IBS is a functional disorder of the large intestine in which normal activity of the bowel is altered causing abdominal distress and constipation or diarrhea.

Causes:

Inherently sensitive gi system
Diet: Certain food substances e.g. milk and bakery products
Infections
Allergy
Drugs- Antibiotics, Laxative abuse
Emotional stress is a main precipitating cause

Clinical features: Periodic constipation or diarrhea, Pain in the rectum, Urgency and precipitancy.

Grahani is due to chronic imbalance of the one or more of the doshas affecting Jathara Agni (digestion) leading to weakness in the duodenum. The function of the duodenum according to Ayurveda is not only to digest the food but to “hold” on to the food until it is digested, it then releases the food allowing it to pass into the colon where it is excreted under the influence of Apana Vayu. Due to weak digestive fire – Agni, the duodenum becomes weakened and its function is inhibited, it will then either release its contents early than normal into the colon with the food being “uncooked” or it will retain its contents for longer periods releasing the food into the colon that is “overcooked.” Due to this factor one of the main symptoms that defines grahani is alternating loose bowel motions with constipation. These very symptoms are presented in Irritable Bowel Syndrome.