Infrequent, hard to pass bowel movements afflict people of all ages. Factors such as improper diet, lack of dietary fiber, inadequate intake of fluids, lack of exercise and prescription medications can cause the body to be unable to regularly pass body waste. Sporadic elimination can leave a person with cramps and feeling bloated.

So what natural remedies are available? 

Soluble and Insoluble Fiber:

Fiber is a natural laxative and an important addition in a healthy digestive system. Stomach acids breakdown and produce insoluble and soluble fiber after a fiber-rich meal is consumed. Insoluble fiber is the hardest fiber to digest and remains bulky as it moves through the bowels. Soluble fiber helps to soften stools by absorbing water. Fiber-rich foods move waste through the colon and help keep irregularity away.

Psyllium is considered to be a true dietary fiber. It is a member of the plant genus Plantago. The natural water absorbing properties soften stool while still producing bulk. It is a natural laxative and aids in the relief of mild diarrhea and constipation symptoms. Drinking water mixed with powdered psyllium provides a natural laxative and colon cleanser. Psyllium is most commonly used in power form, but capsules are available. Capsules should be taken with adequate fluids.

Herbal Remedies:

Natural herbal remedies have been used for many years in the relief of constipation. The Chinese believe that mental and physical well-being are dependent upon healthy digestion and regular bowel elimination. They often use a blend of herbs to produce detoxification teas. Some of the main ingredients used by the Chinese are senna leaves, licorice root and ginger. These ingredients, when blended together and used to make tea, provide a mild stimulant laxative and work together to reduce cramping and discomfort caused by constipation.

Cascara Sagrada, known as Rhamnus purshiana, is an herb with laxative influence and is believed to improve colon wall muscle tone. It is available in the form of liquid extracts, capsules and dried bark. This herb prompts the colon to contract and triggers the urge to eliminate. Great care should be taken when using Cascara Sagrada bark. The bark should be aged, dried and heat-treated in order to avoid adverse side effects.

Healing Aloe Vera Plant:

The Aloe Vera plant, from the species A. vera, is a succulent plant and is considered to be a medicinal healer and constipation reliever. Juice can be made from the Aloe Vera plant by peeling away the tough outer leaf and then slow boiling the remaining leaf pulp. The juice is ready once it has reached a pinkish-hue. If the juice is too bitter, a small amount of honey can be added to sweeten. The Aloe Vera juice should be used for a period of two or three days in order to fully cleanse the colon and eliminate body waste. Do not exceed more than one glass per day as large amounts can cause stomach irritation.

Natural Fruit Juice:

Prune juice has long been praised for its natural laxative ability. Prunes contain soluble and insoluble fiber and are high in iron, Vitamin A and potassium. Drinking prune juice not only provides a natural laxative, but also provides essential vitamins and minerals to keep a person healthy.

Eating more fiber-rich fruits and vegetables, using natural laxative remedies, increasing fluid intake and exercise should help the body to routinely eliminate body waste. Simple changes can often make a big difference in helping the digestive system perform bodily functions without stress, pain, bloating or cramping.

Physician Intervention:

If constipation is chronic, then it might be necessary to seek medical advice to determine if there is an underlying cause. The doctor might suggest lifestyle changes or prescribe medication. If this does not alleviate the problem, then the doctor might order blood tests, a barium study or a colonoscopy to determine the cause of the persistent constipation.

I hope you find this helpful. If any of you decide to try these remedies, please let us know how you get on.

Thank you!