Inflammatory Bowel Disease covers a number of bowel disorders. It can describe colitis, which affects the colon, or regional enteritis (known as Crohn's disease), which affects the small intestine. The cause of IBD is still unknown. There may be several factors, such as genetic predisposition, infectious agent, and auto-immunity involved in its pathogenesis. The extraintestinal manifestations which may accompany these disorders, such as arthritis, pericholangitis may suggest auto-immune phenomena and that therapeutic agents, such as corticosteroids may exert their effects through immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory mechanisms.
Colitis
The cause of colitis, an inflammation of the large intestine, is not properly understood, although a lack of fiber in the diet is thought to be partly to blame. Symptoms of this illness include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and sometimes blood or mucus in the motions.
Treatment
Diet and Nutrition Follow a wholefood diet with plenty of brown rice, fruit (stewed apples especially), and vegetables. As colitis can sometimes be caused by allergies to certain common foods - milk products and cereals such as wheat or oats, for example - cut them out of your diet for at least two weeks to see if there is any improvement. Eat plenty of garlic or, if you do not like it, take garlic capsules.
Consult a qualified practitioner/therapist for:
Herbal Medicine Slippery elm to reduce inflammation is often prescribed. Homeopathy Podophyllum 6c and Arsenicum alb. 6c are particularly helpful. Acupressure and Acupuncture Both of these can be effective.
Crohn's Disease
Crohn's disease is caused by recurrent inflammation of the small intestine. The digestive system can also become damaged, reducing its ability to absorb nutrients from food. Symptoms of the disease include pain, fever, diarrhea, and weight loss.
Treatment
Relaxation Techniques Yoga, meditation, and biofeedback can reduce stress, which often plays a major role in this disease.
Aromatherapy Essential oil of lavender is particularly beneficial. Massage This, together with regular exercise, is very beneficial. Herbal Medicine Slippery elm is recommended, alternated with astringent teas such as agrimony.
