The condition of being constipated is endemic to the population of most countries with an incidence rate pegged at about 15%. Most of the people who are afflicted make no attempt to treat, and even less ask for advice or help from a health services figure. This is understandable as the condition is somewhat embarrassing, which explains the general reluctant to report to physicians.
Due to the embarrassing nature of this condition, many of the people who look for treatment try out home-based and natural therapies. An informed understanding of these remedies is needed to obviate potential dangers. In particular, it’s remarked here that natural constipation treatments aren’t automatically safe.
The most popular herbal remedy may be the senna plant. Senna contains anthraquinones, a class of chemicals that has the effect of stimulating the intestines. The cascara plant played some small role many years ago but was effectively banned by the FDA on account of evidence that it was harmful. Nowadays senna is available in capsule or tea form amongst others. Senna has played a historical role as a laxative and continues to do so today.
Mineral oil is another home constipation treatment used by many people. Unlike senna, it doesn’t act as a chemical stimulant of the colon. Instead, mineral oil coats the stool while its in the intestinal space, which helps it retain fluid. Soft, bulky stools move more quickly through the intestine. This class of agents is called a lubricant laxative, although the name is a bit of a misnomer as its mode of action is nothing like lubrication in an engine by engine oil.
More widespread than either of the above are natural constipation treatments based on fiber. A popular one is psyllium. The psyllium plant is famous for having seeds that contain a lot of fiber. The seeds are usually processed into fine powder form which can then be dissolved. Retailers like nutritional supplement stores carry brand names like Metamucil which are incarnations of psyllium.
Flaxseed or linseed is another well-known natural source of fiber. The seeds are sometimes ground into powder like psyllium. Some research indicates that people taking psyllium can benefit from lower cholesterol. But as is with many scientific results, these bear closer scrutiny and study. Linseed oil is not taken as it has a strong odor.
As with any form of natural treatment, it’s advised that the subject seek the help of a health professional. A doctor would be best informed in knowing whether a home-based constipation treatment is good for you or not. Of particular concern is that some of these home-based agents have associated contraindications for people with certain conditions. Learning more about these warnings from the physician would be a wise task.
Extra resources provided for constipation treatments can be read here. Peruse the latest news concerning to home remedies constipation.
















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