Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome is a fairly common disorder of the digestive system that changes the normal functioning of the bowels. It afflicts as many as one in five adults in the United States. Since it is a functional disorder, there is nothing to be seen on x-rays, blood tests or other tests to diagnose it.
Symptoms
This disorder is characterized by a group of symptoms that have been experienced for at least 12 weeks out of the past 12 months. These symptoms always include abdominal pain along with two of the following possibilities: pain or discomfort that is relieved by defecation; a change in the appearance of the stools; and a change in the frequency of bowel movements. Other symptoms that are not definitive include cramps, gas, bloating, constipation, mucus in the stool and diarrhea.
Causes
The cause of this disorder is not known and there is no cure. Some doctors think there may be a relation to the amount of stress or emotional conflict a person is experiencing. In IBS patients, doctors have discovered that the colon is extremely sensitive and begins to spasm after only mild stimulation. Women with this disorder may experience worse symptoms during their period, which suggests that reproductive hormones may also stimulate IBS.
Cautions
If the symptoms of IBS are accompanied by bleeding, fever, weight loss and persistent severe pain, it may indicate other, more severe problems. See your doctor and get it checked out.
Herbal Treatments
Internal Applications
- Peppermint – the oil from this herb is used frequently for irritable bowel syndrome. Peppermint helps eliminate excess gas in the bowels. Be sure and choose enteric-coated capsules to prevent heartburn. Excessive doses may cause nausea, loss of appetite, nervous system disorders, heart problems and may lead to kidney failure or death, so follow the dosing instructions carefully. This herb should not be taken by children or pregnant women.
- Ginger – this herb has been used for centuries to treat digestive problems. Take ginger to ease inflammation. Eating crystallized ginger may be helpful.
- Artichoke – an extract of artichoke leaf can improve the symptoms of IBS. Take 320 to 640 mg per day.
- Chamomile – the essential oil of this herb can ease intestinal cramping and irritation. Take this remedy three times per day between meals in a tea.
- Rosemary – this herb is an antispasmodic, and as such can be an effective remedy for IBS. Add rosemary to the diet, take as a tea or an extract.
- Psyllium - can provide bulk and aid digestion.
- Lemon balm – this soothing herb helps relax spasms in the bowels. Take as a light tea for the best results.
- Valerian – this herb is a sedative and antispasmodic. Valerian can help calm a bout of IBS when taken at the onset. Do not take this herb every day.
- Meadowsweet – this herb is an anti-inflammatory. Take as a tincture or a tea to relieve discomfort from irritable bowel syndrome.
- Slippery elm – take this herb to curb the discomfort from IBS. Slippery elm is very mucilaginous and it will coat the interior of the digestive tract to ease the cramping and irritability.
- Fennel - drink an infusion to help relieve cramping pains. Caraway is also useful.
- Yellow dock - take as a laxative to ease constipation.