds work by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, such as 5-lipoxygenase, that contribute to the inflammation and damage seen in ulcerative colitis. By reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, Boswellia serrata tinctures may help to reduce the symptoms of ulcerative colitis, including diarrhea, abdominal pain, and rectal bleeding. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of AKBA and KBA also help to protect the gut lining and promote healing.
Regular use of Boswellia serrata tinctures may lead to improved quality of life and reduced reliance on medication for individuals with ulcerative colitis.
- Gather 1 cup of dried Boswellia serrata roots. Get a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.
- Add 2 cups of 80-proof vodka or other high-proof spirit to the jar. Fill the jar to the top.
- Close the jar and shake it well for 2-3 minutes. Store the jar in a cool, dark place for 2 weeks, shaking it daily.
- After 2 weeks, strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar. Discard the solids.
- Label the jar and store it in a cool, dark place. The tincture is ready to use. Take 20-30 drops, 2-3 times a day as needed.
10. Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo biloba tinctures contains flavonoids and terpenoids as its bioactive constituents.
These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and inflammation in the colon, which is common in ulcerative colitis. The flavonoids, particularly quercetin and kaempferol, have antioxidant effects that protect the cells from damage caused by free radicals. Terpenoids like ginkgolides and bilobalide have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which help regulate the immune response and reduce inflammation in the colon.
By reducing inflammation and protecting cells, Ginkgo biloba tinctures may help alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
- Gather 1 cup of fresh Ginkgo biloba leaves and 2 cups of vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Add the Ginkgo biloba leaves to the vodka, making sure they are completely covered.
- Seal the jar and store it in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
- After 2-3 weeks, strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar.
- Discard the solids and store the Ginkgo biloba tincture in the refrigerator. Use 20-30 drops, 2-3 times a day, for ulcerative colitis relief.
FAQ
Can drinking herbal tea prevent ulcerative colitis from forming?
Drinking herbal tea may help with ulcerative colitis symptoms, but its effect on preventing the condition from forming is unclear.
Some herbal teas, like peppermint and chamomile, have anti-inflammatory properties that may soothe the digestive system.
However, more research is needed to understand if these teas can actually prevent ulcerative colitis from developing.
Is it safe to consume herbal teas for ulcerative colitis every day?
Consuming herbal teas for ulcerative colitis daily may be helpful for some people, but it's essential to use them carefully.
Some teas can irritate the digestive system or interact with medications, making symptoms worse. It's also possible that teas won't work for everyone.
The effectiveness and safety depend on individual factors and the specific teas being used.
How long does it take for herbal teas to show results in ulcerative colitis?
Herbal teas can start helping with ulcerative colitis symptoms in a few weeks to a couple of months.
Some people notice relief from pain and discomfort within 6 to 8 weeks. It's possible that bloating and gas improve sooner, but everyone's body is different.
Consistency and patience are key to seeing results.
What time of day is best to drink herbal tea for ulcerative colitis?
For ulcerative colitis, it's best to drink herbal tea in the morning or early afternoon.
These times can help reduce inflammation and calm the digestive system.
Drinking tea too close to bedtime might disrupt sleep, but a gentle cup in the morning can set a soothing tone for the day.