Irritable bowel syndrome also termed as ‘Irritable colon’ or ‘Spastic Colon’ is referred to the collection of symptoms that are caused by irritability and irregularity in the action of
both the small and large intestines. It is primarily a gastrointestinal disorder that is triggered by stress related factors at most cases.
Ayurvedic Understanding of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) , is called ‘Grahani’ Roga in Ayurveda which transpires due to slow and sluggish digestive fire that is termed as Agni in Ayurveda. When Agni gets imbalanced, it causes large addition of ama or toxins that eventually leads to a
damaged and weak digestive system. Also, the imbalance of tri-doshas Vata, Pitta and Kapha in a body can affect Agni leading to IBS as well.
Factors that cause IBS according to Ayurveda
According to Ayurveda, the problem of IBS arises because of the malfunctioning of the
digestive tract that occurs basically due to inappropriate lifestyle factors and other
reasons as mentioned below –
1. Improper and excessive food intake
2. Irregular food habits
3. Dry and junk foods
4. Alcohol
5. Spicy or fatty foods
6. Improper sleep
7. Anxiety, stress and fear
8. A stressful life event
Symptoms of IBS according to Ayurveda
1. Abdominal pain
2. Recurrent diarrhea
3. Bloating of abdomen
4. Distention of the stomach
5. Fatigue
6. Excessive thirst
7. Heartburn
8. Flatulence or Gas
9. Vomiting, Nausea, Diarrhea
10. Mucus in the stool
Management of IBS through Ayurveda
The treatment of Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) aims at stabilizing the function of Agni
so as to ease the process of digestion and restoring the balance of tri-doshas.
According to the dosha characteristic of a person and based on the symptoms,
Ayurvedic treatments are advised. Panchakarma treatments like Vamanam,
Virechanam, Abhyangam, Shiro Dhara etc. and other external therapies are used
generally as per the symptoms to treat IBS. Also, internal medications are advised
based on the symptoms of the patient.
Ayurveda also recommends certain lifestyle and food changes, yoga and meditation for
the treatment of IBS.
Diet
1. Increase intake of fiber food
2. Eat more easy-to- digest foods
3. Have more vegetables and fruits
4. Sip buttermilk every day and also cumin seeds
5. Avoid citrus foods, curd, cheese, spicy foods, caffeine, carbonated drinks, alcohol,
cigarettes etc.
Lifestyle
1. Exercise regularly
2. Eat more slowly properly chewing the foods
3. Always eat on time
4. Have several smaller meals throughout the day
5. Practice mediation daily
6. Manage stress