Herbs for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

The medical community commonly states that there is not cure for irritable bowel syndrome, because symptoms can flare up again and again over a persons life because of stress and diet. But there are many treatments that are considered effective for the control of IBS. This article focuses on botanicals and herbs for irritable bowel syndrome relief and control. While none of these are commonly referred to as a cure for irritable bowel syndrome, those people who have tried them and found that they are effective feel that they have been cured.

If you are the type of person who prefers to use botanicals, plant remedies or herbs rather than chemicals to treat health problems and you suffer from IBS, then you will be happy to know that there are many botanicals, plants and herbs for irritable bowel syndrome. Slippery elm was recommended by Native Americans for indigestion and stomach ailments. While the term IBS was not used by them, herbalists have studied the effectiveness of slippery elm when looking for herbs for irritable bowel syndrome. Slippery elm can have side effects. It may have a laxative effect and may not be the best choice for IBS with diarrhea. Some people who have IBS with constipation call it their cure for irritable bowel syndrome.

Aloe is commonly listed as one of the herbs for irritable bowel syndrome, as well as inflammatory bowel disease. It was not used historically for indigestion, but to relieve the pain from burns and skin lesions and to reduce swelling. Modern herbalists have found that when purified and concentrated it is effective for the relief of many digestive problems. Once again, aloe is not considered a cure for irritable bowel syndrome, except by those who have experienced relief of symptoms. And, once again, it can have a laxative effect and so may not be the best choice for IBS with diarrhea.

Botanicals and herbs for irritable bowels syndrome with diarrhea may or may not be the same as botanicals and herbs for irritable bowel syndrome with constipation. People are different and so different plants affect them differently, just as different foods affect them differently. Foods that bring on symptoms in one person may not bring on symptoms in another person. Some people who claim to have a cure for irritable bowel syndrome are marketing books and products to consumers. It is important to remember that these eating plans may or may not work for you. A food and symptoms diary may help you design your own cure for irritable bowel syndrome, whether you have diarrhea, constipation or both. By noting what foods you ate at the last meal or possibly earlier in the day, you may be able to identify food sensitivities. Food sensitivities and even allergies can develop later in life, meaning that the food you ate with no problem once could be causing you problems now. Adding botanicals or herbs for irritable bowel syndrome control is an option and most are safe, but you should discontinue use and consult your doctor if symptoms worsen.

For more information about irritable bowel syndrome or other digestive problems, visit www.digestive-disorders-guide.com

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What is herbal medicine?

An approach to healing which uses plant or plant-derived preparations to treat, prevent, or cure various health conditions and ailments. This approach is incorporated into various medical systems. Although herbal medicine does not have a specific point of conception, at present an estimated 80% of the world’s population rely on medicinal plant preparations for their primary healthcare needs, according to the World Health Organization. ...
Herbal medicine involves the use of any or all of the different parts of plants (roots, leaves, stems and seeds) to treat illnesses and maintain health. Medicines are given to improve the body’s natural functions and to restore a natural balance of health. Herbal medicines can be given in many forms, such as liquids, infusions, tablets, creams and ointments.
Herbs are used in both Eastern and Western medicine. The aim is to use all parts of the herb and particular emphasis is laid on the energetic content of the herbs and its ability to stimulate healing. Thus the method of picking the herb and the time of day can affect the potency. The whole herb has a wider healing potential than the single active agent used by the pharmaceutical industry.