Diverticulitis
Digestive System
Diverticula are small sac-like swellings that have developed in weakened areas of the walls of the large intestine. Diverticula do not usually cause discomfort unless they become infected and inflamed. The result of this is diverticulitis. This condition usually occurs after the age of forty, and is a result of weakened tissue and pressure against the intestinal walls due to aging. As in all diseases of the digestive tract, diet is largely responsible for the state of health in the intestinal tissues.
Essential Oils
Essential Oils:
The inflammation, pain, flatulence and discomfort of this condition are effectively eased by using essential oils, but diet and nutritional habits must be addressed to ensure there is no recurrence of a flare-up.
Recommended Oils: basil, chamomile, clove, hyssop, marjoram, peppermint, rosemary, sage
*Synergistic Essential Oil Blend:
- 2 drops peppermint
- 1 drop chamomile
- 3 drops rosemary
- 1 drop clove
Diluted in 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
Rub the oil over the abdomen twice a day.
Also, mix 1 drop peppermint with a teaspoon of honey and dilute in 1 cup of hot water. Sip slowly.
*Source: Worwood Valerie Anne, The Fragrant Pharmacy. Bantam Books, 1991
Self Help
Self Help:
- Drink plenty of filtered water
- Eat whole grain breads, oatmeal or bran cereals
- Eat plenty of fibrous fresh fruits and vegetables
- Avoid eating raw vegetables until the acute problem subsides
- Consume non-prescription preparations that soften your bowel movements
- Eliminate all caffeine from the diet, avoid tobacco, and practice techniques of stress reduction
- Castor oil, taken internally
- Castor oil pack – externally over the area of the sigmoid colon / colon
- Walk daily for at least 30 minutes
Herbs
Herbs:
Oil of peppermint in enteric-coated capsules. Enteric coating resists attack by stomach acid, so the capsules pass into the intestines intact and release their contents there.
Slippery Elm powder helps heal irritated tissues of the gastrointestinal tract. Mix one teaspoon of the powder, with one teaspoon of sugar and add two cups of boiling water, mixing well. Flavour with cinnamon to taste and drink one or two cups twice a day.
Take Aloe Vera gel after meals, staying below the dose that causes any laxative effect. A reasonable amount to try is one teaspoon after meals. You can use the fresh gel, mashed up in a little fruit juice, or any commercial product that is pure.
Gemstone
Gemstone for Healing:
Place on pain centre as needed.
Reflexology
Reflexology areas to emphasize:
- Colon / sigmoid colon – main reflex point
- Adrenal glands – helpful for inflammation
- Lower spine – site of referred pain
Symptoms
Symptoms:
- Episodes of abdominal cramping
- Lower-abdominal pain and constipation
- Constipation alternating with diarrhoea
