Herb
Treatment Support
laxative
Application
tincture, capsule, tea
Constipation
Etiologic and Contributing Factors
- Dietary and Lifestyle:
- Low fiber intake
- Dehydration
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Medical Conditions:
- Gastrointestinal issues: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), colorectal disorders, or strictures.
- Metabolic disorders: Hypothyroidism, diabetes, hypercalcemia.
- Neurological conditions: Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, or spinal cord injury.
- Medications:
- Opioids, antidepressants, antacids containing aluminum or calcium, and certain antihypertensives.
- Psychological Factors:
- Stress, anxiety, or depression.
- Other Internal Causes:
- Hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy).
- Pelvic floor dysfunction.
When to Seek Professional Help
Look for red flags that may indicate serious conditions requiring medical attention:
- Persistent constipation lasting more than 2–3 weeks despite treatment.
- Severe abdominal pain or cramping.
- Unintended weight loss.
- Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool.
- Pencil-thin stools or changes in bowel habits.
- Family history of colon cancer or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Treatment Plan for Constipation
When to Treat at Home with Herbs
Home treatment may be appropriate for mild or occasional constipation without red flags. Effective herbs include:
- Psyllium (Plantago psyllium) husk (fiber supplement): Promotes bulk-forming laxative action.
- Senna (Senna alexandrina) or cascara sagrada (Frangula purshiana): Natural stimulant laxatives (short-term use only).
- Aloe vera (Aloe vera): Soothing for digestion and mild laxative effects.
- Peppermint (Mentha x piperita)Â or ginger (Zingiber officinale)Â tea: Helpful for bloating and mild digestive discomfort.
- Triphala (Ayurvedic remedy): Balances digestion and supports regularity.
Caution: Use herbs responsibly and avoid overuse of stimulant laxatives to prevent dependence. Always stay hydrated and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.
Christopher Hobbs:
“A high-fiber diet which avoids processed foods is essential. Herbal bowel toners such as yellow dock (Rumex crispus) and psyllium (Plantago ovata) and laxatives including cascara (Cascara sagrada) and buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica) are usually recommended. CAUTION: The habitual use of herbal laxatives can be debilitating and lead to dependence.”
Generated by ChatGPT; edited and supplemented by Dr. Christopher Hobbs PhD
Herbal Remedies for Constipation
Herb
Treatment Support
Application
Herb
Treatment Support
laxative
Application
tincture, capsule, tea
Herb
Treatment Support
laxative
Application
tincture, capsule, tea
Herb
Treatment Support
laxative
Application
oil
Herb
Treatment Support
bowel toner
Application
mixed with water
Herb
Treatment Support
laxative
Application
tincture, tea
Herb
Treatment Support
laxative
Application
tea, capsule
Herb
Treatment Support
laxative
Application
tea, fruit pulp
Herb
Treatment Support
bowel toner
Application
tincture, tea
Related Constipation conditions
Additional Ailment
Herb
Application
The information given here is designed to help you make informed choices about your health. The information is drawn from numerous sources—both traditional medicine practice, from the clinical experience of many herbalists currently practicing, and supported by decades of scientific research from the author. The research most consulted includes human clinical trials that help to determine the most effective and safe herbs for various needs, the best doses, and types of preparations.
The information offered in this database is not intended as a substitute for any that may have been prescribed by your health practitioner or physician.
