Ayuvedic perspective on IBS

These days, people of all ages – from children to adults - are suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). This article will tell you how to recognize it and how you can cure it.

Symptoms

Irritable Bowel Syndrome affects our intestines, primarily the large intestine. A person suffering from this condition exhibits symptoms like gases and pains in the intestines. Sometimes patients complain of constipation and at other times diarrhea. The disease is common up to the age of 48 years. IBS is controlled by the brain; that’s why it’s also called the Brain Gut disorder.

Causes:

Now let’s try and understand this disease from an Ayurvedic perspective. IBS occurs due to imbalance of doshas. According to Ayurveda, weak digestive fire (agni) is responsible for this condition.

Having heavy meals when the digestive fire is weak affects the intestines and leads to imbalance of all three doshas.

Pradnyaparadh has also been considered the cause of IBS in Ayurveda. It means ‘the misuse of intelligence’. Vishamashan is yet another big cause. Our acharyas have said that untimely meals affect our digestive system and lead to IBS-like diseases.

Easily Digestible Food:

• High protein diet and fattening food should be avoided.

• White flour and items made from it should also be avoided.

• Light, easily digestible items like khichari, buttermilk, and fresh fruits like pomegranate should be included in your meals.

• Having alcohol, chocolates, coffee, soda, and milk products worsen the disease. It’s better to avoid them.

• Have your meals on time and avoid staying hungry for too long.

• If milk products are worsening the condition, switch to yogurt. It’s a better alternative.

• Drink more water to control pitta.

Home Remedies:

• Ginger is good for the intestines. Add half a spoon of ginger in a cup of water and boil for 10 minutes. Then remove the ginger and drink hot water.

• Have mint in some form or the other during meals.

• This disease worsens with worries and excessive thinking, so try and remain free from stress.

• Put 2-3 drops of almond oil in your nose every day. Massage the soles of your feet with coconut oil and camphor.

We can keep this disease away if we emphasize on changing our lifestyle.

Note:

Vishamashan is yet another big cause of IBS. Our acharyas have said that untimely meals affect our digestive system and cause IBS-like diseases.