Learning About Natural Constipation Remedies
Written by Anson Chang on February 9th, 2010
Constipation is a bowel disorder that affects many, up to 15% of the general population. A large majority don\’t even try to treat the condition, and a great fraction of those who do do not ask for advice from health professionals. The reluctance to seek advice is understandable, given that constipation involves embarrassing biological functions.
As a result of the stigma attached to this intestinal condition, a large number of people try self-treatment with natural or home-based methods. An enlightened perspective of these natural agents should be obtained to avoid negative health impact. \”Natural\” is not a term implying hazard-free.
Amongst herbal remedies, the most widespread may be senna. Years ago cascara was another herb that was used, but the FDA put its foot down due to safety concerns. Senna can still be obtained as an herbal substance. Many will find the tea form easy to take and effective, whereas others might find the capsule more convenient. In both forms, senna derives its efficacy from the presence of anthraquinoids, a class of compounds that stimulates the intestines.
A different kind of home constipation treatment is mineral oil. When taken orally, the oil coats the outer surface of the stool and other stomach contents, helping them retain fluid. With more fluid, the stool isn\’t as hard or dense and thus moves more efficiently through the colon. Such a mode of action is in contrast to senna which exerts its effects chemically. Mineral oil is termed a lubricant laxative even though it acts nothing like engine oil lubricant or any other lubricating oil.
The most common type of home-based constipation treatments would be fiber-based agents. A well-known example is psyllium. Psyllium is a plant whose seeds are very high in concentration of fiber. It can be ground into powder form and dissolved into water for drinking. At general health stores and major pharmacies, psyllium is sold under various labels like Metamucil.
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.
If you are intent on constipation treatments, come check out our site. Additional resources supplied for natural remedy for constipation can be located here.
This entry was posted on Tuesday, February 9th, 2010 at 8:05 am and is filed under Fitness. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.
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