Natural Irritable Bowel Syndrome Treatments

Detoxification of the Gut

Another aspect of treating IBS addresses detoxification of the gastrointestinal tract. This is accomplished by eating well tolerated, healthy, whole foods. I highly recommend consuming an organic, mostly vegetarian diet of simple, unprocessed foods. Keeping a food diary which notes symptoms, stressors, and mood can be invaluable.

Herbs are used to detoxify and tone the intestinal tract. Herbs offer soothing relief in the form of protective barriers. Marshmallow root is an excellent herb which promotes healing and soothes inflamed tissues. Licorice root is a tasty anti-inflammatory herb. Yarrow can help to tonify the walls of the digestive tract, improve circulation and prevent the production of excess mucus. Yarrow prevents bleeding due to irritated tissues. For digestive complaints, I prefer that herbs usually be consumed as teas taken three or four times daily.

There is one exception, however. Enteric coated peppermint oil capsules have been proven to relax the smooth muscle tissue of the bowel. The result is reduced pain, healing of tissues and less frequent stools which are less watery. Take one capsule three times daily, between meals.

The Ayurvedic herb blend called triphala is an excellent remedy, especially for people who suffer from the constipated type or during the constipated phase of irritable bowel syndrome.

Acidophilus is needed to restore a healthy balance of bacteria in the gut too.

Reduce Inflammation of the Digestive Tract

Flax seed, borage seed, fish, black current seed, and evening primrose oils reduce inflammation and pain. Six to ten grams taken daily is very beneficial.

The supplement bromelain, which is made from pineapple, provides anti-inflammatory benefits too. You can simply eat pineapple or drink the juice regularly. Some people make a tea by simmering the stem and outside trimmings of the pineapple. While the most potent components are found in the stem, I fear that many of the enzymes which aid healing are destroyed when heat is applied.

The Bottom Line – Natural Treatments for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

I believe that including natural treatments in a protocol to relieve irritable bowel syndrome is essential. Peppermint oil capsules may provide rapid relief. Other herbs may be used to provide prompt treatment of other symptoms such as gas, constipation or loose stools.

However, for complete healing to occur, mind-body and dietary interventions coupled with supplements is essential. It may take one to several months before you see significant improvement. Stick with natural treatments even if progress seems slow. In time, they will not only help your body to heal from IBS, but you will feel better, look better, have more energy, and have a better outlook on life.

Author

This article was written for Insights-on-Health.com in Nov 2013 by Patricia Bratianu RN PhD RH-AHG. Patricia has been a Registered Nurse for almost forty years in a wide variety of settings. As a Registered Nurse, she realized that conventional healthcare was not meeting the needs of all patients. She became an herbalist and obtained a PhD in Natural Health. Patricia is a professional member of the American Herbalist’s Guild, passing the stringent peer reviewed process to become a Registered Herbalist.

Pages: 1 2