Home Remedies: Constipation

Constipation is a very uncomfortable and often embarrassing condition of the bowel. Caused by a number of reasons ranging from pregnancy to diet, it can cause terrible cramping, feelings of nausea, as well as leading to a host of other problems if left untreated. While there are any number of laxatives available on the market, not everyone feels safe putting a bunch of chemicals with strange names into their bodies. As every day passes, more and more people are turning to alternative medicine and natural cures for problems like constipation. Interested in learning how to cure constipation the natural way? Try one of these helpful suggestions and you're sure to be feeling better in no time:

For those needing a mild laxative, they should try either dandelion root, licorice, or yellow dock. Usually prepared in a decoction (a process in which the herbs are placed into a saucepan with water and allowed to boil before being cooled and drank), all three can be used to treat either mild cases of constipation or for persistent cases. For best results, ensure that you've balanced these natural home remedies with a well-balanced diet, including fresh fruit. Apples, dates, figs, and prunes are all excellent for promoting activity within the large bowel.

For cases of spastic constipation, a reliable home remedy consists of a decoction made of the crampbark root. Possessing antispasmodic properties, it can help ease discomfort, while providing safe and gentle relief. If the constipation is recurring, the husks and seeds of the psyllium can help to encourage normal bowel habits, as well as cleansing the colon. Green tea extract is also known to be very helpful in promoting healthy digestive activity, including waste elimination.

If all other herbal remedies fail to help, senna is known to be a very strong laxative and can be taken either in tablet form or it can be steeped with 2-3 slices of fresh ginger to make a potent brew that will help provide relief from constipation. As with most conditions, however, the best medicine is prevention. Eating a diet that is high in fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains will help to keep the body regular and avoid problems such as constipation.

Just as if you were taking any other treatment, however, it's best to always discuss your ailment and your preferred method of treatment with your family doctor. If you are pregnant or nursing your baby, you should avoid using these treatments and should first seek assistance from your doctor.