Efficacy of Plantago major seed in management of ulcerative colitis symptoms: A randomized, placebo controlled, clinical trial.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE\nEvaluation of the effect of Plantago major (P. major) seed on ulcerative colitis (UC) symptoms.\n\n\nMETHODS\nIn this randomized double-blind clinical trial, 61 subjects received 3600\xa0mg/day roasted P. major seed in intervention group (n\xa0=\xa031) and roasted wheat flour in control group (n\xa0=\xa030), for 8 weeks, as a complementary to standard medications. Variables were assessed using the Lichtiger Colitis Activity Index (LCAI) at baseline, week 4, and week 8.\n\n\nRESULTS\n51 patients completed the trial (n\xa0=\xa028 in Plantago and n\xa0=\xa023 in placebo groups). Abdominal tenderness (p\xa0=\xa00.011), gastroesophageal reflux and gastric pain (p\xa0=\xa00.049 for both), were significantly less severe in P. major group. Visible blood in stool (p\xa0=\xa00.001), distension (p\xa0=\xa00.001), and anal pain (p\xa0=\xa00.051), decreased significantly in P. major group, although no significant difference was observed between the two groups: (p\xa0=\xa00.224), (p\xa0=\xa00.283), and (p\xa0=\xa00.455) respectively.\n\n\nCONCLUSION\nP. major seems to be effective in complementary management of UC.