Celiac disease is a digestive disorder that is thought to be caused by a genetic intolerance to gluten. In celiac sufferers, the consumption of gluten causes an immune-system attack that makes the small intestines inflamed. Irritable bowel syndrome is a painful inflammatory disorder that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal system from the mouth to the colon. The two disorders both involve inflammation and a compromised digestive system, and certain herbs can help by addressing these two issues.
Alfalfa
Phyllis Balch says in her book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing" that alfalfa may help celiac sufferers because it contains vitamin K. Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin that is often deficient in celiac patients due to a reduced ability to absorb it. Alfalfa may be useful to IBS sufferers as well, because the vitamin K found in it, helps increase healthy intestinal flora, which are required for proper digestion. In addition, the herb contains chlorophyll, which may help heal and cleanse the bloodstream. This is important because the intestinal walls of celiac and IBS sufferers are often compromised and unhealthy toxins are therefore able to leave the intestines and travel into the bloodstream where they can produce numerous ill health effects. For therapeutic purposes, Balch recommends taking 2000mg daily of alfalfa.
Garlic
Garlic may also help IBS and celiac disease because it is thought to aid digestion, support the immune system and help reduce and eliminate toxins in the colon. As such, Balch recommends taking a liquid garlic extract as directed on the label.
Fish Oil
The Canadian School of Natural Nutrition, or CSNN, recommends taking a fish oil supplement. Although fish oil is not technically a herb, the school considers it to be an important supplement and explains that fish oil contains omega-3 essential fatty acids, which are anti-inflammatory and may therefore be beneficial to both celiac disease and IBS sufferers. Balch adds that omega-3s help heal and support the intestines. For the best results, CSNN recommends taking a daily fish oil supplement that provides 1 to 2g of combined EPA and DHA, which are two important omega-3 fatty acids.
Plant-based Digestive Enzymes
Plant-based digestive enzymes may also ease both disorders, as they help properly digest food and absorb nutrients. This is important because IBS and celiac disease sufferers often have a reduced ability to digest food and absorb nutrients. Symptoms such as abdominal swelling and gas can be relieved by taking plant digestive enzymes with meals.
Peppermint
Peppermint may be useful particularly for IBS sufferers as it aids digestion, helps heal the intestines, prevents that 'too-full feeling' after meals, and reduces abdominal bloating. CSNN recommends taking a peppermint capsule or drinking peppermint tea after meals. It is important to note that herbal supplements may interact negatively with certain medications or cause unwanted side effects so you should not take any supplement without first consulting your health care practitioner.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis Balch; 2003
- "Pathology and Nutrition"; The Canadian School of Natural Nutrition; 2008
