Ulcerative Colitis (UC) is a chronic illness affecting your colon, the last part of your digestive system. This is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), similar to Crohn's disease but it impacts just the colon and rectum. UC leads to inflammation and ulcers in the colon lining. These ulcers may make the colon empty frequently and cause diarrhoea.
The symptoms of UC vary but generally include abdominal pain, frequent and urgent bowel movements, blood in stool and fatigue. The severity of these symptoms may range from intense symptoms (flare ups) to periods of relief (remission).
Ulcerative Colitis is classified based on where the inflammation occurs. These are the types of Ulcerative Colitis:
Ulcerative Proctitis: This is the mildest form, with inflammation constrained to the region closest to the rectum.
Proctosigmoiditis: Inflammation affects the rectum and also the sigmoid colon (the lower end of the colon close to the rectum).
Left-sided Colitis: In this kind, the inflammation spreads from the rectum upward across the left side of the colon (or sigmoid and descending colon).
Pancolitis: This type affects the entire colon.
UC is believed to be caused by an overactive immune system reaction where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells in the colon lining. The exact cause is unknown but factors affecting this condition include genetics, environment and the immune system.
If you think you have UC, it is important to consult an Ayurvedic doctor for proper evaluation. UC is manageable with appropriate treatment, including herbal medicines, dietary changes and lifestyle adjustments. Proper management can reduce the symptoms and help with long-term remission.
Common Causes of Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative Colitis (UC) is a complicated condition without any definite cause. Researchers think that several factors could be responsible for its development, and it's essential to understand the potential triggers for this chronic inflammatory bowel disease.
Genetic Factors: You are more likely to get UC if you have family members who have the condition, suggesting a genetic component.
Immune System Malfunction: UC may involve an abnormal immune response where the immune system attacks cells in the digestive tract instead of pathogens.
Environmental Triggers: Some environmental factors including pollution or a high fat diet could increase the risk.
Microbiome Imbalance: Changes in the types and numbers of bacteria in the gut (the microbiome) may influence UC.
Non-Steroidal Anti Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): The regular use of NSAIDs like ibuprofen can irritate the colon and worsen Ulcerative Colitis symptoms.
Infections: Many researchers also think that bacterial or viral infections can trigger UC by causing colon inflammation.
Stress and Emotional Factors: Stress does not directly cause UC but can worsen symptoms and induce flare-ups.
Smoking: Smoking has negative overall health effects on the body.
Ulcerative Colitis (UC) brings about random flare ups and remission phases, with different intensity symptoms. Recognising the symptoms and signs of UC is crucial for earlier diagnosis and management of the condition. The signs of this inflammatory bowel disorder are pictured below.
Frequent, loose stools with mucus are common Ulcerative Colitis symptoms.
Many people with UC also suffer from cramping and pain in the lower abdomen.
One of the most apparent signs of UC is blood in the stool.
Persistent need to use the bathroom, which can be distressing and disruptive.
This could happen unintentionally, often because of decreased appetite and poor absorption of nutrients.
Chronic tiredness can happen due to inflammation and anaemia from blood loss.
In serious flare-ups, a fever might develop as the body fights inflammation.
The chronic blood loss could cause anaemia, leading to further fatigue and weakness.
Many people experience a decrease in appetite and weight loss.
Jiva Ayurveda offers holistic Ulcerative Colitis treatment in Ayurveda using evidence-based approaches. The treatment plans are customised to target the very root causes of the disease, and instead of just treating symptoms, they focus on holistic healing, balance and stability in totality.
HACCP certified Ayurvedic medicines: These are scientific blends that help to rebalance the body and promote mental well being.
Yoga, Meditation & Mindfulness: These calming practices support mental health and complete wellness.
Ayurvedic Treatments: Therapies like Panchakarma and therapeutic massages detoxify the body and maintain emotional health.
Diet & Lifestyle Changes: Expert advice on changing your eating and lifestyle for better health results.
Ayurveda offers many natural cures for Ulcerative Colitis, a chronic disorder which leads to inflammation and ulcers in the colon. These herbal remedies help to balance the body's doshas and promote intestinal health.
Listed here are some Ayurvedic medicines for Ulcerative Colitis that are traditionally suggested for dealing with Ulcerative Colitis symptoms:
Bael (Aegle Marmelos): This fruit is known for healing ulcers and repairing damaged tissues. It can help enhance digestive functions, reduce symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis, manage swelling and also soothe the mucous membranes of the stomach and rectum.
Vacha (Acorus Calamus): Vacha is believed to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which can protect the mucosa from oxidative damage.
Mulethi (Licorice Roots): Mulethi is loaded with isoflavonoid alkaloids and has anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory qualities that help prevent inflammatory changes and infections in the digestive tract. It also neutralises stomach acid to avoid more ulceration.
Giloy (Tinospora Cordifolia): Giloy is believed to calm the Vata and Pitta doshas. It can help with digestion, stops ulceration and creates a protective layer along the intestinal tract to help prevent diarrhoea.
Vaividanga (Embelia Ribes): Vaividanga can help reduce inflammation and ulceration and protects against oxidative damage due to inflammatory bowel diseases.
Kutaz (Holarrhena Dysenterica): Kutaz is very effective against diarrhoea, toxins, inflammation and ulcers in the intestines.
Arjun (Terminalia Arjuna): Arjuna has anti-ulcer properties and also increases the red blood cells count which may help with anaemia caused by UC.
Pomegranate (Punica Granatum): Pomegranate is an antioxidant, has antimicrobial qualities, helps with toxins removal and in raising haemoglobin levels.
Shatavari (Asparagus Racemosus): Shatavari is used for its anti-inflammatory properties in addition to supporting digestive tract health.
Common Ulcerative Colitis triggers include stress, certain medications such as NSAIDs and spicy or high-fiber foods. Identifying personal triggers may help manage symptoms.
Can Ulcerative Colitis cause other health problems?
Yes, it could result in other serious health issues like arthritis, skin problems, liver disease and colon cancer.
Ayurveda offers treatments for symptom management and maintaining remission but there is no permanent cure. Ayurvedic treatment involves balancing the doshas and cleansing the body holistically.
Ayurvedic diagnosis involves examining symptoms, pulse and physical appearance along with medical history to identify the doshic imbalance.
Crohn's disease can occur at any part of the gastrointestinal tract, whereas Ulcerative Colitis is particular to the colon and rectum. Symptoms and treatment for both conditions are also different.
Include easily digestible foods like ripe bananas, oatmeal, boiled vegetables and herbal teas that soothe the gut.
Herbs like kutaz, bael and giloy can help reduce inflammation and control diarrhoea in Ulcerative Colitis patients.
Caffeine, alcohol, milk and high fiber foods must be avoided as they could worsen symptoms and cause flare ups.
Yes, stress management with yoga, meditation and breathing exercises can help lower flares and improve complete well-being.
A diet chart for UC should typically include low-fiber fruits and vegetables, lean proteins and plenty of fluids. Spicy and dairy products are best avoided.
Yes, regular exercise, sufficient sleep along with a healthy diet might help with symptom management and overall health.
Ayurveda can help prevent UC by promoting a balanced diet and lifestyle, regular detoxification and stress reduction techniques.
