Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America

About this site: The mission of the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America is to improve quality of life for people who suffer from inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD (both Crohn's disease and colitis are types of IBD). The site's Medical Central page has the latest articles and research findings, including guidance on coping day to day and information on how IBD affects your family. You can also e-mail questions to a physician and find a specialist in your area. (http://www.ccfa.org/)
Pluses: The Physician's Resource Room has information for health professionals who treat people with IBD.
Minuses: Bulletin board postings aren't in chronological order.
Best feature: The Clinical Trials Registry has a list of ongoing treatment studies organized by state and type of disease. You can also find resources for more listings, ways to participate, and a glossary of terms.

Health World: Herbal Care for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

About this site: Guidelines suggest herbs to ease the discomfort of diarrhea, constipation, bloating, and severe cramping--all common symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, a disorder of the small bowel and large intestine. The site is useful for those with such health conditions as Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, or persistent diarrhea. (http://www.healthy.net/library/books/hoffman/digestive/IRRITBOW.HTM)
Pluses: Divides herbs into helpful categories.
Minuses: Doesn't recommend most effective form of herbal remedy (pill, liquid, other) for each ailment.
Best feature: