The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, defines constipation as having a bowel movement fewer than three times per week, and where stools are hard, dry and difficult to eliminate. Usually, constipation is temporary, and it can be alleviated with proper diet and lifestyle modifications. Certain herbs may also be helpful in alleviating occasional constipation. Note, however, that chronic or long-term constipation can signal an underlying disorder that should be diagnosed by a health care professional. Before using herbs to treat constipation, consult with a botanically-trained health care provider, such as a naturopathic physician, for appropriate evaluation and personalized treatment.
Cascara
Cascara, or Rhamnus purshiana, is a member of the Buckthorn family. It grows in Europe, western Asia and the mountains of western North America. The bark is used medicinally, and it has a bitter taste. According to Dr. Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician and author of "Herbal Medicine from the Heart of the Earth," cascara contains anthroquinon glycosides that are activated in the intestine by the intestinal flora. The herb has a laxative effect that works by drawing water into the large intestine and stimulating intestinal muscle contractions. In addition to alleviating constipation, cascara is also traditionally used for fissures and hemorrhoids -- conditions associated with chronic constipation. Dr. Tilgner cautions that cascara should not be used for an extended period of time, as it can lead to the depletion of electrolytes and weakness of intestinal musculature, which then renders laxatives less effective. Additionally, cascara can have side effects and may interact with certain medications, so it should be used under the guidance of a botanically-trained health care provider.
Senna
Senna, also called Cassia, is part of the Fabaceae or Legume family. The leaves are used medicinally and they have a bitter taste. According to Dr. Tilgner, senna is useful for constipation resulting from a lack of muscular action. It's also helpful for flatulence, colic, fissures and hemorrhoids. Like cascara, senna works by stimulating peristalsis -- intestinal muscle contraction -- and by drawing water into the large intestine. Also like cascara, senna can have side effects and should not be used for extended periods of time or without the guidance of a health care professional.
Licorice
Licorice, with the botanical name Glycerrhiza glabra, has a wide variety of uses in herbal medicine, including for constipation. The root is used therapeutically, and it has a sweet taste, making it well-suited for use in herbal tea. Licorice is well known for its soothing effect on the lining of the gastrointestinal tract and can therefore address a wide variety of digestive problems, including ulcers, liver disorders and inflammatory conditions. Licorice also has a mild laxative effect, making it a gentle remedy for occasional constipation. Dr. Tilgner warns that licorice should not be taken by individuals with high blood pressure, heart failure, kidney disease or liver disorders. Also, as with other herbs, licorice can interact with medications.
Yellow Dock
Yellow dock, or Rumex crispus, is a Buckwheat family herb. The root is used medically, and it has a bitter taste. According to Natural Standard, an authoritative database of integrative medicine, yellow dock has historical use in treating ailments of the liver and gallbladder. It also has a mild laxative effect. Yellow dock contains tannins, oxalates and anthraquinones, so it should be used cautiously by individuals with liver or kidney problems. As with any other herbs, consult with a qualified health care professional for proper herbal combinations, dosage and safety.
References
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Constipation
- "Herbal Medicine from the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
- Natural Standard: Cascara sagrada (Rhamnus purshiana)
- Natural Standard: Yellow dock (Rumex crispus)
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