Irritable Bowel Syndrome, commonly known as IBS, is a problem related to our stomach and intestines. It is not a serious disease, but it can cause a lot of discomfort in daily life. People who suffer from IBS often have stomach pain, gas, bloating, loose motions, or constipation. In this blog, we will understand IBS in detail—from the modern science point of view and also how Ayurveda explains and treats this condition.
What is IBS?
IBS is a long-term condition of the large intestine (colon), where the stomach does not work properly. The person may feel pain or heaviness in the stomach, may pass loose stools or have difficulty passing stools, and often feels gassy or bloated. Every person’s symptoms can be different. Some people mostly have loose motions (called IBS-D), some have constipation (IBS-C), and some have both (IBS-M).
Why Does IBS Happen? (Modern Medical View)
Doctors are still researching the exact cause of IBS, but here are a few common reasons:
- Stress and Anxiety: Our brain and stomach are connected. When we are stressed or worried, it can affect how our stomach works.
- Improper Gut Movements: Sometimes the intestines move ( peristalsis) food too fast (causing diarrhea) or too slow (causing constipation).
- Sensitive Gut: People with IBS often feel pain or discomfort even with normal gas or motion.
- Infections or Food Poisoning: IBS can start after a bad stomach infection.
- Hormonal Changes: Some women get more IBS problems during their periods.
The Psychological Factor:
In holistic healing, the psychological aspect is the most significant factor. Just as the brain resides in the head, our digestive system also has an intricate nervous network, often called the “gut brain.” When stress, tension, anxiety, or depression affect us, they directly impact digestion. Ayurveda refers to this as “Bhayaj Atisaar” (diarrhea caused by fear) or “Shokaj Atisaar” (diarrhea caused by शोक). Since mental imbalances influence digestion, treating the mind is crucial. Herbs like Jatamansi, Brahmi, and Shankhpushpi play a vital role in calming the mind. Additionally, Panchakarma therapies—such as Nasya (nasal drops), Shirodhara (oil pouring on the forehead), and Takradhara (buttermilk therapy)—help balance the nervous system.
Rasayana Chikitsa: Strengthening the System:
Ayurveda emphasizes Rasayana Chikitsa (rejuvenation therapy) to prevent diseases from recurring. This treatment strengthens the affected organs & systems. Conditions like Grahanidosha (IBS), chronic diarrhea, and dysentery often require specialized Ayurvedic formulations. One such unique approach is “Parpati Kalpa”—a method of administering medicines in specialised pharmaceutical form. Different types of Parpati include:
- Kutaj Parpati
- Ras Parpati
- Panchamrit Parpati
- Swarna Parpati
These are given between meals (Samana Kala) to enhance intestinal strength and digestion. Taking them with cumin (jeera) and ghee increases their effectiveness.
Symptoms of IBS:
- Pain or cramps in the stomach, especially before or after passing stool
- Feeling bloated or full
- Passing gas often
- Loose motions or constipation
- Sometimes mucus in the stool
- Feeling like the stomach is not fully empty after motion
Modern Treatment for IBS:
Doctors usually treat IBS based on symptoms. There is no permanent cure, but symptoms can be controlled well.
- Diet changes: Many people feel better by avoiding oily food, spicy food, milk products, wheat products and certain vegetables that cause gas. The low-FODMAP diet is also helpful for many.
- Medicines: Some medicines help in controlling motions, reducing gas, & relaxing the stomach muscles. If stress is a major issue, mild anti-anxiety medicines may be given.
- Probiotics: These are “good bacteria” that help improve digestion.
- Lifestyle: Regular sleep, walking, yoga, and reducing mental stress also help a lot.
IBS in Ayurveda – Known as Grahani Roga:
In Ayurveda, IBS is related to a condition called Grahani, which happens due to weak digestion and imbalance in body energies (called Doshas). The main reason is the disturbance in Agni (digestive fire). IBS may happen due to different reasons in each person, depending on their body type and lifestyle. Ayurveda explains IBS mainly through the imbalance of:
- Vata Dosha: Causes pain, dryness, constipation
- Pitta Dosha: Causes burning, loose motions
- Kapha Dosha: Causes heaviness, mucus in stool, sluggish digestion
Ayurvedic Causes of IBS:
- Eating at the wrong time or in a hurry
- Eating unhealthy or junk food often
- Suppressing natural urges (like gas or motion)
- Too much worry, fear, or anger
- Irregular lifestyle or sleep
Ayurvedic Treatment for IBS:
Ayurveda believes in treating the root cause. The treatment is different for every person depending on their dosha, symptoms, and lifestyle.
Diet and Lifestyle:
- Ayurveda suggests light and easy-to-digest food like:
- Warm rice gruel (called Peya), green gram (Mudga), buttermilk
- One superfood that stands out is pomegranate. It:
- Improves gut bacteria
- Enhances digestion
- Boosts blood production
- Strengthens immunity
For conditions like IBS, ulcerative colitis, and chronic digestive disorders, pomegranate works like amrit (nectar). Eating one pomegranate daily can be a game-changer for digestive health. Avoiding curd, cold drinks, fried items, and late-night eating.
Useful Herbs:
- Bilva (Bael): Helps in IBS with loose motions
- Kutaj: Reduces frequent motions
- Isabgol (Psyllium husk): Useful in both constipation and loose motions
- Triphala: Balances digestion and clears the bowels gently
- Hingvashtak Churna: Reduces gas and improves appetite
- Nagarmotha (Cyperus rotundus)
- Sunth (Dry ginger)
- Hirda (Terminalia chebula)
- Vala (Vetiver)
- Dhane (Coriander) are crucial for boosting digestive capacity
Ayurvedic Therapies (Panchakarma):
Ayurveda offers detox and balancing treatments that help improve gut health.
- Basti (Medicated Enema): It is the most effective treatment for Vata-related IBS. Medicated oils are given through the rectum to cleanse and nourish the intestines. It helps relieve constipation, gas, and abdominal pain.
- Anuloman (Mild Purgation Therapy): This is mainly used for Pitta-dominant IBS, where the digestive system is gently cleansed using herbal laxatives. It removes toxins and reduces inflammation.
- Shirodhara (Oil Dripping Therapy): A calming therapy where warm herbal oil is poured gently on the forehead. It relaxes the nervous system, reduces stress & anxiety—which are often triggers for IBS.
Stress Relief:
Yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises (Pranayama) help in calming the mind and improving digestion. Herbs like Ashwagandha and Brahmi are also used for stress relief.
- Eating a proper, regular diet, managing stress with yoga or therapy
- Using safe and natural herbs or probiotics
- Avoiding junk food, cold drinks, and overthinking helps to have faster recovery
Conclusion:
IBS is not a dangerous disease, but it can disturb your daily life. The good news is—it can be managed very well with proper care. You just need to understand your body, eat mindfully, & stay mentally relaxed. If you are facing long-term stomach issues like frequent pain, gas, or irregular motions, do not ignore it. Visit a doctor or an Ayurvedic expert in Pune to get the right guidance & treatment suited for your body.