Unlocking Nature's Laxatives: Natural Lubrication For Smooth Relief

Lubricating natural laxatives are a type of laxative used to treat constipation by making stools slippery. They lubricate the intestinal wall and stool mass by coating them with a waterproof film layer, preventing the faeces from drying out. This allows the stool to retain moisture, making it softer and easier to pass.

Lubricant laxatives include mineral oil, which is available in liquid or enema form. Castor oil is another option, but it has an unpleasant taste. To mask the flavour, it can be refrigerated and added to orange juice.

Drink water

Water is a simple yet powerful tool in the fight against constipation. Drinking water is one of the most effective ways to get things moving in your digestive tract.

The human body is made up of about 60% water, and staying hydrated is essential for keeping things running smoothly. When it comes to digestion, water plays a crucial role in breaking down food, transporting nutrients, and forming stool.

Constipation occurs when waste moves too slowly through the colon, and one of the main reasons this happens is dehydration. The colon's job is to absorb water from food waste, and if there isn't enough water in the system, the colon absorbs too much, leaving behind dry, hard stool that is difficult to pass. Drinking plenty of water ensures that there is enough water in the digestive tract for the colon to do its job properly, resulting in softer, easier-to-pass stool.

The Institute of Medicine recommends that adults consume between nine and thirteen cups of water per day. However, it's important to note that this recommendation is for general health and may not be sufficient for everyone to prevent or relieve constipation. Individual water needs can vary depending on factors such as activity level, climate, and health status. As such, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate water intake for your specific needs.

In addition to increasing water intake, making dietary changes to include more fibre-rich foods can also help relieve constipation. Fibre helps add bulk to stool and, when combined with adequate water intake, can promote softer, more regular bowel movements.

While drinking water is a simple and natural way to help relieve constipation, it is important to note that it should not be relied upon as the sole solution. For some individuals, constipation may be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition. If constipation is a persistent problem, it is recommended to consult a doctor or healthcare professional for advice and guidance.

Eat leafy greens

Eating leafy greens is a great way to get a lubricating natural laxative into your diet. Leafy greens such as spinach, kale, Swiss chard, collards, and cabbage are rich in magnesium, which is an essential mineral for digestive health. Magnesium acts as a natural muscle relaxant, helping to stop cramping in the abdomen and allowing for easier bowel movements. It also helps to draw water into the intestines, softening stools and making them easier to pass.

In addition to their high magnesium content, leafy greens are also a good source of dietary fibre, which is crucial for digestive health. Fibre helps to add bulk to stools, making them easier to pass. It also helps to normalise stool size and shape, which can be especially helpful for those who struggle with constipation.

When incorporating leafy greens into your diet, it's important to remember to also increase your fluid intake. This is because fibre works together with water to form a gel-like substance in the digestive tract, softening stools and aiding their passage. So, be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to help things move along smoothly.

If you're looking for ways to include more leafy greens in your meals, try adding them to smoothies, salads, or bowls. You can also sauté them with some healthy fats like olive oil or avocado oil, or steam them as a side dish. They're very versatile and can be incorporated into a variety of dishes.

By eating leafy greens regularly and staying well-hydrated, you'll be well on your way to improving your digestive health and promoting regular bowel movements. It's a simple and natural solution that can make a big difference in keeping things moving comfortably and efficiently through your digestive tract.

Try aloe vera

Aloe vera is a medicinal plant that has been used for thousands of years for its healing properties. It contains over 75 active ingredients, including enzymes, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, which can be beneficial for treating various diseases.

Aloe vera juice and aloe latex are promoted as a natural laxative. The plant contains substances, such as barbaloin, that act as laxatives by increasing the amount of water in the intestine, making it easier to pass stools. It also contains anthraquinones, a type of compound that acts as a laxative by increasing intestinal water content, stimulating mucus secretion, and increasing intestinal peristalsis (the contractions that break down food).

Aloe Vera Juice

Aloe vera juice is available in health food stores and can be added to smoothies, cocktails, and juice blends. It is important to choose a drink that is labelled as aloin-free, as aloin is the compound that can irritate the stomach. There is no set amount of aloe juice to be consumed, but it is recommended to start with a small serving and wait several hours to ensure you don't experience any negative side effects.

Aloe Vera Capsules

Aloe vera is also available in capsule form, which may be made from either the latex or the whole leaf. These capsules are stronger than the juice, but they could cause serious health problems, so it is recommended to choose a safer remedy. If you do choose to take the capsules, start with the smallest dose recommended and never exceed the maximum dose.

Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera gel can be applied topically to the skin and is safe to use. It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help treat skin conditions such as insect bites, minor burns, and sunburn.

Precautions

• Do not take aloe vera orally if you are pregnant, as it could cause birth defects or miscarriage.
• Avoid oral consumption if you have renal or cardiac disease, as dehydration can lead to low potassium and other health complications.
• Do not give aloe vera orally to children under the age of 12.
• High doses of oral aloe vera can cause abdominal pain, kidney damage, and an electrolyte imbalance.
• It may also increase the risk of cancer, according to some studies.
• Talk to your doctor before using aloe vera if you are taking any medications, as it could interact with anticoagulants, digoxin, warfarin, diabetes drugs, sevoflurane, stimulant laxatives, and water pills.

Consume chia seeds

Chia seeds are a great natural laxative and can be consumed in a variety of ways. They are rich in dietary fibre, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and omega 3 fatty acids. They are also a good source of soluble fibre, which absorbs water and helps to loosen stools.

When chia seeds are exposed to water, they swell up and form a gel-like consistency. This is why it's important to soak them before consuming. The recommended ratio is one and a half tablespoons of chia seeds to one cup of water, and they should sit for 30 minutes to two hours. This process makes them easier to digest and helps them move through your intestines.

The recommended daily amount of fibre is 25g for women and 38g for men. Two tablespoons of chia seeds provide about 10 grams of fibre, so they are a great way to increase your fibre intake. However, excessive chia seed consumption can have a laxative effect, so it's important to consume them in moderation and ensure you are also well-hydrated.

• Toss them back straight from the jar, washing them down with a large glass of water
• Add one tablespoon of chia seeds to one cup of water and stir for about 30 seconds until they form a gel
• Make a healthy gut tonic with chia seeds, lemon juice and cayenne pepper
• Sprinkle them on cereal, yoghurt or salad
• Add them to water, smoothies, juices, baked goods or oatmeal

Take mineral oil

Mineral oil is a lubricant laxative that is available over the counter and is used to treat constipation. It is a safe and effective option for short-term relief from constipation.

Mineral oil works by coating the stool and the intestinal walls with a waterproof film, which keeps the moisture in and lubricates the walls. This helps to retain water in the stool and the intestines, softening the stool and making it easier to pass through the intestines. It is important to note that mineral oil should not be used for more than seven days unless directed by a doctor.

The recommended dosage for adults is 15 to 45 milliliters of mineral oil taken orally. It can be consumed as a plain liquid or mixed with water or another drink. It is advised to take mineral oil on an empty stomach as it can interfere with the absorption of certain vitamins and minerals if taken with meals. It is also recommended to take it at bedtime to reduce the chance of waking up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom.

It is important to carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device and not a household spoon. Additionally, some brands may require shaking the bottle before each dose, so it is essential to check the product package. Mineral oil may take about six to eight hours to cause a bowel movement.

It is important to note that mineral oil is not suitable for older adults, children under six years of age, or bedridden individuals. It should also be avoided during pregnancy unless clearly needed, as it can potentially harm the unborn baby. If you are experiencing constipation, consider consulting your doctor or pharmacist before using mineral oil or any other laxative.

Frequently asked questions