Herbal Remedies for IBS

Many people who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome look for herbal remedies for IBS. Thankfully, there are many herbs that are beneficial to IBS sufferers, often with fewer side effects than conventional drugs.

Stomach pain is a common symptom.

IBS is known as irritable bowel syndrome and it is one of the most common digestive disorders that doctors see. Women are twice as likely to suffer from IBS as men. Typically, it strikes people between the ages of 25 and 45. Oddly, people of Jewish heritage are five to six times more likely to suffer from IBS than people from other ethnic backgrounds.

The cause of IBS is generally not certain. It is thought that stress, diet, food allergies or anything that disturbs the natural bacteria of the digestive tract such as antibiotics and laxatives are all possible factors that can contribute to IBS.

In IBS, the muscular contractions of the digestive tract become irregular. This affects the movement of food and waste and cause toxins to build in the intestines. Often, this irregular movement causes partial obstructions which lead to pain, bloating and constipation.

Symptoms of IBS include intermittent constipation and diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, nausea and intolerance of some foods. A diagnosis of IBS is made only after other health issues are ruled out. These issues can include celiac disease, colon cancer, Crohn's disease, lactose intolerance and many others.

Often malnutrition is common because those suffering from this disorder avoid eating to avoid the pain that eating triggers. Nutrients are often poorly absorbed by people with IBS, which also contributes to malnutrition.

While there are drugs available that help IBS sufferers, often they come with unpleasant side effects. Herbal remedies for IBS offer relief without those side effects. By using herbs along with following a proper diet, people with IBS can lead normal lives with fewer discomforts.

• Alfalfa: Alfalfa is rich in Vitamin K which encourages beneficial bacterial in the intestines. It also has chlorophyll which aids in healing.

• Calendula: A teaspoon of calendula tincture mixed with a quarter cup of water three times a day helps with diarrhea and constipation. Other tinctures that can be used in the same way include dandelion, fennel, lemon balm and St. John's wort.

• Chamomile: This tincture can also be mixed with warm water and consumed three times a day to relieve intestinal spasms.

• Lemon Balm: As a tea, lemon balm also relieves intestinal spasms.

• Milk Thistle: Relieves constipation while supporting liver function.

• Peppermint: Peppermint oil capsules relieve intestinal spasms.

• Psyllium Seed: Take a teaspoon in one cup of water to provide fiber which controls diarrhea. Do not take within an hour of taking any medications.

• Rosemary: As a tea, rosemary helps easy cramping.

If you have IBS, avoid coffee, alcohol and smoking. These things irritate the colon as well as the stomach. Some people with IBS are also sensitive to wheat. Try eliminating wheat from your diet for two weeks and see if you notice an improvement.

Try drinking a half cup of aloe vera juice three times a day. Aloe helps to heal and soothe the digestive system. Be sure to drink it on an empty stomach.

Obviously, if you suffer from IBS you'll want to limit your consumption of foods that tend to cause gas. Examples of such foods are cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower and beans. However, a balanced diet high in fiber is an excellent way to ease your symptoms. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Avoid animal fats, carbonated drinks, fried or spicy foods and dairy products. Eliminating processed foods and sugar will also give you better results.

Herbal remedies for IBS along with a healthy, well planned diet can allow you a more comfortable life. Be sure to continue getting regular checkups from your doctor so your health can be monitored. Don't take any unnecessary risks with your health.

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