Natural Remedies for Constipation

The occasional lack of a bowel movement should not be misconstrued as constipation as medical professionals seem to agree that only someone that is not having a bowel movement at least three times a week, should be considered as constipated. Before rushing to buy harsh laxatives, you may want to consider a natural remedy for constipation.

The usual causes include lack of fiber and liquids in the diet however other things like diabetes, colon cancer and hypothyroidism have also been linked. Occasional constipation results from a lack of diet and exercise and can usually be corrected by adjusting the intake of fiber and liquids, creating a natural remedy for constipation. The malady may also be caused by medications being taken for depression or high blood pressure or the overuse of laxatives, prescription or over the counter, as many claim to be a natural remedy for constipation.

For centuries, some cultures have used herbs as a natural laxative, regulating bowel movements and purifying the system. Some herbs however should not be used regularly due to their strong purging effects. Aloe Vera and Taraxacum officinale are two of the most widely used natural remedies for constipation. The Aloe Vera plant usually has about 25 branches and is native to Africa and its gel is used in treating a variety of problems from burns to hair treatment, contains oil that works as a natural remedy for constipation. It’s sold as a juice in many pharmacies as a laxative. Due to its diuretic properties it is widely recommended to treat digestive problems.

Taraxacum officinale, dandelion, works as a natural remedy for constipation as it stimulates the release of bile from the liver and aids in digestion and its diuretic properties has been known to reduce high blood pressure. High levels of stress have also been connected to chronic constipation and passiflora has been used to treat the anxiety and is often used as part of the natural remedy for constipation in some natural laxatives.

While most herbs are generally considered safe, with no or limited side affects, it is important to remember they may cause interactions with certain prescription drugs or inhibit them from functioning as prescribed. Before starting any herbal treatment your physician should be consulted as to their safe interaction with current medications. If you experience any sudden changes in bowel movements, or pain or blood in the stool, you should always contact your physician immediately.