Does Iberogast Work for IBS?
Caiaimage / Rafal Rodzoch / Getty Images
Medically reviewed by Robert Burakoff, MD, MPH
Research suggests that Iberogast, an over-the-counter herbal formulation, may ease the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), such as bloating, constipation, and diarrhea. It may also be used to help with symptoms of functional dyspepsia (FD), like indigestion and abdominal pain.
Iberogast has been in use for over fifty years. It can be thought of as a "blend of bitters," harkening back to a time when bitters were used extensively as digestive aids. Iberogast was developed by a German company (Steigerwald Arzneimittelwerk GmbH) and is available without a prescription throughout the world.
This article discusses the ingredients in Iberogast, as well as its effectiveness in managing the symptoms associated with IBS. It also covers its safety, including potential side effects, and who shouldn't take it.
Related: Signs and Symptoms of IBS
Iberogast Ingredients
Iberogast (known as STW 5 in research articles) is a liquid preparation that is comprised of nine herbs:
Bitter candytuft (Iberis amara totalis recens)
Dried angelica root (Angelicae radix)
Dried chamomile flower head (Matricariae flos)
Dried caraway fruit - commonly known as seeds (Carvi fructus)
Milk thistle dried fruit (Silybi mariani fructus)
Dried balm leaf (Melissae folium)
Dried peppermint leaf (Menthae piperitae folium)
Dried celandine (Chelidonii herba)
Dried liquorice root (Liquiritiae radix)
Related: Health Benefits of 10 Healing Herbs
Iberogast Benefits
Research on Iberogast suggests that it supports healthy digestion through a variety of mechanisms. The bitter candytuft may be helpful in improving smooth muscle tone, while the other eight herbs appear to have antispasmodic properties. This double action explains why it is helpful for both functional dyspepsia and IBS.
Iberogast may also:
Promote motility, or the strength and movement of the muscles in the digestive tract
Stimulate the production of bile, which is a fluid responsible for the digestion of fats
Reduce the production of stomach acid
Reduce intestinal gas, as well as prevent and heal ulcers
Provide antioxidants
Have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects
Related: Medications Used to Treat IBS
Is Iberogast Clinically Proven?
In Europe, regulatory agencies have more stringent standards for herbal remedies than those in the United States. Such formulations must meet the same strict requirements as prescription medications. Thus, Iberogast has been extensively studied for its effectiveness and safety in promoting digestive health in both the upper and lower parts of the digestive tract.
Studies have found that:
Iberogast is significantly more likely to be effective for dyspepsia symptoms than a placebo and its effects are comparable to those found in prescription medication.
In a fairly large, double-blind study, Iberogast significantly reduced abdominal pain and other IBS symptoms when taken for four weeks compared to a placebo.
Related: Can IBS Cause Back Pain?
Is Iberogast Safe?
Typically, Iberogast side effects are rare. This is due, in part, to the fact that the formulation acts on the digestive tract, with little impact on the central nervous system.
Iberogast side effects may include:
Itchy skin
Hives or another skin rash
Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
Does Iberogast Cause Liver Damage?
Iberogast is generally considered safe for long-term use. However, there have been occasional reports of drug-induced liver damage. In some cases, these symptoms resolved weeks after discontinuing Iberogast use.
Is Iberogast Safe for Children?
Iberogast may be a safe and effective treatment for children with functional dyspepsia or IBS. In a study of 980 children ages three to 14 years old who were treated for one week with Iberogast:
IBS or functinal dyspepsia symptoms decreased by 76% regardless of age group.
The overall treatment was considered "good" or "very good" by the children, their parents, and healthcare providers.
Healthcare providers rated Iberogast's tolerability as "good" or "very good" for 95% of the children.
Seven children had serious reactions to the treatment.
Related:
Who Should Not Take Iberogast
As with any over-the-counter product, you should always check with your healthcare provider to ensure that it is safe for you to use. You absolutely should get your healthcare provider's approval if you:
Have liver disease
Are pregnant or are planning on becoming pregnant
Are breastfeeding
Dosage and How to Take It
Iberogast is a dark brown liquid that comes in a dark glass bottle with a dropper. It should be taken before or during a meal.
To use Iberogast, you should shake the bottle vigorously. Using the dropper, you will add the correct number of drops to a small glass of water or other liquid.
According to the manufacturer:
Adults and children over the age of 12 should take 20 drops, three times a day.
Children ages six to 12 should take 15 drops, three times a day.
Children ages three to five should be given 10 drops, three times a day.
If you have skipped or missed a dose, wait until your next scheduled meal to take your next dose. If you think you have taken too much, you are unlikely to experience an overdose. However, you may still want to reach out to your healthcare provider.
If you, or your child, experience any negative side effects, stop using Iberogast and tell your healthcare provider.
Can You Take Iberogast Every Day?
Yes, you can take Iberogast every day for as long as you need. It's always best to speak with your healthcare provider if you plan on using Iberogast long-term.
Summary
Iberogast is an OTC herbal product that is said to help with functional dyspepsia and IBS. Research suggests that it tends to be safe and effective for use in adults and children ages three and older. However, side effects are possible.
Iberogast is a liquid that should be taken according to the manufacturer's instructions. Speak with your healthcare provider if you are interested in trying this product.
