Does mastic improve Crohn's symptoms?

Mastic from Wikipedia
"... a resin obtained from the mastic tree (Pistacia lentiscus). In pharmacies and Nature shops it is called "arabic gum" (not to be confused with gum arabic) and "Yemen gum". In Greece it is known as the "tears of Chios," being traditionally produced on that Greek island, and, like other natural resins is produced in "tears" or droplets. Originally liquid, it is sun-dried into drops of hard brittle translucent resin. When chewed, the resin softens and becomes a bright white and opaque gum. The flavor is bitter at first, but after chewing releases a refreshing, slightly piney or cedar flavor.
The word mastic derives from the Greek verb μαστιχειν "to gnash the teeth", which is the source of the English word masticate.[1] The word mastic is a synonym for gumin many languages. ... Mastic contains antioxidants, and also has antibacterial and antifungal properties.[3]"

gum for chewing
powder for capsules

"Anti-inflammatory activity of Chios mastic gum is associated with inhibition of TNF-alpha induced oxidative stress" in Nutritional Journal (2012)
"Clinical studies have emphasized anti-inflammatory activity of Chios mastic gum [5,6]. This biological activity can be attributed to a variety of compounds. It contains triterpenes of the oleanane, euphane and lupine type [7,8]; alpha-tocopherol and polyphenols; the latter have been associated with a hypotensive effect of mastic [9]. Chios mastic possesses anti-bacterial activity [10,11], for which verbenone, alpha-terpineol, and linalool seem to be responsible.
...
Chios mastic gum has been extensively used for centuries in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern countries, both as a nutritional supplement and herbal remedy. Medical trials show that gum mastic may have cytoprotective or anti-acid effects on the gastrointestinal system [4] . Recent studies seem to suggest that gum mastic may exhibit antibacterial properties [39] and inhibit the proliferation of androgen-dependent prostate cancer [40]. This work makes an important addition to this list demonstrating potential role of antioxidant properties in the anti-inflammatory activity of the Chios mastic gum based on inhibition of PKC-dependent [Protein kinase C] NADPH [nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate-oxidase] oxidases."

"Pistacia lentiscus Resin Regulates Intestinal Damage and Inflammation in Trinitrobenzene Sulfonic Acid–Induced Colitis" in Journal of Medicinal Foods (2011)
"Mastic (Pistacia lentiscus) of the Anacardiaceae family has exhibited anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in patients with Crohn's disease. ... Histological amelioration of colitis (P≤.001) and significant differences in colonic indices occurred after 3 days of treatment. Daily administration of 100 mg of P. lentiscus powder/kg of body weight decreased all inflammatory cytokines (P≤.05), whereas 50 mg of P. lentiscus powder/kg of body weight and cortisone treatment reduced only ICAM-1 (P≤.05 and P≤.01, respectively). Malonaldehyde was significantly suppressed in all treated groups (P≤.01). IL-10 remained unchanged. Cytokines and malonaldehyde remained unaltered after 6 days of treatment. Thus P. lentiscus powder could possibly have a therapeutic role in Crohn's disease, regulating oxidant/antioxidant balance and modulating inflammation."

"Is Chios mastic gum effective in the treatment of functional dyspepsia? A prospective randomised double-blind placebo controlled trial" in Journal of Ethnopharmacology (2010)
"Chios mastic gum significantly improves symptoms in patients with functional dyspepsia compared to placebo."

"The effect of mastic gum on Helicobacter pylori: A randomized pilot study" in Phytomedicine (2009)
"Mastic gum has bactericidal activity on H. pylori in vivo."

"Chios mastic treatment of patients with active Crohn's disease" in World J Gastroenterol. (2007)
"The results suggest that mastic significantly decreased the activity index and the plasma levels of IL-6 and CRP in patients with mildly to moderately active CD."

Does polyphenol supplementation improve Crohn's symptoms?

Polyphenol from Wikipedia

Antioxidant effect of polyphenols and natural phenols from Wikipedia

"Polyphenol Supplementation as a Complementary Medicinal Approach to Treating Inflammatory Bowel Disease" in Current Medicinal Chemistry (2011)
"Polyphenols have been acknowledged to be anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory and therefore, have been proposed as an alternative natural approach to prevent or treat chronic inflammatory diseases. Most studies have been in animal models of colitis, using chemical inducers or mice defective in anti-inflammatory mediators and in intestinal cell lines treated with pro-inflammatory cytokines or lipid oxidation products.
These studies provide evidence that polyphenols can effectively modulate intestinal inflammation. They exert their effects by modulating cell signaling pathways, mainly activated in response to oxidative and inflammatory stimuli, and NF-kB is the principal downstream effector. Polyphenols may thus be considered able to prevent or delay the progression of IBD, especially because they reach higher concentrations in the gut than in other tissues. However, knowledge of the use of polyphenols in managing human IBD is still scanty, and further clinical studies should afford more solid evidence of their beneficial effects."

"Use of dietary phenols to modulate inflammatory bowel response" in Gastroenterol Hepatol (2010)

"Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are two forms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Genetic and environmental factors influencing the onset and course of this disease have recently been identified. Among the environmental and dietary factors involved in the development of inflammatory colon diseases, dietary polyphenols have been proposed as protective agents in distinct models of colon inflammation. However, despite the huge number of studies on the beneficial effects of polyphenols on health, their dietary effectiveness is unclear. In this review, we examine some of the evidence linking dietary polyphenol intake with protection against IBD."

Does black cumin seed oil improve Crohn's symptoms?

Black Cumin (Nigella Sativa) Seed Oil from Wikipedia
"The oil contains melanthin, nigilline, damascenine and tannins. Melanthin is toxic in large doses and nigelline is paralytic, so this spice must be used in moderation."

"Effect of Black Cumin (Nigella Sativa)  Seed Oil on  Gastric Tissue in Experimental Colitis" in Advances in Environmental Biology (2011) [full text]
"The oil of NS is so beneficial due to its content of over 100 components such as aromatic oils, trace elements, vitamins and enzymes. It contains 58% of essential fatty acids including omega 6 and omega 3. These are necessary for the forming of prostaglandin E1 that balances and strengthens the immune system giving it the power to prevent infections and allergies and
control chronic illnesses.
...
Excessive production of pro-inflammatory mediators such as TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, leukotriene B4 and platelet activating factor, and the presence of highly activated inflammatory cells such as neutrophils, monocytes and macrophages are common characteristic of ulcerative colitis [7,11,21]. Accordingly in the present study, serum TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 increased in TNBS [trinitrobenzene sulphonic acid] induced colitis group. This inflammatory status has been reversed by NS [nigella sativa]oil.  Moreover increased serum LDH [lactate dehydrogenase] activity of the colitis group decreased with NS oil administration which shows the improved tissue damage by NS oil.
...
The use of natural anti-inflammatory products provides an attractive and relatively non-toxic alternative to modulate inflammatory disorders.  Consequently NS may have an important role in modulating the inflammatory response of the gastric tissue in colitis."

"Protective Effects of Nigella Sativa on Intestinal Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in Rats" in Journal of Investigative Surgery (2010)

"Our results suggest that NS treatment protected the rat's intestinal tissue against intestinal ischemia- reperfusion injury."

"Rat Plasma Oxidation Status After Nigella Sativa L. Botanical Treatment in CCL4-Treated Rats" in
Toxicology Mechanisms and Methods (2008)
"The results indicate the potential of NS [nigella sativa] in preventing CCL4-induced toxic nitrosative stress. It is concluded that NS has marked antioxidant potentials that may be beneficial in alleviating complications of many illnesses related to oxidative/nitrosative stress in humans, but preclinical safety measures should be completed before clinical trials."

"Emerging clinical and therapeutic applications of Nigella sativa in gastroenterology" in World J Gastroenterol. (2009)

"N. sativa decreases DNA damage and thereby prevents initiation of carcinogenesis in colonic tissue secondary to exposure to toxic agents such as azoxymethane[2]. ... These anti-carcinogenic effects are mediated in part by thymoquinone secondary to its inhibitory influence on the NF-κB activation pathway[6].
... In fact, N. sativa attenuates the damage to β-cells of the pancreas following exposure to toxic elements such as cadmium[9]. Similarly, N. sativa administration attenuates the ulcerative effects of ethanol on gastric mucosa by decreasing the glutathione-S transferase levels in gastric mucosa[10].
Besides these effects, N. sativa also demonstrates anti- parasitic effects. For instance, its administration decreases the number of eggs as well as worms in schistosomiasis, which tends to affect hepatic and intestinal tissues[11]. In addition, N. sativa attenuates the side effects associated with some common medications used by gastroenterologists. For instance, cyclosporine, used by gastroenterologists for disorders such as recalcitrant Crohn’s disease, is often associated with nephrotoxic side effects, which can be limited by N. sativa due to its anti-oxidant properties[12]....
Thymoquinone, derived from N. sativa, has also been demonstrated to induce apoptosis of human colon cancer cells[15]. The above examples clearly illustrate the massive clinical and therapeutic potential of N. sativa. Personally, I believe that the anti-carcinogenic effects of N. sativa hold the maximum therapeutic potential. Given the significant benefits associated with its administration, broad-spectrum studies are clearly and urgently needed to further assess and elaborate its therapeutic benefits in gastroenterology."

Does flavonoid supplementation improve Crohn's symptoms?

Flavonoid from Wikipedia

Flavinoid mind map from Wikipedia (flavanols, flavones, anthocyanidines, isoflavonoids, neoflavonoids)

Formerly known as vitamin P

Flavonoids from the world's healthiest foods
"Flavonoids, an amazing array of over 6,000 different substances found in virtually all plants, are responsible for many of the plant colors that dazzle us with their brilliant shades of yellow, orange, and red.....While the flavonoid family is too complex to report all of its food connections, some highlights are especially important. In the fruit family, it is berries that come out highest in the chemical category of flavonoids called anthocyanins. Black raspberries, for example, may contain up to 100 milligrams of anthocyanins per ounce. ... In general the more colorful components of the food--like the skins of fruits--contain the highest concentration of flavonoids."

"Emerging Role of Antioxidants in the Protection of Uveitis Complications" in Current Medicinal Chemistry (2011)
"Many studies suggest that dark colored fruits such as berries; including blackberry, raspberry, and strawberry are rich in flavonoids and polyphenolic compounds and are endowed with beneficial properties in vision and eye health. ... All these antioxidants described here are well known to control the production of reactive oxygen species as well as their dependent activation of redox-sensitive transcription factors such as NF-κB and AP1. Further, most of the flavinoids have shown to prevent the activation of several key enymes [sic] such as aldose reductase that controls the oxidative stress signals."

Does vitamin A supplementation improve Crohn's symptoms?

Vitamin A from Wikipedia

Vitamin A from CyberLipids Center

Vitamin A is important to vitamin D supplementation.  See my post entitled "Does increasing vitamin D improve Crohn's symptoms?"

Vitamin E recycles vitamin A.

Zinc is a cofactor for vitamin A.

"Plasma zinc levels have been found to be dependent upon vitamins A and D. This suggests that a Vitamin A or D deficiency could cause a secondary zinc deficiency and that for treatment of zinc deficiency one should ensure adequate vitamin A and D intake" from Zinc Deficiency on Wikipedia

"From the diet to the nucleus: Vitamin A and TGF-β join efforts at the mucosal interface of the intestine" from Seminars in Immunology, The Roles of Retinoic Acid in Lymphocyte Differentiation (2009)

"The vitamin A metabolites, including retinoic acid (RA), form ligands for retinoic acid-related nuclear receptors and together they play pleiotropic roles in various biological processes. Recently, we described that RA also functions as a key modulator of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β)-driven immune deviation, capable of suppressing the differentiation of interleukin-17 secreting T helper cells (TH17) and conversely promoting the generation of Foxp3+ T regulatory (Treg) cells. This review will focus on the role of RA in the reciprocal TGF-β-driven differentiation of TH17 and Treg and on the importance of such regulatory mechanism to control a functional immune system, in particular at the mucosal interface of the intestine."

"Environmental influences on T regulatory cells in inflammatory bowel disease" from Review, Seminars in Immunology, Gene-environment Interaction in Induction of Autoimmunity (2011)
"In this review we will discuss environmental factors, including cytokines, vitamins A and D, and commensal bacteria, which influence the phenotype and function of regulatory [CD4] T cells and thereby alter the course of IBD. We will also discuss how these environmental signals can be manipulated therapeutically in order to improve the function of regulatory T cells and ultimately restore mucosal homeostasis in patients with IBD.

...
Impact of environmental factors on CD4+T cell differentiation in IBD. Environmental factors such as vitamins A and D, cytokines and specific microbiota are able to skew the differentiation of naïve CD4+ T cells and alter the balance between Treg and/or Th1/Th17 cells. The shift from a Treg dominated response to a Th1/Th17 response is implicated in the gut inflammatory process and the development of IBD. Manipulation of these environmental factors could be used therapeutically to shift the balance towards Tregs."

Primal Body, Primal Mind: Beyond the Paleo Diet for Total Health and a Longer Life by Nora T. Gedgaudas (2011)
"... with vitamin A in its true state, as found in beef liver, grass-fed butter and ghee, and what is called "high vitamin" cod-liver oil (rich in both vitamins A and D)--not simply beta-carotene."


"Vitamins A & D Inhibit the Growth of Mycobacteria in Radiometric Culture" in PLoS ONE (2011)
"Vitamins A and D cause dose-dependent inhibition of all three mycobacterial species studied. Vitamin A is consistently more inhibitory than vitamin D. The vitamin A precursor, β-carotene, is not inhibitory, whereas three vitamin A metabolites cause inhibition."

"Effects of Carotenoids and Retinoids on Immune-Mediated Chronic Inflammation in Inflammatory Bowel Disease" in Functional Foods, Nutraceuticals, and Degenerative Disease Prevention (2011)
"Inflammation is the body's reaction to physiological interference from several external factors and internal abnormalities of the immune system. Chronic states of inflammation can lead to other complications such as the development of cardio-vascular diseases and cancer. Inflammatory intestinal diseases such as Crohn's and Colitis result from abnormalities in immune function. Carotenoids are strong antioxidants, and carotenoids derived retinoids such as vitamin A can down-regulate inflammation by biochemical and molecular mechanisms. This could be achieved by the modulation in the levels of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines."

"Food intake in patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease" in ABCD Arq Bras Cir Dig (2011) [full article]

"There was deficiency in food intake in both CD and UC in active and in remission. These deficiencies
are mainly related to the intake of macronutrients, energy and fiber and micronutrients, including ... retinol...."

Does gluathione supplementation improve Crohn's symptoms?

Glutathione from Wikipedia

"Glutathione: The Mother of All Antioxidants" from Huffpost Healthy Living
"In treating chronically ill patients with Functional Medicine for more than 10 years, I have discovered that glutathione deficiency is found in nearly all very ill patients. ...  At first I thought that this was just a coincidental finding, but over the years I have come to realize that our ability to produce and maintain a high level of glutathione is critical to recovery from nearly all chronic illness -- and to preventing disease and maintaining optimal health and performance. The authors of those 76,000 medical articles on glutathione I mentioned earlier have found the same thing!"

"Impairment of intestinal glutathione synthesis in patients with inflammatory bowel disease" in Gut (1998)
"Decreased activity of key enzymes involved in GSH synthesis accompanied by a decreased availability of cyst(e)ine for GSH synthesis contribute to mucosal GSH deficiency in IBD. As the impaired mucosal antioxidative capacity may further promote oxidative damage, GSH deficiency might be a target for therapeutic intervention in IBD. "

Does astaxanthin reduce Crohn's symptoms?

Astaxanthin from Wikipedia

"Down-regulation of IL-6 production by astaxanthin via ERK-, MSK-, and NF-κB-mediated signals in activated microglia" in International Immunopharmacology (2010)
"... astaxanthin regulates IL-6 production through a p-ERK1/2-MSK-1- and p-NF-κB p65-dependent pathway in activated microglial cells."

Does krill oil improve Crohn's symptoms?

Krill oil from Wikipedia

"Dietary supplementation of krill oil attenuates inflammation and oxidative stress in experimental ulcerative colitis in rats" in Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology (2012)
"KO showed protective potential against DSS colitis based on the preservation of colon length, reduction of oxidative markers and the consistent beneficial changes of HCS, cytokine, and (PG)E3 levels, as well as PPAR-γ and Pparg1α expression compared with DSS alone. These findings indicate an anti-inflammatory and a protein antioxidant effect of KO."

Does stinging nettle reduce Crohn's symptoms?

Stinging Nettle from Wikipedia

"Ameliorative effect of IDS 30, a stinging nettle leaf extract, on chronic colitis" in International Journal of Colorectal Disease, Volume 20, Number 1 - SpringerLink
"The stinging nettle leaf extract, IDS 30, is an adjuvant remedy in rheumatic diseases dependent on a cytokine suppressive effect. ... The long-term use of IDS 30 is effective in the prevention of chronic murine colitis. This effect seems to be due to a decrease in the Th1 response and may be a new therapeutic option for prolonging remission in inflammatory bowel disease."

"The Effect of Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica) Seed Oil on Experimental Colitis in Rats" in Journal of Medicinal Food (2011)
"We found that UDO decreased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines [tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β, and interleukin-6], lactate dehydrogenase, triglyceride, and cholesterol, which were increased in colitis. UDO administration ameliorated the TNBS-induced [trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid ] disturbances in colonic tissue except for MDA [malondialdehyde]. In conclusion, UDO, through its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions, merits consideration as a potential agent in ameliorating colonic inflammation."

Do blueberries reduce Crohn's symptoms?

Blueberry from Wikipedia

Blueberries from the world's healthiest foods

"Protective Effect of Anthocyanins Extract from Blueberry on TNBS-Induced IBD Model of Mice" in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine (2011) [full article]

"Blueberries are among the fruits that are best recognized for their potential health benefits [1], and many of the heath-promoting properties of blueberries are thought to be attributable to anthocyanins that structurally belong to the natural products of flavonoids (Figure 1). Anthocyanins are water-soluble pigments that might appear as red, purple or blue pigments according to their pH levels and are present in blueberries at high concentrations [2]. Anthocyanins from blueberries are also used as anti-inflammatory, antimutagenic and rhodophylactic agents, and the principal therapeutic benefits attributable to anthocyanins include antioxidant protection and maintenance of DNA integrity [3, 4].

...
Thus, evaluation of the protective effect of anthocyanins extract of blueberry on IBD might shed light on drug discovery or alternative therapy for IBD treatment.

...

Our results suggest that the protective effect of anthocyanins extract may be linked to the re-equilibration of the irregular expression of cytokines induced by colitis. Therefore, we can presume that the high-dose intake of anthocyanins extract from blueberries (or blueberries) can have some beneficial effects on IBD."

Anthocyanin on Wikipedia

"Studies on apple and blueberry fruit constituents: Do the polyphenols reach the colon after ingestion?" in Molecular Nutrition & Food Research (2006)
"The aim of our studies was to determine the amount of polyphenols reaching the colon after oral intake of apple juice and blueberries.... A higher amount of the blueberry anthocyanins under study (up to 85%, depending on the sugar moiety) were determined in the ileostomy bags and therefore would reach the colon under physiological circumstances. Such structure-related availability has to be considered when polyphenols are used in model systems to study potential preventive effects in colorectal diseases."

Probiotics and Blueberry Attenuate the Severity of Dextran Sulfate Sodium (DSS)-Induced Colitis in Digestive Diseases and Sciences (2008)
"Cecal Enterobacteriaceae count decreased significantly in blueberry with and without probiotics compared to the other groups."

"Chemoprevention of Chronic Inflammatory Bowel Disease-Induced Carcinogenesis in Rodent Models by Berries" in Berries and Cancer Prevention (2011)
"Long-term chronic inflammation including inflammatory bowel disease is a well-recognized risk factor for cancer development. Fresh fruits, particularly berries, have been well documented as having protective effects against inflammation and cancer development. There are several key elements in the berries with functions against cancer, including vitamins (A, C, E, and folic acid), minerals (calcium and selenium), phenol compounds (particularly ellagic acid, ferulic acid, chlorogenic acid, coumaric acid, quercetin and anthocyanins), phytosterols (β-sitosterol, campesterol, and stigmasterol) and oligosaccharides. This chapter focuses on linking berries to chronic colitis-induced carcinogenesis from experimental evidence to potential usefulness on cancer prevention and treatment."

"Influence of dietary blueberry and broccoli on cecal microbiota activity and colon morphology in mdr1a−/− mice, a model of inflammatory bowel diseases" in Nutrition (2012)
"In comparison to mice fed the control diet, blueberry and broccoli supplementation altered cecum microbiota similarly with the exception of Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, which was found to be significantly lower in broccoli-fed mice. High concentrations of butyric acid and low concentrations of succinic acid were observed in the cecum of broccoli-fed mice. Blueberry- and broccoli-supplemented diets increased colon crypt size and the number of goblet cells per crypt. Only the broccoli-supplemented diet significantly lowered colonic inflammation compared to mice fed the control diet. Translocation of total microbes to mesenteric lymph nodes was lower in broccoli-fed mice compared to blueberry and control diet groups."

Does phytic acid influence Crohn's?

Phytic Acid on Wikipedia
"Phytic acid (known as inositol hexakisphosphate (IP6), or phytate when in salt form) is the principal storage form of phosphorus in many plant tissues, especially bran and seeds.[1] Phytate is not digestible to humans or nonruminant animals, however, so it is not a source of either inositol or phosphate if eaten directly. Morever, it chelates and thus makes unabsorbable certain important minor minerals such as zinc and iron, and to a lesser extent, also macro minerals such as calcium and magnesium. ...
Phytic acid may be considered a phytonutrient, providing an antioxidant effect.[1][21] Phytic acid's mineral binding properties may also prevent colon cancer by reducing oxidative stress in the lumen of the intestinal tract. ...
As a food additive, phytic acid is used as a preservative, as E391."

Phytic Acid: Tips for Consumers from Food Science

"Inhibition of chronic ulcerative colitis associated adenocarcinoma development in mice by inositol compounds" in Carcinogenesis (2006)
" Further mechanistic studies showed that the inhibition of UC-associated carcinogenesis by inositol compounds might relate to their function on the modulation of macrophage mediated inflammation, nitro-oxidative stress and cell proliferation in UC-associated carcinogenesis. This study indicates that inositol compounds may have the potential to serve as preventive agents for chronic inflammation-carcinogenesis." [Emphases mine.]

"Effect of Inositol Hexaphosphate on Lipopolysaccharide-Stimulated Release of TNF-α from Human Mononuclear Cells" [full text]
"This study also showed that at doses significantly exceeding IP6 cellular contents, it acted as an agonist up-regulating TNF-α secretion. Moreover, IP6 appeared to influence differentially the responsiveness of mononuclear cells to secondary stimulus. Up-regulation by IP6 of TNF-α release, referred to as priming, was observed under the influence of S. minnesota LPS [LipoPolySaccharide]. Priming is considered one of the regulatory mechanisms implicated in controlling immune cell responses. This event improves the ability of immune cells to locate and kill invading microorganisms and hence may be critical to effective neutrophil functions. In this connection, IP6 can take part in the defense against invasive bacteria, such as S minnesota species. On the other hand, priming is implicated in neutrophil- and lymphocyte-mediated tissue injury both in vitro and in vivo. In this context, IP6 by down-regulating TNFα release from cells stimulated with D. desulfuricans and E. coli LPSs which showed higher potency compared to S. minnesota LPS in this study, may diminish the tissue damage caused by lymphocytes. Thus, the effects of IP6 released from necrotic cells at an inflammatory focus may be beneficial for a variety of inflammatory diseases, including septic shock.
...
In conclusion, the present findings demonstrate an extracellular role for IP6, which in this study has appeared to act as a bi-functional modulator of TNF-á release from mononuclear cells in response to bacterial challenge. The enhancing or diminishing effects of IP6 may control the level of activation states and subsequent responses of mononuclear cells, depending on the particular Gramnegative bacteria’ endotoxins."

Does antioxidant dietary supplementation lessen inflammation in CD?

Antioxidants on Wikipedia
"An antioxidant is a molecule capable of inhibiting the oxidation of other molecules. Oxidation is a chemical reaction that transfers electrons from a substance to an oxidizing agent. Oxidation reactions can produce free radicals. In turn, these radicals can start chain reactions. When the chain reaction occurs in a cell, it can cause damage or death. ...
Although oxidation reactions are crucial for life, they can also be damaging; hence, plants and animals maintain complex systems of multiple types of antioxidants, such as glutathione, vitamin C, and vitamin E as well as enzymes such as catalase, superoxide dismutase and various peroxidases. Low levels of antioxidants, or inhibition of the antioxidant enzymes, cause oxidative stress and may damage or kill cells"

Oxidative Stress on Wikipedia
"Oxidative stress represents an imbalance between the production and manifestation of reactive oxygen species and a biological system's ability to readily detoxify the reactive intermediates or to repair the resulting damage. Disturbances in the normal redox state of tissues can cause toxic effects through the production of peroxides and free radicals that damage all components of the cell, including proteins, lipids, and DNA. Some reactive oxidative species can even act as messengers through a phenomenon called redox signaling.
In humans, oxidative stress is involved in many diseases. Examples include Sickle Cell Disease^[1], atherosclerosis, Parkinson's disease, heart failure, myocardial infarction, Alzheimer's disease, Schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder, fragile X syndrome^[2] and chronic fatigue syndrome, but short-term oxidative stress may also be important in prevention of aging by induction of a process named mitohormesis.^[3] Reactive oxygen species can be beneficial, as they are used by the immune system as a way to attack and kill pathogens."

"Fish oil and antioxidants alter the composition and function of circulating mononuclear cells in Crohn disease" in Am J Clin Nutr (2004)
"Dietary supplementation with fish oil plus antioxidants is associated with modified PBMC [peripheral blood mononuclear cell]composition and lower production of PGE2 [prostoglandin E2] and IFN-y [Interferon Gamma] by circulating monocytes or macrophages."


"The Effects of an Oral Supplement Enriched With Fish Oil, Prebiotics, and Antioxidants on Nutrition Status in Crohn’s Disease Patients" in Nutrition in Clinical Practice (2011)
"Background: Research in the treatment of Crohn’s disease (CD) supports anti-inflammatory benefits of n-3 fatty acids from fish oil, prebiotics, and antioxidants. A nutritionally balanced inflammatory bowel disease nutrition formula (IBDNF) enriched with these compounds has the potential to improve nutrition status and disease activity in CD. ...
Conclusions: IBDNF has the potential to deposit fat-free and fat mass, improve vitamin D status, and improve quality of life in CD patients."

Can curcumin reduce Crohn's symptoms?

Curcumin on Wikipedia
"Curcumin is the principal curcuminoid of the popular Indian spice turmeric, which is a member of the ginger family (Zingiberaceae). ... At present, these effects have not been confirmed in humans. However, as of 2008, numerous clinical trials in humans were underway, studying the effect of curcumin on various diseases, including multiple myeloma, pancreatic cancer, myelodysplastic syndromes, colon cancer, psoriasis, and Alzheimer's disease. In vitro and animal studies have suggested curcumin may have antitumor, antioxidant, antiarthritic, antiamyloid, anti-ischemic, and anti-inflammatory properties. ... Curcumin acts as a free radical scavenger and antioxidant, inhibiting lipid peroxidation[19] and oxidative DNA damage."

Tumeric from the world's healthiest foods

"A Potent, Yet Safe Anti-Inflammatory: The volatile oil fraction of turmeric has demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory activity in a variety of experimental models. Even more potent than its volatile oil is the yellow or orange pigment of turmeric, which is called curcumin. Curcumin is thought to be the primary pharmacological agent in turmeric. In numerous studies, curcumin's anti-inflammatory effects have been shown to be comparable to the potent drugs hydrocortisone and phenylbutazone as well as over-the-counter anti-inflammatory agents such as Motrin. Unlike the drugs, which are associated with significant toxic effects (ulcer formation, decreased white blood cell count, intestinal bleeding), curcumin produces no toxicity.

An Effective Treatment for Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Curcumin may provide an inexpensive, well-tolerated, and effective treatment for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) such as Crohn's and ulcerative colitis, recent research suggests. In this study, mice given an inflammatory agent that normally induces colitis were protected when curcumin was added to their diet five days beforehand. The mice receiving curcumin not only lost much less weight than the control animals, but when researchers checked their intestinal cell function, all the signs typical of colitis (mucosal ulceration, thickening of the intestinal wall, and the infiltration of inflammatory cells)were all much reduced. While the researchers are not yet sure exactly how curcumin achieves its protective effects, they think its benefits are the result of not only antioxidant activity, but also inhibition of a major cellular inflammatory agent called NF kappa-B. Plus, an important part of the good news reported in this study is the fact that although curcumin has been found to be safe at very large doses, this component of turmeric was effective at a concentration as low as 0.25 per cent&mash;an amount easily supplied by simply enjoying turmeric in flavorful curries.

Relief for Rheumatoid Arthritis: Clinical studies have substantiated that curcumin also exerts very powerful antioxidant effects. As an antioxidant, curcumin is able to neutralize free radicals, chemicals that can travel through the body and cause great amounts of damage to healthy cells and cell membranes. This is important in many diseases, such as arthritis, where free radicals are responsible for the painful joint inflammation and eventual damage to the joints. Turmeric's combination of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects explains why many people with joint disease find relief when they use the spice regularly. In a recent study of patients with rheumatoid arthritis, curcumin was compared to phenylbutazone and produced comparable improvements in shortened duration of morning stiffness, lengthened walking time, and reduced joint swelling."

For ideas on how to increase bioavailability, see "Make Mincemeat of Cancer Cells With This Breakthrough Spice" from Mercola.com
"One work-around is to use the curcumin powder and make a microemulsion of it by combining a tablespoon of the powder and mixing it into 1-2 egg yolks and a teaspoon or two of melted coconut oil. Then use a high speed hand blender to emulsify the powder.
Another strategy that can help increase absorption is to put one tablespoon of the curcumin powder into a quart of boiling water. It must be boiling when you add the powder as it will not work as well if you put it in room temperature water and heat the water and curcumin. After boiling it for ten minutes you will have created a 12 percent solution that you can drink once it has cooled down. It will have a woody taste. The curcumin will gradually fall out of solution however. In about six hours it will be a 6 percent solution, so it's best to drink the water within four hours. Dr. LaValley is also helping us beta test new curcumin preparations that will radically simplify this process."

"Pharmacological basis for the role of curcumin in chronic diseases: an age-old spice with modern targets" in Trends in Pharmcological Targets (2009)
"Extensive research within the past two decades has shown that curcumin mediates its anti-inflammatory effects through the downregulation of inflammatory transcription factors (such as nuclear factor κB), enzymes (such as cyclooxygenase 2 and 5 lipoxygenase) and cytokines (such as tumor necrosis factor, interleukin 1 and interleukin 6)."

"Dietary polyphenols can modulate the intestinal inflammatory response" in Nutrition Reviews (2009)
"Studies, conducted using in vivo and in vitro models, provide evidence that pure polyphenolic compounds and natural polyphenolic plant extracts can modulate intestinal inflammation."

"Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Resveratrol, Curcumin and Simvastatin in Acute Small Intestinal Inflammation " in PLoS ONE (2010)

"In a recent study, Curcumin has been shown to inhibit oxidative stress [36] that in turn has been associated with tight junction opening, thereby modifying intestinal permeability [37]. In the present study, bacterial translocation rates (due to compromised epithelial barrier function) into spleen and cardiac blood after treatment with either compound were lower as compared to the Placebo group. Therefore, Resveratrol, Simvastatin, and Curcumin might modulate tight junction protein expression and function." [See my post entitled "Does Resveratol lessen the symptoms of CD?"]

"Curcumin: Getting Back to the Roots" by Shishodia et al., Cytokine Research Laboratory, Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas
"Modern science has revealed that curcumin mediates its effects by modulation of several important molecular targets, including transcription factors (e.g., NF- B, AP-1, Egr-1, -catenin, and PPAR- ), enzymes (e.g., COX2, 5-LOX, iNOS, and hemeoxygenase-1), cell cycle proteins (e.g., cyclin D1 and p21), cytokines (e.g., TNF, IL-1, IL-6, and chemokines), receptors (e.g., EGFR and HER2), and cell surface adhesion molecules. Because it can modulate the expression of these targets, curcumin is now being used to treat cancer, arthritis, diabetes, Crohn’s disease, cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis, Alzheimer’s disease, psoriasis, and other pathologies."

"Curcumin has Bright Prospects for the Treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease" in Current Pharmaceutical Design (2009)
"... [I]n recent years, a large number of research papers have reported intriguing pharmacologic effects associated with curcumin. These include inhibitory effects on cyclooxygenases 1, 2 (COX-1, COX-2), lipoxygenase (LOX), TNF-α, interferon γ (IFN-γ), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and the transcriptional nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), in addition to a strong anti-oxidant effect. NF-κB is a key factor in the upregulation of inflammatory cytokines that have a high profile in inflammatory diseases, suggesting that curcumin could be a novel therapeutic agent for patients with IBD. Therefore, in recent years, the efficacy of curcumin has been investigated in several experimental models of IBD. The results indicate striking suppression of induced IBD colitis and changes in cytokine profiles, from the pro-inflammatory Th1 to the anti-inflammatory Th2 type. In human IBD, up to now, only one open study has achieved encouraging results. In this study, patients were given curcumin (360mg/dose) 3 or 4 times/day for three months. Further, curcumin significantly reduced clinical relapse in patients with quiescent IBD. The inhibitory effects of curcumin on major inflammatory mechanisms like COX-2, LOX, TNF-α, IFN-γ, NF-κB and its unrivalled safety profile suggest that it has bright prospects in the treatment of IBD. However, randomized controlled clinical investigations in large cohorts of patients are needed to fully evaluate the clinical potential of curcumin."

"Curcumin for inflammatory bowel disease: a review of human studies" in Alt Med Rev (2011)
"Although two small studies have shown promising results, all authors conclude that larger-scale, double-blind trials need to be conducted to establish a role for curcumin in the treatment of ulcerative colitis. In addition to improving results when used in conjunction with conventional medications for UC, curcumin may pose a less-expensive alternative."

"Novel formulation of solid lipid microparticles of curcumin for anti-angiogenic and anti-inflammatory activity for optimization of therapy of inflammatory bowel disease" in Journal of Pharmact and Pharmacology (2010)
"Objectives This project was undertaken with a view to optimize the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease through a novel drug delivery approach for localized treatment in the colon. Curcumin has poor aqueous solubility, poor stability in the gastrointestinal tract and poor bioavailability. The purpose of the study was to prepare and evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity of solid lipid microparticles (SLMs) of curcumin for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease in a colitis-induced rat model by a colon-specific delivery approach. ...

Conclusions The degree of colitis caused by administration of DSS was significantly attenuated by colonic delivery of SLMs of curcumin. Being a nontoxic natural dietary product, curcumin could be useful in the therapeutic strategy for inflammatory bowel disease patients."

"Molecular Targets of Dietary Polyphenols with Anti-inflammatory Properties" in Yonsei Med J (2005)
"Studies using isolated bovine COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes showed that curcumin had significantly higher inhibitory effects on the peroxidase activity of COX-1 than that of COX-2"

"Bioavailability of curcumin" post on Margaret's Corner, section on "My Discovery of Curcumin" and her journey with Multiple Myeloma"Pre-, "Pro-, Synbiotics and Human Health"in Symbiotics and Human Health (2010)
"... eating substantial amounts of foods with documented anti-inflammatory effects such as turmeric/curcumin, molecules which might be included in future synbiotic compositions."
See my post "Can ginger reduce the symptoms of CD?"