10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Herbal tinctures for irritable bowel syndrome are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants, which have been shown to provide relief from IBS symptoms.

These tinctures help by soothing the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and spasms, and promoting regular bowel movements. Examples of herbal tinctures that can aid in IBS management include peppermint, ginger, and chamomile.

By using these tinctures, individuals with IBS can experience improved digestion, reduced abdominal pain, and increased confidence in managing their symptoms, ultimately enhancing their overall quality of life.

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

1. Peumus boldus

Chilean boldo tinctures helps with irritable bowel syndrome because it soothes and calms the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and spasms that can cause abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea.

The tincture's anti-inflammatory properties help to ease symptoms of IBS such as constipation, while its antimicrobial properties combat harmful bacteria in the gut, promoting a healthy balance of microflora.

Additionally, Chilean boldo's carminative properties help to expel gas and reduce bloating, providing relief from uncomfortable IBS symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Peumus boldus tinctures that help with irritable bowel syndrome.

• Boldine: Boldine, an alkaloid found in Peumus boldus, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the gut associated with IBS.
• Quercetin: Quercetin, a flavonoid phenolic compound present in Peumus boldus, has been found to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate symptoms of IBS by protecting the gut lining and reducing inflammation.
• Oleanolic acid: Oleanolic acid, a terpenoid triterpene found in Peumus boldus, has been reported to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help soothe the gut and reduce symptoms of IBS.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of chilean boldo used to make tinctures for irritable bowel syndrome.

• Leaves: Used to make tinctures due to their high content of ursolic acid and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.
• Roots: Utilized in tinctures for their potential to soothe and calm the digestive system, reducing symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
• Barks: Used in tinctures due to their content of flavonoids and other compounds that may help to regulate bowel movements and alleviate IBS symptoms.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh leaves of the herb by hand selecting the best quality and freshness for tincture making process.
2. Weigh the collected leaves to achieve a 1:2 herb-to-solvent ratio using a digital scale for accuracy.
3. Combine the weighed herb leaves with 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar to create a solvent-rich environment.
4. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks to allow for extraction and infusion.
5. Strain the mixture using a cheesecloth or coffee filter to separate the liquid from the solids and discard the solids.

2. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice tinctures helps with irritable bowel syndrome because it contains glycyrrhizin, a compound that soothes the digestive tract and reduces inflammation.

This natural remedy can ease symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea by calming the stomach lining and promoting healthy gut bacteria.

Additionally, licorice root has anti-spasmodic properties that help relax muscles in the digestive system, allowing for smoother digestion and reducing symptoms of IBS.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Licorice glycosides: Licorice glycosides have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and irritation associated with irritable bowel syndrome.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, such as licoagron, have antioxidant properties that can help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the digestive tract, which may contribute to the development of irritable bowel syndrome.
• Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids, such as oleanolic acid, have anti-inflammatory and protective effects on the gut, which can help to reduce inflammation, improve gut barrier function, and alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: They are the primary source of glycyrrhizin, a compound with anti-inflammatory and laxative properties.
• Leaves: They contain flavonoids and triterpenes that may help to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of IBS.
• Barks: They are used in herbal medicine to treat digestive issues, including IBS, due to their antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 100g of fresh glycyrrhiza glabra roots in the morning after the dew has dried completely.
2. Wash the roots in cold water and then dry them in a warm place for 24 hours.
3. Use a manual or electric juicer to extract 500ml of the plant's juice from the dried roots.
4. Mix 50ml of the juice with 500ml of 35% ethanol in a clean glass container.
5. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks then strain it and discard the solids.

3. Zingiber officinale

Ginger tinctures helps with irritable bowel syndrome because they possess anti-inflammatory compounds that soothe digestive tract inflammation, reducing symptoms of bloating, cramping, and abdominal pain.

The bioactive constituents in ginger tincture, such as gingerols and shogaols, have been shown to relax the smooth muscles lining the intestines, improving gut motility and reducing spasms.

Additionally, ginger's natural antioxidant properties help protect the gastrointestinal tract from oxidative stress, promoting overall digestive health and alleviating IBS symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale tinctures that help with irritable bowel syndrome.

• Gingerols: These phenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, such as abdominal pain and discomfort.
• Shogaols: Similar to gingerols, shogaols are also phenolic compounds with anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and alleviating symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
• 6-gingerol: This particular gingerol has been shown to have a relaxing effect on the digestive tract, reducing spasms and cramps associated with irritable bowel syndrome, and also exhibits anti-inflammatory properties to alleviate symptoms.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots of Zingiber officinale are also used for making tinctures due to their high concentration of zingiberene, a compound with analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help manage IBS symptoms.
• Buds: The buds of Zingiber officinale are used in tincture production as they contain higher concentrations of volatile oils that help reduce inflammation and alleviate abdominal pain associated with IBS.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 pound of fresh zingiber officinale root in the summer months when the plant is in full bloom.
2. Wash the harvested root thoroughly with cold water and dry it with a clean towel.
3. Chop the dried zingiber officinale root into small pieces and combine with 80 proof vodka at a ratio of 1:5.
4. Place the vodka mixture in a clean glass jar and store it in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks, shaking the jar daily.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth and discard the solids, then transfer the zingiber officinale tincture to a clean glass bottle.

4. Aloe vera

Aloe tinctures helps with irritable bowel syndrome because of its unique properties that soothe and calm the digestive tract.

The tincture's anti-inflammatory compounds reduce inflammation and irritation in the gut, alleviating symptoms such as bloating, cramping, and abdominal pain. Additionally, aloe's prebiotic effects promote a healthy balance of gut flora, supporting regular bowel movements and improving overall digestion.

This natural remedy provides relief from IBS symptoms without disrupting the body's natural functions, making it an effective and gentle solution for managing irritable bowel syndrome.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Anthraquinones: Anthraquinones, such as aloe-emodin, have anti-inflammatory and laxative properties, which may help reduce inflammation and improve bowel movement in individuals with IBS.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, including caffeic acid and ferulic acid, have antioxidant properties that may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the gut, alleviating IBS symptoms such as abdominal pain and diarrhea.
• Glycoproteins: Glycoproteins, specifically aloin, may help regulate bowel function and reduce symptoms of IBS by inhibiting the growth of pathogenic bacteria and reducing inflammation in the gut.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: Aloe vera leaves are the most commonly used part for tinctures due to their high concentration of gel, which contains anti-inflammatory compounds.
• Buds: Aloe vera buds are used for tinctures because they contain a higher concentration of anthraquinones, which help to soothe digestive issues.
• Stems: Aloe vera stems are used for tinctures due to their high content of aloin, a compound that helps to regulate bowel movements and alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh aloe vera leaves and wash them thoroughly with cool water to remove any dirt or debris.
2. Cut the leaves into small pieces and weigh out 100g of aloe vera material for tincture making.
3. Combine the aloe vera pieces with 500ml of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks shaking the jar every other day.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discard the solids.

5. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion tinctures helps with irritable bowel syndrome because its potent anti-inflammatory and prebiotic properties soothe digestive discomfort.

The tannins in dandelion root help reduce inflammation in the gut, while its bitter compounds stimulate digestion and improve liver function, enhancing nutrient absorption and elimination.

Additionally, dandelion's prebiotic fibers feed beneficial bacteria in the gut, promoting a healthy balance of microflora that can alleviate symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, and irregular bowel movements associated with irritable bowel syndrome.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale tinctures that help with irritable bowel syndrome.

• Phenolic acids: Help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the gut, alleviating symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
• Flavonoids: Act as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, soothing the gastrointestinal tract and reducing symptoms of IBS such as abdominal pain and bloating.
• Saponins: Possess prebiotic properties, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and improving the gut microbiome balance, which can help alleviate IBS symptoms.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They are used due to their high concentration of sesquiterpene lactones, which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and potential benefits in treating IBS symptoms.
• Roots: Roots of Taraxacum officinale contain inulin, a prebiotic that can help regulate gut bacteria and alleviate IBS symptoms such as bloating and abdominal pain.
• Flowers: The flowers are used due to their content of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which may help reduce inflammation and modulate the gut-brain axis, providing relief from IBS symptoms.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
2. Clean and dry the harvested material in a warm place with good air circulation for 1-2 weeks.
3. Chop the dried taraxacum officinale material into small pieces to increase the surface area for extraction.
4. Steep the chopped material in a neutral solvent such as 70 vodka at a ratio of 1:2 for 2-6 weeks.
5. Strain and filter the liquid to remove the plant material and bottle the resulting tincture for later use.

6. Berberis vulgaris

Barberry tinctures helps with irritable bowel syndrome because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

The herb contains berberine, a compound that has been shown to soothe irritated bowels, reduce inflammation, and calm symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and bloating. Additionally, barberry's antiviral and antibacterial properties can help combat underlying infections and gut imbalances that contribute to IBS symptoms.

By addressing these root causes, herbal barberry tinctures may provide relief for individuals suffering from IBS.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Berberis vulgaris tinctures that help with irritable bowel syndrome.

• Berberine: Berberine, an alkaloid, has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, helping to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with IBS.
• Isovitexin: Isovitexin, a flavonoid, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the gut, contributing to IBS relief.
• Vitamin c: Ascorbic acid, a phenolic acid, acts as an antioxidant and mucolytic agent, helping to protect the gut lining, reduce inflammation, and improve bowel function in individuals with IBS.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots are commonly used due to their high concentration of berberine, a compound that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
• Fruits: The fruits are often used because they contain a mixture of anthraquinones, which can help stimulate bowel movements and relieve constipation associated with irritable bowel syndrome.
• Leaves: The leaves are used due to their content of berberine and other alkaloids, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, such as abdominal pain and cramping.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh or dried berberis vulgaris roots and stems from a reliable source in large quantities.
2. Chop the harvested plant material into small pieces to increase its surface area for extraction.
3. Combine the chopped plant material with 80 proof vodka in a 1:5 ratio by weight in a clean glass jar.
4. Store the jar in a cool dark place and shake it every day for 2 to 6 weeks to facilitate extraction.
5. Strain the liquid from the plant material through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another glass container and discard the solids.

7. Foeniculum vulgare

Fennel tinctures helps with irritable bowel syndrome because of its natural ability to soothe digestive discomfort.

The herb contains a compound called anethole, which has been shown to relax the muscles in the intestines and reduce inflammation. This can help alleviate symptoms such as bloating, cramping, and diarrhea that are common in IBS sufferers.

Additionally, fennel tincture's anti-inflammatory properties may also help heal any underlying damage to the gut lining, promoting a healthy balance of gut bacteria and reducing overall discomfort associated with irritable bowel syndrome.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare tinctures that help with irritable bowel syndrome.

• Foeniculin: Foeniculin, a sesquiterpene, has anti-inflammatory and spasmolytic properties, which can help alleviate abdominal cramps and pain associated with IBS.
• Anethole: Anethole, a phenolic compound, has carminative and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce gas, bloating, and discomfort in individuals with IBS.
• Sesquiterpene foeniculin: A compound similar to Foeniculin, also helps to ease the cramps and discomfort by inhibiting spasms.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: Used due to their high content of essential oils, particularly anethole, which provides anti-inflammatory and carminative properties beneficial for IBS.
• Seeds: Utilized for their high concentration of volatile oils, particularly anethole, which helps relax the muscles in the digestive tract and alleviate cramps associated with IBS.
• Seeds: Also used as a source of furanocoumarin compounds, which exhibit anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe the digestive tract and alleviate IBS symptoms.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest a sufficient quantity of fresh foeniculum vulgare plant material by cutting the stems above the nodes during peak foliage.
2. Clean and dry the plant material thoroughly by air drying or using a dehydrator at 40 degrees celsius.
3. Combine the dried plant material with 70 ethanol in a 1:2 ratio by weight and steep for six weeks.
4. Strain the tincture through cheesecloth into a clean glass container to remove the plant material.
5. Store the tincture in a cool dark place for up to two years and label it with the date and ingredients.

8. Cichorium intybus

Chicory tinctures helps with irritable bowel syndrome because of its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

The tannins present in chicory root help to calm the digestive tract, reducing symptoms such as bloating, cramps, and diarrhea. Additionally, chicory's prebiotic fibers promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, restoring balance to the digestive system and alleviating constipation.

By addressing inflammation and promoting a healthy gut microbiome, chicory tinctures can provide relief from irritable bowel syndrome symptoms and improve overall digestive health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cichorium intybus tinctures that help with irritable bowel syndrome.

• Apolactone derivatives: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the gut, alleviating symptoms of IBS.
• Chlorogenic acid: Chlorogenic acid has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce gut inflammation and alleviate symptoms of IBS, such as abdominal pain and diarrhea.
• Fisetin: Fisetin has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the gut, alleviating symptoms of IBS and promoting gut health.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: They are used due to their high content of inulin, a prebiotic fiber that promotes gut health.
• Leaves: They are used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.
• Flowers: They are used for their potential to regulate gut bacteria balance, which may contribute to alleviating IBS symptoms.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1/2 cup of fresh cichorium intybus leaves and flowers in the morning after dew has evaporated.
2. Chop the harvested cichorium intybus into small pieces to release their natural oils and flavors.
3. Combine 2 cups of 80 proof vodka with 1/2 cup chopped cichorium intybus in a clean glass jar.
4. Place the jar in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks to allow the tincture to mature slowly.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle to remove the plant material.

9. Matricaria chamomilla

Chamomile tinctures helps with irritable bowel syndrome because it possesses anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that help to calm the digestive system.

The herb's flavonoids and terpenoids work together to reduce inflammation in the gut, alleviating symptoms of IBS such as bloating, cramping, and diarrhea. Additionally, chamomile's calming effects on the nervous system can help to regulate bowel movements and ease stress-related symptoms associated with IBS.

By promoting relaxation and reducing inflammation, chamomile tinctures provide a natural and effective solution for managing IBS symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Apigenin: Apigenin, a flavonoid compound, helps with IBS by reducing inflammation and modulating the gut microbiome, thereby alleviating symptoms such as abdominal pain and diarrhea.
• Luteolin: Luteolin, another flavonoid, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that contribute to soothing the gut lining, reducing inflammation, and improving symptoms of IBS such as bloating and cramping.
• Chamazulene: Chamazulene, a sesquiterpene lactone, has anti-inflammatory properties that help in reducing inflammation in the gut, thereby alleviating symptoms of IBS, including abdominal pain and cramping.

Parts Used

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

• Flowers: They are the most commonly used part in tinctures for irritable bowel syndrome due to their high content of apigenin, an anti-inflammatory compound.
• Leaves: They are often used in combination with flowers to create tinctures, as they contain similar active compounds that may help soothe digestive issues.
• Seeds: They are sometimes included in tinctures due to their potential to enhance the overall efficacy of the preparation, although their role is less well-documented compared to flowers and leaves.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 1 part of dried flowers of matricaria chamomilla and 2 parts of a neutral solvent like glycerin or ethanol 70% in a clean glass jar.
2. Combine the dried flowers of matricaria chamomilla with the neutral solvent in the glass jar and seal it tightly.
3. Steep the mixture for 2-4 weeks in a cool dark place, shaking the jar every few days to facilitate extraction.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container, discarding the solids.
5. Store the herbal tincture in a dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

10. Passiflora incarnata

Maypop tinctures helps with irritable bowel syndrome because they contain potent natural compounds that soothe the digestive tract and reduce inflammation.

The flavonoids, alkaloids, and phenolic acids present in maypop extract have been shown to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, alleviating symptoms of constipation and diarrhea.

Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce abdominal pain and discomfort associated with IBS, allowing for improved gut function and overall digestive health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Passiflora incarnata tinctures that help with irritable bowel syndrome.

• Flavonoids: These flavonoids have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the gut, alleviating IBS symptoms.
• Alkaloids: These alkaloids have a sedative and anxiolytic effect, which may help manage stress and anxiety, common triggers for IBS.
• Chalcones: Chalcones have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and may help regulate gut motility and reduce inflammation in the gut, which can contribute to IBS symptoms.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They contain flavonoids and alkaloids, which may help relax the muscles in the digestive tract and reduce inflammation.
• Fruits: The pulp and seeds contain mucilage, which can help soothe and protect the digestive tract lining, reducing inflammation and discomfort.
• Roots: They are rich in flavonoids and other compounds that may help regulate bowel movements, reduce inflammation, and alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 pound of fresh or dried passiflora incarnata flowers and leaves in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
2. Clean the plant material thoroughly using a soft brush and dry it with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
3. Combine the dried plant material with 80 proof vodka in a 1:5 ratio and store it in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture for 2-6 weeks in a cool dark place such as a cupboard or pantry away from direct sunlight.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass bottle and discard the solids.

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

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with irritable bowel syndrome is a blend of Peppermint, Ginger, and Triphala.

Peppermint helps calm digestive issues, while Ginger soothes inflammation and reduces nausea. Triphala, a blend of three Ayurvedic herbs, promotes digestive balance and reduces symptoms of IBS. This combination can be taken individually or in a blend, typically in a 1:1 ratio.

It's essential to consult a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedies, as they may interact with medications or have adverse effects in certain individuals.

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

Ailments similar to irritable bowel syndrome that are treated with herbal tinctures are conditions characterized by gastrointestinal disturbances, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), functional dyspepsia, and gastritis.

Herbal tinctures containing ingredients like peppermint, ginger, and licorice root may help soothe digestive issues, reduce inflammation, and alleviate symptoms like bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.

Additionally, herbal tinctures containing herbs like slippery elm and marshmallow root may also provide relief from irritable bowel syndrome-like symptoms by protecting the gut lining and promoting a healthy gut microbiome.