Reference Number: 478
Year: 2016
Link: Link to original paper
Health: IBS
Nutrition: Polyphenols | Prebiotic
Summary
Background and aims: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) patients still require effective treatment. The anti-inflammatory property of curcumin and the antispasmodic and carminative effect of fennel suggests that combination of these nutraceutical compounds would be useful in functional bowel disorders including IBS. We assessed the efficacy and tolerability of a combination of curcumin and fennel essential oil (CU-FEO) in IBS symptoms relief.
Methods: 121 patients with mild-to-moderate symptoms of IBS defined by an Irritable Bowel Syndrome- symptom severity score (IBS-SSS) 100-300 and abdominal pain score 30-70 on a 100 mm Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), were randomly assigned to CU-FEO or placebo (2 capsules b.d. for 30 days). Primary endpoint was the mean decrease of IBS-SSS at the end of the treatment corrected for the mean baseline score (relative decrease). The impact of the treatment on quality of life was assessed through IBS-QoL questionnaire.
Results: CU-FEO was safe, well-tolerated and induced symptom relief in patients with IBS; a significant decrease in the mean relative IBS-SSS was observed after 30 days of treatment (50.05 +/- 28.85% vs 26.12 +/- 30.62%, P<0.001). This result matched the reduction of abdominal pain and all the other symptoms of IBS-SSS. The percentage of symptom-free patients was significantly higher in the CU-FEO than in the placebo group (25.9% vs. 6.8%, P = 0.005). All domains of IBS-QoL improved consistently.
Significance of this study to the baker:
Oils from fennel and curcumin (the active ingredient in the spice, Turmeric) were consumed by patients with mild-moderate IBS and their consumption was found to reduce pain and other symptoms associated with the syndrome. These foods have been shown to lower inflammation associated with IBS and relax muscles – aiding the pain patients may experience. We include both fennel and curcumin in our botanical blends as well as in many of our recipes such as, Life Kitchen’s Simple Sourdough Blackberry, Fennel & Pistachio Focaccia or our Seasonal Vegetable Curry.