Effect of Panchakarma in Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): A Pilot Study

Abstract

Background: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain, altered bowel habits, bloating, and psychological stress. Conventional management often provides symptomatic relief with high recurrence rates. Ayurveda describes IBS under Grahani Roga, primarily caused by Agnimandya and Tridosha imbalance. Panchakarma, being a bio-purificatory therapy, aims at root-level correction of Dosha and Agni. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a chronic, relapsing functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by recurrent abdominal pain, altered bowel habits, bloating, and associated psychological disturbances such as anxiety and stress. Despite advances in modern medicine, the management of IBS remains largely symptomatic, with limited long-term efficacy and high recurrence rates. Ayurveda conceptualizes IBS under the broad spectrum of Grahani Roga, wherein impairment of Agni (digestive and metabolic fire) leads to improper digestion, formation of Ama, and dysregulation of Tridosha, predominantly Vata. Panchakarma, the core detoxification and bioregulatory therapy of Ayurveda, aims at elimination of vitiated Doshas, restoration of Agni, and normalization of gut physiology.

Objective: To evaluate the effect of selected Panchakarma procedures in patients of Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

Materials and Methods: A pilot clinical study was conducted on 15 diagnosed IBS patients. Patients were treated with a Panchakarma protocol consisting of Deepana-Pachana, Snehapana, Mridu Virechana, and Matra Basti for 21 days. Assessment was done based on IBS symptom severity score and Ayurvedic parameters before and after treatment.

Results: Significant improvement was observed in abdominal pain, bowel irregularity, bloating, and psychological symptoms. Overall symptom reduction ranged from 55–75% without adverse effects.

Conclusion: Panchakarma therapy showed promising results in the management of IBS and can be considered a safe and effective holistic approach. Larger randomized controlled trials are recommended.