Constipation refers to irregular bowel movements, although it may also describe reduced weight or volume of stool. The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons reports that constipation is commonly associated with the need to strain when having a bowel movement, a sense of insufficient bowel emptying and the need for enemas or laxatives to ensure regularity. Herbs may be a helpful natural treatment method for this uncomfortable and annoying condition. Discuss the use of herbs for constipation with your doctor.
Constipation and Health
Constipation, though often uncomfortable, is not a life-threatening condition. In some cases, however, constipation may cause worrisome symptoms, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center, including abdominal or rectal pain, blood in your stool, constipation that alternates with diarrhea and unintended weight loss. If you are constipated and develop any or some of these symptoms, report to your family physician as soon as possible for a thorough evaluation. In many cases, constipation can be successfully treated using natural treatment methods.
Powerful Herbal Remedies
There are many remedies that may be helpful in treating your constipation, although some remedies may exert stronger effects than others. Powerful herbal remedies in the treatment of constipation possess laxative action, states Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician and author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth." Examples of powerful bulking laxatives include fenugreek, flax, marshmallow, oat seed, psyllium and slippery elm bark. Examples of powerful stimulating laxatives include rhubarb, senna, cascara and buckthorn.
Featured Remedy: Buckthorn
Buckthorn is a powerful stimulating laxative, or a substance that causes bowel evacuation due to its stimulatory nature. Buckthorn, notes naturopathic physician and herbalist William A. Mitchell Jr., author of "Plant Medicine in Practice," contains an active ingredient known as hydroxyanthraquinone, which is responsible for its laxative effect. The fresh or dried bark of the shrub or small tree is used in herbal preparations, although the ripe fruits of this tree may also be used.
Warning
Herbs have long been used in treating constipation. However, few herbs for this condition have been subjected to rigorous scientific study and may cause side effects if they are not used appropriately. Herbal remedies should always be used with the utmost of caution. In some cases, herbs should only be used as an adjunct therapy in the treatment of various health problems, including constipation. Discuss herb-related topics with your family physician before using these substances to treat your constipation.
References
- American Society of Colon & Rectal Surgeons: Constipation
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Constipation
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
- "Plant Medicine in Practice"; William A. Mitchell Jr., N.D.; 2003
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