10 Best Herbal Creams For Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Herbal creams for irritable bowel syndrome are topical creams infused with herbs and plant extracts that help alleviate symptoms of IBS, such as abdominal pain, bloating, and inflammation.

Examples of herbal creams that help include aloe vera, peppermint, and chamomile-based creams. These creams work by reducing inflammation and soothing the digestive tract, providing relief from IBS symptoms.

For instance, aloe vera cream has helped Sarah manage her IBS, allowing her to enjoy her favorite foods and activities without discomfort.

The following article describes in detail the most important creams for irritable bowel syndrome, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, creams helps with irritable bowel syndrome because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm the digestive tract.

The cream's anti-spasmodic effects help to reduce muscle cramps and spasms in the intestines, relieving abdominal pain and discomfort. Additionally, licorice root's ability to regulate gut bacteria and improve gut barrier function contributes to its therapeutic benefits in managing IBS symptoms, promoting a more balanced and healthy digestive system.

This natural remedy offers a promising solution for those seeking relief from IBS.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra creams that help with irritable bowel syndrome.

• Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract and alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
• Licoricidin: A flavonoid compound, licoricidin has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help protect the gut lining from damage and reduce inflammation associated with irritable bowel syndrome.
• Licorice acid: A phenolic compound, licorice acid has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which can help calm the digestive tract, reduce inflammation, and alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make creams for irritable bowel syndrome.

• Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are commonly used to make creams for IBS due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
• Leaves: The leaves of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make creams for IBS due to their potential to reduce inflammation and alleviate digestive issues.
• Barks: The barks of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make creams for IBS due to their ability to soothe and calm the digestive system.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for irritable bowel syndrome.

1. Harvest 10 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots and dry them further in a low-temperature oven at 150°f for 2 hours.
2. Grind the dried roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder and sift it through a 100-micron mesh.
3. Mix 5 grams of the powdered glycyrrhiza glabra with 50 grams of petroleum jelly and 10 grams of beeswax in a heat-proof bowl.
4. Heat the mixture in a double boiler at 180°f for 30 minutes while stirring occasionally with a spatula.
5. Allow the mixture to cool and solidify before whipping it with a hand mixer to create a smooth and creamy texture.

2. Melissa officinalis

Melissa officinalis, also known as lemon balm, creams helps with irritable bowel syndrome because of its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

The calming effects of the herb help to reduce stress and anxiety, common triggers for IBS symptoms. The creams also contain antioxidants and flavonoids that help to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy gut environment.

This can help to alleviate symptoms such as bloating, cramping, and abdominal pain associated with IBS.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis creams that help with irritable bowel syndrome.

• Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the gut associated with IBS.
• Luteolin: A flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and relaxant properties, potentially alleviating abdominal cramps and spasms associated with IBS.
• Volatile oils: Terpenes with relaxing and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce stress and alleviate symptoms of IBS, such as abdominal pain and diarrhea.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make creams for irritable bowel syndrome.

• Leaves: Used to make creams for irritable bowel syndrome due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
• Flowers: Used to make creams for irritable bowel syndrome due to their calming and anti-anxiety effects.
• Roots: Used to make creams for irritable bowel syndrome due to their potential anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for irritable bowel syndrome.

1. Infuse 20g dried melissa officinalis flowers in 100ml carrier oil such as sweet almond oil at 60c for 2 hours.
2. Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into a clean container to remove the melissa flowers.
3. Combine 20g beeswax and 20g shea butter in a heat-proof mixing bowl with a spatula.
4. Add 10ml of the melissa oil to 20ml distilled water and gently heat the mixture until the beeswax and shea butter melt.
5. Pour the melted mixture into a clean glass jar and let it cool and harden completely for 30 minutes.

3. Mentha x piperita

Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, creams helps with irritable bowel syndrome because it has a calming effect on the digestive system.

The menthol in peppermint creams relaxes the muscles in the stomach and small intestine, reducing spasms and cramps. This can help alleviate symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea associated with IBS. Additionally, peppermint's anti-inflammatory properties may help soothe the gut lining, reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy balance of gut bacteria.

This can lead to improved digestion and reduced IBS symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita creams that help with irritable bowel syndrome.

• Menthol: Helps relax the muscles in the stomach and intestines, reducing spasms and cramps associated with IBS.
• Rosmarinic acid: Exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the gut, contributing to IBS symptoms.
• Limonene: Has been shown to have a relaxing effect on the digestive system, reducing symptoms such as bloating, gas, and abdominal pain commonly associated with IBS.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make creams for irritable bowel syndrome.

• Leaves: Known for their high menthol content, which helps to relax the muscles in the digestive tract and reduce inflammation.
• Stems: Used for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe and calm the digestive system.
• Roots: Employed for their ability to reduce spasms and cramps in the digestive tract, providing relief from IBS symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for irritable bowel syndrome.

1. Harvest fresh mentha x piperita leaves and flowers in the early morning or late afternoon for optimal oil content and aroma.
2. Dry the harvested mentha x piperita leaves and flowers in a low-temperature oven at 105 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
3. Combine 1 cup of dried mentha x piperita leaves and flowers with 2 cups of carrier oil such as jojoba oil in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks, shaking the jar every day to facilitate infusion.
5. Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container, discard the solids and store the infused oil in an airtight container.

4. Aloe vera

Aloe vera, also known as aloe, creams helps with irritable bowel syndrome because of its anti-inflammatory properties and soothing effects on the digestive system.

The gel extracted from aloe vera contains compounds like aloin and aloe-emodin, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and ease digestive discomfort.

By applying aloe vera cream topically, it may help alleviate symptoms such as abdominal pain, cramping, and diarrhea associated with irritable bowel syndrome, promoting a sense of calm and relief.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera creams that help with irritable bowel syndrome.

• Anthraquinones: These compounds, particularly aloin and aloe-emodin, help alleviate irritable bowel syndrome symptoms by reducing inflammation and slowing down the movement of food through the digestive system, thus providing relief from constipation and diarrhea.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as vanillic acid and caffeic acid, exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which contribute to soothing the gut lining and reducing inflammation, making them beneficial for irritable bowel syndrome.
• Glycoproteins: Glycoproteins, including acemannan and mannose, have been found to possess prebiotic properties that promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, thereby enhancing the gut microbiome balance and alleviating symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make creams for irritable bowel syndrome.

• Leaves: Aloe vera leaves are used due to their high concentration of aloin and aloe-emodin, which have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that can help alleviate IBS symptoms.
• Gel from leaves: The clear gel inside the leaves of Aloe vera is used because it contains a high amount of mucilages, which can help to soothe and calm the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with IBS.
• Aloe vera extract from leaves: Aloe vera extract from leaves is used because it is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the digestive tract, making it a popular ingredient in IBS creams.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for irritable bowel syndrome.

1. Grate 50 grams of aloe vera gel and let it sit for 30 minutes to allow excess water to drip off.
2. Extract the juice of 20 grams of vitamin e oil using a manual or electric juicer within 5 minutes.
3. Mix 10 grams of beeswax and 20 grams of coconut oil in a double boiler over low heat for 10 minutes.
4. Combine the grated aloe vera gel with the extracted vitamin e oil and melted beeswax mixture in a bowl.
5. Stir the mixture well and pour it into a clean container for the herbal aloe vera cream to set for 30 minutes.

5. Tilia cordata

Tilia cordata, also known as littleleaf linden, creams helps with irritable bowel syndrome because of its anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.

The extracts from Tilia cordata flowers and leaves have been found to soothe and calm the digestive system, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with IBS. Additionally, the cream's calming effect on the nervous system can also help alleviate stress and anxiety, common triggers for IBS symptoms.

This natural remedy can provide relief from cramps, bloating, and abdominal pain.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Tilia cordata creams that help with irritable bowel syndrome.

• Tannins: Tannins in Tilia cordata cream help alleviate irritable bowel syndrome by reducing inflammation and soothing the mucous membranes in the gastrointestinal tract.
• Flavonoids: Quercetin, a flavonoid present in Tilia cordata, helps reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines.
• Terpenoids: Tiliroside, a terpenoid found in Tilia cordata, exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the gut.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of littleleaf linden used to make creams for irritable bowel syndrome.

• Leaves: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory properties.
• Buds: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
• Leaves: They are used due to their anti-spasmodic properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic littleleaf linden for irritable bowel syndrome.

1. Harvest tilia cordata leaves in early morning or late afternoon to avoid direct sunlight exposure.
2. Dry the harvested leaves at 30c for 24 hours to preserve their active ingredients.
3. Infuse one part of dried tilia cordata leaves in two parts of carrier oil for 2 weeks.
4. Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth and discard the solids after 24 hours.
5. Mix the strained oil with beeswax and lanolin in a 1:1 ratio to create a smooth cream.

6. Crataegus monogyna

Crataegus monogyna, also known as hawthorn, creams helps with irritable bowel syndrome because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

The cream's active compounds, including flavonoids and oligomeric proanthocyanidins, have been shown to reduce inflammation in the gut, ease bowel spasms, and improve digestion. By relaxing the muscles in the digestive tract and reducing inflammation, hawthorn cream can provide relief from IBS symptoms, such as abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel movements.

This natural approach can also help to regulate bowel function and promote a sense of calm and well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Crataegus monogyna creams that help with irritable bowel syndrome.

• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, such as quercetin and kaempferol, have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the gut, alleviating symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, including chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid, have antioxidant properties that may help protect the gut from oxidative stress, reducing inflammation and improving gut health in individuals with IBS.
• Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids, such as ursolic acid, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help reduce inflammation and improve gut motility, alleviating symptoms of IBS.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of hawthorn used to make creams for irritable bowel syndrome.

• Buds: They are used to make creams for IBS due to their potential anti-inflammatory properties that may help soothe digestive issues.
• Leaves: They are used to make creams for IBS due to their potential anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that may help reduce inflammation and infection in the digestive tract.
• Fruits: They are used to make creams for IBS due to their potential antioxidant properties that may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the digestive system.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic hawthorn for irritable bowel syndrome.

1. Harvest 500g of dried crataegus monogyna berries that have been dried for at least 3 days.
2. Grind 200g of the dried berries into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
3. Combine 200g of the powdered berries with 100g of beeswax that has been melted in a double boiler.
4. Add 100ml of sweet almond oil to the melted beeswax mixture and stir well for 5 minutes.
5. Pour the mixture into small containers and allow it to cool and solidify at room temperature for 2 hours.

7. Vaccinium myrtillus

Vaccinium myrtillus, also known as blueberry, creams helps with irritable bowel syndrome because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The anthocyanins present in blueberry creams have been shown to reduce inflammation in the gut, which is a common cause of IBS symptoms such as bloating and abdominal pain. Additionally, blueberry creams may help to regulate bowel movements and improve the balance of gut bacteria, leading to reduced symptoms of IBS and improved overall digestive health.

This makes Vaccinium myrtillus creams a promising natural remedy for IBS sufferers.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vaccinium myrtillus creams that help with irritable bowel syndrome.

• Anthocyanins: These powerful antioxidants help reduce inflammation and improve gut health by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines that can exacerbate IBS symptoms.
• Quercetin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can help soothe and calm the digestive system, reducing symptoms of IBS such as abdominal pain and cramping.
• Vaccinium myrtillus polyphenols: These polyphenolic compounds have been shown to have prebiotic properties, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and improving gut motility, which can help alleviate symptoms of IBS such as bloating and constipation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of blueberry used to make creams for irritable bowel syndrome.

• Fruits: They are used due to their high anthocyanin content, which may help to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
• Leaves: They are used due to their astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe digestive issues and reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
• Barks: They are used due to their potential anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which may help to calm digestive issues and promote gut health.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic blueberry for irritable bowel syndrome.

1. Harvest vaccinium myrtillus berries in late summer when they are ripe and fully colored.
2. Dry the vaccinium myrtillus berries in a single layer at 40c for 12 hours.
3. Steep 20g of dried vaccinium myrtillus berries in 100ml of carrier oil at 40c for 2 hours.
4. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth and discard the solids.
5. Mix the filtered oil with 10g of beeswax and 20g of candelilla wax and heat until melted.

8. Althaea officinalis

Althaea officinalis, also known as marshmallow, creams helps with irritable bowel syndrome because of its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

The root of the marshmallow plant contains mucilages, which form a protective barrier on the gut lining, reducing inflammation and discomfort. This helps to alleviate symptoms of IBS such as bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. The cream's calming effect on the digestive tract also promotes relaxation and reduces stress, further contributing to its benefits in managing IBS symptoms.

This natural remedy offers a gentle and non-invasive solution for IBS sufferers.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis creams that help with irritable bowel syndrome.

• Mucilages: Mucilages help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with IBS.
• Althaea flavonoids: These flavonoids possess anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, alleviate symptoms of IBS, and promote healing.
• Althaea phenolic acids: Gallic acid has been shown to exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the digestive tract, contributing to the alleviation of IBS symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make creams for irritable bowel syndrome.

• Roots: The roots of Althaea officinalis are commonly used due to their high mucilage content, which provides soothing and protective properties to irritated tissues in IBS.
• Leaves: Althaea officinalis leaves are used for their anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce inflammation and discomfort associated with IBS.
• Barks: Althaea officinalis barks are utilized for their demulcent properties, coating and protecting the mucous membranes in the digestive tract to alleviate IBS symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for irritable bowel syndrome.

1. Harvest 20-30 grams of dried althaea officinalis roots in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
2. Combine the harvested althaea officinalis roots with 500ml distilled water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes then strain the liquid through cheesecloth.
4. Mix 20-30 grams of beeswax and 10-20 grams of sweet almond oil in a heat-resistant bowl.
5. Blend the strained althaea officinalis infusion with the beeswax and sweet almond oil mixture until smooth and emulsified.

9. Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo biloba, also known as maidenhair tree, creams helps with irritable bowel syndrome because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The flavonoids present in Ginkgo biloba help to soothe and calm the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and promoting healthy gut function. This can lead to a decrease in symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea associated with irritable bowel syndrome.

Additionally, Ginkgo biloba creams may improve blood flow to the digestive tract, facilitating nutrient absorption and further alleviating IBS symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba creams that help with irritable bowel syndrome.

• Flavonoids: These compounds help alleviate IBS symptoms by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the gut, which can contribute to IBS flare-ups.
• Bilobalide: As a ginkgo terpene lactone, bilobalide has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help soothe the gastrointestinal tract, reducing IBS symptoms such as abdominal pain and bloating.
• Quercetin: This flavonoid has potent anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the gut, improving symptoms of IBS such as diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make creams for irritable bowel syndrome.

• Leaves: They are the most commonly used part due to their bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and terpenoids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate IBS symptoms.
• Seeds: Ginkgo seed extracts are known for their potential to modulate gut motility and reduce inflammation, which can be beneficial for IBS patients.
• Roots: Although less commonly used than leaves or seeds, Ginkgo root extracts are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce IBS symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for irritable bowel syndrome.

1. Weigh 500 grams of ginkgo biloba extract and 100 grams of beeswax to begin the cream preparation.
2. Melt the beeswax in a double boiler over low heat for 10 minutes to create a smooth mixture.
3. Add 100 grams of shea butter and 20 grams of sweet almond oil to the melted beeswax mixture.
4. Stir in 500 milligrams of vitamin e oil and 500 milligrams of aloe vera gel into the mixture.
5. Pour the cream mixture into a glass jar and allow it to cool for 30 minutes before use.

10. Matricaria chamomilla

Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, creams helps with irritable bowel syndrome because of its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

The cream's active compounds, such as apigenin and luteolin, have been shown to calm the digestive system and reduce inflammation in the gut. This helps to alleviate symptoms of IBS, including abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits.

Additionally, chamomile's calming effects on the nervous system may also help to reduce stress and anxiety, which are common triggers for IBS.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla creams that help with irritable bowel syndrome.

• Apigenin: A flavonoid that helps with irritable bowel syndrome by reducing inflammation and modulating the gut-brain axis to alleviate symptoms such as abdominal pain and cramping.
• Luteolin: A flavonoid that helps with irritable bowel syndrome by decreasing inflammation and oxidative stress in the gut, which can help alleviate symptoms such as diarrhea and abdominal pain.
• Α-bisabolol: A sesquiterpene alcohol that helps with irritable bowel syndrome by reducing inflammation and promoting healing of the gut lining, which can help alleviate symptoms such as diarrhea and abdominal pain.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make creams for irritable bowel syndrome.

• Flowers: They are rich in apigenin and luteolin, which have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that can help alleviate IBS symptoms.
• Leaves: They contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe digestive issues.
• Seeds: They are a source of flavonoids and terpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and soothing effects that can help reduce IBS symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for irritable bowel syndrome.

1. Harvest matricaria chamomilla flowers in the morning when they are dry and free of moisture.
2. Dry the matricaria chamomilla flowers in a cool place with good air circulation for 2 weeks.
3. Steep 100g of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers in 1 liter of cold carrier oil for 2 weeks.
4. Strain the oil mixture through cheesecloth and discard the solids then add 2% of beeswax to the mixture.
5. Heat the mixture gently to melt the beeswax and then pour it into containers for cooling.

What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for irritable bowel syndrome?

The best combination of herbal creams that help with irritable bowel syndrome is a blend of peppermint, aloe vera, and ginger.

Peppermint oil soothes the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and calming cramps. Aloe vera cream provides anti-inflammatory properties, promoting the healing of the gut lining.

Ginger has anti-nausea properties, easing digestive discomfort. Together, these herbs work synergistically to alleviate symptoms, promote healing, and support overall gut health, making them a natural and effective solution for managing irritable bowel syndrome.

Regular application can lead to improved digestion and reduced IBS symptoms.

What ailments similar to irritable bowel syndrome are treated with herbal creams?

Ailments similar to irritable bowel syndrome that are treated with herbal creams are hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and proctalgia.

These conditions often present with symptoms of discomfort, itching, and inflammation in the rectal area.

Herbal creams containing ingredients like witch hazel, aloe vera, and tea tree oil can provide relief by reducing swelling, soothing irritation, and promoting healing.