Constipation is a common digestive health issue that can be caused by various factors, including dehydration, stress, an inadequate fiber intake and irregular bowel movements.
Constipation can usually be relieved with simple changes to your diet and lifestyle, but if those don’t work, you may need to consider taking a laxative for additional relief.
1. Lemon Water
One of the most widely prescribed natural treatments for constipation is lemon water. This detoxification aid helps cleanse and flush out toxins from your system.
Additionally, water helps hydrate the system and enhance digestion.
Lemon water contains citric acid that stimulates digestion and has an alkalizing effect that helps maintain pH levels in the body while relieving inflammation from certain conditions.
However, there are a few cautions to be aware of when adding lemon water into your daily regimen. For instance, it has the potential to erode tooth enamel and cause heartburn for some individuals.
2. Olive Oil
Olive oil is an effective natural cure for constipation. It works by stimulating bile release, lubricating the colon, and softening stool.
It is also an excellent source of vitamin E and K, iron, omega 3s and 6s, as well as antioxidants. These essential nutrients promote good health by decreasing the risk of diseases like heart disease, diabetes and arthritis.
Olive oil for constipation is generally safe and can be used by most people. Take 1-2 tablespoons each day (taken away from food) until your symptoms subside.
3. Ginger
Ginger, considered one of the healthiest spices on earth, can be an effective natural remedy for constipation. Not only is it a powerful laxative, but also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties which fight free radicals and protect the body from various chronic illnesses.
Pregnant women will also find benefit from taking this supplement, as it helps alleviate nausea and queasy feelings that are common during this time.
Ginger contains bioactive compounds like gingerol and shogaol that have powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, helping to control inflammation while fighting free radicals in the body – thus helping prevent diseases and premature aging.
4. Peppermint
Peppermint oil is often used to soothe digestive ailments such as constipation. Its antispasmodic and sedative properties help relax muscle tension in the bowels, aiding with regular bowel movements.
Menthol is the primary active ingredient in peppermint, lending it its cooling sensation. Furthermore, this plant has antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties as well.
Recent research has demonstrated the beneficial effects of peppermint oil in relieving abdominal pain associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It does this by activating an anti-pain channel in the colon that temporarily makes nerve fibres less sensitive to sensations of discomfort.
Peppermint oil in capsule form may be beneficial in treating IBS. It’s safe to take small amounts and can be taken at regular intervals.
5. Dandelion Tea
Dandelion tea is an effective natural remedy for constipation, acting as both a diuretic and laxative in the body. This helps relieve mild cases of constipation by providing extra water to the digestive system and increasing stool volume.
This natural diuretic can be especially beneficial for individuals with high fluid retention or edema, which often stems from heart disease or kidney issues.
Furthermore, it may help reduce hyperlipidemia – when the level of lipids in your blood drops too high – which occurs when there are too many fats present.
It can also stimulate bile production in the liver, aiding in breaking down fats. Furthermore, it contains inulin, a non-digestible dietary fibre which encourages good gut bacteria growth.