Best Home Remedies for Constipation
Constipation is
the irregular movement of bowels, which becomes of chronic nature when it
continues from day to day. The condition can be very troublesome and sometimes,
painful, particularly when it occurs in young children, pregnant women and the
elderly. The causes to which this condition can be attributed include unhealthy
diet, poor lifestyle, lack of exercise, stress and poor toilet habits.
Though this
problem can be tackled by resorting to the use of over-the counter laxatives,
but these can have side effects and be habit forming. Therefore, one needs to
look for some natural remedies to counter this problem, so that you can get
long term relief, without damaging your digestive system, which can be an
adverse side effect of medicines and laxatives.
Listed below are some safe and natural home remedies to alleviate the problem of constipation:
1. Water
The best home
remedy for constipation is water. One should make it a habit to drink at least
8-10 glasses of water daily to make sure that your bowels get cleared. Warm
water is more beneficial in this regard. You should have it after meals, at
bedtime and also the first thing you get up in the morning. Adding juice ofhalf a lemon and a teaspoon of honey can be even more helpful.
2. Figs
These delicious
fruits can be used to combat constipation in an effective manner, as they are
loaded with dietary fiber, which is really helpful for regulating bowel
movement. A few figs can be soaked in water overnight and had next morning,
along with the water, to relieve this problem. Alternatively, you can have a
glass of milk boiled along with some figs at bedtime.
3. Lemon juice
Lemon juice is
another useful remedial measure for constipation. Also, it helps in the general
detoxification of the body. Add the juice of a lemon along with a pinch of
common salt to a glass of water. Drink it on empty stomach every the morning in
order to get rid of constipation.
4. Oranges
Another simple
home remedy for constipation is consumption of an orange, once in the morning
and then in the evening. Being loaded with dietary fiber and vitamin C, these
juice fruits can go a long way to strengthen your digestive system.
5. Clarified butter
A classic remedy
for constipation is drinking a glass of hot milk, with a teaspoon of clarified
butter and 2 teaspoons of sugar, before going to bed. It can be really helpful
in clearing your bowel the next morning. The remedy is particularly favorable
for infants and young children, as it is both safe and nutritious. However, you
need to halve the quantity of clarified butter in their case.
6. Spinach juice
Spinach is a
vegetable known for its numerous health benefits, one of which is to relieve
constipation. Mix half a glass of water in the same quantity of spinach juiceand consume it regularly for 2-3 days. This will definitely allow smooth
movement of bowels.
7. Psyllium husk
Another
traditional home remedy for constipation is psyllium husk, which is a natural
bulking agent for the stool. You can consume a spoonful of psyllium husk along
with half a glass of warm milk, along with 2 teaspoons of sugar added to it.
This will help you get a clear bowel the next morning.
8. Flaxseeds
Flaxseeds are
very high in fiber content, which is an effective treatment for relieving
constipation. Having a tablespoon of these seeds along with a glass of warm
water in the morning is a simple way in which you can alleviate this chronic
problem.
9. Castor Oil
Another
traditional home remedy for constipation is castor oil. It not only smoothens
the bowel movement but also kills intestinal worms. You can either have a
spoonful of castor oil at bedtime, or mix it up with a glass of milk, to ensure
clear bowel the next morning.
10. Guava
Guava, another
high fiber fruit, can be used as a natural home remedy to put an end to this
problem. You can have one guava each morning and evening to act as a bulking
agent for the stool and prevent constipation.
In addition to
these home remedies, you need to cut down on processed foods, tea, coffee,
carbonated drinks and alcohol. Have more of fiber-rich cereals and fresh fruits
and vegetables. Improve your toilet habits and make sure that you clear your bowels
every day. Regular exercise, proper sleep and stress free lifestyle are equally
important.