It's what naturopaths have known for years, but this week Adelaide researchers have found proof that humble peppermint is an effective treatment for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).

IBS, a gastrointestinal disorder, causes abdominal pain, diarrhoea or constipation and bloating in sufferers.

It affects about 20 percent of Australia's population.

Adelaide University's Dr Stuart Brierley said although Naturopaths have prescribed peppermint to patients for years, there hasn't been any clinical evidence to prove its benefits until now.

"Our research shows that peppermint acts through a specific anti-pain channel to reduce pain sensing fibres, particularly those activated by mustard and chilli," he said.

By activating this anti-pain channel, the peppermint soothes any inflammatory pain in the gastrointestinal tract.

"This is potentially the first step in determining a new type of mainstream clinical treatment for Irritable Bowel Syndrome."

IBS can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, food poisoning and stress and the symptoms can remain with a person intermittently over the course of a lifetime.

There is currently no known cure for IBS.