Herbal Remedies for Constipation - Constipation

Not all natural laxatives are harsh. Following are gentle herbal remedies for constipation.

Dandelion root is perhaps the mildest laxative in this category. Burdock, eaten as a vegetable, tea, or tincture, is also a gentle laxative. The Chinese have long prescribed it for constipation. Marshmallow has been used for centuries to treat constipation. Its soothing demulcent quality provides lubrication in the colon and calms inflammation.

Dandelion is the mildest herbal remedy
for constipation.

Dried plums, or prunes, are well-known for their ability to combat constipation. Plant an Italian prune plum tree, pick the ripe fruit, and dry them or eat them fresh. Rich in fiber and a natural sugar called sorbitol, prunes have the ability to promote bowel movements virtually every time. Researchers developed a jam using prunes and dates for hospitalized patients. It was so successful that many other institutions have adopted the recipe, which is shown above. Black cherry juice is also helpful in the same way.

Which type of laxative should you use? Generally there are two types of constipation. Flaccid constipation is characterized by weak muscular activity in the colon. This condition is the one that usually responds to bulking agents and increased physical activity. Abdominal massage, a high fiber diet, and certain herbs can help this type of constipation. Make an infusion or decoction (remember, an infusion is used for upper parts of a plant, whereas a decoction is used for the root) of one part each of licorice root, raspberry leaves, and Oregon grape root. Add two parts dandelion root.

Tense, over-contracted muscles in the colon characterize the second type of constipation. This type responds to herbs that help relax the muscles of the bowel so that residue can be pushed on through. Again, make an infusion or decoction of the following herbs: one part each of chamomile, valerian, and peppermint mixed with two parts each of licorice, wild yam, and dandelion root.

For all types of constipation, psyllium seeds are recommended. They are a gentle yet effective bulk laxative.

Some people experience allergic reactions (skin and respiratory) when exposed to psyllium seed. Do not use dandelion root if you have large gallstones. Avoid using senna or any of the other stimulating laxatives for more than ten consecutive days or they may cause dependency. Chronic use of these herbs can also result in diarrhea, dehydration, depressed potassium levels, and irregular heartbeat. Do not use stimulating laxatives if you are pregnant or have Crohn disease, ulcerative colitis, or inflammatory bowel disease.

Laxative Jam Recipe

1 cup pitted prunes
1 cup pitted dates
1 cup boiling water
Bring water to a boil in a medium-sized saucepan. Cut or chop dates and prunes into small pieces. Add to boiling water, and cook until mixture is thick. Use 1 tablespoon per day. Yield: Approximately 20 tablespoons.