IBS is a common digestive disorder that affects million of people worldwide. It is often considered to be an embarrassing problem because of the symptoms and there is no scientific cause or cure, although symptoms can usually be eased.
A medical herbalist's job is to identify the symptoms and understand the possible underlying causes, there are a number of reasons why people might suffer IBS symptoms.
An in depth discussion with the person should allow you to understand what underlying causes may be responsible for their IBS symptoms. There are a number of different symptoms when it comes to IBS, however, these are the most common symptoms you are likely to see. Abdominal pain, diarrhoea or constipation, bloating and swelling of the abdomen, excessive and blocked wind, passing mucus etc. IBS is caused when there are abnormal contractions in the bowel. Remember the bowel normally contracts a number of times a day but in people with IBS these contractions are a lot more frequent.
The causes of IBS can include food sensitivities , stress, diet, bacterial or viral infection may be an initiator to the problem starting. As you may know there is no scientific cause associated with IBS and therefore it is important to ensure that you are eating the correct nutrients so that a persons intestinal tract functions properly. The two main nutrients you require are L-Glutiamine and N- Acetyl Glucosamine.
These are amino acids that the body can create itself but sorry to say they become depleted during times of stress. These can be supported if the client's symptoms are triggered by stress related incidences. There is an excellent herbal complex called Regalen which will help you with your bloating and IBS symptoms.
Patrick Murphy is a herbalist based in Tuam, Co Galway. The next herbal clinic is in the Clayton Hotel, Galway on Saturday July 17 from 8am to 8pm by appointment only. Contact him at 093-27033.
