Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Yoga as Remedial Therapy.

Vijaya Kavuri,Nagarathna Raghuram,Senthamil R Selvan,Ariel Malamud

doi:10.1155/2015/398156

Abstract

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a group of symptoms manifesting as a functional gastrointestinal (GI) disorder in which patients experience abdominal pain, discomfort, and bloating that is often relieved with defecation. IBS is often associated with a host of secondary comorbidities such as anxiety, depression, headaches, and fatigue. In this review, we examined the basic principles of Pancha Kosha (five sheaths of human existence) concept from an Indian scripture Taittiriya Upanishad and the pathophysiology of a disease from the Yoga approach, Yoga Vasistha's Adhi (originated from mind) and Vyadhi (ailment/disease) concept. An analogy between the age old, the most profound concept of Adhi-Vyadhi, and modern scientific stress-induced dysregulation of brain-gut axis, as it relates to IBS that could pave way for impacting IBS, is emphasized. Based on these perspectives, a plausible Yoga module as a remedial therapy is provided to better manage the primary and secondary symptoms of IBS.

Highlights

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is defined as “abdominal pain or discomfort that occurs in association with altered bowel habits over a period of at least three months, in the absence of any detectable organic cause” [1, 2]
We have explored the ancient Indian literature in understanding the Yoga concept of illness and pathophysiology of IBS from the texts (Adhi/Vyadhi from Yoga Vasistha, Pancha Kosha, the five layered human existence, from Taittiriya Upanishad) in providing a comprehensive Yoga module as a remedial therapy for IBS
We attempted to provide a distinct synthesis of the Eastern (India) scriptural concepts of IBS as of mental origin, and Yoga approach of managing IBS as implemented in our randomized clinical trial (Clinical Trial Number: ISRCTN42102754; manuscript in preparation) with our design of concise an hour Remedial Yoga Module

Summary

Introduction

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is defined as “abdominal pain or discomfort that occurs in association with altered bowel habits over a period of at least three months, in the absence of any detectable organic cause” [1, 2]. GERD Peptic ulcer and stress-related factors, a treatment approach addressing both body and mind would be most appropriate In this context, IBS sufferers seek alternative remedial approach such as probiotics, herbal remedies, acupuncture, and Yoga [20]. Even though psychotherapy like hypnosis and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) have been shown to be effective in improving quality of life and reduction in pain, IBS patients have to continue therapy sessions at frequent intervals to maintain the benefits [19]. This is considered to pose financial burden and time constraint for the patients.

Ancient Indian Approach of Managing IBS

Yoga as Remedial Therapy for Management of IBS

Conclusion

Findings

Conflict of Interests