IBS Herbal Remedies

Irritable bowel syndrome, abbreviated as IBS, refers to a group of symptoms that can include bloating, cramping and gas. It also includes chronic constipation, diarrhea or a combination of both. The National Digestive Disease Information Clearinghouse says that IBS has no cure but that dietary changes, medicines and stress-reduction tactics may help. Certain supplements may be beneficial for IBS. Work with a qualified medical professional to help you find a treatment plan.

Turmeric

Known to many people as a culinary spice, turmeric gives curry its distinctive yellow color. Research from the Hugh Sinclair Unit of Human Nutrition at the University of Reading indicates that turmeric may also be useful for alleviating IBS symptoms. Two-hundred-seven volunteers with IBS were given daily doses of turmeric over a period of eight weeks. More than half of the volunteers reported improvement in their symptoms after treatment. The authors say that turmeric is a traditional herbal remedy in Indian and Chinese medicine for abdominal pain, digestive problems and distention. Some volunteers reported minor side effects, including flatulence and dry mouth. More research is necessary before turmeric can be widely recommended to IBS patients.

Agrimony

Agrimony's most traditional use is for wound healing. Herbalist Paul Michael also recommends agrimony for the treatment of diarrhea in IBS. He states that agrimony works as an astringent by tightening the intestinal mucous membrane. According to "Prescription for Herbal Healing" by Phyllis Balch, agrimony also stimulates the production of B cells, white blood cells that play a key role in the body's immune response. Balch says that agrimony should not be used at the same time as psyllium, the main ingredient in Metamucil. Agrimony is usually taken as a tea or tincture. Like any herb, agrimony has the potential to interact with drugs and other supplements. Use it under the supervision of a qualified health-care professional.

Peppermint

Research studies have shown peppermint to be beneficial in addressing the pain, bloating, gas and diarrhea of IBS, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The studies employed enteric-coated capsules, which pass through the stomach and into the intestine. This keeps the peppermint oil from causing indigestion and heartburn. Peppermint relaxes the stomach muscles and promotes the flow of bile, which helps food to be more efficiently digested. However, peppermint should not be used by people with gastroesophageal reflux disease, because its relaxing effect can cause stomach acids to back up into the esophagus. Consult a qualified health professional for more information on the use of peppermint for IBS.