Managing of Ulcerative colitis through diet, lifestyle and herbs

Management of ulcerative colitis a case study

Ulcerative colitis is a challenging condition characterized by inflammation and ulcers in the digestive tract. This case study outlines the Ayurvedic approach to managing ulcerative colitis in a young woman who had been struggling with severe symptoms for three years.

The client presented with severe ulcerative colitis, experiencing frequent bowel movements with bloody stools, weight loss, and weakness. Ayurvedic analysis revealed weak digestive fire (agni) and increased inflammation (pitta dosha) in the lower abdomen.

The patient's diet and lifestyle included inflammatory foods such as fermented items, spicy foods, and dairy products, which aggravated her condition. Irregular meal timing and inadequate hydration further exacerbated her symptoms.

First Stage of Management:

The initial focus was to alleviate nausea and improve digestive fire (agni). External treatments with lukewarm nalpamara water and IV support were initiated. As the nausea subsided, the patient was introduced to easily digestible foods like puffed rice and arrowroot preparation.

Second Stage of Management:

The treatment approach was divided into three stages. In the second stage, the goal was to repair the inflamed colon and regulate stool production. The diet was modified to include specific carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and spices that are gentle on the digestive system. Medications such as Guluchyadi Kashayam and Indukantham Kashayam tablets were prescribed to address inflammation and improve gut function. External treatments included herbal water baths and paste applications to reduce inflammation.

Third Stage of Management:

The third stage focused on strengthening gut bacteria and improving gut-brain axis function. Medications were adjusted, and additional therapies like Pichu with Ksheerabala Thailam were introduced to support colon recovery.

The outcome:

After completing the treatment stages, a colonoscopy revealed significant improvement, with the ulcerative colitis grading reduced to Grade 1-2. The patient experienced reduced bowel movements, normal stool consistency, and signs of colon recovery.

Conclusion:

This case highlights the effectiveness of Ayurvedic principles in managing ulcerative colitis by addressing dietary, lifestyle, and herbal interventions. By following a personalized treatment plan and making dietary modifications, significant relief can be achieved in chronic inflammatory conditions like ulcerative colitis. Continued adherence to Ayurvedic guidelines can support long-term gut health and overall well-being.

• Dr. Poornima Mukkanniyil