Constipation is usually a result of an unhealthy lifestyle like consuming over-processed foods, having a low fiber diet, lack of physical activity and inadequate water intake. There are also certain medications or conditions like IBS, hypothyroidism and pregnancy that can trigger constipation. Even then, there is a percentage of people who have the right diet and none of the listed conditions and still suffer from constipation or irregular bowel habits.
Here are some natural remedies that help to regulate bowel movement and relieve constipation:
1 . Olive Oil And Lemon Juice
-Olive oil is a mild laxative, which helps increase the water content in stool and lubricates bowel movements.
-The citric acid in lemons stimulates the digestive system; it helps eliminate constipation by flushing out toxins from the digestive tract and the intestines.
-A quick remedy for constipation is a mix of 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the juice of half a lemon for relief from constipation.
2 . Epsom Salt
–Epsom salt helps reduce constipation by softening the stool, making it easier to pass out of the body, and the magnesium in Epsom, helps contract bowel muscles, enabling the body to excrete comfortably.
-Add 2 teaspoons of Epsom (for an adult, ½ teaspoon for children) to 250ml of water or juice for instant relief.
-If there is no bowel movement in 4 hours, have a second dose of Epsom salt. Restrict use to no more than 3 doses in 24 hours.
3 . Castor Oil
-Using castor oil to relieve constipation is an age old remedy, used and passed on for thousands of years.
-Castor oil contains ricinoleic acid which is a stimulant laxative that causes intestinal muscles to contract and eliminate stools from the body.
-15ml of castor oil cooled in the fridge or mixed with a glass of juice, first thing in the morning is the best way to combat constipation.
-Pregnant women, children under 12, and those on heart, kidney, bone and blood thinning medication must refrain from using castor oil.
-Also since castor oil works almost instantly it is recommended that we do not use it just before sleeping.
4 . Ginger Mint Tea
-Try your daily beverage without milk for a week to find out if you are Lactose intolerant (more than 50% adults are actually lactose intolerant without knowing it), this could also be a cause for constipation.
-Add mint and ginger to tea when brewing it. Mint helps relax the digestive muscles due to its anti-spasmodic properties and ginger boosts a sluggish digestive system.
-Ensure that the tea leaves aren’t over boiled as this could lead to acidity.
5 . Figs And Honey
-Figs are rich in dietary fiber, which helps cleanse the inside of the intestines and help improve bowel movement.
-Figs also act as a natural laxative that helps those suffering from chronic constipation.
-For relief from constipation soak 3 dried figs and 3 almonds in water for 3-4 hours, peel the almonds and grind the figs and almonds to make a paste, and consume this with a spoon of honey at night.
-This remedy will ensure relief from constipation by morning.
So, whether you have chronic constipation or you get it every now and then,try these remedies in addition to adopting a healthy and active lifestyle to get rid of constipation. Stay Healthy, Stay Happy!