The use of traditional Chinese herbal medicine in irritable bowel syndrome

Abstract

Most nurses are aware of the widespread use of complementary and alternative medicines therapies. Such therapies are being increasingly used by gastrointestinal patients for a wide range of clinical conditions. In this article, the application of Chinese herbal medicine will be explored in relation to irritable bowel syndrome. An overview of the general theory of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) will be followed with an examination of the approaches TCM therapists take in the management of functional bowel disorders. Specific focus will be placed on the safety issues to help gastrointestinal nurses understand the potential benefits of this alternative form of treatment.