Friday, January 22, 2010

Herbal Treatment For Ibs

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is an intestinal disorder that causes stomach cramping, bloating, constipation and diarrhea. IBS is a chronic condition, and the severity of symptoms varies from day to day. Although the exact cause of IBS is not known, it is thought that it is the result of communication problems between the brain and the bowels which affects the muscles in the intestines. Sometimes stress, particular foods or certain medications can trigger symptoms. Treatment is targeted to the individual and may involve dietary controls, antidepressants and antispasmodics. Herbal treatment for IBS is often quite effective.


Peppermint Oil


Relieve cramping with peppermint oil. Peppermint oil is a popular herbal treatment for IBS. It has even been the subject of clinical studies. Peppermint oil is said to provide relief from the spasms associated with irritable bowel syndrome. Peppermint oil is available in capsule form.


Aloe Vera


Get relief from constipation associated with irritable bowel syndrome by using aloe vera. Aloe vera may also offer relief from IBS pain and discomfort. It is available in liquid form extracted from the gel of the aloe vera plant. Suggested dosage is 2 teaspoons of aloe vera juice twice daily.


Ginger


Use ginger to obtain relief from nausea and cramps. Ginger is a well-known herb used to treat gastrointestinal ailments. It is a natural treatment for morning sickness and nausea associated with chemotherapy. Ginger can be taken as a supplement in pill form, or it can be eaten raw.


Chamomile


Drink a cup of soothing chamomile tea for relief of IBS spasms. Chamomile has been used since ancient times when early Greeks used the flowers to treat colic. Chamomile is considered a safe herb and is commonly ingested as a tea.


Fennel


Obtain relief from bloating and gas, the two most common symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome through the use of fennel. Fennel has a mild licorice flavor and is commonly taken by brewing it into a tea. You can buy dried to fennel at your health food store and make the tea yourself by lightly crushing the seeds and them brewing them in hot water. You can also simply chew on the fennel seeds. Fennel is said to have antispasmodic effects upon the bowels and stimulates gastric juices.


Caraway Seeds


Add caraway seeds to your meals to aid in digestion. Caraway seeds can be found where spices are sold. They can be added to foods while cooking meals or the seeds can be chewed by themselves. The seeds can also be brewed into a tea to be consumed following your meal. Caraway seeds calm the smooth muscles in the intestines to help relax spasms.

Tags: relief from, bowel syndrome, aloe vera, associated with, associated with irritable