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Remedies for anxiety related IBS

Although there isn’t a single identified cause of IBS, it is known that stress and anxiety can make the symptoms of IBS much worse. One of the most important things you can do when trying to keep IBS under control is to reduce the amount of stress in your life and to learn how to deal with the stress you do have to cope with on a day to day basis.

All of us experience anxiety at some point in our lives, but for IBS sufferers the sensation in the gut that we associate with being nervous can be intensified and may be perceived as extremely painful. Not only that, IBS can cause feelings of anxiety too. So what can you do about it?

The first step as always would be to speak to your doctor who may be able to prescribe something to help. Sometimes low dose anti-depressants are prescribed for IBS because some types appear to have a beneficial effect on the digestive system and increase the levels of serotonin.

Alternatively, you could also try some of the following natural remedies which may help improve your symptoms.

Peppermint

Peppermint oil is a natural remedy that you can buy over the counter in health food shops. Several research studies have demonstrated that it has an antispasmodic effect and can help to soothe the gut, ease painful abdominal spasms and aid digestion in general. Peppermint has also been used to treat anxiety related depression. You could also try drinking peppermint tea.

Fennel

Drinking some fennel tea after meals may help promote good digestion. It can also help ease flatulence and abdominal discomfort. It has a calming effect and could help ease anxiety-related IBS.

Turmeric

This herb is related to the ginger family and is often used in cooking. Recent research conducted by the University of Reading has revealed that it can help combat IBS. Patients were given either one or two supplements of turmeric extract daily. Those who were given one reported a 53% reduction in symptoms and those given two reported a 60% reduction in symptoms. Turmeric also has a natural anti-depressant effect and may help to improve feelings of wellbeing as well as symptoms of IBS.

Chamomile

Chamomile has been used for medicinal purposes for hundreds of years. It has a natural calming effect and could help to ease the symptoms of IBS as it also has antispasmodic qualities. Again it can be taken as a supplement or you could try drinking chamomile tea.

Chinese Herbal Remedies

Some studies have shown that Chinese Herbal remedies can be effective in treating IBS and anxiety. Talk to a qualified practitioner who will be able to prepare an individualised remedy to suit your particular set of symptoms.

A word of caution

Any remedy, natural or otherwise, can cause potentially serious interactions with other drugs and substances and may not suit everyone. Before taking any medication, even over the counter preparations, it is important to speak to your doctor first in order to rule out any contraindications