When treating SIBO, the thought of conventional antibiotics may not appeal to everyone. Luckily, there is a lot of evidence to support the benefit of herbal treatments for SIBO patients and their effectiveness to reduce symptoms.
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Herbal Remedies for SIBO
When treating SIBO, the thought of conventional antibiotics may not appeal to everyone. Luckily, there is a lot of evidence to support the benefit of herbal treatments for SIBO patients and their effectiveness to reduce symptoms.
If you are experiencing symptoms of SIBO, we highly recommend speaking to a medical professional about the route you want to take, as SIBO is often accompanied by other conditions that present with similar symptoms
A Natural Treatment for SIBO
Herbal remedies have shown anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties while also allowing for the preservation of ‘good bacteria’ in our gut. We have put together a list of 5 natural eradication herbs that could help you reduce the unwanted symptoms that come with SIBO. These herbs may be an effective approach to tackling your SIBO, either on their own or in conjunction with antibiotic therapies. It is important to note that the effectiveness of these remedies varies from person to person.
Herbal Remedies Combination
Herbal remedies work in specific ways. A term often used is ‘combine to kill’. There are so many different bacterial species in our gut that contribute to SIBO and not all antimicrobials can target each one. Treatment regimens combat this by using combinations to maximize the effect. It is also recommended you rotate antimicrobials to avoid resistance. Bacteria can be sneaky and they have the ability to adapt to conditions that are less favorable (in order words, trying to kill them…). To overcome this, it is best not to stick to one herbal treatment for a prolonged period of time. This way we can avoid the bacteria developing resistance and continuing to grow.
Which Combinations Should You Try for SIBO?
SIBO presents itself differently in everyone, and while some antimicrobials may work for some, they may not work for others. However, studies have shown that there are some combinations that have proven beneficial for the majority of patients.
Allicin, oregano, and neem extract have shown promise in tacklingMethane-dominant SIBO.
Allicin is an extract from garlic. I know what you’re thinking; garlic is a ‘high FODMAP food’, so how can it also be a successful treatment? Allicin does not contain the high fructo-oligosaccharides that can trigger symptoms in people with SIBO and has been successful in treating methanogenic bacteria specifically. It is a natural antibiotic, but has antiviral and antifungal properties too!
2. Oregano
Oil of oregano is a herb that has been successful in killing intestinal microbes or inhibiting their growth. For this reason, it may help treat chronic overgrowth issues, such as SIBO.
3. Neem
Neem seed oil contains polyphenols that can act as prebiotics, enhancing the growth of specific ‘good bacteria’ species. These gut microbiota can then increase the production of bioactive phenolic acids derived from the ingested polyphenols which benefit overall health. It also has antibacterial and antifungal properties. Neem extract can kill many types of ‘bad’ microbes, including gram-positive Staph aureus and gram-negative E. coli. For SIBO patients, neem may be worth trying as it has the ability to target harmful bacteria, potentially aiding in managing the bacterial imbalance characteristic of SIBO.
4. Berberine
Berberine is a chemical found in plants like goldenseal and turmeric. It has been successful in inhibiting the growth of human bacteria and has potent anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and anti-diarrheal properties.
5. Peppermint
Peppermint is a natural antispasmodic. It can be taken as a tea, or oil and has many health benefits. In the treatment of SIBO, enteric-coated peppermint oil has proven to inhibit the growth of 22 bacterial strains. Studies show a significant reduction in methane and hydrogen production within an hour of taking peppermint. Peppermint is also effective in relieving bloating, constipation, and abdominal discomfort.
*Remember, not every treatment regimen will work for everyone, and the effectiveness of these herbal remedies may vary. It is essential to discuss any treatment options you are considering with your doctor, as ‘natural’ does not mean risk-free.
Can FoodMarble Assess Your Herbal Treatment Impact?
Yes, of course! FoodMarble’s AIRE 2 devices can help to monitor your response to these herbal remedies by measuring your fermentation levels. You can track your symptoms and diet in our FoodMarble companion app to help get a better understanding of your digestive triggers.
Want to know more? Check out these articles on foodmarble.com:
FoodMarble’s FODMAP Testing Kit is a great way to find the foods that are right for your body. If you are looking to find the root cause of your digestive issues check out our AIRE device and FODMAP Testing Kit.
