Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a chronic digestive condition characterized by erratic contractions of your digestive tract. About 20 percent of American adults suffer from IBS, although less than half of these people seek medical treatment, according to Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." IBS may produce symptoms such as abdominal pain, constipation, bloating and nausea. These symptoms may increase after eating. Certain supplements may help relieve the symptoms of this condition. Always talk to your doctor before taking supplements to treat IBS.
Flax
Flax supplements, which are typically available as flax oil, may help treat IBS. Flax seeds may help relieve constipation associated with IBS, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. This may help reduce abdominal pain and bloating.
Skullcap
Skullcap is an herb that may help soothe your central nervous system, according to Balch. This may help regulate digestive contractions by calming the nerves of your intestines and relieving pain, constipation, nausea and bloating.
Vitamin B-12
Vitamin B-12, also known as cobalamin, serves several functions that may help relieve symptoms associated with IBS. This vitamin may help tone your digestive system and intestinal tract, according to Balch. It may also improve your digestive tract's ability to absorb and metabolize proteins, vitamins, carbohydrates and minerals from food sources, helping to prevent malnutrition and anemia.
Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil has a long history of use in herbal medicine, and may help treat digestive problems such as IBS. Supplements containing peppermint oil may help relieve cramps and flatulence common in people with IBS, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Garlic
Garlic may help relieve IBS symptoms by improving the digestion of foods, preventing constipation and hard stools, according to Balch. This herb also contains antioxidant properties, and may help prevent damage to your intestinal tract caused by free radicals, lipids and toxins. However, garlic may thin your blood, so avoid this herb if you take anticoagulant medications.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Irritable Bowel Syndrome
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