Home Remedies For Constipation Relief And Prevention

Use over the counter laxatives occasionally. Do not use them on a regular basis as you may become dependent on them. Ex-lax is a common brand. Citrate or milk of magnesia are examples of over the counter remedies too. These products work by a variety of means. They may result in cramping. Overuse can precipitate loose stools. Do not use mineral or cod liver oil as a laxative. They interfere with the absorption of nutrients and are harsh.

If all else fails, you may need a suppository or an enema. Glycerin suppositories are available at drugstores. They do not contain medicine; however, they can be quite effective. Glycerin draws moisture into the stool. The insertion of the suppository stimulates the anus and bowel to defecate. Follow label directions. Glycerin suppositories are safe for all ages; however, check with a health care provider before using a suppository for a child.

A variety of enemas are on the market. The Fleet enema is a common brand. Oil based and “regular” ones are available. The “regular” one brings water into the stool and has a laxative effect, while the oil based one softens hard, dry stools to facilitate evacuation. You may make a soap suds enema by mixing a teaspoon of castile soap with a liter of warm water. Do not use enemas if abdominal pain or fever is present. Instead, consult with your health care provider. Only use enemas rarely.

Most cases of constipation respond very well to home remedies. By eating well, obtaining proper exercise and drinking plenty of fluids, you are likely to discover that you do not require medications, suppositories, or enemas. If constipation persists, speak with your health care provider.

Webmaster note: One simple and very effective home remedy for constipation to try is prune juice. It works very well. Make sure to use organic and unsweetened prune juice.

Author

This article was written for Insights-on-Health.com in Oct 2013 by Patricia Bratianu RN PhD RH-AHG. Patricia has been a Registered Nurse for almost forty years in a wide variety of settings. As a Registered Nurse, she realized that conventional healthcare was not meeting the needs of all patients. She became an herbalist and obtained a PhD in Natural Health. Patricia is a professional member of the American Herbalist’s Guild, passing the stringent peer reviewed process to become a Registered Herbalist.

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