At a glance: The article explores seven constipation home remedies you can try at home using easily available ingredients such as raisins, figs, fennel seeds, milk, ghee, etc.
Constipation is one of the most common problems in both adults and children. It is not a disease but a symptom of an underlying cause. Most often, poor diet and lack of exercise are the causes. The other conditions that cause constipation include pregnancy, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), laxative abuse, hormonal imbalances, nerve damage, loss of body salts, and travel.
If you are suffering from constipation, first off, take a breath; you are not alone!! And, there are a handful of natural remedies that often give relief from constipation.
Seven Effective Constipation Home Remedies
1. Triphala
Triphala is one of the most trusted constipation home remedies for constipation relief. It is readily available in the form of powder and tablets. When using the Ayurvedic formulation, it is important to buy from a trusted brand or get it from a registered Ayurveda practitioner.
Typically, 1/2 to 1 tsp of Triphala powder is taken with lukewarm water before bedtime. However, since Triphala is a diuretic, you may need to pee several times at night. To avoid this, alternatively, you can steep 1-2 tsp of Triphala powder in a glass of lukewarm water and drink it first thing in the morning. The best time to do so is 4 am to 5 am to trigger bowel movements.
If you are unsure how to use the remedy, please read the instructions in the package.
2. Castor oil
Castor oil is an excellent natural laxative. Drinking a cup of warm milk mixed with a tablespoon of castor oil can effectively cure constipation symptoms. Since this is a fast-acting remedy, you will most likely get the urge for a bowel movement within a couple of hours!
Castor oil is extremely powerful, and for this reason, it should not be used often. However, you can opt for this remedy if your constipation is a one-off issue and not a recurring problem.
3. Raisins and Figs
Raisins possess natural laxative properties, especially if soaked in water. Just eat a spoonful of dry raisins or raisins soaked in water overnight to help your bowel movement.
You can also try figs. It works similarly to raisins in helping with constipation.
4. Prune juice
Prune juice is one of the most popular and effective constipation home remedies. It is readily available in stores nowadays. You can either purchase one or prepare it at home by boiling the prunes in water and blending it to make the juice and drink.
Drinking apple juice or lemon juice is also known to have similar effects.
5. Fennel
Fennel seeds have a special place in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda and TCM. Add a spoonful of roasted fennel seeds to warm water and drink it during bedtime. It acts as a mild laxative and helps you pass stools in the morning.
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6. Milk and ghee combo
Another effective home remedy for constipation is the Milk and ghee mixture. Mix a teaspoon of ghee in warm milk and drink it before bedtime. The combination is effective in relieving constipation, as per Ayurveda.
7. Yoga
Twisting yoga poses work your abdominal muscles and hence are great for relieving constipation. You can try the following poses, suitable for beginners.
- Seated twist
- Supine twist
- Crescent twist
For a detailed explanation, refer to Yoga Poses for Constipation Relief
Few more tips
Apart from trying any of the constipation home remedies mentioned, drinking plenty of water, eating fibre-rich foods, and exercising regularly can help you prevent the constipation problem from occurring.
Also, establishing a healthy routine wherein you are able to ease into sleep naturally, wake up refreshed in the morning, and use the toilet first thing in the morning would help avoid constipation in the long run. Technically, you are constipated only when your bowel movements are less than three times a week. However, traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda never approve of it. So, if you can develop a habit of passing stools every day, several problems, including constipation, will be at bay!
Note: Chronic constipation is a cause for concern and needs medical attention.
What is your go-to remedy for constipation? If you have any, please share them with us.
Images: canva.com
