Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), encompassing Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis (UC), is a chronic condition characterized by inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, bloating, and fatigue. While medical treatments such as immunosuppressive drugs and biologics remain central to IBD management, supplements can play a supportive role in reducing inflammation, healing the gut lining, managing microbial imbalances, and supporting overall health. This article details 14 supplements that are often recommended for IBD, drawing on provided documentation, clinical research, and practical dosing insights. Each supplement is explored for its mechanism, benefits, and dosing recommendations tailored to IBD. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement, as individual responses vary, and interactions with medications are possible.
1. Indigo Naturalis (Supportive Supplement – Blood/Inflammation)
Overview: Indigo Naturalis (Qing Dai), derived from Indigofera tinctoria, is a traditional Chinese herb known for its anti-inflammatory properties, particularly in UC. Its active compounds, indigo and indirubin, are considered “energetically cooling,” soothing inflammation in the colon.
Mechanism and Benefits: Minimally absorbed in the GI tract, allowing it to reach the colon and reduce inflammation, blood in stool, and high calprotectin levels. It activates the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), promoting interleukin-22 production, which supports mucosal healing. A study of 33 patients with moderate-to-severe UC showed 67% clinical remission at week 4, 76% at week 8, and 73% at week 52, with mucosal healing rates of 48% and 70% at weeks 4 and 52, respectively. Another study of 11 patients reported 10 achieving clinical response and 3 reaching remission after 8 weeks.
Dosing (Thrive IBD Protocol):
- Start: ½ capsule once daily.
- Build to: 2 capsules twice daily.
- Maintenance: Decrease as symptoms improve.
- Note: ½ tsp ≈ 1 capsule. Monitor liver health (ALT/AST) with regular blood work, as rare cases of reversible pulmonary arterial hypertension have been noted.
- Research: PMC9081999, PubMed 34969665.
2. Natren Probiotics
Overview: Natren Probiotics, available as single-strain powders or in the “Healthy Trinity” capsule, include strains like Bifidobacterium spp., Lactobacillus boulardii, and Lactobacillus acidophilus. These probiotics are strain-verified and designed to survive digestion.
Mechanism and Benefits: Probiotics restore gut microbiome balance, which is often disrupted in IBD. They enhance mucosal barrier integrity, reduce inflammation, and alleviate bloating and irregularity. A review found 21/25 clinical studies showed significant benefits for Crohn’s and UC, with multi-strain probiotics being most effective. Natren’s single-strain powders allow for personalized dosing, and their enteric coating ensures viability.
Dosing (Thrive IBD Protocol):
- Start: ¼ tsp Bifidobacterium powder for 3–4 days, then add ¼ tsp DigestLac (L. bulgaricus), then ¼ tsp Megadophilus (L. acidophilus) if no adverse reactions.
- Maintenance: 1 tsp combined strains, 4–7 days/week, ideally with butyrate.
- Note: Take with or without meals. Low Herxheimer reaction risk.
- Research: PMC9952932.
3. G.I Ultimate Repair (Mucosal Healer – Gut Lining Peptide)
Overview: G.I Ultimate Repair is a peptide-based supplement combining GHK-Cu, BPC-157, KPV, Larazotide, Quercetin, Zinc Carnosine, and Tributyrin to promote gut lining repair and reduce inflammation.
Mechanism and Benefits:
- GHK-Cu: Mitigates inflammation and supports wound healing.
- BPC-157: Enhances angiogenesis and tissue repair, effective in colitis models.
- KPV: Reduces intestinal inflammation, comparable to steroids.
- Larazotide: Reverses leaky gut by tightening junctions.
- Quercetin: Boosts microbial diversity and acts as a prebiotic.
- Zinc Carnosine: Heals ulcers and gastritis.
- Tributyrin: A butyrate form that protects the colon. Studies show these components reduce cytokines and repair mucosal damage.
Dosing (Thrive IBD Protocol):
- Start: 1 capsule daily with a meal.
- Build to: 1–2 capsules daily.
- Note: Avoid empty stomach to reduce nausea. For simpler alternatives, consider pure BPC-157 or KPV.
- Research: PMC6073405, PMC5752708, PubMed 18061177, PMC4699279, PMC9861512, PubMed 35659631, PMC10389721.
4. C3 Curcumin
Overview: C3 Curcumin, a bioavailable form of curcumin from turmeric, contains three curcuminoids for broad anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
Mechanism and Benefits: Inhibits cytokines (IL-1, IL-6, TNF-α), reducing IBD inflammation. It remains in the GI tract, ideal for local action in IBD, and supports liver detoxification. A meta-analysis of six trials showed curcumin aids UC remission, with 80% clinical response rates. It may also reduce cancer risk and arthritic pain.
Dosing (Thrive IBD Protocol):
- Start: 1–2 capsules once or twice daily.
- Maintenance: 2 capsules 1–2 times daily, 4–7 days/week.
- Note: Can be taken with or without meals. For systemic benefits, consider Curcum-Evail® 400.
- Research: PubMed 32751776.
5. Takuna (Anti-Pathogens/Anti-Viral)
Overview: Takuna, a liquid extract from the Cecropia strigosa (Takuna blanca) tree, is a bioavailable anti-inflammatory and antiviral herb effective against viruses like Epstein-Barr and Cytomegalovirus, linked to IBD onset.
Mechanism and Benefits: Reduces microbial imbalances and inflammation in the gut. Its anti-inflammatory compounds minimize Herxheimer reactions. Studies suggest it alleviates colitis symptoms in animal models.
Dosing (Thrive IBD Protocol):
- Start: 1 drop daily on an empty stomach.
- Build to: 30 drops daily, increasing by 1 drop/day.
- Maintenance: 1 dropper daily, 4–7 days/week.
- Note: Best on an empty stomach but can be taken with meals if needed.
- Research: PMC7409252, PubMed 10364028.
6. IGGI SHIELD (Binder – Diarrhea/Bloat)
Overview: IGGI SHIELD is a binder supplement containing Immunolin (bovine serum immunoglobulin) and N-Acetyl-D-Glucosamine (NAG) to trap toxins and support gut homeostasis.
Mechanism and Benefits: Immunolin activates immunity and binds endotoxins from bacterial overgrowth, while NAG supports gut lining integrity and reduces epithelial inflammation. Over 40 clinical trials confirm their efficacy in reducing inflammation and preventing leaky gut.
Dosing (Thrive IBD Protocol):
- Start: ¼ scoop 1–2 times daily with 8–16 oz water on an empty stomach.
- Maintenance: 1 scoop daily, 4–7 days/week.
- Note: Adequate water intake prevents constipation.
- Research: PMC4622288, PMC4284400, PMC4363768.
7. TUDCA (Supportive Supplement – Liver/Gallbladder)
Overview: Tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA) is a bile acid that supports liver and gallbladder function, reducing endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and inflammation.
Mechanism and Benefits: TUDCA promotes mucosal healing and reduces inflammation in IBD by modulating bile acid metabolism, restoring intestinal barrier integrity, and alleviating dysbiosis. A Phase I study in patients with active UC found that 6 weeks of oral TUDCA was well-tolerated, promoting mucosal healing, lessening ER stress, and reducing disease activity. Another study in mice showed it effectively alleviated colitis symptoms, including reduced inflammation and weight loss. It may also alter gut microbiota positively in long-term use.
Dosing (Thrive IBD Protocol):
- Start: 250–500 mg once daily.
- Build to: 750–1000 mg daily, divided doses.
- Maintenance: 500–1500 mg daily, 4–7 days/week.
- Note: Take with meals to enhance absorption. Monitor liver function, as it’s supportive for liver health.
- Research: PMC11998832, ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04114292, PMC6952947.
8. Butyrate
Overview: Butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid (SCFA), is produced by gut bacteria fermenting prebiotic fiber and is a key fuel for colonocytes.
Mechanism and Benefits: Supports gut lining integrity, reduces leaky gut, and promotes mucin and secretory IgA production. It regulates T-cells in gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT), reducing inflammation via NF-κB inhibition, and acts as an antioxidant to lower oxidative stress. Studies confirm its role in reducing colitis severity and supporting microbiome balance.
Dosing (Thrive IBD Protocol):
- Start: 1–3 capsules 1–2 times daily.
- Maintenance: 2 capsules once daily, 4–7 days/week.
- Note: Best with probiotics due to low Herx reaction risk. Can be taken with or without meals.
- Research: ingentaconnect.com, PubMed 37242159.
9. NAC (Supportive Supplements – Liver)
Overview: N-acetyl L-cysteine (NAC) is a precursor to glutathione, the body’s primary antioxidant, supporting liver detoxification and reducing oxidative stress.
Mechanism and Benefits: NAC disrupts biofilms, supports liver health, and reduces inflammation in IBD. It may improve test accuracy for infections by exposing pathogens. Clinical trials show it helps maintain remission and reduces flares in UC.
Dosing (Thrive IBD Protocol):
- Start: 1–2 capsules 1–2 times daily.
- Maintenance: 2 capsules once daily, 4–7 days/week.
- Note: Best on an empty stomach but can be taken with meals. Take 4 capsules before/after alcohol to reduce toxic burden.
- Research: PubMed 22308119, PubMed 25339490.
10. Parasympathetic Essential Oil
Overview: Parasympathetic Essential Oil from Vibrant Blue Oils combines clove bud and distilled lime oil to stimulate the vagus nerve and promote a parasympathetic state.
Mechanism and Benefits: Enhances digestion, reduces inflammation, and alleviates anxiety via aromatherapy and transdermal absorption. Clove stimulates vagal nerve activity, improving circulation and mood, while lime reduces anxiety. A scoping review supports essential oils’ effects on the nervous system.
Dosing (Thrive IBD Protocol):
- Start: 1–3 drops 1–2 times daily, rubbed on neck under ear.
- Maintenance: Use as needed.
- Note: Cost-effective and safe for topical use.
- Research: PMC10180368.
11. MucosalCalm (Mucosal Healer – Gut Lining)
Overview: MucosalCalm contains deglycyrrhizinated licorice root, wildcrafted slippery elm, marshmallow root, and N-acetyl-D-glucosamine (NAG) to reverse leaky gut and soothe mucosal inflammation.
Mechanism and Benefits: Licorice reduces inflammation via Nrf2/PINK1-mediated mitochondrial autophagy and eases muscle spasms. Slippery elm alleviates diarrhea and ulcers. Marshmallow root soothes mucous membranes and removes excess mucus. NAG maintains mucous membrane integrity. An herbal formula study showed improvements in GI symptoms and gut health in adults with digestive disorders.
Dosing (Thrive IBD Protocol):
- Start: 1–3 capsules 1–2 times daily.
- Build to: 3 capsules twice daily on an empty stomach for severe cases.
- Maintenance: 2 capsules 1–2 times daily, 4–7 days/week.
- Note: Most effective on an empty stomach but can be taken with meals. Similar product: GI Revive.
- Research: PMC9795328, PubMed 32151878.
12. GastroMend HP
Overview: GastroMend HP from Designs for Health combines DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice), zinc L-carnosine, vitamin C, mastic gum, and MMS to support mucosal health in the upper GI tract, particularly for Crohn’s.
Mechanism and Benefits: Targets H. pylori infections and heals mucosal lining in the stomach and upper GI. DGL provides flavonoids for gut protection. Zinc L-carnosine reduces inflammation and boosts mucous-secreting cells. Vitamin C aids mucosa repair and combats persistent H. pylori. Mastic gum relieves gastric upset and treats H. pylori. MMS benefits ulcers. Supports MALT and GALT for long-term IBD reduction.
Dosing (Thrive IBD Protocol):
- Start: 1 capsule 1–2 times daily on an empty stomach.
- Build to: 4 capsules twice daily (may take months).
- Maintenance: 2–4 capsules once daily, 4–7 days/week.
- Note: More potent without meals but higher Herx risk. Do not use without medical supervision.
- Research: PMC6166909, PubMed 30450689.
13. Bentonite Clay
Overview: Bentonite Clay, sourced from volcanic ash (montmorillonite), is a purified binder for toxin elimination, effective against endotoxins, pathogens, biofilms, and heavy metals.
Mechanism and Benefits: Its charged colloidal structure acts like a magnet to remove unwanted substances from the GI tract, reducing diarrhea, inflammation, and mucosal irritation. A review highlights clay minerals’ interactions with animal physiology, aiding toxin removal and gut health.
Dosing (Thrive IBD Protocol):
- Start: ¼ tsp, gradually increasing to avoid stomach blockages.
- Build to: Up to 3 tbsp as tolerated.
- Maintenance: 1–2 tsp once daily, 4–7 days/week.
- Note: Must take on an empty stomach. Pair with soluble fiber for efficiency.
- Research: PMC9127995.
- Get it here:
14. Wild Oil of Oregano (Anti-Pathogen/Broad Spectrum)
Overview: Wild Oil of Oregano, rich in carvacrol and thymol, is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial essential oil derived from oregano plants.
Mechanism and Benefits: Exhibits antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties, potentially aiding IBD by reducing gut pathogens like MAP in Crohn’s and alleviating digestive issues such as bloating and cramps. Studies show oregano oil’s activity against antibiotic-resistant bacteria and its role in improving inflammatory bowel conditions. It may help with wound healing and symptom relief in Crohn’s.
Dosing (Thrive IBD Protocol):
- Start: 1–2 drops diluted in water or carrier oil, once daily.
- Build to: 200–600 mg (or equivalent in drops) daily, divided doses.
- Maintenance: 200–400 mg daily, 4–7 days/week, for up to 6–10 weeks cycles.
- Note: Dilute to avoid irritation; not for long-term continuous use. Consult for SIBO/IBD-specific adjustments.
- Research: PMC6152729, PMC10255559, humanpara.org, ibsclinics.co.uk.