Ayurvedic medicine began in India and is classified as a whole medical system where beliefs and healing methods have evolved over time in many cultures all over the world, according to the National Institutes of Health. Whole medicine systems are based on the beliefs that the body has the power to heal itself using mind, body and spirit. Ayurvedic treatment goals involve eliminating impurities, reducing symptoms, eliminating physical and psychological problems and reducing worry in the patient's life. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is an intestinal disorder affecting 15 percent of the population, causing abdominal pain and bowel habit changes, according to the National Institutes of Health.
Diet
Ayuvedic treatment for IBS includes altering the diet of the patient, reducing the negative impact of certain foods on the digestive system. For IBS, a diet of light and easy to digest foods will help relieve symptoms. Eliminating milk and milk products can determine if you are lactose intolerant which is a problem for people with IBS. Before doing this make sure you are getting enough calcium from other sources. Do not eat strong spices, oily or fatty foods, too much sugar, and excess caffeinated and carbonated drinks. Eat plenty of lentil, dried ginger, pomegranate and drink a lot of hot water. Adding whole grain foods and vegetables to increase fiber will also add great relief to those suffering from IBS, according to the IBS Treatment Center.
Reduce Stress
To relieve symptoms of IBS, reducing mental stress which in turn reduces stress on the digestive system is a priority in Ayurvedic medicine. Elimination of nervous tension is important in Ayurvedic medicine for the treatment of IBS and should not be ignored. Find ways to relieve your stress and anxiety by modifying your lifestyle. Make sure you are getting enough sleep each night, are exercising regularly and taking time for yourself. Meditate or do yoga for about 20 minutes each day to reduce your stress level and before going to bed, do not watch television or do anything that stimulates your brain like playing video games or surfing the internet.
Herbal Remedies
Herbal treatments and taking vitamins and minerals help with IBS symptoms. Peppermint oil, according to Mothernature.com, helps reduce bowel spasms in IBS patients who take two to three drops three times per day mixed with 1/4 cup of warm water. Taking 500 mg of glutamine three times per day is a supplement that helps ease symptoms associated with IBS as well. During flare-ups, drink chamomile tea, an antispasmodic which will ease cramping. When you experience diarrhea, once a day consume astringent herbs like raspberry, strawberry, bayberry and blackberry in the form of a tea. Do not drink this more than once a day as it may cause constipation.
