As per a survey, around 11% of the population is suffering from irritable bowel syndrome. The reason behind such prevalence is poor dietary choices, a weak digestive system, and excessive intake of alcohol or junk. Doubtlessly, several methods are available for this condition, but Ayurvedic treatment for IBS is considered the most efficacious.
Before jumping directly to the IBS treatment, firstly understand the symptoms of this digestive issue. Diarrhea, constipation, irregular bowel movements, bloating, lumpy or hard stools, acidity, loss of appetite, grumpiness due to incomplete evacuation, and stomach cramps are some common IBS symptoms that a patient experiences. However, in some instances, patients also complain that they experience fatigue, sleeping difficulty, and painful joints.
Now it is the time to come back to the significant topic of discussion- How to treat IBS naturally. In Ayurveda, Irritable bowel syndrome has been described as “GRAHANI ROGA” which is mainly caused by Mandagni deficiency (Poor digestive fire) and accumulation of Ama (toxins) inside the body.
Treating IBS is very easy if certain precautions and self-care tips are adopted on a regular basis. The use of herbal remedies, Panchakarma, dietary precautions, and stress management are some modes of treatment followed by Ayurveda that a patient can opt for to get rid of this health concern.
Following are some natural ways through which relief can be ensured against IBS:
Diet alterations
Food has a direct connection with the mind and body. A patient with Irritable bowel syndrome has to be very careful about their diet. Stop consuming junk, oily, fried, processed, stale, and not properly cooked food. The intake of dairy products and non-vegetarian items should also be minimized for keeping IBS or other digestive disorders at bay.
Instead of these foods, choose fresh fruits and vegetables. They will not only provide strength to our body but also aids in the elimination of waste materials due to their laxative effects.
Herbal remedies
Another easy yet effective way of ensuring relief is the use of herbal remedies. Herbs being derived from nature hold immense healing power that can be utilized for several infirmities. Triphala, Garlic, Turmeric, Licorice root, Peppermint, Ginger, and Fennel seeds are some digestion-friendly herbs that a patient can use.
It is highly recommended to consult an Ayurvedic practitioner or specialist to know about the ideal dosage of these herbal remedies. A patient can consult Dr. Sharda Ayurveda, where past medical history and existing symptoms are combined together for providing Ayurvedic treatment that works the best for the Prakriti (nature) of the patient.
Panchakarma
It is an Ayurvedic detoxification therapy that is extremely helpful for restoring digestive health. It rejuvenates the body by smooth and proper elimination of the waste products and toxins causing abdominal issues.
Panchakarma mainly involves 5 forms of treatments namely; Vamana, Virechana, Basti, Nasya, and Raktamokshana. These natural techniques aim at alleviating aggravated Doshas, restoring digestive power, and restricting toxin accumulation. For IBS, the Basti karma is considered to be the best. It involves the administration of medicated oils through the anal route to provide the patient relief from IBS complications such as constipation, Diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and stomachache.
- Basti karma: There are some systematic ways that form the procedure of Basti karma. These steps are:
- Shirodhara: Dripping warm medicated oils on the forehead.
- Chakra Nabhi Basti: Filling the navel dip with lukewarm herbal oil or desi ghee.
- Abhyanga: A complete massage of the whole body with coconut oil, or other herbal oils.
These therapies help in re-establishing colon health, improving blood flow, and promoting wellness of the human body.
Avoid triggers
To get rid of IBS or any other digestive ailment, stop smoking and alcohol consumption. These habits make the intestines inflamed and irritated as a result waste products are not eliminated from the body properly.
In addition to alcohol & smoking, the habits of drinking coffee, tea, or soft drinks should also be modified. These drinks contain caffeine, nicotine, or other harmful ingredients that can trigger the complications of IBS.
We understand that quitting these regular nature habits is not easy. Patients can reduce the dosage of these drinks day by day and try to calm their cravings with herbal teas, Kadhas, or coconut water.
Yoga
Yoga is another pivotal part of Ayurvedic treatment. Performing yoga strengthens abdominal muscles, removes intestinal blockages, and promotes gut motility. In addition to physical strength, it also reduces the levels of stress that are often considered a primary cause of IBS.
Thus, there is no doubt that the disorder of IBS is extremely painful and psychologically discomforting. Now do not neglect the symptoms and treat them as soon as possible. The adoption of the above-stated ways will surely help in managing Irritable bowel syndrome.