Overview
- New roundups highlight peppermint, chamomile, carom (ajwain), fennel and cumin as potential aids for bloating, gas and cramp-like discomfort.
- Peppermint’s menthol relaxes gut muscles, with trials showing peppermint oil capsules can ease IBS symptoms, though the oil may aggravate acid reflux and tea is a gentler option.
- Cumin appears to boost digestive enzymes and bile in studies, and a small trial of 57 people with IBS reported symptom relief within two weeks.
- Fennel’s insoluble fibre and anethole are linked to reduced cramp-like pain in small studies, and coverage cites NHS guidance of about 30 g of daily fibre.
- Chamomile shows animal evidence for ulcer protection and mixed small pediatric findings, while carom seeds show animal data for faster transit and acid/enzyme stimulation, with large doses discouraged in pregnancy; outlets stress these are not substitutes for medical care.