Regular bowel movements and colon health have been an indicator of health by physicians for centuries. An individual suffering from constipation complains of a lack of normal bowel activity and symptoms such as pain and discomfort. In most cases, constipation and proper colon health can be supported by an array of effective over-the-counter ingredients.
Cascara Sagrada
Cascara sagrada originates from the Rhamnus purshiana tree and has been used as a natural laxative for thousands of years. Research from Nutrasanus.com claims that cascara sagrada contains natural compounds known as cascarosides that have effective and proven laxative properties. These naturally occurring cascarosides promote healthy bowel movement by stimulating the intestines to perform a series of organized muscle contractions. This wave of muscle contractions is known as peristalsis and is effective for preventing constipation in individuals who are suffering from internal blockage. Cascara sagrada is generally recognized as safe and effective by many medical physicians for cleansing the colon, according to Nutrasanus.com. Healthy bowel movement usually occurs after six to eight hours of taking cascara sagrada. 1 teaspoon of liquid cascara sagrada, or 1 or 2 capsules of the extract 3 times per day, are safe and effective dosages for relieving constipation.
Psyllium
Psyllium is derived naturally from the husks of the seeds of Plantago ovata. Psyllium is a rich source of dietary fiber and has been proven effective for treating individuals suffering from constipation and cleansing the colon. Research supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) claim psyllium is a safe and natural laxative that increases stool weight and promotes regular bowel movements. Psyllium is effective at treating constipation because it absorbs liquids within the intestines and adds bulk to stool. This process prevents stool blockage and promotes healthy bowel movements. According to the NIH, psyllium can be safely taken orally in divided doses from 2.2 to 45 grams prior to meals.
Polyethlene Glycol
Polyethlene glycol is an effective and safe nonprescription laxative, according to ConsumerReports.org. The drug has been shown to relieve common symptoms associated with constipation and to be equally as effective as prescription laxatives. Research shows that polyethlene glycol has been proven the most safe and best tolerated laxative among many individuals. FamilyDoctor.org reports that polyethlene glycol is considered a saline laxative. Salaline laxatives work by drawing out fluid into the bowel, which softens the stool and promotes regularity and colon health.
Senna
Senna is a natural remedy for constipation relief because it is considered a stimulant laxative, according to the NIH. Stimulant laxatives such as senna have been researched by physicians to safely treat constipation. Evidence-based reports by the NIH show that senna increases movement in the bowel and may even help treat certain intestinal disorders. Senna may cause a few side effects, such as a yellow-brown urine, but physicians report that this is harmless. Senna is to be administered orally on an empty stomach before bed and should not be taken longer than one week.
Member Comments