Herbal Cure for IBS

Irritable Bowel Syndrome, or IBS, is a disorder that affects the colon and often includes a group of syndromes such as abdominal pain, gas, diarrhea and/or constipation. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, while there is no cure for IBS, changes in diet, medicine and/or stress relief might help alleviate some of the symptoms.

Herbal Treatment

• Certain herbs may help relieve symptoms of IBS. The Mayo Clinic notes that peppermint, an anti-spasmodic, may provide temporary relief of symptoms, because it can relax the intestinal muscles. The clinic warns, however, that peppermint can cause heartburn, and it is best to take in an enteric-coated capsule form.
  According to the American Botanical Council, in addition to peppermint, fennel, ginger, chamomile, caraway, anise and oregano may all help relieve some of the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. High-volatile oil fennel tea may help with both bloating and gas, as fennel also contains anti-spasmodic properties.
  Ginger may prove useful in relieving nausea and cramps, while chamomile, which is often used for its calming effect, has a number of helpful properties---including anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-peptic---that may alleviate some cramping symptoms.
  The ancient Greeks used caraway to treat indigestion, and it was often used to counterbalance the effects of laxatives. Anise, a Mediterranean spice, is supposed to regulate digestion and may be helpful in reliving gas, bloating, cramps and diarrhea. Oregano, meanwhile, helps to assuage nausea and relieve spasms.
  Before choosing an herbal supplement, there are some considerations of which to take note. The U.S. Pharmacopeia's "USP Dietary Supplement Verified" seal, for example, verifies that certain standards have been met in the manufacturing of the supplement, according to the Mayo Clinic. Also important is to look for products that contain only a single herb, as opposed to products that have mixtures of herbs of unknown proportions.
  Before beginning any herbal treatment regime, consult with a doctor. Some herbs can result in serious side effects when combined with prescription or over-the-counter medications.
  The Mayo Clinic also notes that other dietary supplements (not necessarily herbs) to try include probiotics, which could reduce pain and bloating, and fiber.