The topic at hand is about finding herbal remedies to relieve the pain associated with pouchitis, a condition that can occur after having a loop ileostomy with a new J-pouch. The person experiencing this is looking for alternative treatments to manage pain and maintain a positive mood, hoping to avoid reverting to a permanent ileostomy. Here are some suggestions and insights shared by others:

1. Topical and Herbal Pain Relievers:
- A herbal powder known as "Sore-throat-herbal-powder-014" can be sprinkled directly on the sore area for a cooling effect. It's advised to avoid eating fish while using this remedy.
- For external soreness, applying a cold calamine lotion poultice followed by a layer of Sudocreme once dry can be soothing.

2. Prescription Therapy:
- A low-dose, long-term course of Flagyl is commonly prescribed for pouchitis. Some people use it intermittently as a maintenance dose.

3. Probiotics:
- Align is recommended by a colorectal surgeon and several others as a reliable over-the-counter option.
- VSL#3 is effective but can be pricey; Target pharmacies might offer it at a lower cost.
- Activa yogurt and milk with Lactobacillus bifidus are good alternatives if dairy is tolerated.
- Acidophilus capsules and other probiotic blends may also help, though results can take weeks.
- It's important to experiment, as effectiveness varies from person to person.

4. Additional Natural Supplements:
- Consider trying liquid chlorophyll, aloe vera juice or gel, and broad-spectrum digestive enzymes. Start with small doses and increase gradually.

5. Diet and Eating Techniques:
- High-protein foods like meat and cheese, as well as most yogurts, are generally well-tolerated.
- Limit or avoid high-fiber foods, as the shortened gut may struggle with them.
- Chew food thoroughly to a near-liquid consistency.
- Keeping a food diary can help identify triggers.
- A small amount of whiskey has been noted by one person to help calm pouch activity.
- Avoid fish if using the herbal powder mentioned earlier.

6. Complementary Therapies:
- Acupuncture may help relieve pain, and biofeedback is suggested for controlling bowel function.
- Consulting a naturopathic doctor could help in tailoring probiotic and herbal treatments.

7. General Notes:
- Healing can be a slow process, often taking years, and reactions may be inconsistent.
- Introduce any new supplement gradually and monitor your body's response carefully.