Herbal Remedies for IBS

By Kathleen Roberts

Many people who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome look for herbal remedies to manage their condition. Thankfully, there are many herbs that are beneficial to IBS sufferers, often with fewer side effects than conventional drugs.

Herbal Remedies

By using herbs along with following a proper diet, people with IBS can lead normal lives with fewer discomforts.

Alfalfa: Alfalfa is rich in Vitamin K which encourages beneficial bacterial in the intestines. It also has chlorophyll which aids in healing.

Calendula: A teaspoon of calendula tincture mixed with a quarter cup of water three times a day helps with diarrhea and constipation. Other tinctures that can be used in the same way include dandelion, fennel, lemon balm and St. John's wort.

Chamomile: Chamomile tincture can also be mixed with warm water and consumed three times a day to relieve intestinal spasms.

Lemon Balm: As a tea, lemon balm also relieves intestinal spasms.

Milk Thistle: Relieves constipation while supporting liver function.

Peppermint: Peppermint oil capsules relieve intestinal spasms.

Psyllium Seed: Take a teaspoon in one cup of water to provide fiber which controls diarrhea. Do not take within an hour of taking any medications.

Rosemary: As a tea, rosemary helps easy cramping.

Other Helpful Tips

Avoid coffee, alcohol and smoking. These things irritate the colon as well as the stomach.
Some people with IBS are also sensitive to wheat. Try eliminating wheat from your diet for two weeks and see if you notice an improvement.
Try drinking a half cup of aloe vera juice three times a day. Aloe helps to heal and soothe the digestive system. Be sure to drink it on an empty stomach.
Obviously, if you suffer from IBS you'll want to limit your consumption of foods that tend to cause gas. See Common Diets for Irritable Bowel Syndrome for more important diet-related tip and information.
You may also find these Diet Sheets for IBS to be helpful.

Seek Medical Attention

Herbal remedies, along with a healthy, well-planned diet can allow you a more comfortable life. Be sure to continue getting regular checkups from your doctor so your health can be monitored. Don't take any unnecessary risks with your health.