Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a common ailment in the United States. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse states that about one in five Americans experience symptoms of this condition. IBS more commonly develops in women and in younger individuals, especially people under the age of 35. Herbal medicines may help soothe and heal your inflamed intestinal tract, reducing your abdominal discomfort and improving the quality of your life, however you should discuss it with your physician before taking them.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
IBS, states the National Center for Biotechnology Information, is an intestinal disorder that causes abdominal discomfort, bloating, cramping and alterations in your bowel habits. Although IBS shares several symptoms with other bowel conditions, such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, it is a unique condition. In most cases, the exact cause of IBS is unclear. However, IBS may develop following an intestinal infection. Stress can make your IBS worse, and your IBS symptoms can range from mild to severe.
Herbal Medicines
According to Phyllis A. Balch, a nutrition researcher and author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," IBS, though painful, is usually not a serious condition, and most people who have this health problem can lead active lives with the adoption of proper lifestyle habits. Herbal medicines for IBS, notes Balch, include milk thistle extract, alfalfa, aloe vera, peppermint, skullcap, valerian, chamomile, fenugreek, ginger, goldenseal, lobelia, marshmallow, pau d'arco and rose hips. These herbs help treat the various symptoms that occur with IBS.
Featured Herb
Peppermint is a commonly used herbal medicine for IBS. Peppermint, states Balch, assists with healing and digestion, helps relieve upset stomach and reduces the sensation of being too full. Peppermint slightly anesthetizes the mucus membranes lining your gastrointestinal tract, and has been used to help treat irritable bowel syndrome, indigestion, nausea, diarrhea and colic. Balch notes that if you have IBS, using peppermint may help reduce your abdominal pain, flatulence and diarrhea. Various parts of the peppermint plant may be used in herbal medicines.
Considerations
An early recognition and diagnosis of your IBS, in combination with a healthy diet and a positive attitude, can significantly minimize complications associated with this condition. Talk with your health care provider about various treatment strategies available for your IBS, including herbal medicines. Before taking herbal remedies for your condition, understand the proper methods of taking herbs, the duration of your treatment, proper dosage and what side effects you might experience.
References
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- National Center for Biotechnology Information: Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
