REGIMINT RECOMMENDATIONS
THE GERMAN COMMISSION E
In Germany, there is a government authority, the German Commission E, which regulates and test herbal remedies. The German Commission E is similar to the FDA in the United States except they are more involved in testing and regulating herbal remedies. The herbal remedy that is officially endorsed by the German Commission E as an effective safe treatment for irritable bowel syndrome is a fixed combination of peppermint/caraway oil in an enteric-coated capsule. Approved fixed combinations can be advantageous over single herbs if therapeutic effectiveness is increased or if the side effects of a single component are lessened or negated. Currently, the largest category of use for approved fixed combinations is for digestive complaints.
Approved Fixed Combination
Fixed Combination of Peppermint oil
and Caraway oil
Published August 13, 1991
Composition of Drug Interactions with Other Drugs
Fixed combinations consisting of: Casipride
Peppermint oil corresponding to
February 18, 1986 (B. Anz. P.3077)
Caraway oil corresponding to Dosage
December 14, 1989 (B. Anz. 22a Unless otherwise prescribed:
February 1, 1990) The individual components of the
and their preparations in effective combination must be equivalent to
dosage. 50-75 percent of the daily dosage
given in the monographs for
individual herbs.
Uses Mode of Administration
Dyspeptic discomfort, especially with Essential oils and other galenical
spasms in the gastrointestinal region, preparations there of for oral use.
flatulence, sensation of fullness.
Contraindications Actions
Obstruction of biliary tract, cholecystitis A spasmolytic, carminative and
severe liver disease. In case of gallbladder antibacterial effect is documented
disease, only to be used after consultation for peppermint oil and caraway oil.
with a physician or pharmacist. Pharmacological tests for the effectiveness
of fixed combinations are not available.
Side Effects
Sensitive individuals may experience
gastric discomfort.