About Taking Herbs for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a condition in which you can no longer control when the muscles of your digestive tract contract, leading to diarrhea, constipation and acute pain in the abdomen. You may have a bowel movement at any time without warning instead of having them spaced more regularly. There are several natural herbal remedies that may help with the problem.

Considerations

• Talk with your doctor or integrated medical practitioner before adding herbs to your diet. Some herbs can interact negatively with your medications and some may cause allergic reactions. Also, use herbs that come from a reputable source to ensure the highest quality possible. Try a chain like Whole Foods or a smaller store where you may find more personal attention. Take only those herbs recommended for treating irritable bowel syndrome, avoiding combined mixtures that could contain herbs that are contra-indicated.

Peppermint Oil

• Peppermint oil is used to treat many gastrointestinal problems, including indigestion, flatulence and colic. Enteric-coated peppermint-oil capsules may help to calm and soothe the intestinal spasms of IBS. These capsules do not dissolve until they reach the intestines. Take one to two capsules---depending on how severe your symptoms are---three times a day between meals.

Asafoetida

• Asafoetida is an herbal plant native to Pakistan, Iran and Afghanistan. It is used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat colic, intestinal parasites and irritable bowel syndrome. Purchase the oil and take it orally to reduce the spasms of your bowel muscles. A naturopath or doctor trained in Ayurvedic medicine can tell you the proper dosage for your body type and symptoms. Do not ingest this oil if you are pregnant.

Brahmi

• Brahmi is another herb used in Ayurvedic medicine that is grown in India, Florida and Central America. The herb is purported to improve circulation to the brain, reduce anxiety and treat IBS. Try taking it in a tablet form, looking for the term "bacoside extract" and a dosage of 3,000mg per tablet. You can find it locally in a store like Whole Foods or in an Indian market. Take it once or twice a day and avoid using it if you are undergoing estrogen-replacement therapy.

German Chamomile

• German chamomile is used to treat both digestive disorders and stress, making it a perfect fit for people with IBS. This herb is usually ingested in the form of a tea to treat gastritis and IBS. Steep 1 tsp. of the herb in boiling water for 10 minutes. Strain the mixture, and sip three to four cups of tea each day between meals. However, avoid chamomile if you are allergic to ragweed, aster or chrysanthemum.

Crampbark

• Crampbark is a remedy native to Europe and North America. It has been used for its antispasmodic properties to treat conditions like asthma, menstrual cramps and IBS. When you experience symptoms, add 50 drops of crampbark tincture into 1 cup of water; drink this mixture up to six times a day.