Compositions and a methods are described for treating disorders of the small and large bowel, such as Crohns disease, ulcerative colitis and irritable bowel syndrome, without producing any treatment-related systemic side effects and with minimal or no abdominal discomfort. A method of administration of civamide that is incorporated into soft gelatin capsules and administered with meals is described. Surprisingly, the method provides for diminishment of pain and inflammation of the small and large bowel without producing any systemic side effects or significant abdominal discomfort.
