Should sufferers be constipated for long periods of time, it is not only uncomfortable, but can cause pain. This pain can become quite severe. Thankfully there are many natural and herbal laxatives which can provide quick relief.
The most natural way to relieve constipation is through food. For example, you can drink prune juice or grape juice, and usually you will find that your bowels move within an hour afterwards. You can also eat some fiber rich foods, take fiber supplements, or drink lots of extra water. All of these methods usually relieve constipation within twelve to twenty four hours.
Herbal Treatments Laxatives
There are several specific herbs which can be used for quick constipation relief. Cascara Sagrada for instance, is an herb used primarily as a natural laxative. This herb has been used by Native Americans for centuries, and is known to some as "The Sacred Bark", however it is also referred to as the Californian Buckthorn.
This herb has been found to help increase bile production in the liver, as well as secretions of the stomach, pancreas and lower bowel. It actually promotes peristaltic action in the bowel, which causes the urge to have a bowel movement.
Some experts believe Cascara Sagrada is not a habit forming herb, and is safe for use in pregnant women and children. Others disagree, and part of the reason for these conflicting opinions is due to the lack of official scientific testing.
It seems that many of the listed side effects and precautions for herbal remedies are based on the those side effects and precautions listed for synthetic versions of the same medications. The popularity of natural and herbal remedies indicate that the side effects resulting from them are much less that for those experienced when prescription medications are taken.
Regardless, always use caution when taking any new herb, because anyone can have an adverse reaction to anything.
Cascara can be purchased at any health food or herbal store in pills, capsules, liquid, powders and dried bark forms. Whichever form is your preference, be sure you purchase cured Cascara Sagrada, because the fresh bark can cause bloody stools and other problems.
Cascara is considered to be a gentle herb for use in cleansing the bowel, because it is not a purgative.
Senna is another strong Herbal Remedies Laxatives, and it is a purgative. Purgatives should not be taken by pregnant women because they can instigate a miscarriage. This herb is often taken in tea form, and it also causes peristaltic contractions. Many people swear by how well this herb works, but they also note that it can make you feel very sick, and you that you shouldn't be away from the bathroom for a couple of hours after taking it. If Senna makes you nauseous, adding a bit of ginger or cinnamon can sometimes help control these reactions.
Herbal Remedies Laxatives Articles displayed on this site are for information purposes only and may not be approved by the FDA. They should not be taken as medical advice.