Inflammatory Bowel Disorders

Table of Contents

Other names

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
Crohn’s disease
Ulcerative colitis
Chronic intestinal inflammation

Synopsis

Inflammatory bowel disorders (IBD) refer to chronic conditions characterized by inflammation of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, primarily Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. These are autoimmune-related disorders in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the digestive tract, leading to ongoing inflammation, tissue damage, and digestive symptoms.

  • Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the GI tract (mouth to anus), most often the small intestine and colon. It causes patchy, transmural inflammation and may lead to fistulas, strictures, and malabsorption.

  • Ulcerative colitis is limited to the colon and rectum, involving continuous inflammation of the inner lining, often starting at the rectum and extending upward.

Common symptoms include:

  • Chronic or recurrent diarrhea (sometimes with blood or mucus)

  • Abdominal pain or cramping

  • Fatigue and weight loss

  • Fever or joint pain (in some cases)

  • Urgency or incomplete evacuation

  • Nutrient deficiencies (e.g., B12, iron)

Triggers and contributing factors:

  • Genetic susceptibility

  • Dysbiosis (gut microbiota imbalance)

  • Diet (high-fat, low-fiber, or processed foods)

  • Stress

  • Infections or environmental toxins

When to see a doctor:
If you experience persistent digestive symptoms, rectal bleeding, unexplained weight loss, or systemic symptoms like fatigue or joint pain, consult a gastroenterologist. Diagnosis often involves colonoscopy, blood tests, stool tests, and imaging.

Natural Remedies

Follow an Anti-Inflammatory, Gut-Friendly Diet: Emphasize cooked vegetables, bone broth, omega-3s, and avoid gluten, dairy, and processed foods.

Use Probiotics and Prebiotics (as tolerated): To restore microbiome balance.

Manage Stress: Chronic stress worsens flares; mindfulness and relaxation techniques help.

Track Trigger Foods and Flares: Use a symptom journal to identify patterns.

Get Adequate Rest and Hydration: Supports mucosal healing and reduces inflammation.

Ingredients

These raw ingredients are often used in alternative medicine to treat this condition.

reishi mushroom
slippery elm bark
spirulina
turmeric
vitamin C
vitamin D
zinc
aloe vera
chamomile
dandelion
licorice root
marshmallow
peppermint oil