Tag: Ulcerative colitis symptoms

August 4, 2026

Ulcerative Colitis: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis and Ayurvedic Treatment

Abstract

Ulcerative colitis is a Chronic Inflammatory Bowel Disease causing continuous mucosal inflammation, mucosal inflammation and ulcer in the colon & rectum (Auto-immune disorder). The global worldwide number of cases of ulcerative colitis is 5 million. In today’s world it has been increasing at a sky-rocking speed and the reason behind this is not exactly known as it’s an autoimmune disorder. Ayurveda says that Autoimmune disorders are caused due to accumulation of endotoxins (Ama) in the body. Why these endotoxins are forming in the body and why they are causing such chronic autoimmune diseases, Lets understand in this write up. Moreover we will also learn how ayurveda helps in managing such chronic autoimmune disorders. Let’s discuss!

ULCERATIVE COLITIS

Introduction

As we know Ulcerative Colitis is an autoimmune chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) which cause inflammation and ulcer in the lining of the large intestine and rectum.The disease typically begins in the rectum and extends proximally in a condition pattern,affecting varying extents of the colon.Clinically, Ulcerative Colitis Presents with recurrent episode of bloody diarrhea, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, urgency, tenesmus and varying degrees of systemic manifestations. If untreated, it may lead to complications such as severe haemorrhage, toxic megacolon,colorectal dysplasia and colorectal cancer. In the concept of ayurveda it is classified as Raktatisara (Hemorrhagic diarrhea) or at further stage of pittatisara (pitta aggravated diarrhea). And usually it is due to weak Agni,Aam Accumulation , colon tissue damage and aggravated vata in the body.According to Ayurveda, ulcerative colitis can be correlated with Raktatisara, which primarily results from the excessive consumption of Pitta-aggravating foods and dietary habits. The condition is characterized by the passage of blood-mixed stools, which may occur in large quantities. Clinical features resembling Jirnatisaara (chronic diarrhea) are commonly observed, along with rectal bleeding through the anal canal. Management is based on Rakta-stambhana (hemostatic therapy) and Pitta-shamana (pacification of aggravated Pitta), which are considered effective in controlling bleeding and alleviating the symptoms of the disease.

Causes

The exact cause of uc is not known but the risk factors are as follows:-

  • Auto-immune disorder
  • Gut Microbiome Imbalance
  • Genetics
  • Stress
  • Improper diet

Symptoms

  • Diarrhea
  • Blood in stool
  • Fatigue
  • General body weakness
  • Weight loos
  • Frequency of stool increased
  • Abdominal pain
  • urning sensation in rectum & while passing stool
  • Loss of appetite
  • Thirst increase
  • Mucus with stool

Diagnosis

Clinic Findings

  • Number of Bloody stool
  • Rectal examination
  • Urgency to pass stool
  • Abdominal pain or cramping
  • Weight loos
  • Fatigue
  • Fevere

Physical examination

  • Abdominal tenderness
  • Sing of dehydration
  • Pale skin color

Laboratory Investigations

  • Complete blood count (CBC): Anemia, Elevated White Blood Cells
  • C-reactive protein (CRP): Elevated In Active Inflammation
  • Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR): Increased
  • Serum electrolytes: Assess Dehydration
  • Liver function tests
  • Serum albumin: Often Decreased In Severe Disease

Stool test

  • Fecal calprotectin or fecal lactoferrin (markers of intestinal inflammation)

According to the ayurveda diagnosis of Ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis is not described by the same name in classical Ayurvedic texts,but its features are commonly correlated with conditions such as Raktatisara, Pravahika and in chronic stages,Grahani involving predominantly pitta and vata imbalances. According to the ayurveda we can diagnose ulcerative colitis as per ashta prikisha

1. Nidana (Etiology Factors)

Assessment of causative factors:

  • Excessively spicy,sour or oily food
  • Irregular eating habits
  • Psychological stress
  • Suppression of natural urges
  • Poor digestion(Mandagni)
  • Seasonal influences

2. Dosha Assesment

  • Pitta– Bleeding,burning sensation,loose stools
  • Vata– Pain,urgency,tenesmus
  • Kapha–mucus in stool

3. Agni Examination

Assessment of digestive fire:

  • Vishamagni
  • Tikshnagni
  • Mandagni

4. Ama Assessment

In which there will be

  • Coated tongue
  • Indigestion
  • Heaviness
  • Foul smelling stools
  • Fatigue

5. Mala Pariksha (Examination of stool)

  • Frequency
  • Consistency
  • Presence of blood
  • Mucus
  • Color
  • Odor
  • Quantity

6. Dashavidha Praiksha (Tenfold Examination)

In which-

  • Prakriti (Systemic )
  • Vikriti (Current imbalance)
  • Sara (Physical & mental strength )
  • Samhanana (Structural build of the body )
  • Pramana (Measurement)
  • Satmya (Adaptability)
  • Satva (Purity )
  • Ahara shakti (Digestive fire )
  • Vyayama Shakti (Physical capacity )
  • Vaya (Age )

7. Ashtavidha Pariksha(eightfold examination)

In which

  • Pulse(Nadi)
  • Urine (Mutra)
  • Stool (mala)
  • Tongue (jihva)
  • Voice(Shabda)
  • Touch(Sparsha)
  • Eyes(Drik)
  • General appearance (Akriti)

8. Nadi Pariksha (Pulse examination)

Some Ayurvedic practitioners use pulse examination as part of an overall assessment of dosha imbalance. It is not considered a validated diagnostic test for ulcerative colitis in modern evidence based medicine.

Modern treatment

Modern management of Ulcerative Colitis (UC) follows a “treat-to-target” strategy aimed at achieving long-term, steroid-free endoscopic healing rather than just symptom control.

  • For mild-to-moderate disease, treatment centers on 5-ASA anti-inflammatories (mesalamine) given orally or topically.
  • For moderate-to-severe cases, or when 5-ASAs fail, therapy relies on targeted advanced therapies: injectable biologics—such as gut-selective anti-integrins (vedolizumab), IL-23 inhibitors (risankizumab, mirikizumab, guselkumab), and anti-TNFs (infliximab)—or fast-acting oral small molecules like JAK inhibitors (upadacitinib, tofacitinib) and S1P receptor modulators (ozanimod).
  • Systemic corticosteroids (like prednisone) are strictly used short-term to bridge flares during induction, while surgery (colectomy) remains a curative option for refractory or complicated cases.

Ayurvedic Overview

According to the Ayurvedic concept, ulcerative colitis can be effectively managed and may improve significantly with proper treatment and lifestyle modifications. The first and most important step is to maintain a healthy and suitable diet (Ahar) by avoiding foods that may aggravate the condition and choosing easily digestible, nutritious meals. Along with dietary precautions, proper lifestyle practices (Vihar), such as maintaining a regular routine, managing stress, getting adequate sleep, and engaging in appropriate physical activity, are equally important. By following these dietary and lifestyle precautions consistently, along with Ayurvedic treatment, the symptoms of ulcerative colitis can be controlled and overall health can be improved.

Herbal Remedies For Ulcerative Colitis By Planet Ayurveda

Planet Ayurveda is an Indian herbal manufacturing and healthcare enterprise founded by Dr. Vikram Chauhan in Mohali, Punjab. The company specializes in producing 100% natural Ayurvedic herbal supplements made from carefully selected medicinal plants. Its product range includes standardized plant extract capsules, powders, herbal teas, and liquid formulations featuring herbs such as Ashwagandha, Curcumin, and Triphala. All products are manufactured without the use of chemicals, preservatives, artificial colors, or additives, ensuring purity and authenticity. In addition to manufacturing herbal products, the company offers Ayurvedic clinical consultations and exports its products to customers worldwide, promoting traditional Ayurvedic healthcare through natural, high-quality herbal formulations. Ayurvedic medicine for Ulcerative colitis are as follows:-

  1. Arjuna capsules
  2. Vatsakadi churna
  3. Pitta Balance
  4. Kutajghan vati

Ulcerative Colitis Care Pack

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Buy Now Ulcerative Colitis - Care Pack

Detailed description on medicines

1. Arjuna capsules

Arjuna capsules by Planet Ayurveda are prepared using standardised extract of Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna). Its strong anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and tissue-healing properties help in managing UC. This formulation possesses Astringent taste thus helps in managing Bleeding in stool and also helps in healing Ulcerations thus useful in managing symptoms of Ulcerative colitis.

Dose – 2 capsules twice daily with plain water after meal.

2. Vatsakadi Churna

This formulation is in Powder form and is prepared containing herbs like Kutaja (Holarrhena antidysenterica), Bilva (Aegle marmelos) and numerous other herbs. It is anti-diarrheal, antimicrobial and cooling in nature Thus helps in balancing Pitta dosha and improving symptoms.

Dose–1 teaspoonful twice daily with plain water after a meal or you can boil the powder – 1 teaspoonful in 400 ml water, keep it boiling until it remains 50 ml. Strain it and drink the water. Leave the residue. Do it twice daily. Make it fresh every time.

3. Pitta Balance

Pitta Balance is in capsule form and prepared usingJahar Mohra Pishti (Serpentine/Magnesium Silicate), Mukta Pishti (Pinctada margaritifera), Giloy Satva (Tinospora Cordifolia ) etc –It help in pitta management as its name indicates it helps in balancing pitts dosha and also its an amazing coolant thus possess astringent properties and helpful in controlling excess blood in stool.

Dose- 1 capsule twice daily with plain water after a meal

4. Kutajgha vati

Kutaj ghan vati is prepared using extract of Kutaj (Holarhena antidysentrica) which is anti-diarrheal in nature. Also it helps in Ama pachana (metabolization of endotoxins) and reducing the excess watery stools and managing diarrhea.

Dose-2 tablets twice daily with plain water after a meal.

Home Remedies by Planet Ayurveda

1. Coconut water

It having a great healing property,it provide cooling effect to your body and help to maintain the digestive fire and vitiated ama in the body which is main reason for ulcerative colitis.

Take at least 1-2 glass of coconut water daily.

2. Pomegranate juice

It is used for reducing the symptoms of ulcerative colitis such as dysentery and diarrhea.Even tea made from leaves of these fruits also help in treating digestion related problems. It help in reducing inflammation in body.

Take at least 1 glass juice or a cup of tea once daily.

Diet in Ulcerative colitis

Avoid

  • Milk & Milk products
  • Cucumber
  • Brinjal
  • Ginger
  • Black gram
  • Cashew
  • Raisins
  • Non-veg
  • All citrics food & fruits 8.Red chillies

To Take

  • Fresh curd
  • Cow ghee
  • Patato, beans
  • Split moong daal
  • Soaked Almonds
  • Walnuts
  • Banana
  • Rice oil
  • Poha

Conclusion

At last we can say, Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that affects the colon and rectum,causing symptoms such as bloody diarrhea,abdominal pain,urgency and fatigue.Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment and essential to prevent complication and improve quality of life.Modern medicine focuses on controlling inflammation maintaining remission, while ayurveda correlates the condition with Rakrarisara and emphasizes balancing pitta and vata,improving agni and adopting proper Ahar(diet) and vihar (lifestyle). A combination of evidence- based medical care,healthy dietary habits and supporting Ayurvedic measures under qualified medical supervision can help achieve better symptoms control and long-term disease management

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May 11, 2019

How does Pitta Balance Works in Ulcerative Colitis Treatment?

Overview

What actually is Ulcerative Colitis? In fact, it is a chronic disease that occurs in the large intestine also known as the colon. The lining of the colon gets inflamed and gets scared by some open pores also called ulcers, which produces mucous & pus. This very combination of ulceration and inflammation can cause abdominal area uncomfortable and you feel the urge to visit the toilet more frequently.

When the immune system begins to working abnormally, it starts affecting the harmless particles that are needed by the body to function properly. It gets perplexed and starts killing these invaders so that they don’t create any infection in the body.

It gets confused and can’t differentiate between the good bacteria and bad bacteria and starts killing both. Its duty is to protect the body from harmful  and toxic substances  but it is unable to distinguish the body’s own healthy cells and the foreign substances which leads to various disorders and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) are one of them.

That’s when the bowel system begins irregular movements and causes inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). When such a situation gets created, the body transports the white blood cells to the lining of the intestines, where they get busy with producing chronic inflammation and ulcerations.

Mostly this disease begins in the rectal area, but with the passage of time, it might involve the whole of the large intestine. As this disease is concerned with the large intestine, the symptoms develop gradually rather than suddenly.

Ulcerative colitis is spreading its wings globally. It can happen to anyone at any age, but it  peaks within the age group between 15 – 30 years and then again at the age of 50 – 70 years. Males & females are equally affected. Such a classical disease is called grahani in Ayurveda. The main symptoms of grahani are loose motions along with bleeding and mucous also coming with the stools and this thing gives a ghastly smell.

Grahani affects the Agni (the digestive fire) and makes Pitta dosha to get aggravated and also imbalances the Vata dosha. In such a situation the wastage gets accumulated and forms Ama, which begins coming out with stools and indigestion takes place. This often harms the rakta dhatu (blood tissue) and mamsa dhatu (muscle tissue). All these disturb the normal functioning of the intestines.

Ulcerative colitis Symptoms and causes

Its symptoms that surface gradually can be;

  • Diarrhea.
  • Bloody diarrhea.
  • Abdominal pain, often in the lower left section.
  • Nausea.
  • Vomiting.
  • Unintentional weight loss.
  • Loss of appetite.
  • Low-grade fever.
  • Rectal pain.
  • Rectal bleeding.
  • Skin lesions.
  • Sounds from the abdomen.
  • Rumbling sounds from the stomach.
  • Mouth ulcers.
  • Distended abdomen.
  • Nasty body odor.

Causes of Ulcerative Colitis

There are many causes  that are responsible for creating such an environment that gives birth to Ulcerative Colitis, such as:

  • One of the main culprits that cause Ulcerative Colitis is chronic constipation and the use of drugs that empty your bowels. All these drugs have some kinds of side effects. Constipation is responsible for causing an accumulation of hard fecal matter which is never evacuated properly. The drugs to eradicate constipation are the ones that result in irritation. ‘Why cry over the spilled milk,’ now better be ready to face the consequences.
  • Usually, Ulcerative Colitis results from poorly digested or undigested roughage, which belongs to the cereals (often low quality) and refined carbohydrates, which often causes bowel irritation and they begin functioning irregularly.
  • There are some other causes of this disease such as an allergic sensitivity to some foods, consumption of antibiotics, an illness that restricts that flow of blood to the colon gets stretched for a long time and severe stress arises (which compromises the whole of the immune system).
  • A gluten allergy can also cause Ulcerative Colitis.

Colitis, if ignored may manifest as a symptom for more serious diseases like cancer or TB.

According to Ayurveda

  • According to Ayurveda the treatment should be focused on rekindling the Agni by pacifying the doshas involved in creating such a grim situation. It also reduces the Ama and this disease is thought to be cured only when the Agni remains stable without the use of any medicines.
  • Such a disease can be detected by various different tests like stool test, blood test, colonoscopy,Sigmoidoscopy, CT scan, MRI, ultrasound etc. Once confirmed, Ayurveda has its own rules to eradicate it with natural treatments.
  • It is popularly known as Pittaj Grahani as this disease gets created when Pitta dosha gets aggravated and creates an imbalance between the different doshas. Initially Vata dosha is also involved in some cases, but mostly it has links with Pitta dosha.
  • The accumulation of Pitta aggravated foods and the current lifestyle lead to the creation of Ama that resides in the villi of the large intestine, creating a smooth coating on its walls that impairs the normal functioning and also disturbs the immunity of all intestines. Vata dosha which is present in the lower colon also gets disturbed and hinders the Pitta and Kapha channels, thus  causing inflammation, mucous collection and edema.

Ayurvedic treatment of Ulcerative Colitis

Ayurvedic treatment of Ulcerative Colitis

  • Ayurvedic treatment of Ulcerative Colitis generally involves gently eliminating the Ama, rekindling digestive fire and creating  healthy bacteria in the  gut. After the strength of the immune system of the body is restored, the treatment just focuses on the natural healing of the ulcers, which can be done by buying Pitta balance made by Planet Ayurveda.

How does Pitta Balance Works in Ulcerative Colitis Treatment?

  • Pitta balance has a cool effect on your body because it is made from classical Ayurvedic calcium compounds. It halts the bleeding only after a few doses. It fulfills the dosage of calcium that the body lacks by getting the calcium extracted from pearls and corals.
  • In Ayurveda world  Mukta pishti is prepared after getting the authentic powder of pearls and then sprinkle this powder with rose water under  moonlight and let it stay as it is for 30 nights continuously. It becomes so strong that it restores the balance which was disturbed by Pitta dosha.
  • The inflammation is minimized, and the cure is inevitable.
  • Other ingredients of Pitta Balance Capsules are: Praval Pishti (Coral Calcium), Akik Pishti (Agate Calcium), Jawar Mohra Pishti (An Ayurvedic Calcium Compound), Kamdudha Ras (An Ayurvedic Calcium Compound) and Tinospora cordifolia stem extract.

Herbal Remedies for ulcerative Colitis

  • There are certain herbal remedies that can be found and used at home to pacify the colitis like Coconut water, Marigold flower (Genda), juice of Doob grass (Durva / Cynodon dactylon), Olive oil,  Rose, Drumstick (Moringa), Pomegranate, fennel, and some Spices mixed powder with equal quantities of, green cardamom and nutmeg powder.

How to Take

  • Have 1 teaspoon of this powder twice a day with filtered water.

Note

  • All the above-mentioned remedies are there to prevent and treat your Ulcerative Colitis, but before you proceed, seek the advice of an Ayurvedic expert. He/she can guide you in a better way.
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