Written by Joy Pacitto MS, CCH | May 23, 2017

How many times today have you felt ‘something’ in your gut or even thought about this discomfort? Of course, you still enjoy your day. However, the symptoms can nag in the background or really scream to get your attention. Right? You may have Irritable Bowel syndrome.

This is a collection of symptoms such as gas, bloating, constipation and/or diarrhea and cramping that affects about 22% of the population, mostly females. I have found IBS to affect men and women of all ages.  These symptoms can linger for a period of time or reoccur. Often, IBS is triggered by anxiety, anger, fatigue, stress or the ever popular-dietary indiscretions.  More about that later.

In this article we will us look in more detail at IBS and learn some useful tips to bring yourself welcomed relief.  I will tell you about three commonly used homeopathic remedies that may fit your individual picture.  There are more.  Homeopathy is a natural, safe healthcare alternative that many folks rely upon. It is essential for people to consult their medical doctors first to rule out any other organic disease affecting the colon.

IBS with constipation:

   includes stomach pain and discomfort, bloating, delayed bowel movements or lumpy/hard stools.

IBS with diarrhea:

   includes stomach pain and discomfort, the urgent need to move the  bowels and loose/watery stools.

IBS: alternating with constipation and diarrhea.

   This last category is one the I most commonly see in my practice

   All types of IBS may include, gas, bloating, mucus in the stool, bowel urgency and the need to urinate frequently.

People who present with IBS have been referred to as having a ‘nervous stomach’ or a ‘spastic colon’. The person can be excessively worried about large or minor events of life. They do not respond to stress well and are pretty stressed themselves. In the workplace, we often see a high strung, tense, anxious person who does not like to hear any bad news or the word no.

On the other hand, another person may be quiet and restrained, bearing the pain in silence. Homeopathy works so effectively for all IBS sufferers because it addresses the unique physical and mental symptoms of the person as a whole being, at one time.  Everyone’s picture is different.

Avoid alcohol, caffeine, sugars and processed foods, as they can trigger diarrhea or constipation. The foods, or categories of foods, that bother one person with IBS may be fine for the next person. Managing IBS only through diet is effective although it has limitations. This is because eliminating  foods and purchasing special foods and may further stress the person already suffering. Some folks embrace the changes and some rebel.

Try herbal teas that sooth the gut such as ginger and peppermint. In general, foods that heal are genuine 100% whole grains, fruits, vegetables, fruits and lean proteins-foods your grandmother [or great-grand mother] ate. Avoid high fat, processed or fried foods. You knew that! In an acute episode try eating only one safe food at a meal. For example, eat 2 baked sweet potatoes for supper. Drink water, plenty of water.

Ideally homeopathic remedies work best when matched to a person's physical and mental picture as closely as possible.

We are doing everything my way!

Constipation with urging and straining to move the bowels. Difficulty passing gas or burping, although there may be cramping. This person is irritable, impatient, driven and needs to have his own way. He is chilly and worse from tight clothes. Strong desire for coffee, alcohol and spicy foods.

Gas, Gas, gas!

Bloated and constantly feeling full, especially right after a meal, with lots of gas and burping. Hungry but fills up fast. Prefers warm drinks and foods. Lack of confidence but can also be dictatorial. Feels inadequate or a lack of confidence, especially with stage fright or performing in front of a group.

Give me that candy bar and hurry up about it!

Diarrhea before an event, severe anxiety leading to digestive upsets. She will choose a restaurant seat near a restroom.  Craving for sweets, cheese and salty foods, loud belching, bloating,rumbling gas and nausea. Must move bowels immediately after eating or drinking. Desires cold food and cold drinks. This person can be impulsive and tends to be in a hurry.

Try taking 2 pellets/2 x day of a single remedy.

If after three days you are not better then select another remedy with a picture that fits your symptoms more closely.

The only way our bodies can let make us aware of a disturbance within is through symptoms. This is how your body gets your attention and speaks to you. For example, if you were to put your hand over a hot stove, you will feel immediate burning pain, alarm and fear.  You quickly pull your hand away. Those are strong symptoms.

If you did not get those dramatic signals from your body you could damage or lose a hand.  The symptoms educate you to make a move. In homeopathy we value symptoms above all else.  This is how the homeopath understands your discomfort level and what concerns needs to be addressed. Although symptoms may be unpleasant, they serve to guide us to the correct homeopathic remedy.

Using the suggested remedies [or others] may do the trick. If they act temporarily but the picture returns, consider consulting with  a professional homeopath for a constitutional remedy. This is a single, special remedy designed to fit your complete picture. Homeopathic care is a very safe, effective, natural and personalized way to approach your health.

As a homeopath, I want to understand exactly how YOU experience these symptoms. The homeopathic remedy is personalized for you and you only. I have a keen interest in working with folks who have digestive problems.

Why? Because I have had them too.  I invite to look at my good website and call me.

Joy Pacitto MS, CCH is a board certified classical homeopath. She has also had a private practice in clinical nutrition for 28 years.

She extends a complimentary 15-minute consultation to all new clients. She is available by Skype/FaceTime, phone and in person.