From Peppermint Oil to Probiotics: A Patient’s Guide to IBS Treatments That Really Work

Modern IBS treatment reflects decades of research into gut motility, microbiome balance, serotonin signaling, bile acid metabolism, and visceral hypersensitivity. There is no universal cure, but many evidence-based therapies significantly reduce symptoms.

Peppermint oil

Enteric-coated peppermint capsules have been shown in multiple trials to reduce abdominal pain, likely by relaxing smooth muscle. Some studies show 40–80% improvement in pain severity.

Probiotics

Certain strains—such as Bifidobacterium infantis 35624—have been shown to improve bloating and bowel patterns. Results vary by strain, so single-strain trials are generally recommended.

IBS-D treatments

• Rifaximin (non-absorbed antibiotic): benefit in 40–60% of IBS-D patients

• Loperamide

• Bile acid binders (especially if bile acid malabsorption is suspected)

• Antispasmodics like dicyclomine or hyoscyamine

IBS-C treatments

• Polyethylene glycol (osmotic laxative)

• Linaclotide or plecanatide, shown to improve stool consistency and pain

• Lubiprostone

Lifestyle and behavioral therapies

• Low-FODMAP diet

• Stress-reduction tools

• Sleep optimization

IBS Cite combines your symptoms, survey responses, and uploaded medical data to provide personalized, evidence-grounded guidance—helping you understand which treatments may align best with your subtype and biological patterns.