Functional colopathy (or irritable bowel syndrome): definition, causes and symptomatology
The problem with irritable bowel syndrome is, on the one hand that it is still poorly understood today and on the other hand, that it takes different forms depending on the person affected. Treating it and relieving the resulting discomfort is therefore not easy. In most cases, it manifests itself as abdominal pain, spasms, burning or even sensations of heaviness and discomfort but above all a disturbance of transit which may be either accelerated or slowed down, or even both depending on the case. There is then an alternation between constipation and false diarrhoea. It also almost systematically causes fatigue and sleep disorders. Very often, sufferers have become accustomed to their symptoms and do not suspect the existence of this pathology which is actually the cause of their problem. They then never or belatedly seek help.
The real causes of this digestive condition are at present poorly determined. All that is known is that it affects mostly women and sometimes children or young adults. Hormonal factors could be one of the causes, just as a proven intolerance to gluten or other allergenic foods could be triggers for the attacks. The emotional component should also be taken into account, as stress, whether or not it is partly responsible for this syndrome, plays an active role. Finally, despite its benign nature, it requires serious management in order not to allow it to become permanently established.
Supporting symptoms of irritable bowel or colon: hygienic-dietary protocol
It is recommended that people with irritable bowel syndrome implement certain measures in an effort to reduce their symptoms. These new habits will make their lives more pleasant and perhaps even allow them to return to normal.
In terms of diet, you should:
- Check to see if there is any specific food intolerance and proceed, if necessary, to the total avoidance of the food in question;
- Limit at all costs foods responsible for intestinal fermentation such as cabbage, broccoli, gluten, legumes etc.;
- Reduce intake of foods high in fibre, dairy products, alcohol, tobacco, coffee;
- Avoid processed industrial food as well as dishes high in cooked fat;
- Use and abuse aromatic herbs that aid digestion such as coriander, mint, tarragon and basil;
- Make sure to stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of quality non-carbonated water at room temperature.
With regard to food supplements, you can bet on:
- Pre-biotics and pro-biotics
It is important to know that the human digestive tract is colonised by hundreds of billions of good bacteria as well as yeasts that are beneficial to our health. Belonging to the family of lactic ferments, their role is to protect our body from possible pathogens and preserve the efficiency of digestion. And it is within our intestinal microbiota that all these living microorganisms, called probiotics.
However, when transit is accelerated, the contractions of the intestine are too fast and the water does not have time to be assimilated, which leads to very frequent stools, or even diarrhoea. Conversely, when transit is too slow, the food bolus becomes dehydrated and this causes constipation. It is therefore essential to maintain the balance of one's intestinal flora to alleviate digestive disorders linked to IBS (irritable bowel syndrome).
- Glutamine
Glutamine is an amino acid whose fundamental role is to maintain the integrity of the intestinal wall and prevent it from becoming porous. Glutamine may help with IBS as it is used by the intestinal tissues as a fuel source to function well.
Aromatherapy for treating irritable bowel: which essential oils to choose
Essential oils effective for spasms, pain, abdominal cramps and burning
- Tarragon essential oil: relieves neuromuscular spasms of colitis conditions and aids digestion;
- Tropical basil essential oil: (not to be confused with sweet basil with linalool) is an antispasmodic at the gastrointestinal level powerful, able to stimulate digestion and relieve bloating as well as flatulence. Its soothing action fights against stress, especially that of the digestive sphere.
- Lavender essential oil: acts against gastric acidity and is a powerful analgesic and antispasmodic with relaxing virtues.
Essential oils that act on inflammation
Lemon grass essential oil: is largely provided with molecules not only anti-inflammatory but also antifungal and regulating the autonomic nervous system. Thus it participates in the reduction of inflammation of the digestive mucosa;
Roman chamomile essential oil: is particularly indicated in inflammatory states of irritable bowel syndrome due to its anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, analgesic, intestinal antiparasitic, antispasmodic and antistress virtues.
Essential oils that stop intestinal fermentation and regenerate the microbiota
Noble laurel essential oil: supports the autonomic nervous system, while oxygenating the tissues and cleaning the digestive tract of germs responsible for fermentation or putrefaction. It participates in the restoration of healthy microbiota;
Origano kaliteri essential oil: very rare, it has purifying and regenerating properties of the intestinal flora.
Essential oils against disturbed transit (alternating between episodes of diarrhea and constipation)
Ginger essential oil: relieves colic and diarrhea.
How is CBD helpful for people with irritable bowel syndrome?
While the potential causes of irritable bowel syndrome remain unknown, the main trigger would appear to be the disruption of the internal balance of the digestive tract between digestion, assimilation, immune defences and excretion.
According to clinical studies and tests, CBD can help solve these kinds of problems as it is able to balance various parts of the body. Indeed,it improves intercellular communication through its action on the endocannabinoid system(the ECS).
As part of a treatment for IBS (or IBS), CBD can:
- Support anandamide deficiency;
- Suppress nausea and stimulate appetite;
- Reduce inflammation without risk of psychoactive effects;
- Reduce appetite;
- Act as a reliable painkiller due to its analgesic properties;
- Inhibit hyperactivity of digestive muscles, rarefy cramps and decrease the intensity of contractions;
What CBD products to use for fast and lasting relief of symptoms
The rich, concentrated and good quality CBD essential oil is the best alternative to fight irritable bowel symptoms.It is easy to take and dose accurately. In addition, it has a long shelf life.
Doses vary depending on the person, their weight and the disorder you wish to act on. In any case, it will be necessary to wait well two to three weeks after the beginning of a regular use to see and feel the first positive effects on the IBS. Start with a low starting dose then increase as you get used to it and according to your sensations.
