Ayurvedic management of Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Dyspepsia: Clinical Insights - An Integrative Review

Background: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and functional dyspepsia are among the most prevalent functional gastrointestinal disorders, characterized by abdominal pain, altered bowel habits, bloating, indigestion, and impaired quality of life. Their multifactorial origin involves gut–brain axis dysfunction, altered motility, dysbiosis, and psychological stress. Despite available pharmacological options, long-term management remains challenging due to high relapse rates and limited efficacy. Ayurveda, with its holistic approach, provides an alternative framework that emphasizes the correction of Agni (digestive fire), elimination of Ama (metabolic toxins), restoration of Dosha balance, and psychosomatic harmony. Aim: This review aims to explore Ayurvedic concepts, therapeutic approaches, and clinical insights in the management of IBS and dyspepsia, and to correlate them with modern biomedical perspectives. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive review of classical Ayurvedic texts (Charaka Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya, Bhavaprakasha) was conducted along with an electronic database search (PubMed, AYUSH Research Portal, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, Cochrane Library). Clinical studies, observational trials, and review articles published between 2000–2025 were included. Ayurvedic formulations, Panchakarma interventions, dietary practices, and lifestyle recommendations were critically analyzed and compared with modern medical approaches. Results: Ayurvedic literature identifies Grahani Roga and Ajirna as classical correlates of IBS and dyspepsia, with pathogenesis rooted in Agni Mandya and Ama formation. Management strategies include Shodhana (detoxification through Virechana and Basti), Shamana (Deepana-Pachana, Grahani-Nashaka formulations such as Kutajarishta, Hingvastaka Churna, Avipattikara Churna), dietary modifications (Takra Kalpana, Mudga Yusha, old rice), and Satvavajaya Chikitsa (Yoga, meditation, Pranayama). Clinical trials have demonstrated improvements in bowel regularity, bloating, and abdominal pain with Ayurvedic therapies, showing comparable or superior outcomes to conventional treatments in long-term relief. Conclusion: IBS and dyspepsia require a holistic, patient-centered approach. Ayurveda offers a comprehensive management plan that addresses not only digestive symptoms but also underlying metabolic and psychosomatic factors. Clinical evidence supports the efficacy of Ayurvedic interventions, though large-scale randomized controlled trials are warranted for wider acceptance. Integration of Ayurvedic principles with modern medicine may provide an effective, sustainable, and personalized strategy for the management of functional gastrointestinal disorders.