Natural Relief for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) affects about 20 percent of American adults, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, and can be disruptive to daily routines. Symptoms usually include diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain and cramping. Conventional treatment typically involves the use of anti-diarrheal medication such as loperamide and anticholinergic medicines for pain from bowel spasms. Sometimes doctors also prescribe antidepressants: tricyclics for diarrhea and pain or SSRIs for depression and to inhibit nerve activity in the intestines. Natural remedies are also options for those suffering from IBS.

Fiber

• Experts recommend increasing the amount of fiber consumed as part of a regular healthy diet. Foods that contribute fiber include whole grains, many fruits and vegetables, and beans. It may be necessary to gradually increase dietary fiber, as too rapid an increase can contribute to abdominal discomfort. Psyllium can be used to supplement dietary fiber. According to Prevention.com, psyllium can regulate bowel activity and alleviate IBS symptoms.

Sangre de drago (Sangre de grado)

• Sangre de drago, also known as sangre de grado, is a tree that grows in the Amazon rainforest. Its sap is high in antioxidant and has many beneficial health properties. Among these, it is useful for combating diarrhea, whether due to viral infection, traveling or other gastrointestinal disorders such as IBS.

Peppermint

• Peppermint oil taken internally has relieved IBS symptoms in several clinical trials. Patients have reported that it relieves cramping and soothes intestinal irritation, as well as reducing flatulence. Typically the peppermint oil was taken in capsule form. A combination of peppermint oil and caraway oil was also successful in providing relief from IBS symptoms, as reported by Prevention.com. Peppermint may act by both increasing stomach acidity and anesthetizing the digestive tract. It may not be suitable for women who are nursing, however.

Grapefruit Seed Extract (GSE)

• Grapefruit seed extract is a natural substance that is readily available at natural health stores. In studies of patients with IBS (Ionescu et al, 1990), substantial improvements in symptoms resulted from taking GSE solution or capsules. Improvements in discomfort, constipation, flatulence and ability to sleep occurred, especially for patients using the capsules.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

• A systematic review of the literature (Liu et al, 2006) found that a number of Chinese herbal formulas and at least one Tibetan herbal medicine are effective for treating IBS. Of 51 herbal remedies examined, 29 were found to have results similar to conventional treatment, while 22 actually performed better. Adding herbal remedies to conventional treatment provided additional benefits beyond those of conventional therapies alone. A TCM practitioner should be consulted regarding the proper choice of remedy.

Changes in Diet

• In addition to supplements, dietary changes can also provide relief from symptoms of IBS. Many people benefit from reducing or eliminating intake of caffeine, alcohol, diary, sugar substitutes and foods such as broccoli and beans. Switching from milk to yogurt or using a digestive enzyme to break down lactose can also help. Pumpkin and yams can be consumed to help reduce inflammation and muscle spasms; in fact pumpkin is often used for animals with digestive problems.

Disclaimer

• The information in this article should not be considered medical advice. The information in this article is not meant to treat, diagnose, prescribe or cure any ailment. Always check with your physician before taking any products or following any advice you have read on this site. Always consult your doctor before you start, stop or change anything that has been previously prescribed. Certain herbs and holistic remedies are unsuitable to take if you are pregnant or nursing and must always be cleared by your doctor before use.