IBS is described as a functional disorder of the small intestine, characterized by pain, discomfort and altered bowel habits. Irritable bowel syndrome is a relatively common digestive system disorder whose exact cause is still unknown in western medicine. In Ayurveda, IBS is called grahani, which means retaining the ability of the small intestine or duodenum. If the function of these organs is altered or the bowel loses its control and its absorption is weakened, the condition is considered grahani.
Common causes of IBS
Ayurveda considers poor digestive fire (mandagni) and production of toxins (ama) as the main cause of IBS. From an ayurvedic perspective, IBS is linked to:
• excessive fasting or excessive food intake
• eating before the previous meal has been fully digested
• eating improper or unwholesome food
• continuous diarrhoea or food poisoning
• consumption of heavy, cold, dry, junk and polluted food
• suppression of natural urges
• irregular sleep habits (e.g. staying awake at night and sleeping during the day)
• grief, anger or fear
• chronic illness leading to weak digestion
• weakened immune system
• constant travel and change of places
Symptoms of IBS
• Nausea
• Abdominal pain and bloating
• Anorexia
• Weight loss
• Headache and tiredness
• Chronic constipation and/or diarrhoea
• Mucus and/or blood in stools
• Anxiety or depression
Complication of IBS
Untreated IBS may lead to complications such as:
• Skin disease
• Anaemia (low iron levels)
• Oedema (fluid retention)
• Anorectal disease (like haemorrhoids, fissure or fistula in anus)
• Abdominal pain
• Abdominal tumour
Ayurvedic Management of IBS
Ayurvedic treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome involves alleviating aggravated body energies, restoring the function of the digestive system, and eliminating accumulated toxins. As stress is often a significant cause of the disorder, an important line of treatment consists of lifestyle guidance and herbs to nourish the mind and nervous system.
Lifestyle Management
Identify and remove food intolerances. Avoid an unwholesome diet including curd, alcohol, fermented beverages, junk food and gas-producing food such as eggplant, cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, etc. Restore the healthy balance of good bacteria and flora in the gut (ayurvedic butter milk is wonderful for this). Attain a balanced mind by practising modalities that help you manage stress, for example yoga, meditation, tai chi, etc. Sleep well. Get adequate quantity and quality of sleep. Line of treatment in IBS Ayurvedic treatment is conducted according to your body constitution. It is necessary to consult an experienced ayurvedic physician who can diagnose your mind/body type and customise a program for your particular health needs.
