Constipation has become more common among people nowadays. Blame it on the food they eat or the lifestyle they follow, this feeling of incomplete evacuation, accompanied by bloating, can be distressing. Once in a while, if you feel constipated, that is normal because your tummy can protest for what you have done to it, but chronic constipation can’t be taken lightly. To rescue you from this distressing stomach problem, Ayurveda offers its time-tested home remedies that are natural, safe, and effective, and that too without any side effects.
In this read, you will find natural Ayurvedic remedies that will help you regulate your bowel movements, improve digestion, and get long-term relief from constipation.
What is Constipation?
Constipation is a digestive issue characterized by fewer than three bowel movements per week. And if this persists for over three weeks, it becomes chronic constipation.
What Causes Constipation?
Before we learn the remedies, it’s essential to understand the general causes:
- Inadequate dietary fiber
- Less water intake
- Inactive lifestyle
- Irregular daily routine
- Stress
- Poor gut health
- Weak digestion
- Controlling natural urges
According to Ayurveda, constipation or malavashtamba is considered to be caused due to Vata dosha imbalance, which is responsible for bowel movement and waste removal from the body. Aggravated vata dosha dries up the colon and makes stool hard and difficult to pass. Additionally, digestive fire plays a pivotal role in digestion, absorption, and waste removal from the body. An imbalance in Agni or digestive fire may result in sluggish bowel movement, fatigue, lethargy, and loss of appetite.
Ayurvedic Home Remedies for Constipation
When the cause of constipation is identified as aggravated Vata dosha, the remedies should be vata-pacifying. So, here are some ayurvedic remedies for constipation:
Triphala
Ayurveda recommends a mix of Amla, Haritaki, and Bibhitaki for constipation. This mix has anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and helps in balancing digestion, strengthening the intestines, cleansing the colon, and softening stools naturally.
Triphala powder is generally taken with warm water before bedtime. It is also available in tablet form for ease of use.
Warm Milk and Ghee
This simple kitchen remedy has been used in Indian households for generations. Ghee lubricates the colon, softens the stool, and encourages smooth bowel movements.
Take warm milk and ghee at night before bed. It is most effective if taken 2 hours after dinner.
Psyllium Husk
Psyllium husk or Isabgol is a natural fiber supplement. This husk absorbs water and adds bulk to stool, helping ease bowel movements. It also soothes the intestinal lining.
Take Isabgol with warm water or milk before bedtime. It is recommended to take sufficient water with it to avoid blockage.
Figs or Raisins
Soaked figs or raisins are rich in fiber and are natural laxatives. They improve digestion, stimulate bowel movements, and are gentle and safe for daily use.
Keep 6 to 8 black raisins or figs soaked in water overnight and have them first thing in the morning.
Fennel Seeds
Roasted and powdered fennel seeds with a glass of lukewarm water is another natural laxative. The oil present in the fennel seeds has carminative properties. It reduces inflammation, indigestion and induces bowel movements.
Castor Bean Oil
Castor oil is considered the most effective and fastest way to get rid of constipation. It gives quick results after taking it. Castor oil is not recommended to be taken for a long period, as it can possibly reduce the muscle tone of the intestine, leading to chronic constipation.
Hydration
While searching for remedies, people often forget that water is an essential part of the digestive process and dehydration is the biggest trigger of constipation. Ayurveda recommends drinking warm water. Warm water activates the digestive tract and supports digestion and the movement of stool.
Ayurvedic Medicines for Constipation
Ayurvedic medicines for constipation have natural, herbal ingredients that are safe and effective. Supra Gut 70 is one such remedy for gut health. This natural remedy for constipation, gas, bloating, and indigestion is a balanced blend of more than 35 potent herbs. Supra Gut 70 comes in a combination of syrup and capsule forms to give quick and effective relief from all stomach problems.
Additional Prevention Tips
Your digestive health depends on various factors. It is always wiser to prevent stomach issues than seek a cure afterward.
- Irregular eating habits disturb digestion, so eat on time and avoid late-night dinners.
- Include high-fiber fruits like bananas, papaya, and pineapple. Vegetables like spinach, carrots, and sprouts are a good source of nutritional fiber.
- An inactive lifestyle induces several health issues, including constipation, so stay active.
- Avoid suppressing natural urges.
- Try ayurvedic remedies for gut health, such as Supra Gut 70, to treat stomach problems at the initial phase and avoid them from becoming a chronic issue.
If constipation lasts for more than 2 weeks, you spot blood in stool, have severe pain, or experience sudden weight loss, consult with a registered practitioner without delay.