IBS is a catch all term western medicine uses for a group of symptoms involving the digestive system and its functioning.

Some people suffer with abdominal pain and distress. Other symptoms are bloating, fatigue, alternating diarrhea and constipation. Often certain foods exacerbate symptoms with gluten, sugar, dairy and high fiber foods being common irritants. Most people notice flare up in times of high stress.

In Chinese Medicine this kind of problem is viewed as a disharmony between the Liver and Spleen. What this means is the Liver which is responsible for the smooth flow of energy has become tense and irritated due to stress which causes the Spleen (digestion) to become weakened creating loose bowels and fatigue.

IBS can be alleviated through a combination of acupuncture, Chinese herbs and using tools that relieve chronic stress.

Acupuncture releases the tension built up in the Liver and supports digestive function. In addition, stress that worsens the problem is eliminated before it hurts the digestion. I recommend committing to 4-8 treatments depending on severity of symptoms.

Although best to consult with a trained herbalist Irritease by Kan herbals, Isatis Cooling by Health Concerns and the formula Shu Gan Wan can all be helpful. Make sure you take probiotics over the long term for digestive health – include both acidophilus and bifidus. You can also include fermented vegetables and miso soup to boost probiotics. Chamomile and peppermint tea are soothing to the gut.

It can be helpful to take an honest look at levels of stress in day to day life and also habitual patterns of negative thinking that feed IBS in a subtle way. Although many people will find relief with the recommendations in this article those patients who are willing to consider addressing stress levels and patterns of negative thought seems to get even better results.

Most digestive disorders respond very well to consistent acupuncture and herbal treatment.

Making dietary changes that restore and detoxify the gut also enhances treatment progress. Digestion is one of the main reference points for gauging one’s overall health. If there are weaknesses or imbalances here, it is likely that one’s overall health is compromised. Maintaining healthy digestion is an essential component in our quest for optimal health.