Natural Remedies for Proctitis

Proctitis is an inflammation of the inner lining of the rectum, the end of the large intestine where stool passes before getting to the anus. The inflammation can cause bleeding, soreness, and pain. In some cases, the patient may have pus or mucus discharged from their anus. Proctitis can be a onetime condition or can be a persistent problem. In extreme situations, the inflammation can spread from the rectum to the anus. In this case, it is referred to as Proctocolitis.

The signs and symptoms of Proctitis include:-

- Constipation and/or diarrhea.
- Feeling of need for a bowel movement regularly
- Pain in the anus
- Bleeding in the anus or from the rectum
- Discharge of pus, blood, or mucus from the inflammation.

Treatment of Proctitis can vary and is dependent on the cause of the inflammation. The most common cause for the inflammation is Sexually Transmitted Diseases. Anal and oral sex are the most common ways to pass STD’s that can cause Proctitis. The STDs include simplex, chlamydia, syphilis, and herpes.

Proctitis can also be caused by bacterial infections such as salmonella, streptococcus, and campylobacter. There is an overlap of inflammation of the inner lining of the digestive tract, and one disease can lead to another similar illness. For instance, people with ulcerative colitis are likely to contract Proctitis. Other causes may include exposure to radiotherapy, such as that used to treat cancer. Antibiotics prescribed to treat infections can also Proctitis.

There is treatment for Proctitis through conventional and complementary therapies as earlier stated treatment is administered and dictated by the cause of the inflammation. A doctor may prescribe antibiotics for a bacterial infection, whereas the doctor may prescribe corticosteroids if Crohn Disease causes the inflammation.

Herbs, nutritional supplements, and other natural remedies can be used in the treatment of Proctitis. However, most doctors recommend that they are used in combination with doctors’ prescriptions.

In this article, we examine some of the natural remedies that can be used to treat Proctitis. This includes herbs and supplements, but ensure to let your doctor know before using them.

Table of Contents
Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera has been used in traditional medicine for generations. Medical experts continue to study its medicinal capabilities. Some doctors have used the Aloe Vera juice for its anti-inflammatory ability. It is used to treat Proctitis and remains the most used herbal therapy.
Boswella Serrata

Boswella Serrata is also famous for its anti-inflammatory capabilities. A dose of 3 times a day should be sufficient for treating Proctitis. A few studies have also shown that it can also be used to treat IBD. It is most effective when taken as a supplement to medically prescribed drugs and ensure to inform your doctor before taking it.
Slippery Elm

This is a supplement that is extracted from the powdered bark of the slippery elm tree. Native American has used it for a long time to treat diarrhea, coughs, and other digestive infections. Recent studies have shown that slippery elm has anti-oxidant effects on IBD and Proctitis. However, the research has not been comprehensive to allow global or widespread use of it as a treatment for Proctitis.
Diet

An apple a day keeps the doctor away, or so the saying goes. Fruits and vegetables are highly recommended in treating Proctitis. Anti-oxidants such as blueberries and tomatoes should be consumed regularly in combination with foods high on B-vitamins, magnesium, and calcium. Examples of such foods include leafy greens, beans, and whole grains. Use healthy oils such as coconut oil or olive oil. Drink 6-8 glasses of water and ensure to exercise for at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week. Avoid red and lean meats, soy, beans for proteins. Refined foods are discouraged, such as pasta, white bread, and sugar. If you can, eliminate trans-fats that are in most commercially baked snacks such as cakes and cookies. More soluble fiber can help patients have more natural and solid bowel movements. This works best for those whose Proctitis is caused by IBD. Soluble fiber is found in apples and flax seeds. Remember to consult your doctor before using these natural remedies. Some patients of Proctitis had reported worsening of the condition when they consumed insoluble fibre. Insoluble fiber such as psyllium husks can be irritating to some people’s intestines.
Homeopathy

This is a medical practice based on the belief that the body is built to heal itself. Those who use it utilize small amounts of natural substances such as minerals or plants. Homeopathy helps to stimulate the healing process. Homeopathic creams have been successfully used to treat itching and dryness in the anal area. They can also be used to treat symptoms of Proctitis though no scientific evidence proves their effectiveness.
Acupuncture

A study of Proctitis among 44 patients found that those whose Proctitis had been caused by radiation had their conditions improve after undergoing acupuncture. It is an ancient form of therapy from the Chinese culture that involves inserting thin needles into a specific point on someone’s skin. 74% of those in the research recovered fully, whereas another 20% had most of their symptoms reduce. Scientists cannot explain the exact science behind the healing of acupuncture does not officially recommend it, but it has always provided positive results in the treatment of Proctitis. Stress has been touted as one of the causes of IBD and Proctitis. Reducing your levels of stress can help treat Proctitis. Stress-relieving methods such as massage, exercise, and music can assist your body in fighting Proctitis and other infections in it. The most used form of stress reduction therapy is Biofeedback and Hypnotherapy though there may be little evidence to prove their effectivenes.

Conclusion.

Many traditional medicine practices have been used for generations to treat various diseases. These methods are still in use today. However, it is essential to inform your doctor before utilizing any natural or traditional remedies in the treatment of Proctitis. Most doctors recommend that these natural remedies not be used in isolation but rather in combination with modern prescription drugs.