“Doctor, whenever I eat my meals, I’m getting the urge to defecate, whenever I finish breakfast, I get the urge, My stools are never solid etc...” - these kinds of patient’s presentations are quite common in IBS. This is a chronic, not easy to treat and frustration inducing disease.

Common Symptoms Of IBS-

• Abdominal pain and discomfort.
• Abdominal Contraction increases after eating.
• Abdominal cramps with bloating.
• Feeling of unclear bowel.
• Chronic diarrhea, constipation or a combination of both.
• Flatulence.

Ayurveda explains IBS as Grahani & signs and symptoms are based on Dosha dominance i.e. Vataj, Pittaj, Kaphaj Grahani.

Line of treatment in IBS-

The medicines should have following qualities: Deepana – carminative property, Pachana – digestive, Sangrahi – intestinal restorative, which increases absorption capacity of intestines Laghu – lightness in the body

Home remedies for Grahani (IBS)-

1. Flaxseed
Flaxseed is a good source of dietary fiber required for the swift and comprehensive passage of waste products. Plus, flaxseed is a good supplier of omega-3 essential fatty acids that are known to support the immune and digestive systems. Both constipation and diarrhea can be treated with flaxseed. Add one teaspoon of flaxseed to one cup of boiling water. Steep for five to 10 minutes and then drink this herbal tea before going to bed. Drink daily to keep your stomach clean and free from gas.

2. Peppermint
Peppermint contains menthol oil, which has an antispasmodic effect on the smooth muscles of the digestive tract. This helps relieve bloating, gas pain and intestinal spasms. Plus, peppermint can help food pass through the stomach easily. Add two or three drops of peppermint oil to one-fourth cup of warm water. Drink it twice a day. Continue until there is improvement in your condition.

Note: If taken in excess amounts, peppermint may cause nausea, heart problems and nervous system disorders.

3. Fennel Seeds
Fennel seeds can relieve the intestinal spasms and bloating commonly associated with IBS. Plus, fennel seeds play a key role in eliminating fats from the digestive system, thus inhibiting the over-production of mucus in the intestine that contributes to IBS. You can take one-half teaspoon of dry roasted fennel seeds powder twice daily with warm water.

4. Ginger
Ginger can reduce gas and bloating, hence it is often recommended for treating IBS. Also, ginger can reduce inflammation in the intestines and relax the intestinal muscles. Grate a small piece of ginger and add one teaspoon of honey to it. Eat this mixture before having your lunch and dinner to get rid of diarrhea as well as improve your digestive process.

Note: Those suffering from high blood pressure should not use ginger remedies

5. Carrot
Carrots are a good source of pectin that can help prevent IBS symptoms as well as treat diarrhea and constipation. Blend soft, cooked carrots in a blender with a little water to make puree. Add a little salt and eat one-half cup of carrot puree several times a day.

Note: Avoid eating raw carrots if it causes stomach pain.

Recommended diet and lifestyle in Grahani (IBS)-

• Regular intake of buttermilk
• Fibrous diet
• Cumin seeds
• Pomegranate
• Warm water
• Easy-to-digest foods
• Moderate exercise
• Proper sleep

Lifestyle adjustments such as – Fixed timt table of meals, sleeping and waking up at regular intervals, moderate exercise, Yoga, stress management techniques are very useful.

Mental aspects to IBS-
Usually IBS is related with mental aspects. A patient with IBS usually suffers from anxiety or depression. In such a case, along with efforts to restore digestive health with the above said remedies, treatment to depression /anxiety should also be given. Hence treatments like Shirodhara treatment (pouring medicated liquid over forehead in a stream), Regular Pranayama, Meditation is very useful.

Some Ayurvedic medicines useful in IBS-
Ayurvedic preparations like Takrarishta, Sanjivani vati, Shankh vati, Kutaj parpati, Grahani kapat ras, Pachamrut parpati, Belagyl, Kutajarishta etc. are useful in Grahani. you must consult your doctor before taking any medications.