Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Also known as: IBS, irritable bowel syndrome, spastic colon, IBS-D, IBS-C
IBS causes recurring abdominal pain with diarrhoea, constipation or both, without structural disease. Diagnosis is by a GP after excluding coeliac disease and other causes. Chinese medicine treats it through Liver Qi invading the Spleen, Spleen deficiency, or Damp-Heat patterns.
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Lifestyle & Diet
- •Ask the GP to exclude coeliac disease before accepting an IBS label.
- •A low-FODMAP trial with a dietitian helps many people — don't restrict long-term without guidance.
- •Regular exercise and stress management reduce flares.
- •Peppermint oil capsules have reasonable evidence for cramping.
Cautions & Contraindications
- •Blood in stool, weight loss or new symptoms over 50 need medical investigation first.[,]
- •Do not restrict major food groups long-term without dietetic supervision.[]
When to reassess or seek care again
Review every 4 weeks. Track pain days, stool pattern (Bristol chart) and stress. Confirm coeliac serology done; refer to gastroenterology if alarm features appear.
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Sources & Further Reading
Clinical guidance, red flags and safety notes on this page draw on the following current sources alongside the classical references above.
- Healthdirect Australia · 2024
- NICE · 2017
- GESA · 2024
- AHPRA / Chinese Medicine Board of Australia · 2024
Educational reference for licensed practitioners. Not a substitute for individual clinical assessment. Refer to conventional care for any red-flag or undiagnosed presentation.