Gut Feelings

Although it can’t be cured there are ways to manage IBS

IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) is one of the most common gastrointestinal conditions, affecting around one in five people in the UK, most of whom are women. Symptoms, including a cramp-like abdominal pain, diarrhoea or constipation, or alternating bouts of both, bloating and swelling, can be barely noticeable to completely debilitating.

Your doctor may prescribe drugs to relieve symptoms but the search is still out for a long-term cure. Meanwhile, here are some herbs that may help to make life more bearable.

HERBAL SOOTHERS

Slippery elm is a long-time favourite of herbalists. Why? The inner bark of the elm tree is loaded with mucilage, a smooth slippery substance that coats the walls of the intestines helping to soothe and protect them. It is also nourishing and can help clear up diarrhoea.

Look out too for marshmallow. Its leaves, flowers and roots are also rich in mucilage. In dried form it can be used to make a delicious healing tea.

Another herb that is worth a try is meadowsweet. According to US herbalist David Hoffmann, ‘Meadowsweet is one of the best digestive remedies available…it protects and soothes the mucous membranes of the digestive tract, reducing acidity and easing nausea’. Like marshmallow, the dried herb can be made into a tea. It can also be taken as a pill or tincture.

Being a potent anti-inflammatory, turmeric is often recommended to help maintain a healthy bowel and may be beneficial for people with IBS.  Research conducted at the University of Reading has shown that a daily dose of a standardised turmeric extract supplement can help relieve IBS symptoms.

Last on the list comes peppermint.  It is an excellent herb for helping digestion and soothing the stomach. Drink a cup of mint tea after eating either made with fresh leaves or the dried herb. Alternatively try peppermint oil. Research carried out at McMaster University in Canada and published in the British Medical Journal, found that 40 per cent of sufferers experienced a significant improvement in symptoms after using peppermint oil as opposed to 20 per cent after taking drugs.