Natural Remedies for IBS

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is an uncomfortable digestive condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can cause abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, and diarrhoea. While there are medical treatments available to manage the symptoms of IBS, there are many ways to utilise natural remedies to relieve discomfort. It is important, as always, to find the root cause of your symptoms. A health practitioner such as a naturopath can identify underlying causes for digestive symptoms such as food intolerances, food sensitivities, gut infections, imbalances in your gut microbiome and SIBO. 

Let’s explore some of the most easily accessible remedies that may help with symptomatic relief.

Probiotics

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that live in the gut and help maintain a healthy digestive system. Studies have shown that probiotics can reduce the severity of IBS symptoms like abdominal pain and bloating. Probiotics can be found in foods like yoghurt, kefir, kimchi and sauerkraut, as well as supplements like probiotic tablets or powders. 

Prebiotics

Prebiotics are non-digestible fibre found in certain foods that feed the good bacteria in your gut. These fibres help promote the growth of beneficial bacteria while also improving digestion and reducing inflammation. Prebiotic-rich foods include bananas, dandelion greens, onions, garlic, asparagus, leek and oats. 

Herbal Teas

Herbal teas have been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments—including the symptoms of IBS! Herbs like chamomile and peppermint contain compounds that can help soothe an upset stomach and reduce inflammation in the gut lining. 

The most beneficial teas from the Mayde Tea range for IBS are: 

Serenity - particularly if you feel your digestive symptoms worsen with stress.

Cleanse - if you tend towards constipation/sluggish bowels.

Digest - if you often feel bloated, crampy or have flatulence.

There are plenty of natural remedies out there for treating IBS symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, and diarrhoea. Probiotics help restore balance to the gut microbiome while prebiotic fibres feed beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract. Herbal teas made with soothing ingredients like chamomile or peppermint offer additional relief from discomfort caused by IBS flare-ups.