Herb
Treatment Support
antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory
Application
tincture, tea
Irritable bowel syndrome
Christopher Hobbs:
“Irritable bowel syndrome is characterized by alternating diarrhea and constipation, often with crampy, painful periods, especially after eating.”
Etiologic Factors:
- Gut Motility Issues: Abnormalities in the contraction of muscles in the intestines, leading to either diarrhea or constipation.
- Gut-Brain Axis Disruption: Stress and emotional factors can alter the communication between the gut and brain, worsening symptoms.
- Inflammation: Low-grade inflammation in the intestines may play a role.
- Gut Microbiome Imbalance: An imbalance in the gut bacteria can contribute to IBS.
- Food Sensitivities: Certain foods (like dairy, gluten, or fatty foods) may trigger symptoms.
- Genetics: A family history of IBS increases the likelihood of developing the condition.
When to Seek Professional Help:
- Severe or Sudden Symptoms: If symptoms are intense, sudden, or cause significant discomfort.
- Unexplained Weight Loss: Significant weight loss without trying could indicate a more serious condition.
- Blood in Stool: Presence of blood suggests a need for medical evaluation.
- Fever: Could signal an infection or inflammatory condition.
- New Onset in Older Adults: If IBS symptoms appear for the first time after age 50, it warrants investigation to rule out other conditions.
Treatment Plan for Irritable bowel syndrome
When to Treat at Home with Herbs:
- Mild to Moderate Symptoms: For symptoms like bloating, mild abdominal pain, or irregular bowel movements without alarming signs.
- Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla): Known for soothing the gut and reducing inflammation.
- Peppermint (Mentha x piperita)Â Oil: Can help with bloating and abdominal discomfort.
- Ginger (Zingiber officinale): May alleviate nausea and digestive upset.
- Psyllium (Plantago ovata) Husk: Beneficial for managing constipation.
Always consult a healthcare professional if symptoms worsen or persist, or if you’re unsure whether herbal remedies are appropriate.
Christopher Hobbs
“The condition is often associated with food allergies, especially to wheat and cow dairy products or can be related to an autoimmune response. Our own immune system can send out antibodies to attack the intestinal mucosa, causing chronic inflammation and cramping. Why this occurs is not entirely known, but it may be related to chronic irritation from processed foods, or the consumption of too many heating foods, such as red meat and sugar-containing products. An herbal program can consist of intestinal antispasmodics, demulcent herbs, anti-inflammatories, and immune tonics, where there is chronic immune deficiency. Avoid alcohol, tobacco, caffeinated drinks, dairy products, eggs, and wheat.”
Generated by ChatGPT; edited by Christopher Hobbs
Herbal Remedies for Irritable bowel syndrome
Herb
Treatment Support
Application
Herb
Treatment Support
anti-inflammatory
Application
DGL special extract in capsules or tablets
Herb
Treatment Support
anti-inflammatory
Application
tincture, tea
Herb
Treatment Support
antispasmodic, analgesic
Application
essential oil in enteric-coated capsules
Related Irritable bowel syndrome conditions
Additional Ailment
Herb
Application
No additional ailments found.
The information given here is designed to help you make informed choices about your health. The information is drawn from numerous sources—both traditional medicine practice, from the clinical experience of many herbalists currently practicing, and supported by decades of scientific research from the author. The research most consulted includes human clinical trials that help to determine the most effective and safe herbs for various needs, the best doses, and types of preparations.
The information offered in this database is not intended as a substitute for any that may have been prescribed by your health practitioner or physician.
