Dong Quai for IBS

Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a digestive disorder characterized by pain in the abdomen associated with either constipation or diarrhea. It is the most common condition diagnosed by physicians specializing in gastroenterology and it affects up to 15 percent of the Americans. Dong quai, medically known as Angelica sinesis, is a medicinal herb that is used by some alternative health care practitioners for treating this condition. If you have been diagnosed with IBS and consider taking dong quai, talk to your doctor first.

Conventional Drugs for IBS

Conventional treatment focuses on dietary changes, smooth-muscle relaxants, laxatives for cases associated with constipation, and anti-diarrheal drugs for cases of diarrhea. Antidepressant drugs are also recommended because emotional factors may trigger symptoms of IBS.

Dong Quai for IBS

One reason why dong quai may help improve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome is because this herb contains certain active ingredients such as coumarin that have muscle relaxant qualities. Thus, active compounds of dong quai help improve circulation, decrease cramps and relax smooth muscles. In some animal studies, this herb was found to be more effective than aspirin in decreasing pain and inflammation. These effects would also be beneficial for IBS suffers.

Based on folk medicine or scientific theories, dong quai may help improve constipation and psychological issues such as anxiety and emotional liability.
Thus, it appears that dong quai alone may be a natural alternative to muscle relaxants, analgesics, laxatives and antidepressants used in standard medicine.
Research studies in humans are needed to confirm all these potential effects of dong quai, however.

Safety

Dong quai is considered safe for most adults using powder extracts of the root, tinctures, teas and ointments as recommended by a health care provider. Safrole, an oil from dong quai, may possibly cause cancer; thus, long term used of this herb is not recommended. Pregnant women should not used dong quai because it may cause fetal complications. Diabetics and people with sensitive skin should use this supplement cautiously.

Considerations

Consult an alternative health care practitioner specialized in Traditional Chinese Medicine to find out if you may benefit from supplementation with dong quai and learn about its possible side effects and drug interactions. Keep in mind that dong quai does not replace any standard medications you are currently taking. Consider seeing a nutritionist, because dietary changes are essential for managing IBS.