A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study Investigating the Impact of α-pinene on Symptom Relief, Quality of Life and Inflammatory Markers in Individuals with Ulcerative Colitis

Background: Given the limited evidence on the efficacy of α-pinene, a herbal terpenoid, in the management of ulcerative colitis (UC), this clinical trial aims to investigate the effects of α-pinene compared to a placebo. Methods: Eligible UC patients were randomized to receive either α-pinene or a placebo, alongside their routine pharmacologic regimen, for two months. Quality of life (QoL) and disease severity were assessed using the Simple Clinical Colitis Activity Index Questionnaire (SCCAIQ) and the Crohn’s and UC Questionnaire-8 (CUCQ-8), respectively. Additionally, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were measured as inflammatory markers. Results: The QoL was significantly improved in the α-pinene group compared to the placebo group (P = 0.02). Several items of the CUCQ-8 also showed better outcomes in the α-pinene group. However, there were no significant differences in ESR and CRP levels between the two groups (P = 0.64 and P = 0.78, respectively). Conclusions: α-pinene may be considered as a dietary supplement to enhance QoL and alleviate several symptoms in patients with UC.