What can Oriental medicine do to treat IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME (ibs)? 

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          Acupuncture has been used throughout history to treat other illnesses and disorders of the body. Acupuncture is found to relieve abdominal pain and distention, reduce tension and stress in the digestive organs, regulate bowel movements, and release hormones (Ryu, 2022). Acupuncture can also help stimulate the nervous system, releasing hormones and chemicals that ease stress and pain (Premier Spine and Sports Medicine, 2022). 

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          Acupressure aids in reducing IBS symptoms by using the same collection of points along the meridians to help eliminate blockages and encourage Qi and blood to move freely through the body (Tan, 2021). Ear acupuncture/acupressure also helps ease IBS symptoms, such as bloating, abdominal pain, and the sensation of incomplete bowel movements (Rowden, 2022). 

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          Using traditional Chinese herbal medicine is a vital part of TCM/OM. To treat IBS, traditional Chinese herbs have been shown to decrease abdominal pain, improve stool quality and emotional health in patients, and regulate digestive system functions (Ryu, 2022). In addition, traditional Chinese herbs are also responsible for helping IBS symptoms by reducing intestinal inflammation, restoring intestinal flora, and modulating the smooth muscle of the gastrointestinal tract (Rice, 2018). 

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          Moxibustion helps patients with IBS as it is a modality of TCM/OM that uses heat from burning dried mugwort. It helps regulate Qi and resolve stagnation while dispelling coldness and warming the body (GinSen Clinic, 2022). Moxibustion also helps those with IBS by having anti-inflammatory effects and protecting the Liver function (Davis, 2022). It also plays a role in pain management and preventing and treating other diseases. 

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          Cupping helps to engage the parasympathetic nervous system, which increases blood flow to the gastrointestinal tract. It also aids in peristalsis, which helps clear colon blockages, encourages blood and body fluid to move through organs, and relieves indigestion (Resolution Health, 2019). Abdominal cupping therapy can also help lessen digestion attacks and clear constipation (The Center for Holistic Healing, n.d.). 

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          While using TCM/OM, some lifestyle recommendations include adequate sleep and daily exercise. Getting enough sleep is important since being sleep-deprived can cause illness. Also, getting daily exercise is important to strengthen Qi circulation. (Acupuncture & Massage College, 2010). Another lifestyle recommendation from TCM/OM is to keep parts of your body warm, such as your feet. Keeping your feet covered and warm is important to maintain body balance and support proper Qi flow through the meridians (Barrett, 2020).