ABSTRACT
The clinical manifestations of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) include abdominal pain, abdominal discomfort, and frequency and consistency of defecation. Rome-III and -IV criteria are currently used in the diagnosis of IBS. The symptoms of IBS patients can be improved through drug treatment, psychotherapy, and diet programs, and also through the use of extracts of medicinal plants, essential oils, and natural bioactive compounds. This Chapter discusses the potential use of plants (such as Aloe vera, Carum carvi, Cuminum cyminum, Curcuma sp., Cynara scolymus, Hypericum perforatum, Mentha piperita, and Panax ginseng) for the treatment of IBS.
