Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is irritating at best, and downright debilitating at worst. It is responsible for 20-50% of visits to gastroenterologists and has a broad range of risk factors and symptoms. The underlying cause is unknown.
IBS is considered a functional bowel disorder, basically meaning that the bowel appears normal, even though it does not 'function' normally. This makes this condition potentially very slippery in terms of narrowing down causes and treatments.
Luckily, nature has some great remedies up her sleeve to help deal with the broad range of symptoms that IBS presents us with.
Herbal remedies for IBS
Herbal remedies for IBS tend to target three major areas; stress, inflammation, and digestive function. Some herbal remedies can address more than one of these areas simultaneously. Try these remedies on for size:
Chamomile
Good old chamomile hasn't gained its popularity for nothing. While it is known most commonly as a mild sedative, it also has numerous actions on the digestive tract. It has traditionally been used to relieve an upset stomach, flatulence, spasm and other gastrointestinal irritation.
Liquorice
Liquorice is often used for its anti-inflammatory effects, and it is a pleasant tasting addition to a herbal tincture or tea.
Peppermint
There is some scientific evidence to suggest that peppermint may improve IBS symptoms specifically. Peppermint is antispasmodic in action, so it may improve intestinal colic and flatulence. All the more reason to reach for a peppermint tea after dinner.
Lemon balm
This beautifully fragrant and pleasant tasting herb is a gem. It has been studied for its effects on an upset stomach. Historically, lemon balm has been used for 'nervous stomach', as an antispasmodic and for nervous exhaustion.
Fennel
Pleasant tasting and easy to get hold of, fennel is traditionally used for intestinal cramps, flatulence and upset stomach. It is a popular choice in herbal teas, and the seeds are quite pleasant to eat by themselves.
Ginger
This warming spice may have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic actions, as well as having an anti-nausea effect. It can be taken as a herbal remedy, or included in meals to aid digestion.
What form is best for you?
Herbal remedies usually come prepared in one of three main forms, and your choice of form can depend on convenience, taste and whether or not the herb is available in tea or tablet form, for example.
#1 Tincture
Tincture is a liquid form usually made using different ratios of ethanol and water to extract the active ingredients from the herb. Sometimes a different extraction medium is used.
- Pros – the extraction method requires little processing and no additives. Different herbs can be mixed to make an individualised formula.
- Cons – the taste can be unpleasant, and it is not suitable for people wishing to avoid alcohol.
#2 Tablet/capsule
With tablets and capsules, herbal remedies have been extracted and processed into a convenient form for ingesting.
- Pros – very convenient, with a minimal unpleasant taste.
- Cons – requires a higher level of processing.
#3 Tea/decoction
Making a tea involves taking the raw (usually dried) herb and either steeping it in pre-boiled water or boiling it for a certain period of time.
- Pros – there’s nothing involved except the pure herb and water, and it can make a pleasant drink.
- Cons – only the active ingredients that are water soluble are consumed. Also, taste and convenience can be issues for some people.
References available on request
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