It is characterised by recurrent or chronic abdominal pain, with distension and disturbed defecation.
Many people just live with it, but for some it has a large impact on their lives.
It is a condition for which many people seek alternative therapy, often without any clear evidence. This trial randomised people with IBS to receive a placebo, or standard or individualised Chinese herbal medicine. They ensured that placebo was similar in taste and appearance to the Chinese medicine. They made the waiting time for medicines standard. They used standard scales for IBS symptoms and severity.