Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a disorder of the gastrointestinal tract that leads to difficulties with abdominal pain and cramps, bloating, gas, intestinal spasms, and irregularities with bowel movements. The cause of the disorder is mostly unknown, but difficulties with bowel motility and reactivity to stress are thought to play a role. Fennel is an herbal plant with seeds often used to aid in digestion and may be used to treat symptoms of IBS, particularly gas and bloating. The seeds can be chewed or brewed into a strong tea to alleviate symptoms.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome, often referred to as IBS, is a disorder that affects the intestines and digestive system. It typically results in difficulties with pain and cramping in the abdomen, spasms of the intestines, diarrhea and constipation. The cause of IBS is unknown; however, there are theories of its development. It is thought that the large intestine may react to stress and certain foods, leading to strong muscle spasms. Difficulties with movement in the intestines can lead to either diarrhea or constipation. The immune system may also play a role. People with IBS may have low levels of serotonin, a chemical that carries messages in the body, in the digestive tract. This may result in higher sensitivity to pain in the digestive tract as well as difficulties with moving the bowels.
Symptoms of IBS
Common symptoms experienced by people with IBS include abdominal pain, cramps or spasms, bloating, and changes in bowel movements. Some people experience fluctuations between constipation and diarrhea while others experience one or the other predominantly. Symptoms may be constant, or fluctuate between periods of intense symptoms and periods of time that are symptom free.
Fennel
Three volatile oils in the fennel plant help to stimulate the production of digestive enzymes in the stomach: anethole, fenchone and estragole. A stronger volatile oil content provides more benefits for the individual. According to the Help for IBS website, anethole works similarly to dopamine on the intestines by relaxing the muscles. The anethole is also thought to have anti-inflammatory properties. Fennel can be consumed in several ways. The seeds can be crushed and brewed in hot water to form a tea, or simply chewed while raw. A typical dosage of fennel is 1/2 tsp. of crushed seeds, which can be brewed with hot water and then strained to create a strong tea.
Risks and Benefits of Fennel
Besides treating gas and bloating, fennel may also reduce spasming in the intestines and help regulate the contractions of the small intestine, helping to regulate bowel movements. It is also considered beneficial for persons who suffer from constipation, as it encourages the body to remove waste, and diarrhea, as it helps remove bacteria in the digestive system that can cause diarrhea. Possible side effects of the herb include allergic skin reactions and feelings of nausea or vomiting. There is a risk for pregnant women in using too much fennel as it imitates the actions of estrogen in the body. Use fennel only under the supervision a doctor.
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