Herbs for constipation - when will they work and what other natural ways can help?

Colonic dysmotility can be caused by a variety of factors - the most common causes of constipation are eating an improper diet and avoiding exercise.

Herbs and other over-the-counter constipation medications that act as laxatives quickly and effectively reduce the symptoms associated with constipation. However, they are not a solution to the problem, because digestive system disorders can have different causes. If constipation does not go away or persists for a long time, you should consult a doctor. Moreover, the abuse of drugs with a laxative effect can contribute to the formation of habitual constipation.

Is it constipation? What are its symptoms?

We talk about constipation when:

• passing stool less than 3 times a week

• stool is hard, difficult to pass and larger than usual

• lumpy and dry stool

• defecation requires a lot of effort.

Constipation is often accompanied by severe abdominal pain, bloating, and nausea.

Causes of constipation

Constipation can occur at any stage of life. They are quite common in young children, the elderly, and in women during pregnancy and the postpartum period, and in people of all ages who eat a diet rich in highly processed foods and lead a sedentary lifestyle.

The bowel cycle can also change due to chronic stress and various diseases. The cause of frequent constipation and ailments associated with food retention in the intestines can be, among other things, hypothyroidism, Parkinson’s disease, irritable bowel syndrome, and taking certain medications.

Natural remedies for constipation are not only herbs

Natural remedies for constipation include a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and dehydration. People suffering from constipation should follow a diet rich in foods that improve intestinal motility. We include among others:

• whole grain products,

• fresh and boiled vegetables,

• fresh fruits and dried fruits, such as prunes,

• seeds and bones

• sour milk drinks,

• silage.

To quickly get rid of constipation, you need drink plenty of water and limit drinks that provide simple sugars and increase flatulence (such as sodas). It is worth including flax seeds in your diet (it is worth drinking flaxseed jelly) and bran, which can be added to various dishes. The work of the digestive tract is also improved by the use of probiotics. Natural probiotics include: in pickles.

Herbs for constipation and laxative tablets should not be taken before every bowel movement. At the heart of the fight against constipation is a healthy diet and mindfulness of daily physical activity. Laxatives should not be used in children without first consulting a doctor!

What herbs can help with constipation?

Traditionally used herbs for constipation include:

• buckthorn bark and buckthorn fruit,

• elder fruit,

• rhizome,

• fennel,

• peppermint leaf,

• senna leaf,

• aloe leaf,

• plantain seeds.

Herbal teas will help increase bowel movements and they have laxative effect. It is worth remembering that herbs should be used temporarily. Castor oil and glycerin suppositories can also be used for constipation. The method of reducing constipation should be agreed with the doctor.

Herbs and laxative tablets should not be used at higher doses or more frequently than recommended. The same applies to the consumption of dietary fiber, which is available in various dietary supplements.

Sources:

• Nutrition for constipation, medicine. doctor Anna Grodowska, National Center for Nutrition Education, Warsaw, 2017
• M. Dziak, B. Kuznitska: “Herbs and their uses. History and Modernity”. National Medical Publishing. 3rd revised and enlarged edition, Warsaw, 1984
• patient.gov.pl