Constipation can stem from a temporary change of diet to a more serious condition caused by a spastic colon. With the help of natural remedies, could constipation problems be eliminated completely?
Constipation
Constipation is a problem with digestion causing dry stools or little to no bowel movements for days at a time. Some people have been known to go a week or longer without a bowel movement. Getting rid of constipation is very serious as bowel movements are the body's way of removing what it doesn't need. Stool often contains toxins that comes from foods that have been eaten.
Without proper bowel movements, these toxins can stay inside the body which can cause other health problems including cancer. Many people turn to laxatives to ease constipation, but according to 'The American Gastroenterological Association', laxative pills are not advised for regular use. Taking laxative pills can cause a syndrome known as 'lazy bowel syndrome'.
Causes of Constipation
Constipation can be caused from a number of things: nervousness, poor diet, lack of exercise, medications, hormonal imbalances, overuse of laxatives, diets high in cheese and meats, depression, diabetes, iron supplements, dehydration, hypothyroidism, irritable bowel syndrome, pregnancy, and being out of routine.
Natural Remedies for Constipation
There are many obvious natural remedies to get rid of constipation:
- fiber - eating more foods that are rich in fiber can help. Some of these fiber rich foods include: fruits, vegetables, whole-grains, and legumes.
- water - drink plenty of water and avoid milk and milk products until you have the constipation under control.
- exercise - get moving.
- prunes - prunes and prune juice are excellent to help alleviate constipation.
More uncommon ways:
- juice therapy - a diet of juice made to soften the stool and help remove it from the body. Many juice therapy recipes can be found including one made of spinach, beetroot tops, and garlic.
- colon cleanse - a program or supplement made to help get rid of build up and toxins in the colon. Cleanses come in many forms: herbal teas, powders, laxatives, enemas, and supplements that can be taken by mouth. This not only helps with constipation, but cleanses out the colon to allow it to function properly.
Herbal Medicines for Constipation
Constipation remedies for children need to be milder than adult remedies. Here are a few to consider:
- flax seed oil - a nutrient known to help lower cholesterol, lower chances of breast and colon cancers, eczema, lupus, psoriasis, dry or flaky skin, autism, poor circulation, dry cough, dermatitis, constipation, and the large intestines. Flax seed oil has no known warnings.
- slippery elm - a single herb used for many ailments and conditions: digestive system, intestinal system, laxative, vulneraries for intestines, colitis, indigestion, inflammatory bowel disorders, ulcers, and constipation. Slippery elm tea can be used as an enema.
Some herbal medicines could be too strong for children with constipation. The following list should be used for adults unless otherwise prescribed by a Doctor of Natural Medicine.
- peppermint - an essential oil used for the colon, concentration, yeast infections, indigestion, motion sickness, nausea, vomiting, and constipation in adults. Some herbalist suggest making peppermint tea for children.
- milk thistle - a single herb known for increasing breast milk, cancer prevention, and high cholesterol. It is also used as a mild laxative.
- mandarin (red) - an essential oil that helps the digestive and intestinal systems. It is also known to help acne, colic, menstrual cramps, and insomnia along with poor digestion, gas, bloating, and constipation. This essential oil is for external use only. Avoid sun exposure immediately after use. A skin test is advise to check for allergic reactions. Always mix mandarin (red) with a carrier. Do not apply directly to skin.
Always seek advice from a Doctor of Natural Medicine before beginning any herbal treatments. Some herbs come in blended forms for stronger usages.
Sources:
"Dangers of Constipation", Constipation Relief: The Natural Way, The American Gastroenterological Association, Constipation Relief Report.com. Accessed January 2012.
Garner, Amanda. "13 Surprising Causes of Constipation", The Huffington Post. Accessed January 2012.
"The Basics of Constipation", Web MD.com. Accessed January 2012.
Annette Phillips - Annette Phillips is the Topic Editor for Natural Disasters. Phillips is also the author of Willow's Ride and a licensed Cosmetologist.
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