IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common digestive disorder characterised by abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and changes in bowel habits, including constipation, diarrhoea, or both. IBS can severely affect daily life, emotional wellbeing, and overall quality of life.

Understanding IBS in TCM

In TCM, IBS is usually associated with:

• Liver Qi stagnation disrupting digestive flow
• Spleen Qi deficiency weakening digestion and absorption
• Dampness accumulation causing bloating and loose stools
• Heat or Cold in the intestines leading to bowel irregularities

Treatment aims to harmonise the Liver and Spleen, move Qi, strengthen digestion, and restore internal balance.

How Acupuncture Helps with IBS

Acupuncture supports IBS management by:

• Regulating digestive motility and bowel function
• Reducing intestinal inflammation
• Calming the nervous system and reducing stress responses
• Harmonising Liver and Spleen functions

Key acupuncture points along the Stomach, Spleen, Large Intestine, and Liver meridians are selected to improve digestion and ease abdominal discomfort.

Studies published in the Journal of Gastroenterology Research (2022) confirm that acupuncture significantly reduces IBS symptoms, improves bowel consistency, and enhances quality of life compared to standard treatments.

How Chinese Herbal Medicine Supports IBS Relief

Chinese herbal therapy complements acupuncture by:

• Strengthening Spleen Qi to improve digestion
• Smoothing Liver Qi to ease stress-related gut symptoms
• Clearing Dampness or Heat from the intestines
• Nourishing Blood and calming the nervous system

Common herbs used include:

• Bai Zhu (Atractylodes Root): Strengthens the Spleen and dries Dampness
• Chai Hu (Bupleurum Root): Moves Liver Qi and eases emotional tension
• Chen Pi (Aged Tangerine Peel): Regulates digestion and reduces bloating
• Shan Yao (Chinese Yam): Tonifies the Spleen and improves bowel function

Herbal prescriptions are personalised depending on whether diarrhoea, constipation, or alternating symptoms predominate.

IBS Subtypes: TCM Approach

IBS-D (Diarrhoea Predominant)

Common features include:

• Urgent, loose stools
• Bloating, cramping
• Symptoms worsened by stress

Treatment focuses on strengthening Spleen Qi, clearing Dampness, and harmonising Liver.

IBS-C (Constipation Predominant)

Symptoms include:

• Infrequent, dry stools
• Bloating and discomfort
• Difficulty passing stools

Treatment involves moving Qi, moistening the intestines, and tonifying Blood.

Mixed IBS (Alternating Diarrhoea and Constipation)

This complex pattern requires:

• Smoothing Liver Qi
• Balancing Spleen and Stomach function
• Regulating bowel movements dynamically

Lifestyle and Dietary Recommendations for IBS

Effective IBS management involves daily lifestyle choices. At Vital Duo, we recommend:

• Eating regular, balanced meals at consistent times
• Avoiding overeating and late-night eating
• Choosing easily digestible, warm, cooked foods
• Minimising intake of raw, cold, greasy, spicy, and heavily processed foods
• Managing emotional stress through relaxation techniques
• Practising gentle exercises like yoga, Tai Chi, or walking
• Staying hydrated but limiting excessive caffeine and alcohol

Good sleep hygiene and mindful eating also significantly reduce IBS flare-ups.

Final Thoughts

Living with IBS can be exhausting and frustrating, but natural healing is possible. Through the ancient wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine, you can restore balance, ease discomfort, and reclaim control over your digestive health.