Cumin Extract May Help Relieve Symptoms of IBS

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a prevalent gastrointestinal disorder affecting about 11% of people globally.¹ Its hallmark symptoms include chronic abdominal pain, altered bowel habits, and changes in stool consistency. Despite its widespread occurrence, there are no specific treatments for IBS symptoms, leaving patients grappling with discomfort and uncertainty about managing their condition. However, recent research has shed light on the potential benefits of using cumin for IBS.

The Study

This pilot study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of cumin extract in managing symptoms of IBS. Fifty-seven patients with IBS participated in the study. These patients did not have any other accompanying illnesses.

During the study period, participants were advised to discontinue any other treatments they were receiving. The intervention involved supplementing 20 drops per day of cumin essential oil for four weeks.

Symptoms associated with IBS, including abdominal pain, nausea, painful defecation, presence of mucosa in stool, changes in stool consistency, and defecation frequency, were assessed before, during, and after the trial.

The Results

The results of the study demonstrated significant improvements in IBS symptoms among participants treated with cumin essential oil. Specifically, abdominal pain, bloating, incomplete defecation, fecal urgency, and the presence of mucus discharge in stool were statistically decreased during and after treatment with cumin extract.

Moreover, stool consistency and defecation frequency showed substantial improvement in patients with a constipation-dominant pattern of IBS.

What Does this Mean?

The findings of this study suggest that cumin may help improve IBS symptoms, such as bloating and abdominal pain. The improvement in stool consistency and defecation frequency, particularly in constipation-dominant IBS, highlights the broad spectrum of benefits that cumin extract may provide in managing different subtypes of IBS.

While there is still much to learn about the role of cumin extract in treating IBS, this study provides promising evidence of its potential as a natural and cost-effective remedy. Further research in this area could pave the way for safer and more accessible treatment options for individuals living with IBS. 

Other herbs that have been shown to be beneficial for IBS relief are psyllium, soy, oats, and peppermint.