Alternative Treatment for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

The condition described as irritable bowel syndrome is typically treated with dietary changes, over the counter or prescription medications. Here we look at some of the alternative therapies for irritable bowel syndrome.

One alternative treatment for irritable bowel syndrome that has been effective for many people is a blend of herbs and botanicals which are known to have an anti-inflammatory effect. Herbs such as German chamomile, meadowsweet and slippery elm are typically included in these blends. Slippery elm has been used for centuries by native peoples to treat indigestion and stomach upset. Traditional herbs and botanicals are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration and most research concerning their effectiveness is conducted in Europe and Asia. Research is expensive and in the United States, it is mostly conducted by drug companies who are mostly interested in products that can be synthetically produced and patented. If you are turning to herbs and botanicals as an alternative treatment for irritable bowel syndrome, look for a company that sells a number of different products, has been in business for years and staffs or consults with herbalists and doctors of naturopathic medicine.

Herbs and botanicals are fairly inexpensive alternative therapies for irritable bowel syndrome. One alternative treatment for irritable bowel syndrome that has been in the health journals lately may not be so inexpensive. A small study published in the Journal of Clinical Nursing reported that hypnosis was somewhat effective, particularly in improving emotional difficulties that sometimes accompany the syndrome. If you are interested in hypnotism as an alternative treatment for irritable bowel syndrome, you will find that prices and qualifications vary. One session alone will probably not improve symptoms. Participants in the study received one or two therapy sessions per month for three months.

Chiropractic care is one of the alternative therapies for irritable bowel syndrome that may be overlooked. Many people think of chiropractors as "back doctors" and would not think of consulting them for abdominal pain. But, the spinal column houses the nerves that lead to the stomach and intestines, as well as the rest of the body. So, adjustments to the vertebrae may be effective in relieving the pain and inflammation associated with the syndrome. Many health insurance companies now cover chiropractic care. You can also use money from a "flex" spending account if you have one.

Stress management or behavioral therapy may be an effective alternative treatment for irritable bowel syndrome according to the American College of Gastroenterologists. While no one is sure what causes the syndrome. Most patients are high strung, anxious or under a great deal of pressure or stress. Stress management or behavioral therapy as an alternative treatment for irritable bowel syndrome may include instruction in relaxation techniques, meditation and counseling. Therapy is typically conducted by a psychologist, but there are many self-help workbooks on the topic of stress management.

Only you and your doctor can decide which alternative therapies for irritable bowel syndrome may be effective for you. It is important to remember that stomach pain can be a symptom of a more serious condition and a complete physical should be performed to rule out these conditions. Self-diagnose and self-treatment with over the counter medications, herbal remedies or another alternative treatment for irritable bowel syndrome is not recommended.

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