| | Irritable Bowel Syndrome (spastic colon) treatments and herbal remedies | One of the most helpful supplements are the beneficial bacteria Lactobacillus acidodiphilus and Bifidobacterium bifidus, to restore normal gut flora and assist in digestion and absorption of food. These are found in powder and capsule form from most health shops. Be sure to get a product with 2.5 billion live organisms per gram and take 1 000 to 4 000 mg per day
Digestive enzymes are also very helpful: these can be found in supplement combinations containing pancreatic enzymes (amylase, protease, sucrase, malt diastase, lipase, cellulose, lactase), papain form paw-paw, bromelain from pineapple stem and cultured moulds from Aspergillus species.
IBS Herbal remedies:
peppermint (Mentha piperita) has a long history of use for intestinal problems ranging from indigestion, cramping, bloating, fighting infection, reducing inflammation and relieving pain. Mint tea is useful for tummy upsets, but the essential oil of peppermint is better for IBS. Take 1-2 capsules containing 0.2ml of enteric coated peppermint oil 2-3 times a day as needed, or dilute a few drops of the oil in 2 tbl spoons of vegetable oil and rub over area of discomfort. Do not use peppermint oil internally when there's heartburn or oesophageal reflux
psyllium (Plantago ovata) is rich in fiber similar to those in oat bran, flaxseed meal and guar gum. Use up to 1 tbl spoon of seed husks or 10ml of powdered seed stirred into 250ml water once a day. Drink another glass of water afterwards and don't take it within 1 hour of eating or taking other drugs
camomile (Matricaria recutita) acts as a sedative, relieves wind, calms intestinal spasm and reduces inflammation. It soothes the gastrointestinal smooth muscle and helps for diarrhea and constipation. Drink 3-4 cups of tea per day or 10-40 drops of tincture 3 times per day. Avoid in case of heartburn or allergy to plants in the aster family
dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) could help relieve constipation. Drink as a tea 2-3 times a day or take as capsules
valerian tea helps for anxiety and stress, to relax and sleep peacefully
ginger is a well-known remedy for digestive disturbances, such as indigestion, nausea, flatulence and colic. Drink tea made from fresh ginger 15 minutes before meals.
Aromatherapy oils and flower remedies are useful to help treat some of the symptoms of IBS. It is recommended to consult a registered aromatherapist for the safe and optimal use of aromatherapy oils. Aromatherapy oils are extremely concentrated and should be diluted in carrier oils by using half the amount of drops for the volume of carrier oil, for instance 5 drops lavender oil could be used in 10 ml of sweet almond oil.
Lavender is well-known for its relaxing and analgesic properties. Use 2-3 drops in an aromatherapy burner, or use diluted in a massage oil, applied to the abdomen
Chamomile's antispasmodic properties help to relieve abdominal cramping or discomfort. Use 1-2 drops in an aromatherapy burner, or diluted in a massage oil, applied to the abdomen
Peppermint oil can be diluted in 2 tbl spoons of vegetable oil and rubbed or massaged over the area of discomfort or a few drops can be used in an aromatherapy burner.
Rescue Remedy helps to treat anxiety and stress. Use 3-4 times a day
Vitamin B-complex with vitamin C are important for a healthy nervous system. Lecithin is a natural source of choline and inositol, both important nutrients for nerve cells. Use in combination with an antioxidant formulation.
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