Irritable
Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
This diagnosis is usually given when there can be no specific cause
found (such as ulcerations infection) in the etiology of ongoing
constipation, diarrhea, or an alternation between the two. Very
often linked to the nervous system and to impaired liver function,
tonification of both of these systems should be added as supportive
treatment. Other symptoms present in IBS may include spasmodic pain
of the lower GI tract.
Treatment
Goal(s):
· Relieve symptoms of diarrhea or constipation, relieve spasming,
tonify liver and nervous system.
Primary
Treatment:
· Administer antispasmodic herbs such as Viburnum opulus
(Crampbark) and Matricaria recutita (Chamomile). Enteric-coated
oil of Mentha piperita (Peppermint) can be a good anti-spasmodic
as well, while also improving liver function.
· Administer astringent, anti-inflammatory herbs such as
Filipendula ulmaria (Meadowsweet) in cases of diarrhea.
· Administer gentle aperients such as Rumex crispus (Yellowdock)
in cases of constipation.
Supportive
Treatment:
· Administer cholagogues such as Taraxacum officinale (Dandelion),
Curcurma longa (Turmeric) and Silybum marianum (Milk Thistle) to
strengthen liver function and elimination.
· Administer nervines such as Valeriana officinalis (Valerian),
Scutellaria lateriflora (Scullcap), or Avena sativa (Oats) to support
nervous system function. This often addresses the root causes.
Differential
diagnoses, cautions, and other considerations:
· Often food sensitivities will also exist. If the constitution
is not excessively weakened, consider a short fast (2-3 days of
water and herbal teas) followed by a challenge diet: start with
steamed carrots and brown rice, then add allium family vegetables
(onions, leeks, garlic), then brassica family vegetables (broccoli,
kale, etc…), then nightshade vegetables (tomatoes, peppers,
potatoes), then legumes (beans, peas, soy), then corn, then wheat
products, then dairy, then sugar, to notice if any of these common
allergens aggravate the condition.
