5 Healing Herbs for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)  is a chronic disorder that leads to severe episodes of abdominal pain and marked changes in bowel rhythm. Although there is no exact cause of this disorder, its development is linked to poor dietary habits, stress and a sedentary lifestyle. In today’s article we will be showing you how you can use herbs for irritable bowel syndrome, and the healing effect it can have.

Unlike other digestive system disorders, this condition doesn’t cause any changes in intestinal morphology or metabolism, nor do any infectious agents explain its cause.

In general, affected patients experience continuous indigestion, a full feeling and an excessive accumulation of gas. However, these symptoms can be kept under control, especially when you improve your daily habits, including your diet.

In addition to this, you can consider some healing herbs for irritable bowel syndrome, which will bring some relief for the symptoms. Today, we want to share 5 of the best of these herbs that you can use when you experience this problem.

1. Healing herbs for irritable bowel syndrome: thyme

Thyme is a medicinal herb that has been used as a natural supplement to relieve colon problems since ancient times. It has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that help control the pain and swelling caused by irritable bowel syndrome.

Furthermore, its cleansing properties stimulate the elimination of toxins retained in the digestive system. Thyme also provides protection against bacterial infections.

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon of thyme
• 1 cup of water

Method

• Firstly, bring the water to a boil.
• When it boils, add the teaspoon of thyme.
• Cover the mixture, and then put it on low heat for 2 minutes. After that, remove it from the heat.
• When it cools down to a suitable temperature, strain it and drink it.
• Drink it twice daily.

See also: 5 Ideal Foods to Cleanse the Colon

2. Valerian

Valerian is famous for its sedative and anti-stress effects. However, it’s also a medicinal plant with many benefits that can relieve the symptoms of this digestive disorder. In addition, it has antispasmodic, digestive and anti-inflammatory properties that control pain, difficulties in processing food and imbalances in the bowel.

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon of valerian root
• 1 cup of water

Method

• In the evening, put the valerian root into a cup of boiling water and cover it.
• Then, the following day, strain the mixture and consume it.
• Repeat this until you find relief from the symptoms.

3. English plantain

English plantain tea is a good alternative remedy for patients with irritable bowel syndrome because it fights constipation and relieves pain. Its anti-inflammatory properties improve bowel activity and control excessive gas production.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of water
• 2 tablespoons of English plantain leaves

Method

• Firstly, heat the cup of water and add the English plantain leaves.
• Wait for it to cool down for 10 minutes, then strain it and consume it.
• Take 2 cups a day, for at least one week.

Read more: 5 Carminative Remedies for Gas

4. Peppermint

Peppermint leaves are one of the most commonly used healing herbs for irritable bowel syndrome and other gastrointestinal conditions. This plant has antispasmodic, carminative and sedative properties that control pain and excess gasses after being absorbed into the body.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon of dried peppermint leaves
• 1 cup of water

Method

• Firstly, pour the cup of water into a pot and add the mint leaves
• Then heat the infusion until it comes to a boil.
• Let the tea brew for 5 minutes.
• After this, let it stand and then consume it.
• Drink 2 or 3 cups during the day.

5. Anise

Anise is one of the herbs for irritable bowel syndrome that is most commonly used, as it provides a sense of relief from inflammation and pain. Its active compounds control the swelling of the bowel and stimulate its movement in order to correctly dispose of waste.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon of anise seeds
• 1 cup of water

Method

• Firstly, add the tablespoon of anise seeds to the cup of water and boil for 5 minutes
• Wait until the drink cools down a little and consume it when you first experience discomfort
• Take 2 or 3 cups a day

By using any of these herbs, you can help your bowel function properly and keep this irritating condition under control. You must, of course, also follow a healthy diet, since this influences the results these herbs produce.