Constipation - Herbal Remedies

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Constipation is decrease in the frequency of stools passed. It is characterised

by irregular stools, dryness and hardness of stool.

Some of the main causes of constipation are insufficient water intake,

insufficient fiber in the diet, lack of exercise, heavy meat eating.

Constipation may create distention and discomfort, flatulence, headache and bad breath.

The following remedies are suggested for constipation

Water

Ensure that there is sufficient water intake during the day. Drink a minimum of

6-8 glasses of water (dependent on the weather and type of work) in addition to

whatever juices and teas.

To regularise bowel movement drink 2-3 glasses of warm water the first thing in

the morning. Initially start with 2 glasses of water and then increase to 3

glasses.

Diet

The best way to tackle constipation is through the right diet. Avoid cold foods and drin

Fruits

Bananas help remedy constipation as it is a mild laxative. Eat a ripe banana or

two (skin must be yellow) in between meals. Green bananas are constipating and

should be avoided. Generally, bananas should not be eaten in combination with

milk or other foods.

Papaya is also good remedy for constipation.

Black Raisins : Soak 5-10 (depending on your constitution) black raisins

overnight and eat them in the morning. This regularises bowel movement.

Raisins (a handful everyday an hour after meal) and prunes are also effective.

For constipation in children give figs (around 3) soaked in warm water.

Milk and Ghee

Having 1 – 2 tsp of ghee in hot milk at bedtime is a gentle but effective remedy

for constipation. However, if you are prone to cold, this remedy should not be

used regularly. This remedy is also recommended for children who suffer from

constipation or hard stools.

Laxatives / Purgatives

a. Triphala Powder

Most problems with constipation can be corrected with triphala powder. Have

about ½-1 tsp of this powder with warm water at bedtime. Triphala is readily

available with most chemists in India.

About Triphala : It is an ayurvedic preparation consisting of three herbs -

amalki, bihhitaki and haritaki. It an excellent mild laxative. Also it is

strengthening and rejuvenating.

b. Castor Oil

Castor oil should be used when constipation is obstinate. At bedtime have 2 tsps

of castor oil with honey. If the desired result is not achieved increase the

dosage to 3 tsps and then 4 if necessary. Adjust the dose to your needs.

However, it is advisable to use this treatment when you can stay at home the

next morning.

Please note that castor oil can create dependency. To avoid this, take 2 tsps of

castor oil with 1 cup warm milk at night.

Prevention

The best way to prevent constipation is to drink enough water, ensure a high

fiber diet and enough exercise.

Constipation During Pregnancy

Take 1 tsp of herb isabgol (psyllium husks) with a glass of warm milk.

Also a cup of hot milk with 1 tsp ghee is effective.

Both the above remedies are gentle and can be used during pregnancy

Note : Avoid castor oil or any other purgative during pregnancy.

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