Irritable Bowel Syndrome
IBS, or “Grahani Rog” in Ayurveda, causes irregular bowels, discomfort & bloating in 3 main types: D, C & M.
About Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), also known as spastic colon or mucous colitis, is a distinct condition characterized by a group of intestinal symptoms that tend to occur together. It is separate from inflammatory bowel disease and other bowel conditions. As per Ayurveda, presentation of IBS is quite similar to “GRAHANI ROG” which is a digestive issue affecting the small intestine. It leads to problems digesting and absorbing nutrients, causing symptoms such as irregular bowel movements, abdominal discomfort, bloating, and changes in appetite.
Types- here are 3 types of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS):
- IBS-D (Diarrhea-Predominant)- This type of IBS is mainly characterized by frequent episodes of diarrhea along with abdominal discomfort.
- IBS-C (Constipation-Predominant)- IBS-C is characterized by mostly constipation, where bowel movements are infrequent and hard, accompanied by abdominal discomfort.
- IBS-M (Mixed)- IBS-M involves a combination of symptoms, with alternating episodes of loose stools and constipation, along with abdominal discomfort.
Common Causes
- Oversensitive Colon: Dysmotility, characterized by irregular muscle contractions in the GI tract, can lead to cramping and pain in people with IBS.
- Gut Bacteria Imbalances: Altered gut bacteria composition has been observed in people with IBS, potentially influencing symptom severity.
- Severe Infections: IBS may develop after severe infections affecting the GI tract, indicating a possible role of germs in its onset.
- Food Intolerance: Sensitivities or allergies to certain foods could exacerbate IBS symptoms.
- Childhood Stress: Experiencing severe stressors in childhood, such as abuse, may increase the likelihood of developing IBS later in life.
Ayurvedic Perspective
Treatment and Management: Aim is to balance Vata and Pitta doshas with simple changes in diet and lifestyle. Vata imbalance might show up as constipation, while Pitta imbalance can lead to diarrhea and burning sensations.
- Easy-to-Digest Foods: Choose cooked veggies, well-cooked grains like basmati rice, and light proteins like lentils and chicken.
- Warm and Liquid Foods: Soups and broths can be gentle on digestion.
- Foods to Watch: Avoid raw, spicy, and processed foods, plus limit caffeine and alcohol as they can upset Vata and Pitta.
- Herbs- Ginger: Good for inflammation and digestion, Fennel: Helps with bloating and gas, Peppermint: Soothes the stomach and can ease cramps, Licorice: Anti-inflammatory, but be careful as it can have side effects.
Risk Factors:
- History of food poisoning, being female, prolonged exposure to antibiotics.
- Intolerance to specific foods may also contribute to IBS development.
- A history of abuse, such as physical, sexual, or emotional abuse, may be associated with an increased risk of IBS.
- Diagnosis of mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may be linked to a higher likelihood of developing IBS.
- Additionally, conditions like fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, and chronic pelvic pain are associated with an increased risk of IBS, often coexisting with it in many individuals.
Therapies:
Ayurvedic Panchakarma for IBS includes treatments like -
- Shirodhara (warm oil on forehead),
- Chakra Nabhi Basti (warm oil around the navel), and
- Abhyanga (therapeutic massage).
Yoga asanas like-
- Marjariasana (Cat Stretch)
- Pawanmuktasana (Wind-relieving Pose)
- Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-facing Dog Pose)
- Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose)
Home Remedies:
- Buttermilk acts as a probiotic, balancing gut bacteria.
- Curry leaves, taken as a powder, aid in gut balance.
- Chamomile, in tea or capsule form, eases gut spasms.
- Fennel seed water calms pitta dosha.
- Brahmi in tea and tablet form relaxes an anxious mind by working on the gut brain axis.
Common Symptoms
- Abdominal pain or cramps linked to the need to use the bathroom multiple times
- Increased gas and bloating
- Episodes of diarrhea, constipation, or both interchangeably
- Presence of mucus in stool, sometimes appearing whitish
- Feeling of incomplete bowel movements even after using the restroom
Recommended Treatments
Panchakarma
Classical Ayurvedic cleansing and restoration physician‑supervised, personalised, and gentle. Panchakarma at Atmabodh is a carefully sequenced program that helps release accumulated ama (metabolic waste), calm aggravated doshas, and reset digestion (agni). Every plan is doctor‑led, adapted to your constitution and current state, and coordinated with your ongoing medical care when required. Panchakarma supports well‑being and lifestyle change. It does not replace medical diagnosis or treatment. Suitability is confirmed only after clinical assessment. Who is it for? Digestive & metabolic balance: heaviness, bloating, irregular appetite, sluggishness. Musculoskeletal comfort: stiffness, recurrent aches, postural tension. Skin & scalp support: dryness/roughness, oil imbalance, seasonal flares (as advised). Stress, sleep & mind: restlessness, fatigue, shallow sleep, overdrive. Respiratory ease: seasonal congestion, head–neck load; post‑illness convalescence (only with clearance). Women’s health routines: peri‑menopause transitions, cycle comfort (timed away from menstruation). Eligibility is case‑specific; some conditions are contraindicated (see Safety). What are the “Five Actions”? Vamana(therapeutic emesis) – selected kapha presentations. Virechana(purgation) – guided elimination for pitta‑dominant states. Basti(medicated enema) – anuvāsana (oil), niruha/kashāya (decoction), matra (micro‑dose). Nasya(nasal therapy) – for head–neck pathways, preceded by local prep. Raktamokshana(blood‑letting) – rarely indicated; specialist‑only, strict protocols. Not everyone receives all five; your physician selects the minimum effective pathway. How it works – the three phases Pūrva‑karma (Preparation) Snehana (Oleation): internal ghee/oil titration (if indicated) + external abhyanga. Swedana (Fomentation): steam/heat to soften tissues and mobilise doshas. Diet prep: light, warm, easy‑to‑digest meals; reduction of stimulants. Pradhāna‑karma (Main procedure) The chosen action (e.g., virechana, basti) performed on the medically optimal day. Close monitoring of vitals, comfort, and response. Paśchāt‑karma (Recovery & Rasāyana) Samsarjana‑krama: stepwise diet progression from thin gruels to normal meals. Gentle routine, rest, and targeted rejuvenation. Pre‑program preparation (what we do together) Clinical history, vitals, and relevant labs (as advised). Explain what to expect, precautions, and consent. Set a realistic schedule (typically 10–21+ days depending on goals and responses). Plan for lighter work/social load during intensive days. A typical day during Panchakarma (illustrative) Quiet morning start → vitals & doctor check‑in. Abhyanga (warm oil application) → Swedana (steam) as pre‑procedure. Main procedure on indicated days (e.g., virechana or basti); otherwise supportive care. Simple, warm meals at set times; hydration guidance. Rest, gentle walks, breath‑led relaxation; screen and stimulation kept low. Diet & recovery – Samsarjana‑Krama(post‑procedure) Stage 1: thin rice gruel (peya/kanji). Stage 2: thicker gruel (vilepi). Stage 3: soft rice + light lentils/vegetables (yavāgu/khichri‑style). Stage 4: gradual return to regular, warm, fresh meals. Spices, oils, and portions are adjusted case‑by‑case. No fasting or extremes unless prescribed. Safety, eligibility & contraindications Physician‑reviewed contraindications may include: pregnancy, active infection/fever, uncontrolled BP/diabetes, severe anemia, active ulcers, recent surgery, frailty, acute psychiatric crises. Medications are not stopped or altered without your treating doctor’s advice. Informed consent; hygienic protocols; vitals monitoring when indicated. We coordinate with your physician upon request. What you may notice over time Lighter digestion, clearer appetite cues, reduced abdominal discomfort. Ease and suppleness in joints and soft tissue. Calmer mind, steadier energy, improved sleep quality. Skin comfort and scalp balance. A renewed baseline for sustainable lifestyle change. Timelines vary. Many guests observe a shift within 2–4 weeks with adherence to guidance. Related Therapies Oleation & fomentation Abhyanga (whole‑body oiling) Snehapāna (measured internal oleation, if indicated) Swedana (steam/sudation) Head–neck & mind‑calming Shirodhara / Takradhara Shiroabhyanga (head–neck oiling) Nasya (also one of the five, used in specific plans) Localized applications Kati/Grīva/Jānu/Uro Basti (warm oil pooling) Pichu (oil‑soaked pad) Kizhi (Potli) (herbal bolus compress) Udvartana (herbal powder rub) Lepam (herbal paste packs) Recovery & rejuvenation Rasāyana guidance (diet, routine, sleep hygiene, gentle movement) Breath‑led relaxation / Yoga Nidra
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Yoga Therapy
Gentle, evidence‑informed practices tailored to your body, breath, and life. Yoga Therapy at Atmabodh blends classical yogic wisdom with modern therapeutic insights. Each session is personalised focusing on breath, mindful movement, and relaxation to help you manage symptoms, build resilience, and restore ease. Why choose Yoga Therapy? Personalised: One‑to‑one care plans based on your goals, abilities, and health history. Whole‑person approach: Works on body, breath, mind, emotions, and daily routines. Safe & gradual: Gentle progressions with options for pain, fatigue, or limited mobility. Integrative: Complements medical treatment and physiotherapy; we coordinate when needed. Practical: Short home practices you can realistically maintain. Yoga Therapy supports your healing journey but does not replace medical care. Please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment. Who can benefit? Musculoskeletal: Back/neck pain, knee/shoulder issues, postural strain, arthritis. Stress & sleep: Anxiety, burnout, insomnia, overwhelm. Respiratory: Asthma, breathlessness, long‑COVID recovery (post‑medical clearance). Women’s health: Menstrual discomfort, perimenopause symptoms, prenatal/postnatal support. Digestive & metabolic: Indigestion, IBS, lifestyle support for diabetes and hypertension. Neurological & nervous system: Tension headaches, migraine, high reactivity/sensitivity. What happens in a session? Brief check‑in: Current symptoms, energy, mood, medications, red flags. Breath‑led movement: Gentle, pain‑free ranges to mobilise joints and release tension. Stability work: Core and postural support using slow, mindful strengthening. Nervous system down‑shift: Breathwork, guided relaxation, or Yoga Nidra. Mindfulness: Simple focus practices to build present‑moment awareness. Home plan: 10–20 minute routine with clear steps (video/handout provided). Typical session length: 60 minutes (first visit 75–90 minutes for assessment). How it works (in simple steps) Initial assessment – health history, movement screen, breathing patterns, goals. Personalised plan – curated postures, breath ratios, relaxation, daily habits.
View Treatment →FAQs
Q: What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) according to Ayurveda?
In Ayurveda, IBS is linked to Grahani Roga, caused by imbalanced Vata, Pitta, or Kapha and weak digestive fire (Agni).
Q: Can Ayurveda cure IBS permanently?
Ayurveda aims to address the root cause by restoring dosha balance, improving digestion, and strengthening the gut. With consistent treatment and lifestyle changes, long-term relief is possible.
Q: Which Ayurvedic herbs are used for IBS?
ommon herbs include Kutaj, Bilva, Triphala, Isabgol, and Aloe vera, chosen based on dosha imbalance.
Q: What diet is recommended in Ayurveda for IBS?
A light, easily digestible diet with warm, cooked foods is suggested. Avoid processed, fried, and excessively spicy foods.
Q: How long does it take to see results with Ayurvedic treatment for IBS?
Results vary, but many patients experience improvement within 4–8 weeks, depending on severity and adherence.
Q: Is Panchakarma effective for IBS?
Yes, Panchakarma therapies like Virechana and Basti help detoxify and strengthen digestion, offering significant relief.
Q: Are there any side effects of Ayurvedic IBS treatment?
When taken under a qualified Ayurvedic doctor’s guidance, treatments are generally safe and free from harmful side effects.