In this article, you will go through some effective natural remedies for constipation. But first, let us understand the meaning of constipation. It is a common problem in which the person faces difficulty in passing stools. The stools are hard and the frequency is unsatisfactory. The feeling of incomplete defecation tortures you and because of that, you are not able to concentrate on your work.
Causes of Constipation:
- Poor toilet habits.
- Pregnancy
- Poor diet
- Unhealthy lifestyle.
- Lack of water.
- Medications
- Stress
- Lack of exercise.
Effective Natural Remedies for Constipation:
1. Lemon to Relieve Constipation:
Lemon along with water works as a powerful antidote for constipation. The high amounts of vitamin C in lemon stimulate the digestive system and helps in the smooth moving of stools. On the other hand, water is a natural lubricant that promotes easy evacuation by softening the stools. This is one of the best natural remedies for constipation.
How Can You Use Lemon:
- In a glass of warm water, squeeze a half lemon.
- Add a pinch of rock salt or table salt.
- Mix one teaspoon of money.
- Drink this daily in the morning on an empty stomach.
2. Honey for Constipation:
The moisturizing properties of honey make it a natural laxative. Honey is among the top natural remedies for constipation. This is an inexpensive remedy and is 100% safe.
How Can You Use Honey:
- Eat 2 to 3 tablespoons of honey per day.
- You can also mix one tablespoon of honey in a glass of lemon water.
3. Fennel Seeds to Treat Constipation:
Fennel seeds are among the top natural remedies for constipation. The laxative properties of fennel seed help to increase the bowel movement. It also contains oils that improve the digestion and prevents the digestive disorders. It is also useful in treating other health issues like indigestion, bloating and irritable bowel syndrome.
How Can You Use Fennel Seeds:
- Roast a cup of dry fennel seeds.
- Grind the mixture and store it in a jar.
- Consume half teaspoon of this powder daily with a cup of warm water.
4. Foods to Get Rid of Constipation:
- Prunes: This tasty food is famous for its fiber content. The fiber content in prunes helps to add bulk to your stool. It contains fructans and sorbitol that act as a natural laxative.
- Raisins: The tartaric acid in raisins has a laxative effect which helps kick your constipation. It is also an excellent source of fiber. Fiber relieves constipation by adding bulk to the stool.
- Coconut: It is considered as a great food when you are constipated. It helps to relieve constipation by softening stools. You should avoid too many fats and refined foods when constipated.
- Sesame Seeds: Constipation is a common problem in which the stools are hard and dry. Sesame seeds can help to get rid of constipation by softening stools. It will moisturize the intestines and allow the smooth passage of stools.
5. Flax Seeds for Constipation:
Along with the medicinal properties flax seeds also contain fiber and omega 3 fatty acids. It is a natural laxative that can also cure serious cases of constipation. It is also a good choice for treating other problems that are related to gastrointestinal health.
How Can You Use Flax Seeds:
- Take a glass of water and add one tablespoon of flax seeds.
- Leave the water for about 2 to 3 hours.
- Drink this water daily before going to bed.
- You can also eat 2 tablespoons of flax seeds with a glass of water.
6. Figs to Relieve Constipation:
These wrinkled looking fruits are a good source of fiber, which helps to relieve constipation by adding bulk to your stool. Figs are natural laxatives and help in the process of peristalsis. Don’t peel the skin of the figs as the skin contains a lot of fiber and calcium. Figs are among the top natural remedies for constipation.
How Can You Use Figs:
- Soak 3 to 4 almonds and dried figs in a bowl of water.
- Let them be soaked for a few hours.
- Peel the almonds.
- Grind the almonds and dried figs.
- Consume this paste every day with one tablespoon of honey.
- You can eat fresh or dried figs.
7. Herbs for Constipation:
This is one of the most natural remedies for constipation. Herbs are the natural laxatives that have a stimulant effect on the intestines. Laxatives help in the process of peristalsis. In this process, the material moves from the colon to the rectum by the contraction of intestines. Here is a list of herbs that will help you to relieve constipation.
- Rhubarb: You must have heard that rhubarb is one of the best ingredients of the pie, but it will surprise you that it is also a good choice for treating constipation. It is good for relieving constipation because of its laxative properties. But it is better to use this herb or short term only because it has antidiarrheal effects due to the presence of tannin content.
- Slippery Elm: This is among the most natural remedies for constipation as it stimulates the nerves in the GI tract. This stimulation leads to the production of mucous thus providing you relief from constipation. If you are also taking some medications at that time the slippery elm reduces its absorption by coating the gastrointestinal tract.
- Sea buckthorn: If the reason behind your constipation is the lack of water, then sea buckthorn is a good choice for you. It contains omega 7 and other important fatty acids that coat the GI tract and ensures healthy digestion by lubricating the mucous membrane.
- Senna: The laxative effects of senna help to get rid of constipation. It increases the movement of stools through the bowel. This herb is only good for short term as long term use can cause liver damage.
8. Yoga to Get Rid of Constipation:
Yoga is not only a science of well-being and youthfulness, but also a science of integrating body, mind, and soul. It helps you to get rid of constipation in two ways. Firstly, it improves the functioning of your digestive system by keeping you stress-free. Secondly, the twisting poses and forward folds increase the blood flow by massaging the digestive organs. It assists in the process of peristalsis which helps the stools to move out of the body. Here is a list of yoga poses that you can try for constipation.
Matsyasana Twist:
Follow the steps given below:
Steps to Follow:
- Sit down on a carpet. Keep your legs and back straight.
- Crouch the left leg and bring it over the right knee and place it on the ground.
- Crouch your right knee and stick it with your right foot near your butt.
- Look towards your left shoulder and place your right elbow near your left knee.
- Be in this position for a few seconds.
- Change the side and repeat the process.
Wind-Relieving Pose:
Follow the steps given below:
Steps to Follow:
- Lay down straight on your back.
- Fold your legs in such a way that the soles of your feet touch the ground.
- Now, hug your legs close to your chest.
- Stay in this position for about 2 minutes.
- Repeat this 4 to 5 times.
Supine Twisting:
Follow the steps given below:
Steps to Follow:
- Lie down straight on your back and hold your legs close to your chest.
- Trawl your bent right leg across the body.
- Meanwhile, keep your shoulders straight.
- Keep your face towards the right side.
- Hold this position for a few seconds.
- Repeat the yoga pose by changing the side.
Child’s Pose:
Follow the steps given below:
Steps to Follow:
- Sit on the carpet on your knees.
- Tuck down your feet under your hips.
- Bend forward and keep your hands in front of you.
- Do this until your forehead touches the carpet.
- Stay in this position and breathe deeply.
