In Ayurveda, IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) is classified under GrahaniRoga, primarily caused by an imbalance in Agni (digestive fire) and the vitiation of Vata and Pitta doshas. It affects the intestines, leading to irregular bowel movements, digestive discomfort, and long-term gut issues. Ayurvedic treatment focuses on balancing the doshas, strengthening digestion, and eliminating toxins from the body.
Symptoms of IBS in Ayurveda
Vata-Dominant IBS (VatajaGrahani)
- Irregular bowel movements
- Alternating constipation and diarrhea
- Bloating and excessive gas
- Abdominal cramps and shifting pain in the stomach
- Dry stools or mucus in stools
- Weakness, fatigue, and anxiety
Pitta-Dominant IBS (PittajaGrahani)
- Loose stools with a burning sensation
- Acidity, heartburn, and sour belching
- Excessive thirst and heat intolerance
- Inflammation in the gut leading to pain
- Irritability and stress-related flare-ups
Kapha-Dominant IBS (KaphajaGrahani)
- Heavy, sticky, and mucus-laden stools
- Sluggish digestion and bloating
- Nausea and a feeling of fullness
- Lethargy and brain fog
Mixed-Type IBS (TridoshicGrahani)
- A combination of all symptoms
- Constipation, diarrhea, bloating, and acidity occurring in cycles
Panchakarma Treatments for IBS
1. Virechana (Therapeutic Purgation)
- Best for Pitta-dominant IBS (diarrhea, acidity, and inflammation)
- Clears excess Pitta from the intestines
- Uses herbal formulations like AvipattikarChurna, Triphala, and Kutki
2. Basti (Medicated Enema)
- Best for Vata-dominant IBS (constipation, bloating, dry stools)
- Niruha Basti (Herbal decoction enema) helps cleanse toxins from the colon
- Anuvasana Basti (Oil-based enema) lubricates intestines and reduces dryness
- Medicinal oils like Dashmool, Bala, and TilTaila are used
3. Abhyanga &Shirodhara
- Full-body oil massage (Abhyanga) calms the nervous system and balances Vata
- Shirodhara (warm oil therapy on the forehead) reduces stress, anxiety, and gut sensitivity
4. TakraDhara & Pachan Therapy
- TakraDhara (medicated buttermilk therapy) helps heal gut inflammation
- Herbs like HingwashtakChurna, Pippali, and Trikatu strengthen digestion and reduce bloating
5. Nasya (Nasal Therapy)
- Brahmi, Vacha, or AnuTaila nasal drops calm the nervous system and reduce IBS symptoms linked to stress
Diet & Lifestyle for IBS Management
Recommended Diet for IBS
- Eat warm, fresh, and easily digestible foods like khichdi, moong dal, and soups
- Drink Ajwain& Jeera water to improve digestion and reduce bloating
- Include buttermilk, Amla juice, and ghee to balance digestive fire
- Avoid dairy, caffeine, processed foods, and excessive spices
Lifestyle Modifications for IBS Relief
- Practice yoga, meditation, and pranayama to manage stress
- Follow a Vata-Pitta pacifying lifestyle, including regular meals, proper sleep, and a stress-free routine
- Engage in daily exercise and light walks to enhance gut motility
Panchakarma, combined with an Ayurvedic diet and holistic lifestyle, helps restore gut health and provides long-term relief from IBS.