Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are both chronic, remittent conditions in which inflammation of the lining of the bowel causes uncomfortable and potentially dangerous symptoms such as diarrhea, blood and/or mucus in the stools, abdominal cramping, especially after eating, relapsing and remitting episodes, fever and joint pain, weight loss, vitamin and mineral deficiencies and fatigue.

Before taking any natural treatment alongside the conventional ones, discuss them with your practitioner to avoid interactions:

1. Several studies have indicated that fish oils ease symptoms and prevent relapses, so it’s worth taking daily fish oil capsules, zinc, selenium, vitamin B12, and folic acid deficiencies are common, so take a good multivitamin and mineral supplement to replace all these.

2. Try Rescue Remedy or Emergency essence when you experience any pain or discomfort. Blend the Bach flower remedy Impatiens, Willow, Agrimony, and Wild Oat with a little water, and sip throughout the day to encourage healing and deal with symptoms.

3. Probiotic supplements with healthy digestive bacteria are useful.

4. Some people swear by drinking a small glass, about one half cup of aloe vera juice three times a day.

5. Licorice root powder containing glycyrrhzin can have a soothing effect on the bowels.

6. Garlic powder tablets can help to eliminate any fungal growth in the digestive system.

7. Slippery elm powder can be mixed with a little warm water to soothe and heal inflammation of the digestive tract.

8. Massage a blend of lavender and peppermint into the abdomen, or add it to the bath to relieve conditions associated with stress, and also to relax any spasms.

9. A few drops of juniper or cedarwood oil added to the bath can have a antispasmodic, sedative, and tonic effect.

SOURCE: 1000 home remedies, safe and sensible treatments for everyday aliments, Anova Books, 2011