Stool Softener Home Remedy

Constipation, though not an interesting topic to discuss about, is a common health problem, that many of us experience frequently. It is a condition, in which the stools turn to hard to pass out easily. Symptoms that are associated with constipation include sharp abdominal cramp, especially before and after bowel movement, and passing out very dry and hard stools. Since the stool is very hard, it may injure the lining of the rectum and anus, resulting in pain, bleeding and at times, hemorrhoids. Read more on digestive health.

The underlying cause for hard stools is extraction of too much water by the colon. A stool softener is a water retaining agent that adds water to the stool before it passes out, making it soft. Thus, stool softeners help in easy bowel movements. There are several pharmaceutical companies that formulate and sell stool softeners for constipation. As with other chemical medicines, these products may cause certain side effects like nausea, stomach cramps, diarrhea and throat inflammation (in case of oral liquid). This is how, a stool softener home remedy turns out to be a popularly discussed subject. Read more on stool softener side effects.

Stool Softener: Home Remedies

As mentioned earlier, the discomfort symptoms of hard stools can be overcome with certain effective home remedies for constipation and self care tips. These natural remedies are safe and pose no symptomatic, long-term side effects, which is so in case of chemically formulated stool softeners. The following is a list of effective home remedies for softening stools:

Healthy Foods
Consume lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, which are a rich source of dietary fibers. Avoid refined food products, rather you can rely on whole-grains, cereals, brown bread and rice. These foods make stool passing easy without straining. For many people, drinking hot beverages works for combating constipation. Read more on foods that relieve constipation and diet for constipation.

Mineral Oils
Mineral oils are often considered as one of the most effective remedies for temporary treatment of constipation. After ingesting mineral oil in the body, it lubricates the stool and helps in its smooth passing without inflaming the rectum and anus. You can take mineral oil during bedtime. Bowel movements are expected within 6-8 hours after taking this natural laxative. Read more on mineral oil for constipation.

Barley
Barley is also a natural laxative for getting rid of constipation. First, boil clean barley seeds in water for some time and drain the cooking water by using a muslin cloth. Drink this barley water for stimulating bowel movements. If you are not experiencing bowel movement even after 3 hours, consume another glass of barley water.

Aloe Vera Juice
The most effectual home remedy for a stool softener is consuming aloe vera juice. As per medical researche, aloe vera juice contains anthroquinone and other glycosides, which are active components of most laxatives. For treating hard stools and constipation, you can drink ½ cup of aloe juice twice daily, one early in the morning and another before going to bed. Make sure you drink adequate amounts of water after consuming the aloe vera juice.

Psyllium Husk
Psyllium husk, a medicinal herb, contains high amounts of fiber than other food sources. It absorbs water and ensures passing of soft stools. You can also opt for fresh psyllium husk or the powdered form as a stool softener home remedy. As with other fiber containing foods, drink ample amounts of water while taking psylium husk. For hypersensitive people, consult with the physician prior to taking psyllium husk for constipation. Read more on:

• Natural Remedies for Constipation
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In addition to this, you are expected to follow self care tips and keep yourself informed in the activities that and information that will teach you how to relieve constipation. Considering the cause for hard stools, it is quite obvious to drink an ample amount of water to overcome the symptoms of constipation. Fix time for bowel movement every day to minimize the risk for constipation. Healthy habits include regular exercise, proper stress management and refraining from fast foods.