< previous page | page_70 | next page >
Page 70
| diarrhea, diverticulitis or irritable bowel syndrome are worth trying, although they offer only short term relief from a problem that requires a nutritional overhaul for lasting improvement. Comfrey leaf and comfrey root tea (see notes on comfrey's safety, page 38) are especially therapeutic because comfrey contains a cell growth stimulant that speeds the healing of inflamed, irritated or damaged tissue in addition to soothing intestinal surfaces. I agree with Rosemary Gladstar and other herbalists who defend comfrey's safety record and believe that unless a person has a liver disease, it is likely to be far more beneficial than dangerous. A blend containing comfrey and other appropriate herbs should be safe in any quantity; up to 3 or 4 cups of straight comfrey tea per day or 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of comfrey tincture taken twice or three times daily, especially for one to two weeks, should be equally harmless and speed healing. |
| Slippery elm bark, arrowroot and other gentle sources of soluble fiber can be used in conjunction with or in place of powdered psyllium husks to help prevent both diarrhea and constipation. |
| The astringent herbs bayberry bark, witch hazel bark, oak bark and cranesbill root help firm the tissue and reduce discharge and secretions. The carminative herbs chamomile, angelica, lemon balm, cardamom seed, caraway seed, calamus root, ginger, dill, cayenne pepper and peppermint help relieve gas and flatulence, while the bitter herbs gentian root, horehound, goldenseal and Swedish bitters improve digestion and the antispasmodic herbs cramp bark, skullcap, lobelia, valerian and wild yam root help prevent cramping. Look for teas, capsules and tinctures that contain such blends of these herbs. Because Crohn's disease is such a serious illness, it is worth exploring nutritional and herbal strategies with the help of a naturopath, experienced herbalist or other healthcare professional. |
| Diarrhea |
| Almost everyone has suffered from diarrhea, but here in the U.S. we don't consider it the life-threatening disorder it is in many countries, where the dehydration it produces can be |
< previous page | page_70 | next page >

If you like this book, buy it!