Irritable Bowel Syndrome accounts for up to 50% of all visits to gastrointestinal doctors (Pittler MH et al. 1998).  Typical symptoms of IBS include intestinal spasm and pain, abdominal pain relieved by defecation, constipation and/or diarrhea, and abdominal distension and bloating. Common underlying causes include weak digestion, dysbiosis, hidden food allergies and inflammatory colitis. These must all be ruled out or treated comprehensively.

For very simple cases, just some supplemental magnesium can relieve spasms. According to a meta-analysis in the American Journal of Gastroenterolgy, peppermint oil is an effective treatment for  IBS. The peppermint oil usually relieves intestinal spasms and promotes rhythmic peristaltic movement within a few weeks. Before taking peppermint it is important to make sure that you are suffering from simple intestinal spasms, and not a more serious condition. You must also identify any food allergies, and correct intestinal membrane health and digestive power.

Stress is often a major or at least contributing factor in worsening IBS symptoms. Yoga, T'ai Chi or meditation practice can be helpfule, or nervine herbs like kava root, ashwagandha root or gokshura fruit (Tribulus terrestris), used alone or in combination.  It is never wise to rely on a simple remedy, no matter how effective, without treating the underlying causes of a condition.