Article: INTEGRATIVE MANAGEMENT APPROACH AND AYURVEDIC VIEW ON IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME (IBS): A REVIEW

Article Category: Review articles

DOI: 10.7897/2277-4343.17135

Pages: 198-205

Author: Ramnarayan Tripathy *, Srikanta Kumar Panda, Bhavya Pandey

Abstract: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common functional bowel disorder marked by recurrent abdominal pain, altered stool frequency or form, and significant symptomatic relief and may not provide sustained benefit for many patients. Ayurveda correlates IBS with Grahani Roga, a condition primarily rooted in Agnimandya (impaired digested fire), Ama (toxic metabolic by products) and imbalance of vata dosha affecting the gut -brain axis. This review article aims to present an integrative perspective on IBS by correlating contemporary understanding of its pathophysiology with Ayurvedic concepts, and by summarizing available evidence on Ayurvedic interventions. Classical Ayurvedic texts and modern scientific literature were critically reviewed to identify descriptions of Grahani roga, its etiological factors (Nidan), Samprapti and therapeutic principles, along with clinical studies on Ayurvedic formulations and Pancha karma procedures in IBS. Various herbal and Herbo-mineral preparations like Nrupatiballabha rasa, Panchamrit Parpati, Bilvadileha, Jeerakadyarista, Gangadhar churna, Chitrakadi vati Deepana- pachana therapies, Basti karma, dietary regulations and mind body practices such as yoga and meditation have shown promising results in reducing symptoms burden and improving overall well-being. An integrative approach that combines individualized Ayurvedic management with appropriate modern diagnostic evaluation may offer a more holistic and sustainable strategy for IBS care.

Keyword: Grahani Roga, Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Agnimandya, Ama Dosha, Constipation