Strawberry Tree Extract Aids in Ulcerative Colitis Treatment: Potential Therapeutic Implications
As of 2019, approximately 4.9 million people globally were living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a group of chronic conditions that includes ulcerative colitis. Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for ulcerative colitis, a condition that primarily affects the large intestine and rectum.
Research has indicated that certain factors can increase an individual's risk for ulcerative colitis, such as family history, ethnicity, gut microbiome composition, and exposure to environmental factors like cigarette smoke. While there is no definitive cause for the disease, treatments typically involve medication, surgery, and dietary changes.
Earlier research has shown that some nutrients, like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, vitamin B12, iron, and probiotics, may help alleviate the symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
A recent study suggests that an extract from the Mediterranean plant Arbutus unedo, commonly known as the strawberry tree, could be beneficial in preventing and treating the condition. Scientists found that administering the extract to mice prior to exposing them to a substance known to induce ulcerative colitis helped lower the development of colon lesions, and protected the colon lining from damage. By reducing inflammation and protecting gut health, the strawberry tree extract could offer a natural treatment option for ulcerative colitis.
The strawberry tree is native to the Mediterranean region and Western Europe, and its fruit, bark, and leaves have been used in traditional medicine for various ailments. Previous studies have found that the fruit and leaves are high in antioxidants and have antimicrobial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. Researchers believe that the phenolic compounds found in the extract, including phenolic acids and flavonoids, may contribute to these effects.
It is worth noting that further research is needed to determine the exact mechanisms by which the strawberry tree extract exerts its effects, and to validate its therapeutic potential in treating gastrointestinal diseases in humans. However, initial findings are promising and highlight the potential of natural compounds in combating complex chronic conditions like ulcerative colitis.
Integrative medicine physicians, such as Jillian Cohen, MD of Hackensack Meridian Health's Integrative Health and Medicine, find the study's findings both promising and encouraging. While this is early data from an animal model, the potential anti-inflammatory effects from natural compounds like the strawberry tree extract further support the value of exploring evidence-based, integrative approaches to medical treatment. However, Cohen emphasizes the importance of rigorous study and safe, effective, and accessible options for patients with gastrointestinal diseases.
For those who may not have access to the Mediterranean strawberry tree, a registered dietitian nutritionist like Monique Richard, MS, RDN, LDN, suggests adding other foods that provide similar benefits, such as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, to one's diet. Foods like asparagus, avocados, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, garlic, okra, spinach, beans, beets, bone broth, chicken, turkey, eggs, fish, lentils, tofu, grapes, green tea, turmeric, apples, onions, and leafy greens can help support immune function, gut health, and reduce inflammation in the body.
As always, individuals who suspect they may have ulcerative colitis or are at high risk for the condition are encouraged to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance and treatment options.
- The research suggests that the Mediterranean plant Arbutus unedo, also known as the strawberry tree, could aid in preventing and treating ulcerative colitis, a chronic gastrointestinal medical condition.
- By lowering the development of colon lesions and protecting the colon lining from damage, the strawberry tree extract could provide a natural treatment for ulcerative colitis.
- Integrative medicine physicians find the study's findings promising and encouraging, as it supports the exploration of evidence-based, integrative approaches to medical treatment.
- For individuals who may not have access to the Mediterranean strawberry tree, foods rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, such as asparagus, avocados, broccoli, and spinach, can help support immune function, gut health, and reduce inflammation in the body.
- Individuals who suspect they may have ulcerative colitis or are at high risk for the condition are encouraged to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance and treatment options.
- As part of health-and-wellness management, exercise and mental-health care are crucial, as they also contribute to overall well-being and may play a role in the prevention and management of chronic diseases like ulcerative colitis.
