Herbal Remedies for IBS: Which Ones Are Backed by Science?

The top 5 I use in my Tummy Rescue Digestive Health Naturopathic Clinic

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) can be a challenging condition to manage, with symptoms like bloating, cramping, constipation, and diarrhea significantly impacting your personal and professional life. While conventional treatments potentially provide some symptomatic relief, many individuals turn to naturopaths to provide symptoms relief but also address the cause of their IBS symptoms. In this article, we'll explore my top five herbs—aloe vera, gentian, ginger, melissa (lemon balm), and chamomile—that have proven invaluable to me in providing IBS relief for my patients and are backed by scientific evidence.

1. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is well-known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties (just think of how soothing it is on sunburn), well it can provide the same relief in the gut. It's rich in compounds that can help reduce inflammation in the gut, it has a mild laxative effect, which can help those suffering from IBS-related constipation. It contains polysaccharides that promote healing in the digestive tract, and it may also help regulate bowel movements by improving gut motility.

Scientific Backing: In a 2018 Systematic Review and Meta-analysis which was published in theJournal of Neurogastroenterology and motility, Aloe vera was found to significantly reduce abdominal pain/discomfort by 93% in IBS constipation-dominant patients after 8 weeks of treatment with no adverse effects.

2. Gentian

Gentian root has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, particularly for digestive disorders. This bitter herb stimulates the production of digestive enzymes, making it effective in addressing indigestion and bloating. Gentian root activates the secretion of gastric juices, bile, and digestive enzymes, improving digestion and reducing the discomfort associated with IBS. By promoting efficient digestion, gentian can help alleviate symptoms like bloating, gas, and stomach cramps.

Scientific Backing : In one study published in 2022 in The European Journal of Complementary Medicine participants experiencing symptoms of pain, belching, bloating, nausea or burning in the stomach after eating were given 120mg of gentian root. Symptom improvement was noted after only 5 days, on day 15, 31% of participants experienced resolution of their symptoms and 64% were happy with the level of symptom relief.

3. Ginger

Ginger is a powerful herb commonly used to reduce nausea and digestive discomfort. It has anti-inflammatory properties and can calm the digestive tract, making it particularly beneficial for those with IBS. Ginger works by relaxing the muscles, increasing blood flow and motility in the gastrointestinal tract, which helps alleviate nausea, bloating, and cramping. Its anti-inflammatory compounds, like gingerol, also reduce gut inflammation, improving overall digestion.

Scientific Backing: In a 2013 study published in the Journal Food & Function, 1.2g of ginger was shown to decrease the pressure on the lower eosophageal sphincter which helps to reduce the symptoms of nausea, dyspepsia, flatulence and bloating.

4. Melissa (Lemon Balm)

Melissa, also known as lemon balm, is a calming herb known for its anti-spasmodic and soothing effects on the digestive system. It's often used to reduce anxiety, which is commonly linked to IBS flare-ups. Melissa has anti-spasmodic properties that help relax the muscles in the digestive tract, reducing cramping and spasms associated with IBS. It also has mild sedative effects, which can be helpful for individuals whose IBS symptoms are worsened by stress or anxiety.

Scientific Backing: A 2015 study in Advances in Pharmacological Sciences highlighted Melissa’s ability to reduce gastrointestinal spasms and improve symptoms of indigestion, which are often present in IBS patients. Its calming effect on the nervous system also makes it a good choice for stress-related IBS symptoms.

  5. Chamomile

Chamomile is another gentle herb with anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic, and calming effects. It has been traditionally used to treat various digestive issues, including IBS, due to its ability to relax the gut and mind. Chamomile helps relax the smooth muscles of the intestines, reducing spasms and cramping often experienced by IBS sufferers. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe the gut lining and promote overall digestive health.

Scientific Backing: Research published in Molecular Medicine Reports in 2010 highlighted chamomile’s effectiveness in reducing gastrointestinal inflammation and cramps. Its calming effects on the nervous system also make it useful for managing the emotional stress that can exacerbate IBS symptoms.

Herbal remedies like aloe vera, gentian, ginger, melissa, and chamomile offer natural and effective ways to manage IBS symptoms. Each of these herbs works uniquely, whether by soothing the digestive tract, reducing inflammation, or improving digestion. Herbs offer so many benefits, because they often ease numerous symptoms, address the functional cause, work on multiple areas like gut and brain and are well tolerated.

Please note, while they are generally safe, it’s always important to consult a naturopath or healthcare provider before starting any new herbal regimen, especially if you're on medication or have underlying health conditions.

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A bit about me!

 I am Danielle Elliott a qualified Naturopath and the owner of Tummy Rescue.

I have been helping kids & adults improve their health for over 16 years, with the last 11 years concentrating on helping patients with any kind of gut disorder. I began focussing on everything gut related after my husband was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease. And lucky I did……as my husband and both our kids have Coeliac Disease and my daughter has a dairy allergy.

So…. I am well and truly where I am meant to be!

I love being able to help people to soothe and calm their symptoms, investigate the causes and support and improve their gut function.

I also get to write educational pieces to train practitioners and am often interviewed for podcasts and summits, which is another really rewarding part of my work. I love educating people (this is something I do in every consult), because I do believe knowledge is power. It gives you the tools to make the changes you need to!

So, when you opt-in to my E-book, you are beginning on a journey of learning and discovery, of how you can reduce your symptoms of bloating, gas & pain and improve your gut health.

I would be honoured to help you along the way.

Danielle xoxo