It is important to get conventional medical treatment for pancreatitis as soon as possible. A severe attack can be life threatening if left untreated. Most alternative therapies have not yet been studied for use specifically in pancreatitis, although some evidence indicates that antioxidants may have beneficial effects. Several therapies, though, may reduce the risk of developing pancreatitis or ease some of the symptoms when used in conjunction with conventional care. You should never treat pancreatitis without your doctor's supervision.
Herbs are generally available as standardized, dried extracts (pills, capsules, or tablets), teas, or tinctures/liquid extracts (alcohol extraction, unless otherwise noted). Mix liquid extracts with favorite beverage. Dose for teas is 1 to 2 heaping tsp/cup water steeped for 10 to 15 minutes (roots need longer). Although herbs should never be used alone to treat pancreatitis, some herbs may be helpful along with conventional medical treatment.
Tell your physician about any herb or complementary therapy you may be considering. Many herbs can interfere with certain medications. Speak with your physician.
Green tea ( Camellia sinensis ) standardized extract, 250 to 500 mg daily. Use caffeine-free products. You may also prepare teas from the leaf of this herb. Green tea has powerful antioxidant properties. Green tea can potentially worsen anemia and glaucoma.
Holy basil ( Ocimum sanctum ) standardized extract, 400 mg daily, for antioxidant protection. Holy basil can have a blood-thinning effect, and may increase the effect of blood-thinning medications, such as warfarin(Coumadin) and aspirin.
Rhodiola ( Rhodiola rosea ) standardized extract, 150 to 300 mg, 1 to 3 times daily, for immune support. Rhodiola is an "adaptogen" and helps the body adapt to various stresses.
Cat's claw ( Uncaria tomentosa ) standardized extract, 20 mg, 3 times a day, for inflammation and immune stimulation. Cat's claw can interact with many medications and can have deleterious effects on patients with leukemia and Parkinson disease. As an immune stimulant, there is some concern that cat's claw may worsen autoimmune disease.
Reishi mushroom ( Ganoderma lucidum ), 150 to 300 mg, 2 to 3 times daily, for inflammation and immunity. You may also take a tincture of this mushroom extract, 30 to 60 drops, 2 to 3 times a day. High doses of Reishi can have a blood-thinning effect, and may increase the effect of blood-thinning medications, such as warfarin (Coumadin) and aspirin. Reishi may lower blood pressure, so you should use extra caution if you take blood pressure medication.
Indian gooseberry ( Emblica officinalis ) powder, 3 to 6 grams daily in favorite beverage for antioxidant support. Emblica is a traditional Ayurvedic medicinal plant used to treat pancreatic disorders. It is a powerful antioxidant and one of the richest natural sources of vitamin C. Animal studies suggest that this herb can be used to prevent pancreatitis. Indian gooseberry may increase the risk of bleeding, especially among people who take blood-thinning medications. Speak with your doctor.
Grape seed extract ( Vinis vinifera ) standardized extract, 100 to 300 mg daily for antioxidant support. Grape seed extract can have a blood-thinning effect, and may increase the effect of blood-thinning medications, such as warfarin (Coumadin) and aspirin, as well as other drug interactions. Speak with your doctor.
• Burdock root
• Red Clover
Milk Thistle seeds
Goldenseal
You don’t have to hike into the wild to find this beneficial herb. It is known as one of the most therapeutic and medicinal properties on the planet. Goldenseal lowers blood sugar levels and aids the general function of the pancreas. It’s also known to be an anti-bacterial, laxative, antiseptic, tonic, muscle stimulant, anti-inflammatory agent, and antispasmodic. It’s truly “a mouth” of benefits!
Goldenseal is one of the most highly valued herbs. It has the ability to lower blood sugar and aid the overall functioning of the pancreas [7], and helps to stimulate the beta cells of the pancreas which is beneficial to people suffering from diabetes. It also helps control intestinal dysbiosis, which contributes to sugar cravings. Goldenseal is capable of promoting the healthy functioning of the colon, spleen and the pancreas, and enhancing the production of bile. [8] It is also noted for its ability to clear up infection. An alternative for the mucous membranes and glands, an antiseptic a deobstruent, for the glandular system and many other attributes. Do not use for more than one week at a time, during pregnancy or if allergic to ragweed.
Blueberry leaves
Rich in anti-glycemic agent - myrtillin. Myrtillin is found in all green plants but most abundantly in blueberry or huckleberry leaves and various myrtles. It is also present in oatmeal.
Here is a pointer not only for diabetics but for everyone seeking a healthful beverage in place of coffee – tea made from blueberry or huckleberry leaves, gathered from your own garden, or fields or purchased from one that was organically grown or wild-harvested in dry form.
Dandelion root
How we wish people wouldn’t spray dandelions that are wild and free in the backyard! This familiar yellow weed is known to hold an effective fight against pancreatic cancer cells. Some studies suggest dandelion root extracts may cause cancer cells to die while not affecting normal cells. Brew up some dandelion tea to flush out toxins in the intestines and restore damaged pancreatic tissues.
Stimulates bile production. Canadian researchers discovered that dandelion root extract can induce apoptosis and autophagy to combat cancer cells without any significant effect on noncancerous cells. [4] Teas made from dandelion have also been known to flush out the intestines and aid the recovery and healing of damaged pancreatic tissues. [2] Root is an alternative or blood purifier and a mild diuretic. It contains inulin, which feeds friendly gut flora.
Licorice Root
Licorice root dates back to traditional Chinese medicine. It is laden with anti-inflammatory properties that will reduce pain and swelling. It’s an excellent remedy for various disorders associated with the pancreas. It is common to find licorice root in a tea form at local brew shops or grocery stores. Licorice was found extremely effective for many pancreatic disorders – it supports all glandular functions and is widely used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). According to research, licorice is "fortified with anti-inflammatory compounds that work to reduce the pain and swelling associated with pancreatic conditions like pancreatitis."[6] (Glycyrrhiza glabra). This herb was used from before the time of Hippocrates, prescribed by early physicians in cases of dropsy and diabetes, to prevent thirst. This herb is another glandular food and cleanser, being an emollient, demulcent, pectoral and laxative. Licorice root has 6-8 percent glycyrrhizin; a sweet white crystalline powder, consisting of the calcium and potassium salts of glycyrrhizic acid, sugar, starch, gum, protein, fat, resin, asparagine, and etc. All of the glands can be cleansed and nourished with this herb. Do not use for more than 7-10 days in a row.
Oregano
Oregano can inhibit porcine pancreatic amylase and is rich in natural phenolic antioxidants and for these qualities traditionally used to treat diabetes[5].This savory kitchen staple goes well in many things. Acting as a natural phenolic antioxidant, sprinkle it on your breakfast eggs or dash in a dinner dish. This healthy property makes it valuable to treat oxidation caused by diabetes. It’s believable that oregano has a robust antihyperglycemic property that handles long-term complications arising from diabetes.
Cascara Sagrada (Sacred Bark)
the chemical components of Cascara sagrada are effective in stimulating the organs and digestive system, including the gallbldder, pancreas and stomach (acceleration/increased efficiency of these organs increases digestive fluids). Cascara sagrada is extremely bitter.
Stinging Nettle Root
is an extremely rich source of calcium, chromium, magnesium, and zinc. This herb is an alkalizing herb and is useful to the body because of its nutritive value and its high levels of minerals.
Uva Ursi Leaf
or bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi: Ericaceae) is an excellent herb for the adrenal, for diabetes, Bright's disease, and assists in controlling kidney and bladder congestion.
Mullein Leaf
leaves are typically used to moisten and heal lung tissue, but also have soothing effects on other mucus membranes.
Cayenne
(Capsicum minimum; C. fastigiatum) is a great herb in aiding the digestive system, pancreas, etc., to have smoother performance and working in cooperation with the other organs and the circulatory system. It is stimulant, tonic, carminative, sialagogue, stomachic, rubefacient, pungent, alterative, astringent, sudorific, emetic, antiseptic, condiment, antirheumatic. Cayenne is a medicinal and nutritional herb. It is the purest and most certain stimulant. This herb is a great food for the circulatory system in that it feeds the necessary elements into the cell structure of the arteries, veins and capillaries so that these regain the elasticity of youth again and the blood pressure adjusts itself to normal. It rebuilds the tissues in the stomach and heals stomach and intestinal ulcers; in equalizing the blood circulation, cayenne produces natural warmth; and in stimulating the peristaltic motion of the intestines, it aids in assimilation and elimination.
Calendula
Healer for centuries, calendula offers antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties and anti-genotoxic compounds. It’s known for its effectiveness when fighting off cancer. The bright orange and yellow flowers are reason enough to keep this healer in the home.
Lemons
Go ahead! Make a “sour face,” it’s good for the pancreas. This powerful fruit helps keep the pancreas running smoothly by stimulating the release of vital digestive enzymes. Squeeze a bit into your water or top a salmon; it will add health benefits for years to come!
Individual case reports suggest that Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can be effective for preventing and treating pancreatitis. To determine the right regimen, consult a skilled herbalist or licensed and certified practitioner of TCM, and keep all of your health care providers informed of any supplements, herbs, and medications you are taking.You may be given:
Licorice root ( Glycyrrhiza glabra )Ginger root ( Zingiber officinale )Asian ginseng ( Panax ginseng )Peony root ( Paeonia officinalis )Cinnamon Chinese bark ( Cinnamomum verum )
