Constipation Causes and Its Relief

Constipation is driven by a lack of water, fiber, magnesium and natural laxatives like fruit juices and coffee. Certain drugs also increase constipation.

The diuretic (water excretion) drugs take out fluids from the body and the large intestine is left with insufficient water for stools. Even some pain killer drugs and anti-depressants can have diuretic side effects.

Lack of fiber is becoming a huge factor in our diets. Experts on the subject of colon health recommend 20 to 35 grams of fiber each day. It comes in soluble and insoluble forms; it helps scrape the linings of the intestine and stimulates peristalsis that moves colon contents for excrement.

More and more the convenience foods are eaten which are lacking in fiber and natural triggers found in fresh fruits and vegetables. In order to compensate for this, certain herbal remedies are a benefit.

Note: It is not advisable to regularly rely upon laxatives instead of good natural foods. When this happens the body gets lazy and becomes dependent upon the laxatives for bowel movements.

Good food with fiber and natural stimulants of peristalsis are recommended. They move the intestinal contents and clean the large intestine walls. This helps absorption of good nutrients and elimination of toxins which would otherwise accumulate with stagnation.

Optimal health of the large intestine is important for proper general health, especially for removal of toxins and strengthening of your immune system. Many authorities believe 80% of your immune cells are in the intestine. The friendly bacteria are triggers for your body's response to toxins, pathogens and poisons. They stimulate and mobilize white blood cells into action.

What are some beneficial herbal remedies that initiate colon cleansing and health?

Psyllium is a soluble fiber that swells with water and is found in many laxatives like Metamucil. Metamucil does not get digested but provides a lubricated bulk that helps peristalsis ... the rhythmic contractions of the large intestine. It helps move the digestive contents of the large intestine and actually reduces diarrhea and pain.

Senna is an ancient herb used by the Chinese and Indians for relief from constipation. It contains glycosides which stimulate peristalsis and this moves the contents of the large intestine.

Post partum constipation can be a problem with women after delivery of a baby. A study reported in the South African Medical Journal found treatment with Senna reduced constipation by 93% to 96% in post partum women.

Flax seed is not only a good source of Omega 3 but also a good source of fiber that tends to swell up and cause a laxative effect.

Aloe Vera is a mucopolysaccharide (gel like sugar) which is used in burn victims; it is regarded as a good anti-inflammatory agent. It also soothes irritated tissues. Taken into the digestive track, it is found to improve bowel movements and it helps release constipated colons.

Minerals are important in colon health. High iron intake can cause constipation. Magnesium deficiency can cause constipation. A study, involving 4000 women with low magnesium was associated with a 26% increased risk of constipation. It is a well known fact that excessive amounts of magnesium produce a loose bowel and diarrhea. Indeed, Milk of Magnesia is a strong laxative.

The Asians use a mixture of licorice and rhubarb called Daio-Kanzo-To. A two week study, reported in the September 2010 publication of The Food Doctor, found it effective in reducing constipation. Both licorice and rhubarb are known to be natural laxatives.

Nux Vomica is a very popular and is often prescribed as a remedy for constipation. It has a good track record for those who never feel like they are finished with their bowel movement. The tincture of Nux Vomica is apparently helpful here.

Sepia is also used where insufficient elimination is occurring. It is particularly good for women with fluctuating hormones like those found at menopause. Even drinks and increased fluids may not help if there is a hormonal disruption. Exercise does seem to help in this kind of constipation.

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