Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common condition that causes abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habit such as diarrhoea, constipation or both. It is managed by a GP, sometimes with a gastroenterologist or dietitian, using approaches such as dietary changes (including the low FODMAP diet), stress management and medication.
See your GP first
Before assuming symptoms are IBS, it’s important to rule out other conditions. Please see your GP promptly if you have blood in your stools, unexplained weight loss, ongoing diarrhoea, symptoms that wake you at night, a family history of bowel cancer or coeliac disease, or new symptoms after the age of 50.
What the research says
Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine for IBS have been studied, but the results are mixed. Some trials report improvements compared with no treatment, while comparisons with sham (placebo) acupuncture often show little difference. Overall, we can’t say TCM treats IBS. Some people use it as part of a wider plan that also includes the dietary and medical approaches recommended by their GP or dietitian.
How TCM describes digestive symptoms
TCM often describes ongoing digestive problems in terms of Spleen and Liver patterns, and how stress affects digestion. These are traditional concepts rather than medical diagnoses. A consultation includes questions about diet, stress, sleep and bowel habits, along with pulse and tongue observation.
A note on herbs
Chinese herbs can interact with prescription medicines. Please tell your practitioner about everything you take, and let your GP know about any herbs you’re prescribed.
Booking
If you’d like to discuss your situation, book a free 20-minute consultation at our St Lucia clinic. Book a free consultation or call 0434 743 569.
This article is general information, not medical advice. Individual results vary. Please speak with your GP about ongoing digestive symptoms.
