Chronic constipation (irregularity of bowel movement) tends to be a subject of worry for most people and interrupts in day-to-day activities. The conventional drugs and treatment methods for chronic constipation grant only short-term relief from the disorder.
However, chronic constipation can be effectively treated with herbs that have no side effects and root out the disease completely though gradually. Here are some of the best herbs for chronic constipation.
6 Best Herbal Remedies For Chronic Constipation
Cascara Sagrada
Quite popular among native Americans, this particular herb too is a very effective natural laxative. Its active compounds called anthraquinones are responsible for its laxative character. These anthraquinones account for colon contractions (peristalsis) and initiate bowel movement. In addition, it tones the colon wall muscles.
It does not induce bloating, cramping or gas that other laxatives do.Besides, it is very simple to use this herbal supplement. You can start with one capsule a day and increase the dose each day by one capsule. It is also easily available as dried bark and liquid form. Recommended daily dosage of cascara is 300mg that should be taken in the evening for smooth bowel movement in the morning.
Aloe Vera
The multifarious benefits of aloe vera is known to all. It is also an effective natural laxative and benefits the liver when used for long term. The aloe latex (the sticky yellow part besides the aloe gel that is found in the plant) comprises of anthraquinone glycosides. These compounds have strong laxative properties. Aloe vera is easily available in juice and capsule form across all health food stores.
Psyllium Seed
Originating from plantain plant, these psyllium seeds comprise of soluble fiber as well as insoluble fiber. The fiber content in these seeds offer the much-needed bulk for the intestines. It also stimulates colon movement.In fact, Psyllium is an integral ingredient in most over-the-counter laxatives and fiber supplements. Since psyllium creates bulk in the intestine, it should be supplemented with adequate water to avoid blockage in intestinal tract. One can see visible results within a week of using psyllium seeds.
Slippery Elm
This particular herb acts as a natural emollient and so it soothes the mucous membrane and lubricates intestinal tract. It has a nourishing as well as healing touch to it like aloe vera. Besides, it relieves cramping, bloating and gas and helps in overall digestion process. It soothes irritated stomach and hence is useful against constipation and many other symptoms of IBS. It is also a good herbal remedy for diarrhea.
Buckthorn
This particular herb calms the intestinal tract. It contains various anthraquinone derivatives such as anthranoids. Since it is a gentle and mild laxative, it is perfect for curing chronic constipation in children. Its effectiveness is increased when used along with slippery elm and cascara sargada.Besides, it treats ulcerative colitis, liver congestion and gall stones. However, people suffering from colitis, ulcers and other such chronic gastrointestinal problems should not use buckthorn for long term.
Rhubarb
Native to China, this herb is a well known herbal laxative. The laxative character of the herb is owing to the presence of anthraquinones that are powerful laxatives. These anthraquinones stimulate bowel movement by irritating colon. Besides anthraquinones, rhubarb contains tannins that reduce colon inflammation. That is why it is also effective against diarrhea.
It is also popular as a stool softener. It is easily available in capsule form and as dried herb and liquid extract. It induces bowel movements generally after 6 to 12 hours of using it. However, pregnant women, lactating mothers and children should not use rhubarb at all.
