Living with Crohn's Disease: My Journey & Holistic Journey

Aug 12, 2025
3 min read

What is Crohn’s Disease?

Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory condition of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. It’s part of a group of conditions known as inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). Crohn’s can affect any part of the GI tract, from the mouth to the anus, but most commonly impacts the end of the small intestine (the ileum) and the beginning of the colon. Symptoms can include abdominal pain, severe diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, and malnutrition. The inflammation caused by Crohn’s can spread deep into the layers of affected bowel tissue, leading to complications and sometimes requiring surgery.

My Diagnosis & Early Struggles

I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease at 22 years old, back in 2000. Seventeen years later, my journey began with severe digestive issues, and I was told I needed to have my gallbladder removed, along with a section of my small intestine. The news was overwhelming. Later, I was also diagnosed with liver flukes, cirrhosis, and fatty liver. Despite these serious diagnoses, I was never given guidance on how to support my body after losing my gallbladder. I felt lost, so I took it upon myself to research, research, and research again.

Taking Control: Researching Natural & Holistic Support

Through my own determination, I discovered that healing from Crohn’s and supporting my body required a holistic approach. Here’s what I learned and what I want to share with others on a similar path:

1. Gut Healing with Herbal & Natural Remedies

Probiotics & Fermented Foods: These help restore healthy gut flora, which is often disrupted in Crohn’s. Foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, kefir, and yogurt can be beneficial.
Herbal Teas: Chamomile, ginger, peppermint, and slippery elm tea can soothe inflammation and support digestion.
Turmeric & Curcumin: Known for their anti-inflammatory properties, these can help reduce gut inflammation.
Aloe Vera Juice: Can be soothing for the digestive tract, but should be used with caution and under guidance.

2. Supporting the Liver & Other Organs

Milk Thistle: This herb is renowned for supporting liver health and regeneration.
Dandelion Root: Helps detoxify the liver and supports bile production, which is especially important after gallbladder removal.
Artichoke Extract: Supports liver function and digestion of fats.

3. Dietary Adjustments

Whole Foods: Focus on unprocessed, nutrient-dense foods.
Healthy Fats: Avocado, coconut oil, and olive oil are easier to digest and support cellular health.
Digestive Enzymes & Bile Salts: These can help compensate for the loss of the gallbladder and improve fat digestion.

4. Mind-Body Connection

Stress Management: Practices like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can help reduce stress, which is a known trigger for Crohn’s flare-ups.
Adequate Sleep: Rest is essential for healing and immune function.

Taking Control of Remission

One of the most empowering lessons I’ve learned is that you can take control of your remission. While Crohn’s is a lifelong condition, many people—myself included—have found ways to manage symptoms and enjoy long periods of remission. Here’s how you can take charge:

Be Your Own Advocate: Don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek second opinions.
Track Your Symptoms: Keep a journal of foods, symptoms, and triggers.
Build a Support Team: This can include holistic practitioners, nutritionists, and supportive friends and family.
Stay Informed: New research and therapies are emerging all the time.

My Message to You

If you’re living with Crohn’s, know that you’re not alone. There is hope, and there are many paths to healing. My journey has been filled with challenges, but also with discoveries that have empowered me to live a fuller, healthier life. By embracing holistic wellness, herbal support, and a proactive mindset, you can take control of your health and your story.

Feel free to personalize this further with more details from your journey or specific herbal protocols you’ve found helpful!