Herbal Remedies for Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome is characterized by alternating diarrhea and constipation, often with crampy, painful periods, especially after eating.
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.
Herbs Used To Treat Irritable Bowel Syndrome
| Herb | Treatment Support | Application |
| Chamomile, Roman | antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory | tincture, tea |
| Licorice | anti-inflammatory | DGL special extract in capsules or tablets |
| Meadowsweet | anti-inflammatory | tincture, tea |
| Peppermint | antispasmodic, analgesic | essential oil in enteric-coated capsules |