Natural Remedies for Treating Colitis According to Traditional Chinese Medicine

Colitis, a condition often characterized by abnormal bowel movements and frequent diarrhea, can be effectively managed through Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). While modern medicine typically categorizes these symptoms under Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), functional diarrhea, or organic diseases, TCM offers a holistic approach to treatment. Below are several commonly used herbal therapies and strategies:

1. Use of Shen Ling Bai Zhu Wan

For patients suffering from chronic diarrhea accompanied by symptoms such as pallor, shortness of breath, fatigue, bloating, poor appetite, pale tongue, white coating, and weak pulse, the condition is often diagnosed as spleen and stomach deficiency. In such cases, strengthening the spleen and boosting qi is essential. Shen Ling Bai Zhu Wan is a well-known formula that supports digestive health and helps alleviate chronic diarrhea caused by weakened spleen function.

2. Treatment with Si Shen Wan

Some individuals experience symptoms related to spleen and kidney yang deficiency, such as early morning diarrhea (commonly referred to as "five o'clock diarrhea"), abdominal pain upon waking, intestinal rumbling, and relief after defecation. Additional signs may include lower back pain, cold limbs, chills, fatigue, and a deep, weak pulse. For this pattern, Si Shen Wan is often prescribed either alone or in combination with Shen Ling Bai Zhu Wan to enhance effectiveness.

3. Application of Tong Xie Yao Fang for Liver Qi Stagnation and Spleen Deficiency

In cases where emotional stress, anxiety, or depression contributes to gastrointestinal discomfort—such as abdominal pain before bowel movements and relief afterward—with no identifiable organic cause, the condition is typically classified as liver qi stagnation combined with spleen deficiency. Tong Xie Yao Fang is an effective herbal formula for addressing this imbalance. To improve outcomes, it can be used alongside other tonifying formulas like Shen Ling Bai Zhu Wan, Si Jun Zi Wan, or Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Wan, which help regulate digestion and strengthen the body's overall function.

By identifying individual patterns and applying targeted herbal treatments, Traditional Chinese Medicine provides a personalized and natural way to manage colitis symptoms and promote long-term gut health.