6 Natural Ways To Manage The Symptoms Of Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis is a medical condition that primarily affects the digestive system, particularly the large intestine or colon. It is characterized by the inflammation or infection of small pouches, known as diverticula, that can develop along the lining of the colon. These pouches typically form when weak spots in the colon's muscular wall allow the inner layer of the colon to bulge outward. Diverticulitis can be a painful and uncomfortable condition, and it often requires medical attention.

The exact cause of diverticulitis is not entirely clear, but it is believed to be linked to factors such as a low-fiber diet, aging, and genetics. A diet low in fiber can lead to constipation and increased pressure in the colon, which may contribute to the formation of diverticula.

Symptoms of diverticulitis can vary in severity and may include abdominal pain, particularly in the lower left side, fever, nausea, vomiting, and changes in bowel habits. In some cases, diverticulitis can lead to complications like abscess formation, perforation, or the development of fistulas.

Treatment for diverticulitis often involves dietary changes, antibiotics to treat the infection, and sometimes, in more severe cases, surgery may be required to remove the affected portion of the colon. To prevent diverticulitis and its complications, maintaining a high-fiber diet, staying well-hydrated, and leading a healthy lifestyle are often recommended.

If you suspect you have diverticulitis or are experiencing symptoms, it is essential to seek medical advice and diagnosis from a healthcare professional, as prompt treatment can help alleviate discomfort and prevent complications.

# Slippery Elm

You Will Need

2 teaspoons of slippery elm
1 glass of water, fruit juice, or tea

What You Have To Do

- Add one to two teaspoons of slippery elm to a glass of water, fruit juice, or tea.

- Mix well and drink up.

How Often You Should Do This

You can drink this mixture 1 to 2 times per day.

# Aloe Vera Juice

You Will Need

1-2 tablespoons of fresh aloe vera juice

What You Have To Do

Drink one to two tablespoons of fresh aloe vera juice daily.

How Often You Should Do This

Make sure you drink it only once daily.

Why This Works

Aloe vera is used to treat various health conditions due to its healing and anti-inflammatory properties. These properties can help in soothing the inflamed and irritated diverticula along the digestive tract.

# Vitamin D

You Will Need

25-100 mcg of vitamin D

What You Have To Do

- Consume 25-100 mcg of vitamin D daily.

- You can either consume foods rich in vitamin D, like fatty fish, cheese, and eggs, or take additional supplements for it.

How Often You Should Do This

You can do this on a daily basis.

Why This Works

Vitamin D deficiency is associated with an increased risk of developing diverticulitis. Hence, maintaining optimal levels of serum vitamin D can also help you deal with the condition.

# Licorice Root

You Will Need

1-2 teaspoons of dried licorice root
1 cup of hot water

What You Have To Do

- Add one to two teaspoons of dried licorice to a cup of hot water.

- Steep for 5-10 minutes and strain.

- Drink the warm licorice tea.

How Often You Should Do This

You can drink licorice tea 1 to 2 times daily.

Why This Works

Licorice is widely used to treat spasms and inflammation, especially those of the gastrointestinal tract. Hence, it can definitely work wonders when it comes to soothing the inflamed diverticula.

# Grapefruit Seed Extract

You Will Need

8-12 drops of standardized and chemical-free grapefruit seed extract
1 glass of water

What You Have To Do

- Add 8-12 drops of standardized and chemical-free grapefruit seed extract to a glass of water.

- Mix well and drink it up.

How Often You Should Do This

You may drink this mixture once daily.

Why This Works

Grapefruit seed extract is a powerful antibacterial agent that can help in treating infected diverticula.

# Ginger

You Will Need

1-2 inches of sliced ginger root
1 cup of water

What You Have To Do

- Add 1-2 inches of sliced ginger to a cup of water.

- Bring it to a boil in a saucepan and simmer for 5 minutes.

- Strain and wait for the tea to cool a bit.

- Drink the warm ginger tea.

How Often You Should Do This

You can drink ginger tea 1-2 times daily.

Why This Works

The rich composition of ginger makes it a beneficial remedy in treating various medical conditions. Its anti-inflammatory properties can soothe an inflamed digestive tract and relax the muscles of the gut.