Constipation is a condition wherein the bowel movements become less frequent. They are difficult to pass and. Constipation is typically defined as having fewer than three bowel movements per week. It can also involve hard, dry or lumpy stools that are difficult to pass. It is a common problem and it is usually not very serious! However, it can be relieved with lifestyle changes such as increasing the fiber and the fluid intake and getting regular exercise. It generally means passing fewer than three stools a week. The ailment is fairly common. However, a lack of fiber and fluids can cause constipation. It is treated with changes in diet and exercise. It can also be treated with nonprescription medicines. It may require medicines. Chronic constipation or long term constipation requires treating other diseases that can cause or worsen constipation.
Following are the symptoms of constipation-
· Hard, dry or lumpy stools.
· Fewer than three stools a week.
· A feeling that not all stool has passed.
· Straining or paining when passing stools.
When should you see a doctor?
One can feel an urge to make an appointment when any of the following conditions occur-
1. Symptoms that last longer than three weeks.
2. Symptoms that make it difficult to do everyday activities.
3. Bleeding from your rectum.
4. Blood on your toilet tissue.
5. Unusual changes in the colour of stools.
6. Stomach pain that doesn’t stop.
What all questions does a medical practitioner ask?
1. Ask about your past health.
The medical practitioner is likely to ask you about your past health and your constipation. He will ask as to how long you have had the symptoms. He will also ask you about bowel movements.
2. Give you a physical exam.
The provider will do a full physical exam.
3. Give you a digital rectal exam.
It is the exam that tells if the area is soft, blocked or bloody. It can also check how much and what kind of stool you have. The medical practitioner will see if the rectum is bigger than normal.
What are the ayurvedic medicines for constipation?
Ayurveda offers a holistic and a long-term approach to managing constipation by not just relieving the symptoms but by correcting the root causes of the same such as dosha imbalance, poor digestion etc. Constipation is the result of stress, dry or cold food or irregular eating habits. Following are the ayurvedic medicines for constipation-
1.Isabgol.
The drug helps manage constipation. It is rich in fiber content and has the ability to absorb and retain water. This automatically adds bulk to the stool and makes it easy to pass. It also helps manage constipation as it is rich in fiber content. The drug also plays a key role in stimulating the intestinal contractions and peristaltic movements owing to its mild Rechana nature. It also helps in easy expulsion of stools. It is also beneficial in lowering cholesterol. It also removes toxins from the body and manages high cholesterol levels. The drug also contains mucilage, a drug that forms gel-like consistency when mixed with water. It is soft and bulky. Powdered husk, Whole husk are the two forms of Isabgol.
2.Fresh prune.
Fresh prunes, also known as dried plums, are an effective and time-tested natural laxative. They are rich in fiber and sorbitol. They also help relieve constipation naturally. They have a dietary fiber component that adds bulk and softens stools. They also have a component called sorbitol that acts as a natural sugar that draws water into the colon. Prunes contain sorbitol, which is a natural sugar alcohol. Sorbitol draws water into the colon and softens stools and promotes bowel movements. The insoluble fiber adds bulk to the stool and speeds up the transit through the intestines. The soluble fiber also helps soften stools. Prunes are the fruits that contain chlorogenic acid and other polyphenols. They may stimulate muscle contradictions in the intestines. Natural sugars and fiber in prunes feed beneficial gut bacteria and improve overall digestive balance over time.
3.Himalaya Herbolax.
The drug is an Ayurvedic proprietary medicine formulation designed to relieve constipation naturally without causing any side effects. It makes the elimination of stools easier and painless. The drug reduces discomfort and relieves bloating and abdominal distension. Following are the ingredients present in the drug-
· Trivrit- It is a stronger purgative and it clears intestines.
· Kasani- It provides digestive aid and acts as a mild diuretic.
· Ela- It reduces gas and discomfort.
· Saunf- It is soothing to the gut and relieves bloating.
The drug is not recommended to pregnant women unless prescribed. It should be used with caution in IBS disorders. The drug can cause loose motions if overdosed. The best time to take the drug is at bedtime with warm water. The drug is safe and gentle and is the best effective herbal option for managing constipation.
4.Ginger
It is a powerful Ayurvedic and culinary herb known for its digestive and warming properties. It is not a direct laxative and ginger helps relieve constipation by stimulating digestion and reducing bloating and improving gut mobility. It increases digestive fire and enzyme secretion. It also relieves intestinal discomfort that accompanies constipation. The herb encourages the movement of stool through intestines.
Ginger should be used with great care as it may aggravate. It can also increase Pitta if overused. It is ideal for Vata-type constipation and sluggish bowels. The drug is best for Vata and Kapha balancing. It acts as an excellent natural aid for constipation. Owing to its ability to stimulate digestion, it reduces pressure on the lower intestines. The drug can also help with other symptoms that are associated with constipation such as cramping, nausea or bloating. Ginger contains the compounds that encourage the digestive system to work more efficiently.
5.Fennel
Fennel seeds are used in Ayurveda and traditional medicine for different kinds of digestive disorders. It is not a direct laxative. However, it helps relieve constipation by stimulating digestion. It also reduces bloating and relaxes intestinal muscles.
FAQs: Ayurvedic Solutions for Constipation
Q1. Can Ayurveda cure chronic constipation?
Yes. Ayurveda treats the root cause—dosha imbalance and poor digestion—thus helping manage chronic constipation naturally.
Q2. Is Isabgol safe for daily use?
Yes, it’s safe if taken with adequate water. Long-term use should be monitored to avoid dependency.
Q3. Which is better: Herbolax or Isabgol?
Isabgol is better for daily mild constipation. Herbolax is ideal for occasional hard stools or bloating.
Q4. What is the best time to take Ayurvedic remedies?
Most remedies (Isabgol, Herbolax) are best taken at bedtime with warm water.
Q5. What foods should I eat to prevent constipation?
Include ghee, oats, bananas, papaya, fenugreek, and soaked raisins in your daily diet.