The brain-gut axis comprises the interactions of the brain with the spinal cord, the sympathetic, parasympathetic, and enteric divisions of the autonomic innervation of the digestive tract and the intestinal microbiome with its metabolites. This bidirectional communication enables an effective treatment method for functional gastrointestinal disorders (irritable bowel syndrome, functional dyspepsia), namely, gut-directed hypnosis. A series of randomized controlled studies show remarkable long-term success even with therapy-refractory complaints. Gut-directed hypnosis is therefore recommended to be included in guidelines for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome. It can be performed in individual or group settings in 10 sessions and can be well integrated into a treatment concept in gastroenterological centers as well. There are also indications for efficacy in children with functional bowel diseases. Preliminary studies indicate that hypnosis may have an additive therapy effect over conventional medical treatment in inflammatory bowel diseases.