There are times when you would have felt as if you are 10 pounds heavier, all bloated up, and nothing inside you is working well. Bowel movements and ‘potty’ issues are topics that we all try to avoid talking about. None of you will walk through your office space and announce to the world that you have not pooped in five days. You must be more than willing to talk about your sore feet than your stubborn sphincter muscles! However, there are some natural tips to overcome this problem. After a deep research, we have listed ten best home remedies for constipation. Before we list them to you, know a few things.
What Is Constipation?
Constipation makes you feel uneasy and at the same time, adversely affects your health. This problem originates from indigestion where you find it very difficult to clear your bowel. Even when you excrete, you will find hardened feces. The process is painful, uncomfortable, and may lead you to spend hours in the bathroom without having any productive outcome. Constipation can be fatal if left unattended. It can build up harmful toxins that can be extremely dangerous.
If you are not ‘letting it out‘ properly, try some natural remedies to get it treated. Avoid popping those over-the-counter laxatives, as it can worsen the condition. It is a general problem, which happens due to lack or less water content in the digestive system. So, the first rule of thumb to beat constipation is hydration. Now you have a reason to mug up all that water.
Causes of Constipation
A myriad of factors causes constipation. Well, the obvious culprits include low fiber content in foods, dehydration, and lack of exercise. It is also caused by some less well-known reasons including medications and supplements. However, there are some possibilities that can explain the cause and you might not have considered it before.
- Hypothyroidism
- Chocolate (oh no!)
- Laxative overuse (talk about irony!)
- Too many dairy products
- Sudden change in your diet
- Antidepressants
- Depression
- Colon cancer
- Painkillers and steroids
- Nervous and muscular problems
- Too many antacid medicines (contains excess calcium or aluminum)
- Blood pressure and allergy medications
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Childbirth (due to sluggish abdominal muscles)
- Diabetes and neurological diseases
Constipation is a common side effect of most popular medications. Laxatives over periods can be habit-forming; hence, taking them too often will disrupt your digestive system and make it dependent on the chemicals.
Certain health conditions are also responsible for constipation as well. Spastic colon can be considered one among the most common causes of bowel troubles including constipation. Not much is known about this factor – hence, patients with spastic colon must monitor their food intake since their bowels become too sensitive.
If you are over the age of 40, preventive measures must be taken for a regular bowel movement, since aging triggers constipation. Constipation has always been an uncomfortable issue to talk about, but more uncomfortable to deal with. So take a close look at your daily eating habits and lifestyle try to pinpoint as to what is causing constipation.
Symptoms of Constipation
Some of the symptoms are as shown below:
- Compacted and hard stool
- Difficult or painful passing of stools
- Excess vomiting
- No bowel movements in a gap of three days
- Stool is accompanied with blood due to hemorrhoids and anal fissures
- Release of wet, diarrhea-like stool in between regular bowel movement
- Need to help remove stool from your rectum using your hand
- Feel like there is a block in the rectal pathway
- Abdominal cramps
- Excessive farting (flatulence)
- Bloating
- Loss of appetite
Note: If you have experienced all these problems in more than 2 or 3 months, then constipation is considered chronic.
Negligence of constipation can give rise to many diseases such as:
- Increase in cholesterol levels
- Headaches
- Bad breath
- Body odor
- Hemorrhoids
- Varicose veins
- Colon/rectal/colorectal cancer
- Diverticulosis (It is a condition where the colon creates pouches for catching fecal material to hold it. The fecal matter then hardens leading to diverticulosis. The pouches are created in the intestinal wall.)
10+ Best Home Remedies For Constipation
The basic step to kick off constipation is to switch from bad foods to fiber-rich foods. It makes your stool bulkier and easier to pass. Apart from a healthy fiber-rich diet, try these natural remedies to relieve constipation sooner.
10. Devil’s Thorn Leaves + Milk
However, use the unpasteurized milk (or 100% natural cow milk) and not the processed ones. A glass of warm milk with this herb helps in improving your intestines’ muscle contractions. Hence, to try a remedy using these two ingredients, follow the steps given below:
- Step 1: Take 1 ounce of fresh Devil’s Thorn Leaves (cleaned) and prepare its juice by grinding them in a mixer.
- Step 2: Take a glass of warm milk.
- Step 3: Mix them together.
- Step 4: Drink on alternate days.
- Step 5: Repeat the process for a week or two for best results.
How Does This Work?
The reason Tribulus Terrestris helps in relieving constipation is due to the presence of some active compounds like resins, alkaloids, sugars, tannins, essential oils, sterols, diastase, glucoside, and peroxidase.On the other hand, milk has all the essential nutrients to help treat constipation naturally. It has lactose, good fat, proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and other vital enzymes.
The Remedy Is Not Good If:
- You are suffering from lactose intolerance.
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- You have prostate cancer or prostate problems.
- You are suffering from diabetes. Tribulus may increase your blood sugar levels.
- You have undergone surgery or going to have one.
9.Aloe Vera Juice
- Step 1: Rinse the plant with cold water and cut off the thorny part of the plant.
- Step 2: Extract the transparent gel part of the plant and put it into a blender.
- Step 3: The gel should be processed almost immediately after extraction because it hardens upon contact with air.
- Step 4: The preparation must be refrigerated to keep the medicinal properties intact at least for a week.
Note: Aloe Vera has strong laxative effects on the body. Therefore, it should be taken sparingly.
How Does This Work?
Aloe Vera has a substance called chloride. It increases the water level in the stool hence easing the bowel movements. The laxative effect of the aloe vera plant is derived from the inner skin of the plant that gives out a sticky yellow liquid called Aloin. Aloin, when dry becomes powdery. This is used to make laxatives. Aloe Vera also contains compounds called anthraquinones, aloe-emodin, barbaloin and aloectic acid. Research has shown that the chemical combination of anthraquinone compounds provides relief for constipation.
Aloe Vera Is Not Good, If:
- You are pregnant. Aloe Vera has been associated with miscarriage.
- Children lesser than 12 years of age should not be given Aloe Vera.
- You have a history of heart disease or suffer from electrolyte abnormalities.
- You have intestinal conditions such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease. It might worsen the situation.
- You have kidney problems. High doses may result in failure of kidneys and other disastrous consequences.
8. Olive Oil
You will need:
- One tablespoon of olive oil
- One teaspoon of lemon juice (optional)
Method of Preparation:
- Step 1: Consume one tablespoon of olive oil every morning on an empty stomach.
- Step 2: If you forget, wait until you have not eaten anything for a while.
- Step 3: Mix olive oil with lemon juice to lighten its taste. Lemon juice also acts as a natural aid in constipation.
How Does This Work?
It stimulates your digestive tract and gets the waste matter moving. When taken regularly, it helps in relieving constipation. Olive oil contains fats, monounsaturated oils, iron, vitamins E, K, omega 3, 6 fatty acids as well as antioxidants. In the initial stage, it strengthens the colon’s mucous lining, which has been damaged by hard stools. The gallbladder is stimulated, bile is released, and the fats are digested in the tract. It also assists in the contraction of intestinal muscles, and the stools are softened and become easy to be eliminated.
The Remedy Is Not Good, If:
- If you have diabetes. It is advisable to seek the advice of a doctor as your blood sugar levels can be affected.
- It is recommended not to use olive oil two weeks before and after surgery.
- If you are taking medication for diabetes. Interaction can happen with glyburide (DiaBeta, Glynase PresTab, Micronase), tolbutamide (Orinase) as well as others.
- If you are taking medicines for low blood pressure. The levels might become low. Some of the medicines are hydrochlorothiazide (HydroDIURIL), furosemide (Lasix) and others.
7. Castor Oil
- Step 1: Take a tablespoon of castor oil.
- Step 2: Mix it with orange juice, ginger juice, prune juice, or cranberry juice to eliminate its bitter taste.
- Step 3: Don’t take this continuously for more than three days.
Recommended dose:
- One tablespoon for adults
- One teaspoon for children
How Does This Work?
Castor oil is 80% a component called ricinoleic acids. Its fatty acid binds to the receptors located on the smooth cells in the intestines. Upon interactions with the receptors, ricinoleic acid causes powerful contractions. This explains the laxative property of castor oil. Apart from these factors, Castor oil prevents fluid absorption from the small intestines. Hence, the bowl can hold back more moisture for easier passage of stools out of the anus. Therefore, castor oil also acts as a lubricant for fecal matter.
The Remedy Is Not Good, If:
- As Castor oil is a powerful laxative, you must be careful with its consumption. You must have close availability of toilets since castor oil causes explosive bouts of diarrhea.
- You are pregnant. It is recommended to use castor oil strictly for the use of a medical practitioner.
- You have stomach pain, gallbladder problems, bile ducts or a blocked intestine.
- You are taking diuretic drugs. Potassium in the body will be reduced below the required levels causing side effects.
6.Cooked Kenaf Leaves
- Step 1: Take some fresh Kenaf Leaves and wash them thoroughly.
- Step 2: Cook them and consume with your meals on a regular basis.
- Step 3: Do this for a few days and see the difference.
How Does This Work?
Kenaf leaves have some essential fruit acids that act as a natural laxative. According to researchers, certain chemical compounds in Hibiscus Cannabinus help in decreasing stomach spasms, uterus, and intestines. They ease the stool. Apart from this, they also work as natural antibiotics and kill the worms and bacteria too.
Kenaf Leaves Are Not Good, If:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding. The leaves might adversely affect the embryo.
- You have low blood pressure.
- You are diabetic. It might decrease the sugar levels.
- You have undergone surgery or going to have one soon.
5.Fennel Seeds
Method 1: Drinking Fennel Seed Water
Using fennel seed powder is more effective. Take a cup of fennel powder and roast them. Store them in an airtight jar. Later, take a glass of lukewarm water. Mix a spoon of fennel powder. Drink it before going to bed.
How Does This Work?
Taking fennel water before bed is more effective. Fennel contains a good amount of fiber, while the lukewarm water activates the digestive system. Fiber is very important for proper functioning of the stomach.
Method 2: Fennel Tea
Fennel makes a wonderful medicinal tea. To make this, follow the instructions given below:
- Step 1: Take one teaspoon of fennel seeds and bruise them with a pair of mortar and pestle.
- Step 2: The action of bruising activates the oils and active compounds. Later, pour freshly boiled water over the fennel seeds.
- Step 3: Let it steep for ten to fifteen minutes. Filter and drink it.
How Does This Work?
One of the many acids found in fennel is aspartic acid, known popularly as an antiflatulent. Other medicinal compounds are anetol & cineole having antibacterial and disinfectant properties. In the case of amino acids found in fennel seeds, histidine assists in digestion and proper maintenance of the digestive tract. 100 gms of fennel seeds offer 40 gms of dietary fiber, and the phytonutrients that exhibit excellent antioxidant properties are the flavonoids known as quercetin and rutin. They are known for reducing inflammation and prevention of cancer.
Fennel Is Not Good, If:
Fennel is usually considered safe for consumption. However, taking too much of everything is no good. Too much of fennel can cause difficulty in breathing, palpitations, various neural problems, and irregular heartbeats.
4. Flaxseed Oil
How Does This Work?
Also known as linseed, it is full of soluble fiber, which creates your stools to be bulkier, and it eases the movement of stool out of the bowel. Flaxseed is a wonderful source of all the important Omega-3 fatty acids which helps with fluid retention within the bowel and helps with overall digestive health. When the oil is mixed with water, it helps to loosen stubborn stools and makes the process go easier. Like every other natural remedy again, the oil has to be taken in moderation, and certainly never overdose yourself than what is recommended on the packaging.
It contains another important component, known by the name ‘mucilage.’ The structure of mucilage is slim, and it possesses gum like composition that provides a temporary protective and soothing coating for the entire digestive part. This property of the mucilage not only helps in constipation but also for intestinal and stomach inflammation.
Flaxseed Oil Is Not Good, If:
- You are using flax seeds in raw or unripe forms. They are dangerous.
- You are pregnant. The components act similar to the hormone estrogen and doctors advise that this property can lead to miscarriage.
- You suffer from diverticulosis (explained earlier in the article)
- You suffer from a narrow esophagus or a bowel obstruction.
3. Prune Juice For Severe Constipation Issues
Method 1: Prune & Apple Juice
The first activity in the morning is to drink two to three glasses of prune juice on an empty stomach. After about thirty minutes, top this up with a glass of apple juice. This is powerful enough to start bowel movement even with severe constipation issues.
Method 2: Prune & Oat Milk
Mix prune juice (half a glass) with the same amount of oat milk. Drinking a glass of this combination before eating anything in the morning will help you get rid of constipation for good.
How Does This Work?
Prunes are good sources of potassium. Potassium is an electrolyte that assists in a variety of vital bodily functions. Apart from aiding bodily functions, potassium regulates digestion, heart rhythm, nerve impulses, blood pressure and muscle contractions. The body cannot produce potassium naturally, therefore consuming prunes or its juices helps you deal with deficiencies. Just be wary of getting too much of it into your system!
Dihydrophenylisatin is a laxative found in prune juice. It aids in muscle contractions and helps relieve constipation. The second advantage of having prune juice is because of fibers and sugars such as fructose, sucrose, and sorbitol that assist in drawing water to the intestines thus eliminating waste from the body.
The Remedy Is Not Good, If:
- You suffer from fructose intolerance.
- You can suffer from diarrhea or abdominal cramps.
2. Indian Gooseberry Leaves + Delonix Elata Leaves
It helps in purifying the blood, increasing metabolic activity, preventing jaundice, protecting the liver, and so on. This super fruit reduces the effect of free radicals (ones that are responsible for cell membrane, protein, and DNA damage). To try a remedy using these two ingredients, follow the steps given below:
- Step 1: Take some fresh Indian Gooseberry leaves and Delonix elata leaves.
- Step 2: Wash them thoroughly.
- Step 3: Boil them in two cups of water for 15 minutes (until it evaporates to 1 cup).
- Step 4: Strain the mixture.
- Step 5: Consume at night for a week or two to see best results.
How Does This Work?
According to this research paper, the leaves of Delonix elata plant help in flatulence (farting) and joint pains. It has anti-inflammatory properties and alcoholic extracts.
Indian Gooseberry is one of the admired plants in Ayurveda. Due to its antioxidant agents, it can cure many ailments, even including constipation. The reason is the presence of essential vitamins and minerals like carotene, phosphorus, iron, vitamin B, and calcium.
The Remedy Is Not Good, If:
- You are consuming Indian gooseberry in excess. It can backfire.
- You are suffering from hyperacidity.
- You are taking medicines for hypertension, diabetes, and heart-related problems. Interactions can happen.
- You are suffering from bleeding disorders.
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- You are allergic to them.
1. Centella Asiatica Powder + Liquorice Leaves Powder
- Step 1: Take one teaspoon of licorice leaves (powdered form) and one teaspoon of Centella Asiatica leaves (powdered form).
- Step 2: Mix them together.
- Step 3: Consume this powder and drink hot water after that.
- Step 4: Repeat on alternate days for 2 to 3 days (and not more) to see best results.
How Does This Work?
The phenolic compounds and antioxidant properties of Centella Asiatica makes it one of the bets home remedies for constipation. Apart from this, it purifies the blood, revitalizes the brain cells, and improves memory. According to this clinical study, the other vital constituents of this herb include tannins, amino acids, flavonoids, and alkaloids.
The leaves of licorice have natural laxative properties to help treat constipation. According to this research, licorice has a plenty of healing substances, even including plant estrogens (or phytoestrogens) and flavonoids. It has a therapeutic compound called glycyrrhizin (ten times much sweeter than usual sugar) exhibits multiple beneficial effects. Since it is mildly laxative, it can help in lowering the stomach’s acid levels, relieving indigestion, and heartburn.
The Remedy Is Not Good, If:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- You have low potassium levels.
- You are suffering from hypertension.
- You have cancer (any type).
- You are suffering from nerve problems (or hypertonia).
- You have undergone surgery or going to have one.
- You have kidney disorders.
- You are suffering from skin allergies.
- You are consuming the mixture in excess. It can backfire.
- You are suffering from hives.
How To Prevent Constipation?
Making changes in your lifestyle is the major step you have to make to prevent constipation. Throw away all those fatty food into the bin and choose healthier fruits and berries for snacks. Exercise is great for your heart, waistline and also your bowels. It is an important part of maintaining a healthy digestive system and warding off constipation. Here are some other lifestyle changes you can bring in to prevent constipation.
1. Stay Hydrated
Dehydration is a common cause of constipation. Therefore, it is vital to drink at least eight to ten glasses of water every day. This can include juices as well. Avoid alcohol and other caffeinated drinks as it causes dehydration.
2. When Nature Calls, Never Hesitate To Answer
When you get the urge to let it go, let it go! Even if the time and place are not convenient, it is important that you pay attention to your body needs. When you use the toilet, ensure to have sufficient time and privacy to do the ‘job’ comfortably.
3. Optimize Fiber Intake
You should aim at 30g of fiber every day. You can increase the fiber intake by incorporating foods like whole grain wheat, whole-wheat pasta, wholemeal bread, seeds, and oats. Foods high in fiber also keeps you feeling full for longer. A sudden increase in fiber can cause bloating. Therefore, it is necessary that you increase the fiber intake slowly.
4. Limit Use Of Laxatives
Even though the function of laxatives is to ease the bowel, overuse of it will have adverse effects on the digestive system. A laxative is not for long-term use. Ironically, overuse of laxatives can cause constipation.
Constipation During Pregnancy
Constipation is very common during pregnancy as the womb gets heavy in course of time placing stress over bowel-movements or can trigger a spasm reflex on the anal-sphincter muscle.
Drastic Hormonal changes during pregnancy triggers slow intestinal movements causing constipation in many cases. Consuming Iron/Folic Acid can also sometimes be the reason behind slower bowel-movements. Anal fissure (anus lining cracks), painful hemorrhoids, changes in food/fluid intake, reduced active-lifestyle can be behind constipation during pregnancy.
You don’t need any specific treatment for constipation during pregnancy, just eat healthy, drink plenty of water, have a high fiber-diet and do gentle exercises. Take a walk daily twice slowly. Keep yourself active as much as you can. Severe constipation should get doctor consultation.
When To See A Doctor?
You need to pay a visit to the doctor when:
- Changing your diet has not helped solve the issue.
- You get diarrhea as an alternative symptom.
- You experience bleeding from the anal area, get severe stomach pain, suffer from fatigue, loss of weight; and pain in the back when you try to pass stools.
- One of your family members has been affected by colon cancer at a young age (less than 50 years).
- You feel that the medication (for diseases) is contributing to constipation.
- You suffer from vomiting bile (the color – green or yellow).
You have to consult a doctor within 24 hours if:
- The abdomen is swollen, and you have fever
- Leaking stools
Natural Remedy vs. Pharmacy
There are many types of laxatives available to treat constipation. Some are known as fiber supplements or stool softeners. A few of the preferred ones are Metamucil, Fibercon, Citrucel. The best example of stool softener laxative is known as Colace. The other type is known as osmotic laxative – Miralax (component – polyethylene glycol) and magnesium hydroxide called as Milk of Magnesia.